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Functional, comfortable, and cool—need we say more?
The variety of bags for men on the market these days is dizzying—especially if you don't know where to start. You have the best backpacks for men, the best duffel bags for men, and smaller options like briefcases and hip packs. And then there are sling bags. Not to be confused with messenger bags, these casual-yet-cool alternatives to your regular 'ole pack are ideal for just about any scenario—including travel.
Sure, you can traverse through the city with your tried-and-true bag of choice. But just in case you’re looking for a way to grab your wallet, sunglasses, wireless earbuds or headphones, or literally anything else you typically keep on you in a way that’s as smooth as butter, the best sling bag for men is about to be your best friend. And, thanks to the easy-to-wear design, these are some of the best types of bags you could use while you're hiking, biking, or doing anything else that takes you on the go.
No matter what you plan to use your sling bag for, there's sure to be a use for it. After all, you need something for when those pockets aren't big enough but a full-on backpack feels like overkill.
Below, see our top picks for the best sling bags for men.
Naturally, something with Lebron's name would be a must-have option. With four zippered pockets, all your things are sure to stay organized. Plus, there's a G hook to latch on your gear (or maybe a clip-on Bluetooth speaker), along with a mesh panel for added comfort. Finally, there's the fact that it's a cool style statement.
If you’re looking for a luxury option that’ll last for ages, consider this leather sling bag from Coach. Complete with a front zip pocket for your valuables and an adjustable strap, this is as stylish as it is functional. Plus, we can only imagine how good the patina will look with more wear. Fair warning, though—the interior capacity is on the smaller side, but it is big enough to hold an iPad and your essentials.
Given that Lululemon is all about making things for the man on the go, it's no surprise that it made a cool, lightweight sling bag. You can also sport it as a fanny pack for when you're on a hike or going to an outdoor concert (or any other time you want to be hands-free). And on the inside, there's a mesh pocket with a key loop.
If you aren’t ready to get something that screams “sling bag,” we suggest Mack Weldon’s rucksack. The Men’s Health editor-approved brand’s take on the sling pack is made with water-resistant nylon and includes a drawstring closure. It also features a special compartment for your workout clothes, so it’s just the thing when you don’t want to schlep a gym bag around.
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When it comes to travel bags, a packable soft-sided option is always a good idea. It'll pack down into a zip pouch and fit easily within your bag, features an interior organization system, and is made with water-resistant nylon. Not to mention, it's available in four colors, so you can match your other gear.
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If you're headed on a day hike and need something easy to throw over your shoulder, this 100% recycled ripstop nylon bag is the one for you. It'll carry everything and keep you from worrying about losing anything along the trail. Plus, it has weatherproof zippers, so you don't have to worry about any water damage when it rains.
Peak Design's sleek and simple back is designed to carry (and protect) your DLSR camera, making it the perfect option for those who are sightseeing. However, it also makes a great option for everyday use—especially since there's a padded sleeve for 13" laptop and dividers to keep things (or, you know, lenses) organized.
Let’s be real: No brand does it quite like Tumi. This durable sling pack, which is a great size for everyday use or day hikes, features a cool and functional buckle closure, a quick-release strap, and an interior wall pocket among other things to ensure you'll always have your things on you. To top it off, it comes with Tumi Tracer, a complimentary program that uses a unique 20-digit number to help you track down missing or stolen bags.
Naturally, Herschel will make a solid sling bag—and for a good price, too. This option features all the things you know and love about the brand, but merges the design of a traditional backpack with the sling bag to give you a cool hybrid for daily use.
This might just be the Goldilocks of sling bags—not too big, not too small, but just right. The Nova Sling Bag is big enough to hold your essentials and then some more (aka it might be. the only thing you carry from here on out). The mesh pockets and bungee cords make it ideal for daily commutes—and for the eco-conscious shoppers out there, the body's made with 7 recycled plastic bottles.
Chrome is known for top-quality messenger bags, and this mini sling option is no exception. The bag, which has a quick-access front pocket, features a padded U-lock holster (the cyclists out there will certainly appreciate that) and a slider that also has a bottle opener, because why not?
Count on Carhartt to make a solid sling bag. This versatile style is made with a water-resistant material that'll keep your things dry through light rain and has a tablet sleeve. The main compartment measures 19 inches, while the fleece-lined front pocket is the perfect size for your keys or phone.
Looking for something to take on your next trip? Everlane's take on the sling bag is big enough to hold your passport, wallet, phone, and then some, but small enough not to be cumbersome (which means you can move freely while keeping your essentials on you). Plus, with the curved shape, it'll sit comfortably against your back or chest.
Whether you're planning to go on a river hike, head to the beach, fish, or do anything else in some water while you're outdoors, you'll want to keep your things dry. In which case, reach for this dry bag. Yes, it's undoubtedly pricey, but with the large capacity, D rings to hook up your go-to gear, and a padded back panel, this is sure to get plenty of use to make the investment well worth it.
Read More: Best Hiking Backpacks
Designed to have expandable storage, this sling bag from Bellroy has a magnetic clasp to make it easier to put on and off. There are also a sunglasses pouch and key ring on the inside. We don't know about you, but we think this is perfect for attending summer concerts, baseball games, and so much more.