Traditionally, messenger bags were only for men. They were meant for those who worked as couriers. But as things have changed, these bags have become more universal, both men and women wear them. Their design makes them ideal for modern businessmen and university students. And since they’re made for carrying heavy things, they perfectly fit laptops, tablets, and books. But one important feature you should look for before getting one is a bottle holder or bottle pocket. The best messenger bag with water bottle holder doesn’t only prevent leaks and accidents but is convenient for keeping your morning coffee accessible.
How to Choose the Best Messenger Bag with Water Bottle Holder
Before buying your messenger bag, there are some things you need to consider. Size is the most obvious one, but things like materials and pockets are important, too. Let’s find out more about them:
Size
From extra small to large, messenger bags come in different sizes. When buying one, think about what you want it for. Is it for school? Or business meetings? Or perhaps you want it for everyday use? Depending on your answer, choose the size that works best for you. If you plan on carrying things like laptops, notebooks, and pencil pouches, get a large one. On the contrary, if you only plan on carrying your water bottle, wallet, and phone, a small messenger bag will do. Now, if you’re unsure, we suggest you buy a medium one. A safe bet, if you will.
Material
Like most bags, messenger bags are usually made of leather and canvas. Both materials have their advantages and disadvantages. Leather is waterproof and more durable, but it’s also pretty expensive and not flexible. You could get a faux leather messenger bag as an eco-friendly option. However, make sure it’s high-quality if you don’t want it tearing apart after a few months of use. If this sounds like your cup of tea, check our list of best leather messenger bags for men and women.
On the other hand, canvas fabric is an affordable, high-quality option for those who are on a budget. It’s also expandable, allowing your bag to fit more things. So, choose the material that works best for you and your wallet.
Style
Messenger bags have a particular shape that identifies them. But that doesn’t mean they’ll have the same style or design. Some of them feature elegant, business-inspired styles that are great for work environments and business trips. Meanwhile, others have a more casual design that’s suitable for everyday use or study. Regardless, we recommend buying a formal one rather than a casual one. Why? Because you’ll be able to use it for both formal and casual occasions, making it a better investment.
Security
If you’re planning to use your messenger bag to carry your valuable gadgets, make sure they include safety straps or clips on the flap. Also, the zippered main compartment is a must. You don’t want your things to fall out of your bag accidentally.
Security also refers to RFID protection. If you can, buy a bag that offers RFID blocking or that has, at least, and RFID pocket for your credit cards and ID. A bag with these two features protects you at all times.
Pockets
Pockets not only keep your things organized, but they make everything more efficient. Our advice is that you get a messenger bag that features multiple compartments both on the inside and outside.
An organized interior will help you keep track of everything inside. Meanwhile, exterior pockets are convenient for items you need to have quick access to, such as IDs, cellphones, and keys. Having easy access to these essential items will help you on those running-late-to-work days.
In case you’re interested, we also have a list of 13 Best Travel Bags with Water Bottle Holder.
Travelon Anti-theft Urban Messenger Bag (CU)
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Travelon bags are some of the safest bags available on the market. And one of their best models is the Anti-theft Urban Messenger Bag. This bag features lockdown straps that let you secure it to a chair or table. Besides, its compartments are lockable, preventing thefts from ruining your day.
It’s made of 900D polyester, which makes both waterproof and slash-resistant. As you can see, security is this bag’s best feature. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that it also includes RFID blocking pockets, perfect for several credit cards, cash, and your passport.
For more efficient organizing, this messenger bag features an interior compartment for your iPad or tablet and two wall pockets that fit smaller belongings. On the interior, you’ll find not only one but two mesh expansion pockets ideal for water bottles and umbrellas. And you’ll also find two zipper pockets for extra storage.
The bag’s style makes it compact and easy to carry around. But to ensure your comfort, the shoulder strap is adjustable, with an anti-slide feature.
Dimensions
11.25 x 12.5 x 4 inches (28.5 x 31.7 x 10.1 cm)
Pros:
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- Waterproof
- RFID blocking pockets
- Slash-resistant bag
- Compact
Cons:
- The material is rather sturdy and not flexible.
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NewBring Messenger Bag (CU)
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This one is an excellent option for university and high school students. NewBring Messenger Bag is a medium-sized messenger bag with water bottle holder. In the main compartment, you can fit a small laptop or tablet, books, binders, chargers, and more. And to keep things organized, it features individual pockets for each item. Inside, you’ll find a laptop compartment, water bottle slot, wallet and keys compartments, and even an umbrella slot.
It’s available in two colors: black and white. Therefore, it’s a neutral bag ideal for both men and women. The 39-inch shoulder strap is adjustable and works with every customer’s height. Besides, it has four-foot nails at the bottom that lets it standstill regardless of the ground or its weight.
We love that it’s super travel-friendly. On the back, you’ll find a luggage strap that lets you attach it to your suitcase. And it also features a top handle in case you want to use it as a handbag.
Dimensions
17.5 x 17 x 3.5 inches (44.4 x 43 x 8.8 cm)
Pros:
- Water-resistant
- Stands still
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- Multifunctional design
- Affordable
Cons:
- Heavier compared to other messenger bags.
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Timbuk2 Commute Messenger Bag (CU)
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Timbuk2 Commute Messenger Bag comes in three different sizes: small, medium, and large. However, we prefer their medium bag as it’s the perfect size to fit all your essentials without looking bulky.
This bag’s flap features two safety clips and a small compartment designed for your phone. Besides, it features nine more pockets for items like your wallet, headphones, power banks, and chargers. And on the left side of the bag, you’ll find a side pocket that perfectly fits your water bottle or coffee cup. This pocket also makes it an excellent candidate for the best messenger bag with water bottle holder.
For your comfort, the strap is adjustable and padded to prevent any shoulder pain. But if you prefer, you can remove it and carry it as a handbag. Even better, it includes a back strap, allowing you to secure it to your carry-on.
Dimensions
7.87 x 18.5 x 15.75 inches (19.9 x 46.99 x 40 cm)
Pros:
- Laptop pocket
- Removable crossbody strap
- Different colors available
- Lockable flap
Cons:
- Pricier compared to other messenger bags of more or equal capacity.
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Lifewit Military Messenger Bag (CU)
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When it comes to heavy-duty bags, this one is the best. Lifewit Military Messenger Bag is a military-style bag that fits everything you need and much more. This bag features a multi-pocket design that keeps your belongings organized and always accessible. The exterior pockets are ideal for your cellphone, wallet, charger, earphones, and other smaller items. Meanwhile, the side pockets perfectly hold your water bottle and umbrella.
On the interior, you’ll find a shockproof laptop pocket that fits up to 17-inch computers or tablets. Additionally, the bag’s interior features a special compartment for documents, papers, or any item that’s delicate. Gone are the days of messy interiors!
This bag is made of nylon fabric, which enhances its durability and makes it waterproof. The zippers are water-resistant, too. And for your convenience, they provide smooth opening and closing. It also features an ergonomic design that provides comfort when carrying it.
Dimensions
17.7 x 6.3 x 13.4 inches (44.9 x 16 x 34 cm)
Pros:
- Multiple pockets
- Ergonomic design
- Durable
- Large-capacity
- Water-repellent
Cons:
- It has a rather bulky design that might not suit everyone.
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Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag
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Next on the list is another Timbuk2 bag. And this time is their Classic Messenger Bag. This waterproof bag is available in three different sizes. But we love their large size the most for all the storage it offers.
The bag’s roomy interior features two dual stretch pockets perfect for water bottles and chargers. It also includes a backslash pocket where you can store your laptop or tablet. Besides, several smaller pockets are available for you to organize your smaller belongings.
Another reason why we love this bag is that its shoulder strap features a special mesh that enhances airflow. Perfect for sunny days! Plus, the strap is adjustable and fits different sizes. For your security, compression straps lock the bag’s flap to the main compartment. You don’t need to worry about your items falling or moving around. If you’re looking for a messenger bag with water bottle holder, this bag is an excellent option.
Dimensions
13.8 x 15.2 x 7.9 inches (35 x 38.6 x 20 cm)
Pros:
- Laptop pocket
- Waterproof
- Adjustable and breathable shoulder strap
- Different colors available
- Multiple interior pockets
Cons:
- Price varies depending on the size, and the larger one can cost more than 100 USD.
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KeySmart Urban Hybrid Messenger Bag (404)
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Multi-functional is the word that best describes this bag. KeySmart Urban Hybrid Messenger Bag can be used in four different ways: as a messenger bag, shoulder bag, backpack, and briefcase. Such a versatile piece of luggage! And don’t worry about the straps being mixed when changing them. They’re labeled with numbers so you can easily attach them to the right place in the bag.
With more than 20 pockets available, this bag is one of the most organized bags you can find. The tiny pockets are great for smaller items, like credit cards and micro SD cards. Meanwhile, the medium and larger pouches are ideal for your electronics, chargers, wallet, and other belongings. On the exterior, you’ll find two pop-out bottle pockets, perfect for your water bottle or tumbler. And it also has umbrella loops for extra organization.
Protection-wise, both the exterior and zippers of this bag are waterproof. Never worry again about water leaking inside your bag! Besides, the zippers have quick-grab loops that provide easy opening and closing.
Dimensions
15.88 x 2.13 x 13.75 inches (40.3 x 5.4 x 34.9 cm)
Pros:
- Water-resistant
- Removable shoulder strap
- Laptop compartment
- Multifunctional design
- Two side pockets
Cons:
- The most expensive messenger bag on our list
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G-raphy Laptop Messenger Bag (CU)
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You can never go wrong with a classic leather messenger bag. G-raphy Laptop Messenger Bag features a body made of horse leather, waxed canvas, and cotton. The leather enhances the water-resistance on the exterior, while the waxed canvas and cotton provide a soft environment for the items on the interior.
What we love most about this bag is its vintage style. The front part features a zipper and retro copper buckles that give it a classy look. Another great thing is that it’s a compact yet large-capacity bag. The main compartment can fit up to 15.6-inch laptops, notebooks, and tablets. And it also has multiple pockets that keep your things organized.
Meanwhile, the middle compartment is perfect for school supplies as it has several wall pockets for pens, U-disks, and chargers. It also features a side pocket that perfectly it’s a water bottle.
Lastly, it features both a shoulder strap and a handle top. So, you can use it as a traditional messenger bag or as a briefcase.
Dimensions
15.7 x 13 x 4.7 inches (39.8 x 33 x 11.9 cm)
Pros:
- Durable
- Laptop compartment
- Large-capacity
- Waterproof
- Affordable
Cons:
- Only one color available, which is a faded brown.
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Estarer Messenger Bag
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This next bag can easily be the best messenger bag with water bottle for several reasons. Firstly, the Estarer Messenger Bag features a sleek, modern design with leather accents, making it ideal for both work and everyday use. Secondly, we love that it’s made of high-quality canvas that enhances durability and makes it water-resistant.
Multiple pockets are available, which is always helpful for keeping things organized. The two inner pouches are ideal for valuable items you want to keep safe. While the front pockets are perfect for keeping your phone, keys, and cash within reach. It also includes two side pockets that can fit two water bottles or a water bottle and umbrella. And for your convenience, the main compartment is roomy and can fit up to a 15.6-inch laptop.
Security is another great feature of this bag. The flap has a velcro closure and the main compartment is zippered. This protects it not only from accidents but from pickpockets. On the other hand, the shoulder strap is adjustable. But if you prefer, a top handle is available, too.
Dimensions
17.72 x 13.38 x 5.12 inches (45 x 33.9 x 13 cm)
Pros:
- Large-capacity
- Water-resistant
- Velcro closure
- Multiple pockets
- High-quality canvas fabric
Cons:
- The shoulder strap is not removable
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S-Zone Vintage Canvas Messenger Bag
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Priced for less than 30 USD is the S-Zone Vintage Canvas Messenger Bag. This vintage-styled bag features a durable canvas material and a high-quality PU leather trim. With four different colors available, this bag is ideal for every occasion.
The multiple pockets reduce searching times as everything is visible and organized. Under the flap, you’ll find a zipper pocket that features three pen slots, two card slots, and a phone pocket. It also has a front pocket on top of the flap, where you can keep your keys and spare cash. The two side pockets are ideal for water bottles, but if you prefer, it also has a small interior space where you can keep it. Hence, we think is an outstanding messenger bag with water bottle holder.
As if that were not enough, it also has magnetic buckles that provide security while allowing an easy opening and closing.
Dimensions
14.2 x 12.6 x 4.7 inches (36 x 32 x 11.9 cm)
Pros:
- Four colors available
- Vintage design
- Laptop compartment
- Adjustable strap
- Affordable
Cons:
- Not waterproof.
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Sweetbriar Classic Messenger Bag
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If you’re looking for a simple yet elegant messenger bag, we got the perfect option. Sweetbriar Classic Messenger Bag features a 100% cotton canvas material that comes in seven different colors. This material makes it durable, but if anything happens, the bag includes a 1-year limited warranty.
This bag features a roomy main compartment but only a few pockets. However, don’t let this fool you. This bag is big enough to fit everything you need. On the interior, it features a small zipper pocket perfect for toiletries. And under the flap, you’ll find two front pockets ideal for your phone, wallet, keys, and other small belongings. Besides, it has two side pockets that fit up to 32oz water bottles, making it an ideal messenger bag with water bottle holder.
We also love its super affordable price. You can get it for less than 25 USD! So, if you’re on a budget, get this messenger bag.
Dimensions
17.5 x 12 x 5 inches (44.4 x 30.4 x 12.7 cm)
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Multiple pockets
- Padded shoulder strap
- Seven colors available
- 1-year limited warranty
Cons:
- Despite having a Velcro closure, the flap remains flimsy.
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Rapiddomincance Classic Military Messenger Bag (CU)
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Rapiddomincance Classic Military Messenger Bag is, as its name suggests, a military-style bag. This bag is made of cotton canvas on the interior and features a 100% polyester lining on the outside. Besides, it has brass buckles and rivets that provide a traditional look. Three different colors are available: black, olive, and khaki. And all of them are neutral, making it ideal for both men and women.
This bag features a simple yet effective design that includes the perfect number of pockets to keep everything organized. The roomy main compartment can fit a laptop, notebooks, pencil case, and other essentials. What’s more, it has a high storage capacity without compromising comfort when carrying it.
Under the flap, you’ll find two zipped pockets ideal for items you need to keep accessible, like keys or your phone. And the two side pockets work fabulously as bottle holders, making it the best messenger bag with water bottle holder.
Dimensions
14.5 x 2 x 11 inches (36.8 x 5 x 27.9 cm)
Pros:
- Three colors available
- Compact
- Durable
- Multiple pockets
- 100 % cotton canvas
Cons:
- The shoulder strap is not padded.
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Rotcho Vintage Canvas Messenger Bag
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Are you in the search for a stylish messenger bag? Look no further! Rotcho Vintage Canvas Messenger Bag is a stylish, compact bag that holds all your essentials.
Despite being considered small, it’s big enough to fit books, folders, makeup bags, pencil cases, a small laptop, and more. And for your smaller items, it offers multiple pockets. The small zipper pocket of the interior is perfect for your keys and wallet. Meanwhile, the top front pockets can fit your phone and hand sanitizer. What’s better, it also includes two snap-button side pockets. Perfect for your water bottle and coffee cup!
With an adjustable strap, this bag offers supreme comfort when carrying. And you can use it both as a traditional messenger bag and as a shoulder bag. On top of it all, this messenger bag with water bottle holder is super lightweight. It weighs less than 0.3lbs!
Dimensions
15 x 11 x 6 inches (38.1 x 27.9 x 15.2 cm)
Pros:
- Ultra-compact
- Lightweight
- Different colors available
- Multiple compartments
- Adjustable shoulder strap
Cons:
- It’s not machine-washable.
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Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag (CU)
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This list of the 13 best messenger bags wouldn’t be complete if we didn’t include the Travelon Anti-theft Classic Messenger Bag. Besides being one of the safest messenger bags, it’s also a super-organized one. It features two multi-organizational compartments that keep everything visible and within reach.
As we mentioned before, it’s an extremely safe bag. This messenger bag features lockdown straps that let you attach it to stationary objects. Besides, the two compartments are lockable, preventing pickpockets from accessing them. Even better, it has several RFID blocking pockets, ideal for your credit cards and passports. Thieves don’t get a chance with this bag!
For your convenience, the shoulder strap is adjustable. And despite being thin, it’s still comfortable to carry around. On the left side of the bag, you’ll find a bottle holder that fits all sizes of water bottles. Whether you want it for traveling or everyday use, this bag is the perfect messenger bag with water bottle holder.
Dimensions
11 x 10 x 4.5 inches (27.9 x 25.4 x 11.4 cm)
Pros:
- Seven colors available
- Mesh water bottle pocket
- Anti-theft security system
- Slash-resistant
- RFID protection
Cons:
- Pricier considering it’s a relatively small messenger bag.
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