What kind of work bag please?

[autumnpie]

I have to go to meetings next week and need a suitable work bag. I am struggling to know what sort to go for though.

Usually I use a small handbag and just have a phone. Or else I use a laptop bag or rucksack to carry laptop and lots of paperwork.

However next week I need a bag big enough to carry an iPad but not too huge because I have to be walking around a conference etc.

Does anyone have any suggestions please? I am looking for something smart/stylish. I work in the tech sector but as it's a start up I don't have a huge amount of money to spend - but still need a bag that will look 'right'.

Thank you very much for any thoughts you might have.

Depends what your wearing etc. my first thought was a black leather tote bag. Zara do some good bags that looks more expensive than they are but depends how dressy it needs to be.

Would something like this work? I love a backpack of heavy stuff but it is also so good having a bag on your shoulder when you commute to get card and phone easily!

https://www.johnlewis.com/kin-sia-tote-bag-black/p5737569?sku=239888724&sppc=2dx92700066159591238&tmad=c&tmcampid=2&gbraid=0AAAAAD2el1xOJj3q642xlUCdDUj2z5Wjn&gbraid=0AAAAAD2el1xOJj3q642xlUCdDUj2z5Wjn&gclid=CjwKCAjwwtWRBhAwEiwALxFPoanNBZ3xOWXLJ91Zrbgalx6Jt4axj6Be2OOX4bi6gED5qTwBL2cLhoC6AQAvDD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

I have this from Mango. Zip up compartment in the middle, plenty of space either side. Very happy with it.

Thank you all for the great ideas.

I have a bag that is similar to the John Lewis one now I think about it so I will see how it looks with the rest of the outfit.

I was worried that it might look a bit too big - but at the same time I need to be able to carry everything for a really long and very full day - just trying to achieve everything really

I was going to recommend a Paul Costello day bag which I love for work and is reasonable as it real leather but it would really hurt my shoulder luging something about ball day. Look on the paul Costello outlet site. Mine is etchitta day (or something similar)

So I'd get a backpack either a leather one or a kanken from fjallraven (bit 'basic' but I like it)

Thank you. I will take a look.

If you already have a smart backpack/rucksack can you not just use that but not fill it up? Then it is light enough to carry in your hand but if you pick up prochures or papers you can stash them neatly.

I'd not buy anything for one conference. Not unless I was hoping to network for a new job.

I have this and it fits laptop and iPad with all the accessories and have space even for a book and water bottle. Very comfy to carry Wenger ANA 16" Womens Laptop Tote https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01N0HB3OC/ref=cmswwrcppapiglttiQ364XKZQSNM3FPJMPDJY

@cherrypiepie

I was going to recommend a Paul Costello day bag which I love for work and is reasonable as it real leather but it would really hurt my shoulder luging something about ball day. Look on the paul Costello outlet site. Mine is etchitta day (or something similar)

So I'd get a backpack either a leather one or a kanken from fjallraven (bit 'basic' but I like it)

There's a Paul Costelloe shop in the outlet village near us. It's worth a look if you're near one - they are really well made bags and lots of variety.

@evilharpy I've had mine 5 years and I love it so much it looks better each year! It's my first leather work bag and the non Leather ones last about 6 months given the amount of stuff I have to lug back and forth!

Would like another one too, to mix thinks up a bit!

Which out let village is it please? I got mine for tk maxx.

@cherrypiepie Swindon - there might be one in Bicester too.

There's also a paul costelloe at ashford outlet in Kent

Tkmaxx?

Thank you @IloveJudgeJudy and @evilharpy

Thank you. I think the Wenger Tote looks a very good one. I will also look at the Paul Costello ones.

I can't use a rucksack on this occasion unfortunately because I would like to be able to easily reach the iPad when I need it as I am talking to someone, without having to take my bag on and off to reach it.

Thank you very much for all your thoughts. Wish I was near one of the outlets as they sound great