He settled on the casual, unobtrusive Tumi Alpha messenger-style bag with a cross-body strap.

WSJ: Wanted: Satchel to Carry Everything

For men, the messenger bag, a bag with a long, cross-body strap, can make a style statement.

WSJ: Wanted: Satchel to Carry Everything

Timbuk2 is a San Francisco-based company that pioneered the messenger bag.

ENGADGET: Timbuk2 Power Commute carries your gadgets, keeps 'em charged for $199 (hands-on)

And music-lovers who feel compelled to blast their tunes for others might want to invest in the Lifepod Groove Master Messenger Bag, which comes with built-in speakers.

FORBES: Smart, High-Tech Clothing