Popular messenger bags with water bottle holder

Susan Fernandez January 01 2022

What is a messenger bag?

A messenger bag is a type of bicycle courier's shoulder bag.

The convenience and mobility of water bottle holders make them ideal for traveling. Messenger bags are excellent for carrying many different items in one place while allowing you to use both hands.

Is it right for me?

Not necessarily! Messenger bags with water bottle holders tend to have some very specific design aesthetics that may or may not appeal to you, so choose carefully before buying if this is the case. If functionality is more important than form though, then this might be exactly what you're looking for. The same goes for if you want something to look aesthetically pleasing and functional.

How do I choose the right one?

Choose a messenger bag with a water bottle holder that is appropriate for you. Consider what you'll need, such as laptops, textbooks, notebooks, and so on if you're buying this for school. These bags can be big and bulky, making it difficult to carry around all of your supplies in many separate compartments if space is limited.

There are smaller messenger bags for school, therefore there's no need to pay extra for them. You don't always have to get a bike messenger bag that is designed specifically for that purpose; any messenger bag will suffice. Make sure the strap isn't too tight or uncomfortable on your shoulders while riding your bike.

How much do messenger bags cost?

Messenger bags with water bottle holders are available in a variety of costs. If you're not too concerned about price, you may be able to discover one that matches your design and aesthetic preferences. You could end up spending more if it's a brand name, but these tend to be high-quality, long-lasting products. Messenger bags are typically constructed of sturdy materials like canvas or leather. Water bottle holders are often sewn into the side of the bag, but some models have a separate compartment for holding the bottle. This can be helpful if you want to keep your water cold or hot while you're on the go. 

How do I choose my size?

Messenger bags come in a variety of sizes, so think about what you'll need to carry around before purchasing one. This way, when you're shopping for a bag, you can narrow down your priorities. If you don't need much room, consider buying a smaller messenger bag.

Tips for choosing the right one:

  • Check out the size of your laptop and make sure it can fit in your bag
  • Think about how many pockets will be convenient for you when carrying books and supplies
  • Consider the color and design aesthetic that will fit your lifestyle best

Are there any alternatives to messenger bags?

Yes! There are other options if messenger bags aren't the best option for you. This may be because you don't ride a bike or because there isn't enough space in it for your items, which is why we're going to look at some alternatives:

Laptop Messenger Bags: These function exactly like bike messenger bags but they have an area specifically designed to hold laptops so that you can carry it comfortably and safely when traveling around campus or school. Size is important when considering these so consider what kind of laptop you'll need to use and whether it will fit in the designated compartment.

Backpack: A backpack is great for carrying books and supplies and doesn't require wearing something on your back! They tend to be much more casual looking, however, it can be a great alternative to messenger bags. You'll have to decide whether you want something on your back or your shoulders!

Drawstring Bags/Bag Packs: If you liked the idea of being hands-free with your stuff but don't like how casual carrying around a backpack looks, then consider getting one of these instead. Drawstring bags are made specifically so that they can fit comfortably across your body and they're very sleek in design! They're still casual though because you'll have the drawstrings around your waist, so keep this in mind before buying.  

TOP-10 best messenger bags

  • Travelon anti-theft classic messenger bag for men

Travelon's anti-theft classic messenger bag for men is a great option if you're going somewhere where it'll be easy to set your stuff down and will need a water bottle holder! Water bottles are large so this may limit the space you have in the other compartments. Still, this bag has enough room for laptops up to 15 inches and tablets. It also has 10 different pockets so there will be plenty of room to carry all your essentials!

Pros: Water bottle holder (size: 17oz); Strap width: 3/4"; Comes with 4 USB ports near charging port that let you charge devices without removing them from the bag

Cons: The laptop compartment could be a little bigger, or at least have a pad on the bottom for comfort since it's open.

  • Sweetbriar classic messenger bag with water holder

Sweetbriar's classic messenger bag is perfect for the organized person! It has one large compartment where it's easy to organize all your books and supplies. The strap is adjustable so it can fit any body type comfortably, including being able to be lengthened enough for someone who is 6 ft tall.

Materials for this bag are water-resistant so you shouldn't have to worry about your electronics getting ruined by wet conditions.

Pros: Strap width: 3/4"; Comes with 4 USB ports near charging port that let you charge devices without removing them from the bag; Thick and sturdy material

Cons: The bag is a little smaller than some other options which may limit space, but overall this messenger bag has great organization features and is very sleek in design!

  • The North Face Borealis Backpack

One of The North Face's newest products, this backpack offers a more modern look for anyone who wants to add casual style to their outfit. It has enough space for laptops up to 15 inches and tablets while still looking stylish thanks to its easily adjustable straps. However, if you would like to make it even more casual you can use the included stuff sacks and pouches which will help you condense your items and increase space in the bag.

Pros: Padded back panel; Thick and sturdy material; Laptop compartment is well padded for comfort and safety (for laptops up to 15")

Cons: It doesn't have a water bottle holder

  • SwissGear Travel Gear ScanSmart Backpack 1900

Swiss gear's travel gear is one of the most popular options for backpacks because they're sleek, organized, and affordable! Even though this backpack is on the smaller side it can still fit laptops up to 15". This backpack features a variety of pockets that make organization easy, while still making sure you find what you need quickly.

For example, there's a special section where you store your laptop so it's easily accessible without having to take anything else out first- perfect for when you're in a rush!

Pros: Padded shoulder straps; Comes with USB ports near charging port that let you charge devices without removing them from the bag; Thicker material; Well organized; Water bottle holder; Laptop compartment is well padded for comfort and safety (for laptops up to 15")

Cons: Doesn't have as many pockets as some other options

  • Rotcho vintage canvas messenger bag

This one is totally for the fashion-forward! Rothco's vintage canvas messenger bag is a stylish and unique option that you won't find just anywhere. It can fit laptops up to 15 inches and tablets, as well as books and other supplies thanks to the 15 different pockets it comes with.

Pros: Water bottle holder (size: 16oz); Strap width: 3/4"; Thick material; Unique design

Cons: The straps are a little stiff at first but they should loosen up after time

  • S-zone vintage canvas message bag with bottle holder

Another great messenger bag with a unique vintage style, this one from s-zone is perfect for anyone who wants something casual but still stylish. It can hold laptops up to 15", has plenty of useful pockets, and also comes with a water bottle holder! The strap width is 3/4".

Pros: Water bottle holder (size: 16oz); Strap width: 3/4"; Thick material; Unique design

Cons: There's no padding for the laptop compartment so it's not as safe or comfortable when compared to other options that have padding that goes all the way around your device, but overall this bag will get the job done just fine

  • NewBring messenger bag

This NewBring messenger bag is an affordable option that's great for anyone on a budget. This bag has enough room to fit laptops up to 15 inches, as well as plenty of other supplies thanks to the nine different pockets!

Pros: Strap width: 1" (thin); Thick material; Plenty of space

Cons: The back compartment isn't padded so it may not be very comfortable when carrying heavier items inside it while the front section doesn't have padding either but this backpack does still have Buckle straps on both sides of your device that help protect against any potential damage

  • SwissGear Travel Gear 1900 Scansmart Backpack

With its sleek look, Swiss gear's travel gear is one of the most popular options on our list! This backpack is on the smaller side so it's great for someone who doesn't carry a lot, but still wants all of the organizational options Swiss gear offers. It can fit laptops up to 15 inches and boasts 20 different organizational pockets- including special sections for stashing your laptop or tablet for easy access.

Pros: Padded shoulder straps; Comes with USB ports near charging port that let you charge devices without removing them from the bag; Thicker material; Well organized; Water bottle holder

Cons: Doesn't have as many pockets as some other options

  • Lifewit military messenger bag

Military-inspired but still totally stylish, this messenger bag from Lifewit is great for anyone who wants a durable option that's resistant to any wear and tear you might put it through. The thick material keeps your laptop safe while the seven different pockets are perfect for organizing all of your other supplies! It can fit laptops up to 15 inches.

Pros: Thick material; Eight different compartments/pockets; Water bottle holder (size: 16oz); Includes USB ports near charging port that let you charge devices without removing them from the bag

Cons: There isn't padding for the laptop compartment so it may not be as comfortable or safe when carrying heavier items inside it

  • KeySmart urban hybrid messenger bag

KeySmart's urban hybrid messenger bag is great for anyone who needs extra room in their bag! It can fit laptops up to 17 inches without struggle and has enough space inside it to hold all of your other supplies as well.

Pros: Strap width: 1" (thin); Thick material; Well organized; Water bottle holder (size: 32oz)

Cons: Doesn't come with USB ports near the charging port that let you charge devices without removing them from the bag- you'll have to buy them separately for this option, which isn't the case with some others on our list

What else should you consider while choosing a messenger bag?

When choosing a messenger bag, there are a few different things to take into consideration. For instance, how much stuff do you plan on carrying in your bag? If you want something that can hold several items without becoming too bulky then an option with thick material might be best for you while someone who doesn't need as big of a bag should look at one that's smaller and lighter.

Also, consider the material- is it thick enough to protect your devices? And does it have any special compartments or pockets? This may seem like common sense but not all bags offer this so be sure to take note! There are also options with USB ports near the charging port so you don't have to remove your device from the bag in order to charge it.

Finally, consider how you'll feel with the bag on your back. Is it too heavy? Are the straps wide enough for your shoulders? You might also want to check out user reviews online or ask someone about their experience with certain bags before you make a final decision!