11 Functional Vegan Bags For Every Lifestyle

I’m the type of person that will use the same bag over and over until it’s falling apart at the seams. It’s not that I’m particularly invested in the disheveled look; I’m simply lazy and like to rely on one bag to serve all of my needs. Since I rely almost solely on public transportation, it’s important to me that I’m carrying everything I need for the day when I leave my house in the morning. On a regular day, these items may include:

-Yoga mat
-Work clothes
-Face cleanser, toner, and moisturizer
-Hair brush
-Makeup bag
-Wallet
-Sunglasses
-Umbrella
-Hand lotion
-Kindle
-Breakfast and lunch, usually packed in glass containers

With my current bag (a random Target purchase with merely one inside pocket), I feel like a modern day Mary Poppins, constantly fishing around for what I need and complaining about my sore back from carrying a heavy bag around all day. This, coupled with the peeling faux leather and worn straps, has propelled me into a search for the perfect vegan bag.

But even individuals with more flexible, open schedules need a bag to suit their needs. Busy mothers, students, constant travelers, etc. need bags that are both functional and fashionable. If you’re in the market for a new vegan bag, this selection is a great place to start.

For the student:

When I look back on my college years, I wince at my attempts (or lack thereof) at creating my own style. I was also very studious, meaning that I carried multiple textbooks to campus each day in my extra large Jansport backpack, causing significant back pain. If only my younger self knew about these accessible, yet totally chic book bags!

Matt & Nat Peltola Backpack, $150

Urban Expressions Kingsley Backpack, $80

For the mother:

Mothers have a lot to worry about–and carry–throughout the day. However, the chaos of early motherhood doesn’t mean you need to resign yourself to bulky and outdated diaper bags. In addition to being fashion forward, they should be spacious contain a lot of pockets for diapers, toys, and tchotchkes. These vegan bags are perfect for any busy mother seeking organization.

timi & leslie Charlie 7-Piece Diaper Bag Set, $159

Matt & Nat Raylan Med Diaper Bag, $195

For the 9-5er:

During the work week, my bag is filled with “just in case” items. What if it rains? What if my lipstick smears? What if the restaurant doesn’t have vegan options? You get the idea. As I mentioned above, the 9-5 lifestyle demands a large bag with multiple compartments so that one can stay organized when busy. I’m drooling over each of these bags, which offer the aforementioned space, plus aesthetic appeal.

Haiku Bags Sprint Duffle, $135

Spencer Shoulder Bag, $49

Cri De Coeur Orian Satchel Bag, $160

For the traveler:

Whether you find yourself flying across the country for work or visiting your boyfriend in NYC each weekend, you need a weekend bag that can serve all your travel needs without being terribly bulky or boring. Though not always an easy task, it is possible to find a travel bag that will fulfill all of your needs.

Cornelia Guest Nicholas Satchel, $232

GUNAS Monarch Tote Bag, $135

For the social butterfly:

After a busy day of work, there’s nothing better than a night out with colleagues or friends. A clutch that’s sophisticated yet flirty is the perfect transition from day to night. Remember to look for pieces that are roomy enough to carry all of you essentials without being overwhelming in size.