DESIGN
Best Bags for Organization
Functional features like pockets, zippers and clasps make all the difference.
- Heading back to school? Bags with convenient organizational features are always in style.
- Explore bags with pockets, compartments and zip-top closures before committing to the one.
- Below are the best bags for organization (including specific Coach styles).
Back-to-school season is upon us—which means you’ll need a handbag that can handle busy campus days full of back-to-back classes, study sessions at the library and evening hangouts on the quad. And while capacity is always important to consider, organizational features are just as crucial.
From interior and exterior pockets to snap and zip-top closures, these are the most convenient organizational elements to look for in a back-to-school bag (plus, Coach style picks that work as hard as you do).
What are the key organizational bag features to look for?
Pockets & Compartments
Pockets are your best friend when it comes to added organization. Search for styles with center zip compartments for all the essentials, easy access slip pockets for your phone and interior snap pockets for smaller items like your lip gloss or AirPods. It’s all about having a few secure, designated spots for all your day-to-day necessities.
Snap or Zip Closures
Snap or zip closures keep all your belongings safe—whether you’re toting across campus with your laptop and books or commuting to an internship with your tablet and an extra blazer. Plus, bags that close shut help make sure your packed items stay in place while on the move.
D-Rings
D-rings (those semi-circular, D-shaped hardware attachments you find on bag straps) aren’t just for bag charms. They’re incredibly practical, too. Styles like the Brooklyn feature D-rings on both the inside and outside of the bag. Clip your keys right onto the inner D-ring so they’re easy to find (and safe from the outside world) after a long day of back-to-back classes.
Pockets are your best friend when it comes to added organization. Search for styles with center zip compartments for all the essentials, easy access slip pockets for your phone and interior snap pockets for smaller items like your lip gloss or AirPods. It’s all about having a few secure, designated spots for all your day-to-day necessities.
Snap or Zip Closures
Snap or zip closures keep all your belongings safe—whether you’re toting across campus with your laptop and books or commuting to an internship with your tablet and an extra blazer. Plus, bags that close shut help make sure your packed items stay in place while on the move.
D-Rings
D-rings (those semi-circular, D-shaped hardware attachments you find on bag straps) aren’t just for bag charms. They’re incredibly practical, too. Styles like the Brooklyn feature D-rings on both the inside and outside of the bag. Clip your keys right onto the inner D-ring so they’re easy to find (and safe from the outside world) after a long day of back-to-back classes.
What are the best bags for organization?
The Tote Bag
Spacious, durable and designed for everyday living, the tote bag is a back-to-school classic. Look for totes with enough space for your laptop and books (plus a few extras for post-class hangouts). Styles with structured silhouettes (like the City Tote Bag and Station Tote Bag) prevent items from shifting around throughout the day, keeping everything upright and protected so you don’t have to dig around for anything.
Style Picks: City Tote Bag, Station Tote Bag
The Shoulder Bag
Regardless of how much (or how little) you tend to take with you on a day-to-day basis, shoulder bags with a few pockets and compartments will help you stay organized while heading to class. Styles with highly compartmentalized interiors (like the Lana) will even hold an extra sweater or change of shoes without looking or feeling too crammed.
Style Picks: Lana Shoulder Bag
The Mini Bag
We know what you’re thinking—how can a mini bag exceed at organization with such a little silhouette? It’s a valid concern, but we’re happy to report that mini bags are actually one of the most convenient styles out there, particularly when used as a bag pouch within a larger carryall. Stash all your loose, smaller items inside your mini bag. When it’s time to access your card case or lip gloss, you won’t have to search very far.
Style Picks: Nolita 19, Plaza Bag
Spacious, durable and designed for everyday living, the tote bag is a back-to-school classic. Look for totes with enough space for your laptop and books (plus a few extras for post-class hangouts). Styles with structured silhouettes (like the City Tote Bag and Station Tote Bag) prevent items from shifting around throughout the day, keeping everything upright and protected so you don’t have to dig around for anything.
Style Picks: City Tote Bag, Station Tote Bag
The Shoulder Bag
Regardless of how much (or how little) you tend to take with you on a day-to-day basis, shoulder bags with a few pockets and compartments will help you stay organized while heading to class. Styles with highly compartmentalized interiors (like the Lana) will even hold an extra sweater or change of shoes without looking or feeling too crammed.
Style Picks: Lana Shoulder Bag
The Mini Bag
We know what you’re thinking—how can a mini bag exceed at organization with such a little silhouette? It’s a valid concern, but we’re happy to report that mini bags are actually one of the most convenient styles out there, particularly when used as a bag pouch within a larger carryall. Stash all your loose, smaller items inside your mini bag. When it’s time to access your card case or lip gloss, you won’t have to search very far.
Style Picks: Nolita 19, Plaza Bag
Discover even more styles you’ll love.
FAQs: You asked. We’ve answered.
How important is organization when choosing a travel bag?
How important is organization when choosing a travel bag?
Design elements like spacious interiors with keychain clips will keep your belongings easily accessible, while pockets with snap or zip closures will keep smaller essentials secure. For an additional layer of organization, look for zip pouches or cosmetic cases that can be carried within a larger bag.
What is a bag pouch?
What is a bag pouch?
The best bag pouches will keep all your loose items secure within your larger tote, ensuring your bag is always tidy and your items are always accessible. While referred to as a “pouch,” there are a variety of mini bags, wristlets and clutches that serve the same purpose, neatly organizing miscellaneous items while sliding snugly inside your larger bag.
What bag silhouette is best for back-to-school?
What bag silhouette is best for back-to-school?
Both relaxed and structured silhouettes work well for back-to-school, depending on your personal style. Slouchy silhouettes are always a popular choice, thanks to their spacious interiors that expand to accommodate all your essentials. Structured bags, on the other hand, offer a polished and professional appearance, while keeping items organized and secured in place.