Bags and Handbags for Work, Travel and Every Day
Easy Life Markets sells bags and handbags for daily life: top handle satchels, shoulder totes, crossbody phone bags, sling bags, canvas backpacks, convertible tote backpacks, a laptop backpack and a roll-up travel cosmetic bag. Each product page lists the size, materials, compartments and colours, so you can check that a bag fits what you carry before you order.
What should you buy? Start with what you carry every day and how you like to carry it. If you only need your phone, cards and keys, a small crossbody bag keeps your hands free. If you carry a laptop, water bottle and lunch, a backpack spreads the weight across both shoulders. A structured handbag suits work and evenings, and a slouchy tote is easy for shopping and weekends. This guide explains each style, how to read bag sizes, which materials suit which use, and how to keep your bag in good shape.
Types of Bags and Handbags in Our Range
Bags come in many shapes, but most fall into a few clear types. We add new styles over time. Here is what each type is for and what to look at when choosing one.
Top Handle Handbags and Satchels
A satchel has a flat base, a structured body and one or two short handles on top. Many also come with a detachable shoulder strap, so you can carry them by hand or on the shoulder. This is the classic handbag shape for work, meetings and dinners. The women's top handle handbag has a stitched panel and a pom-pom charm. The women's color block handbag uses three tones of PU for a bold look, and the women's tassel handbag has a vintage-look finish and a 1.2 m shoulder strap. The first two measure 29 cm across; the tassel bag is 26 cm.
When choosing a satchel, check the width in centimetres and the inside layout. A structured bag holds its shape, so what fits inside is limited by its size. Measure the largest item you need to carry, such as a tablet or a paperback, and compare it with the listed dimensions.
Shoulder Bags and Totes
A tote is an open or loosely closed bag with two straps long enough to go over the shoulder. Totes are roomy and easy to throw things into. The corduroy shoulder bag is a large slouchy style with a drawstring top and front pockets. Soft totes like this are good for shopping, the library or a day out, when you need space more than structure.
The trade-off with a tote is security and organisation. An open top makes it easy to reach your things, but also easier for things to fall out. Look for a drawstring, zip or magnetic closure if you carry valuables.
Crossbody and Phone Bags
A crossbody bag has a long strap that goes across the body, so the bag sits at your hip or front. Your hands stay free, and the bag is harder to snatch or forget. Small phone bags carry the essentials and nothing more. The crossbody phone bag has pyramid studs and card slots, which can replace a wallet for light days. It measures 19 × 10 × 5 cm on the outside.
Before you buy a phone bag, check the inside size against your phone. Phones have grown larger, and a bag that suits a small phone may not close over a large one with a thick case.
Sling Bags and Chest Packs
A sling bag has a single strap and sits across the back or chest. It is a sporty, practical choice for walking, cycling and travel. The men's crossbody sling bag is a nylon chest pack with a top handle, 30 cm high, with phone and document pockets inside. Sling bags hold more than a phone bag but much less than a backpack, which makes them a good middle ground.
Backpacks and Convertible Bags
Backpacks carry the most weight comfortably because the load is shared across both shoulders. The men's canvas backpack is a casual daypack, 44 cm high, with zip front pockets and mesh side pockets. The canvas tote backpack converts between a backpack, a shoulder bag and a hand-carried tote, so one bag covers several uses.
If you carry a computer, choose a backpack with a padded laptop section and check the screen size it fits. The laptop backpack with USB charging port is offered for 14 or 15.6 inch laptops; see the product page for full details. For more computer gear, browse computer accessories, and if you work from home, our home office setup guide has useful tips.
Travel and Cosmetic Bags
Small organiser bags keep toiletries, makeup and cables tidy inside a larger bag or suitcase. The travel cosmetic bag rolls up and has four detachable pouches, so you can take only the pouch you need. For care products to fill it, see our beauty and personal care range.
How to Read Bag Sizes
Bag sizes are usually given in centimetres. A listing may show one main number, such as 26 cm or 44 cm, or a full set of width, height and depth. Here is how to understand them.
- Width: the measurement from side to side across the front. Handbag titles often quote this number.
- Height: from the base to the top edge, not counting the handles. Backpack sizes often quote height.
- Depth: front to back at the base. This decides how bulky items fit, such as a water bottle.
- Strap drop: the distance from the top of the strap to the top of the bag. It tells you whether a bag sits in your hand, under your arm or at your hip.
A simple test: gather the things you carry every day and lay them on a table. Measure the space they need, then compare with the bag's listed size. If you are unsure, contact us and ask about a specific bag.
Pockets and Compartments
Size is only half the story. The inside layout decides how easy a bag is to use. Many bags and handbags have a main compartment plus a zip pocket for small valuables and an open slip pocket for your phone. Backpacks often add front and side pockets for a bottle or umbrella. Look at the product photos and description to see how a bag is divided. More pockets help you find things quickly, but they also take up a little space.
Size Guide by Use
- Phone, cards and keys: a crossbody phone bag or a small sling.
- Purse, phone, sunglasses and makeup: a small to medium handbag in the mid-20s of centimetres wide.
- Tablet, book, water bottle and extras: a large satchel or tote.
- Laptop, lunch, charger and a layer: a backpack or laptop backpack.
Choosing Bags and Handbags by Occasion
Most people end up with two or three bags that cover different parts of their week. Thinking about occasions first makes the choice easier.
Work and Study
You need room for the day and some order inside. A structured satchel with an inner pocket keeps your phone, keys and cards apart. If you carry a laptop, a backpack with a padded section is kinder to your shoulders than a heavy handbag. Choose a neutral colour so the bag works with most outfits.
Weekends and Errands
Comfort and space come first. A slouchy tote holds shopping and a spare layer. A canvas backpack is handy for markets, parks and days with children. Soft fabrics are easy to fold away when you do not need them.
Evenings and Events
Carry less and keep it close. A small crossbody bag or a compact handbag holds your phone, a card and a lipstick. Studs, tassels and colour block designs add interest to a simple outfit.
Travel Days
A sling bag or crossbody keeps your passport, phone and tickets in easy reach and under your eye. A convertible backpack can switch from shoulder to back when your hands are full. Pack toiletries in a separate organiser so a leak does not spoil the rest of your things.
Materials: PU, Canvas, Nylon and Corduroy
The material changes how a bag looks, how heavy it feels and how you clean it. The materials for each bag are listed on its product page. Here is what the common ones mean.
- PU (polyurethane): a leather-look synthetic. Smooth, easy to wipe, and lighter than real leather. Keep it away from strong heat and sharp objects.
- Canvas: a strong woven cotton fabric. Casual, sturdy and easy to spot clean.
- Nylon: light and tough, often used for sporty bags. Dries quickly after a light splash.
- Oxford cloth: a woven fabric common in backpacks, chosen for durability.
- Corduroy: a soft ridged fabric with a relaxed, vintage feel.
Hardware matters too. Look at the zips, buckles and strap fixings in the photos. A good zip runs smoothly and closes fully. Strap attachments should look secure where they meet the bag.
Bags and Handbags Compared
| Style | Best for | How it carries | What to check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top handle satchel | Work, meetings, evenings | By hand or detachable strap | Width, inside pockets, closure |
| Tote or shoulder bag | Shopping, weekends, errands | Over the shoulder | Closure type, strap length |
| Crossbody phone bag | Light days, nights out | Across the body | Fits your phone with case |
| Sling or chest pack | Walking, cycling, travel | Single strap, front or back | Strap adjustment, pockets |
| Backpack | Commute, school, day trips | Both shoulders | Height, padded straps, pockets |
| Laptop backpack | Work and study with a computer | Both shoulders | Laptop size it fits, padding |
| Convertible tote backpack | Mixed days, travel | Hand, shoulder or back | Strap conversion, capacity |
| Cosmetic or travel bag | Organising inside luggage | Carried or packed | Pouch number, closures |
Comfort and Carrying the Load
A bag that is too heavy or carried badly can leave your shoulders and back sore at the end of the day. A few simple habits make a big difference.
- Carry less. Empty your bag once a week. Old receipts, spare chargers and loose change add up.
- Use both straps on a backpack. Slinging it over one shoulder puts all the weight on one side.
- Adjust the straps. A backpack should sit close to your back with the base around your waist, not hanging low.
- Switch sides. With a shoulder bag or tote, change shoulders now and then.
- Put heavy things at the back. In a backpack, pack the laptop and books closest to your back.
- Choose crossbody for long walks. It spreads the weight better than a single shoulder.
Caring for Your Bag
Well-kept bags and handbags can look good for years. Follow any care notes on the product page, and use these general tips.
- Wipe PU bags with a soft damp cloth and dry them straight away. Avoid harsh cleaners and solvents.
- Spot clean canvas and nylon with mild soap and water. Test on a hidden area first.
- Brush corduroy along the ridges with a soft brush to lift dust.
- Empty and stuff the bag when stored. Paper or a soft cloth inside helps structured bags keep their shape.
- Store away from direct sun. Strong light can fade colours over time.
- Keep pens capped and liquids sealed. Ink and spills are the most common causes of stains inside a bag.
- Do not overfill. Forcing a zip closed strains the stitching and the zip itself.
For more background on the history and many styles of handbags, the handbag article on Wikipedia is an interesting read.
Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Bag
- Not checking the size. A bag can look large in photos. Always compare the listed centimetres with your items.
- Ignoring the strap. A short handle will not go over a winter coat. Check if there is a longer strap.
- Buying a phone bag that is too small for your phone with its case.
- Choosing an open tote for valuables. Pick a zip or a secure closure if you carry important items.
- Forgetting the return policy. Read our return and refund policy before ordering.
Matching Bags to Your Outfit
A bag is one of the easiest ways to change the look of an outfit. A neutral handbag in black, grey or beige goes with almost everything and suits work. A bright or patterned bag adds colour to a plain outfit. Canvas and corduroy feel relaxed and weekend friendly, while smooth PU looks a little smarter. Pair your bag with pieces from women's clothing or men's clothing, and finish the look with jewelry or a watch from our watches range.
Who This Range Suits
Our bags and handbags suit people who want practical, good-looking bags for real daily use. Office workers will find satchels with room for the day's essentials. Students and commuters will like the backpacks. Travellers can pair a sling bag or convertible backpack with the roll-up cosmetic organiser. A handbag or crossbody bag also makes an easy, useful gift.
Explore More of Our Fashion Range
This category is part of our wider fashion collection. Related categories include:
- Women's clothing for everyday outfits to match your bag.
- Men's clothing to go with a backpack or sling.
- Shoes and sneakers to complete the look.
- Jewelry: necklaces, earrings, rings and bracelets.
- Watches: analogue, digital and smart styles.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a bag is big enough?
Lay out what you carry every day, measure the space it takes and compare with the size on the product page. Check width, height and depth if they are listed.
What is the difference between a crossbody bag and a shoulder bag?
A crossbody bag has a long strap worn across the body. A shoulder bag hangs from one shoulder. Crossbody bags keep your hands free and are harder to lose.
Is PU the same as leather?
No. PU is a synthetic material made to look like leather. It is lighter and easy to wipe clean. The material of each bag is listed on its product page.
Will my laptop fit in a backpack?
Check the laptop size the backpack is made for, such as 14 or 15.6 inches, and compare it with your laptop's screen size. Thick laptops may also need extra depth.
Can I return a bag?
Our return and refund policy explains how returns work and what condition an item needs to be in. Please read it before you order.
How long does delivery take?
It depends on your location and the item. See our shipping policy. The current price and availability are shown on each product page.
Will you add more bags and handbags?
Yes. We add new bags and handbags over time, so check back for new styles and colours.
Where can I get more help?
Our FAQ page covers general questions. For anything else, contact us.
Shop Bags and Handbags at Easy Life Markets
Think about what you carry and how you like to carry it, then check the size and materials on each product page. The right bag makes every day a little easier. Browse the range above and find the one that fits your routine.