You’re in need of a new bag but aren’t sure what to buy. Would it be better to buy a briefcase or a backpack for work?
Let’s first define each of these terms broadly to get things started.
Definition
When I say briefcase, I describe any narrow bag with a handle made to carry papers and equipment. It’s designed to be carried in the hand.
Although I’m referring to all types of bags here, the term “briefcase” technically only refers to the hard-sided box variant.
Any bag worn on the back is referred to as a backpack, sometimes known as a knapsack or rucksack. This bag will sit on the back and be secured in place by two straps that go over the shoulders.
There are three common designs for backpacks. Backpacks with internal frames, exterior frames, and frameless options are all available.
Function
Therefore, the first factor to take into account while deciding between a backpack and a briefcase is the function of the bag.
One thing I’ve learnt over the years is to buy the correct bag for the job. Because if you purchase a bag that is excessively large, you will cram it with unnecessary items and end up carrying them everywhere.
Or you buy a bag that is too small and never use it.
A briefcase or satchel will likely be on your search list if you’re a young professional.
Because you’ll be transporting your computer to and from work, as well as possibly some important paperwork.
You need something that will meet your needs as well as look professional.
However, if you’re going to college, you should purchase a backpack. You need a bag that can store all of your books and is incredibly versatile if you’re a student. The point is that you require a bag that can carry a little bit more.
Formality and Presentation
Let’s discuss formality and presentation. What message are these bags conveying?
The briefcase, messenger bag, satchel, and portfolio are the bags that predominate when it comes to professionalism.
It most likely has a lot to do with the history. These were the bags of couriers, messengers, and people carrying critical news, which you had to rapidly remove and hand to the next rider.
Hollywood has persisted in imprinting in our brains over the years the notion that when I see a professional man, I see a leather briefcase, I see that leather satchel, I see a messenger bag with that guy who is looking well, looking professional.
On the other hand, we connect the backpack with being much more casual. This is a student’s bag, a backpacker’s bag, or the bag of a young man enjoying himself in school.
Despite the fact that it is a highly useful bag, we rarely see a professional carrying one.
That implies that there isn’t such a thing as a professional backpack, right?
No, there are some that look fantastic. The ones made of leather are professional and do convey professionalism.
But compared to briefcases or messenger bags, backpacks tend to be more casual.
Functionality of The Carry
The functionality of the carry is the next point I’ll discuss.
Let’s move over and examine the messenger bag, the satchel.
Wag when a messenger is riding on horseback, if he wants to rapidly hand this off to someone else or be able to grasp it and be able to get something out, he can do one of those things. He also has the ability to do both.
The benefit of this bag is that everything is within quick reach as opposed to a backpack that is slung over your back.
Because this bag will be smaller, you are also forced to bring only the essentials. You don’t want to carry a lot of weight with this when you’re carrying it in your hand. Only the most crucial items will be restricted by the bag’s size.
On the other hand, a man on his feet who needs to be able to carry a lot more will find the backpack to be much more useful. With a backpack, you can carry a lot more weight.
There are backpacks with an internal frame, backpacks with an exterior frame, backpacks with a lot of support, and even backpacks without support on the market today. Technically speaking, a duffel bag is a backpack, and you can carry a lot of weight in one.
You’re spreading it across the shoulders, that’s the main point.
Backpacks have some drawbacks. You cannot see what is going on. If you’ve ever tried to board a bus while carrying a big backpack, you’ve definitely knocked a few people over. It’s just one of those things that comes with the territory.
In addition, since you can’t see what’s behind you and other people can access your bag, security is much worse when you’re wearing a backpack.
Price
There are numerous aspects at play when it comes to price.
The material from which the product is made and the company that manufactures the product are the two most important.
Generally speaking, the use of expensive materials like leather and extensive manufacture time will result in higher prices for higher quality bags.
The price is increased by extra pockets, style details, and various types of hardware.
The fact that briefcases often use better hardware than backpacks is another aspect of them.
There are certain companies that produce both backpacks and briefcases and they will use the same hardware. But they’re going to pay closer attention to the specifics when it comes to the zippers, metals, rivets, buckles, and other things on briefcases.
Some backpack makers will attempt to cut costs by using materials that are quite cheap.
In the end, leather is a luxury material with a high cost of production. Therefore, you can expect to find materials like polyester, nylon, and canvas.
Not that great backpacks can’t be made from that; nevertheless, they will typically be viewed as more casual.
But if you’re going for a performance backpack, one that you’ll use outside when camping or doing anything similar, I believe it’s a wonderful option.
However, you must ensure that the performance material you purchase is high-quality. Additionally, there is a big distinction between affordable and cheap ones.
I wish there was a way to make the distinction clear right away.
Be sure to read labels. Do they refer to ballistic nylon? It won’t be able to stop bullets, but it will be better able to withstand abrasion and general wear and tear.
I also enjoy canvas backpacks for this reason. The thing I enjoy about canvas is that it will have a stitch and a material that is made to deal with only abrasion, despite the fact that they will be a little bit heavier than nylon.
Brand Mark Up
What do you anticipate when you buy from a prestigious firm like Louis Vuitton? They’re going to bump up the price by 25 to 50 times.
Instead of going straight from businesses, you’ll pay thousands of dollars for a bag that might just buy $25 to $50 to make.
Because many people haven’t heard of them, I really adore smaller businesses. You can get it straight from the manufacturer for a reasonable price and receive a bag of excellent quality.
So, always try to shop locally and be able to recognize quality for yourself, in my opinion. You can then decide what is best for you.
What’s Right For Your Back?
What’s best for your back is another thing to take into account.
No matter what, I strongly suggest using a backpack if you have back problems. Why? Because the weight will be distributed more equally.
But be cautious about what you put in there. Try to choose a smaller backpack that will require you to only select the bare minimum of stuff.
When going a briefcase or messenger bag on one side when commuting, it can force some people to lean over a little bit, which can result in back problems.
