Shopping around for the perfect bag can quite quickly turn into a strenuous task should you not apply some filters. From backpacks to shoulder bags to holdalls, which style best suits your needs? Either way functionality needs to be high up on the priority list, after all, a bag’s primary responsibilty is to carry around all your stuff. Additional considerations are comfort, accessibility, pockets, pouches, materials and so on. You want something that’s going to stand the test of time so consider your purchase and respect the process. Similar to your wallet or watch, a bag can speak volumes about ones character and choosing one that aligns with your lifestyle is crucial. We’ve selected a handful of our favourites and in short, described why they’re contenders.

One of the most instantly recognisable bags around, the Fjallraven Kanken. Originally designed to spare the backs of Swedish school children with the jingle “straight backs are happy backs”. It’s a classic amongst students and hipsters all over the globe. The Kanken is fairly basic in design but for us, that’s one of the it’s biggest strengths. With the Kanken, what you see is what you get.

The Battenwear Logo Tote Bag, simply sling it over your shoulder and you’re good to go. A handy, heavyweight cotton canvas bag that’s ideal for your weekly food shop and just as equally doubles up as highly approporiate summertime tote. Our favourite feature is the internal zip pocket, not enough totes include an internal zip, it’s a shame.

Filson come through with Made In USA goodness all day. The Medium Field Bag has been crafted from a heavyweight cotton canvas and features lovely leather trims. It’s been expertly put together and the ergonomic functionality of this bag is quite stunning, extremely comfortable to wear. Filson branding includes the motto “might as well have the best”, that says it all really.

The lightweight Dromond Holdall from Barbour is the perfect size for your weekend away. There is plenty of storage space for all your clothes and essentials wherever you’re heading. The Dromond is absolutely ideal for a weekend getaway and has been designed with webbing carrying handles and an adjustable shoulder strap to ensure upmost comfort on your travels.

Saving one of our favourites until last. The Nanamica Cordura Cycling Pack just had to get a mention. Japanese label Nanamica is a brand that blends athletic construction and smart function and the Cylcing Bag is stalwart in their line up. The waterproof and durable Cordura twin shell is a fantastic update. The generous storage space allows for all the essentials you could ever need and the front zip pocket and internal laptop pocket are very convenient additions. This lightweight bag takes technical performance to whole new level. Nanamica build products you can trust and that’s why we like them.