The best bags for travel, work, and tech in 2026

Once you’ve found your next travel charger and pair of wireless headphones, you need a bag to carry them in. There are tons of good crossbody slings, backpacks, and messenger bags, but not all of them can be the best. I’ve been testing luggage and various products for publications like Business Insider and Newsweek for over a decade. I’ve narrowed the list of carry bags worth buying down to a few excellent choices.

Of course, the best bags for travel and different uses are always shifting, with new ones being released frequently. So, this guide will be routinely updated to reflect the current market.

Whether you’re looking for a new travel suitcase or a versatile work bag, there should be an option here that works for you.

The best city sling: Orbitkey Urban Sling Mini (2L)

It doesn’t seem hard to make a small bag, but because there’s less room, every part of it needs to be great. The two-liter Orbitkey Urban Sling Mini is an ideal bag for quick trips to the store or to use while traveling.

This small version has a wide base and a narrower top, so it can hold more items than it may appear at first. The main pocket can hold sunglasses, cards, chapstick, and a power bank. There’s a passthrough hole, so your phone can be in the back pocket and still be charging.

The best everyday backpack: Topo Designs Commuter Backpack

The Topo Designs Commuter Backpack is perfect for casual, everyday use. It has a large 25-liter capacity, which is big enough for a laptop, a sweatshirt, headphones, and other frequently used items. But the bag also doesn’t feel huge or look bulky.

The straps are comfortable, the zippers are smooth, and the grab handles are all in the right places. I love that it has two water bottle holders. Best of all, this bag isn’t overly expensive. With a $130 retail price, you don’t need to baby it.

The best carry-on luggage: Bellroy Transit Carry-On

I was sold on the Bellroy Transit Carry-On even before traveling internationally with it, but after multiple trips, it’s proved to be capable in all capacities. The standout feature is likely the Transit’s built-in packing cubes.

These two internal mesh dividers serve for organization, but they can also be removed and set in a drawer at the hotel. If you don’t need both or any of them at any time, the suitcase functions just as well without them. The HINOMOTO Lisof wheels are smooth and quiet. The exterior feels solid and durable without being heavy.

All in all, the Transit Carry-On is a sleek travel companion. Plus, there are six colors available and two sizes, a 41-liter and a 46-liter option.

The best tech pouch: Tomtoc Electronics Organizer Travel Case

Everyone should have a pouch for cables and chargers. The Tomtoc 1-liter Electronics Organizer is a great choice because it holds just enough without creating too much bulk. The flat, wide bottom is great for square charging bricks or power banks.

There are internal side pockets to keep things from shifting around. And a side sleeve divider works great for a few cables to be stashed. This pouch should be able to carry everything you need for a casual weekend getaway or a week-long business trip. There are a variety of colors and materials available.