How to: Choose a Bag for Campus

• The best bags for campus should be able to carry your classroom essentials—think laptop, tablet, water bottle and more—all while serving as an extension of your own personal style.
• Here’s what to consider before choosing a campus bag, plus a few of our Coach recommendations.

It’s almost time to head back to campus and kick off the academic year in style. Whether you’re prepping for back-to-back classes, college football games, nights out with friends (or all of the above), there’s one thing that’s certain—you’ll need a stylish plus-one to accompany you day in and day out.

Before choosing the perfect campus bag for you, consider the below features (and don’t forget to explore some of our Coach favorites, too).

Shoulder Bags

Depending on size, shoulder bags often offer the same spacious interior of a tote (all hidden behind a refined, polished exterior). Stick to a timeless silhouette that hangs right over your shoulder when heading back to school. A spacious shoulder bag is the ultimate everyday staple—roomy and ready to go.

Style Picks: Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 34, Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 39, Lana Shoulder Bag

Tote Bags

A campus classic, the tote bag balances professionalism with functionality. Spacious, durable and designed for everyday living, structured totes elevate any casual back-to-school style with their refined silhouette. Plus, you can even stash an extra change of shoes or light sweater for post-class plans.

Style Picks: City Tote Bag, Station Tote Bag

Convertible Bags

Can’t choose just one style? Not a problem. Go with a convertible bag that transforms from sophisticated top-handle to hands-free crossbody in a moment’s notice. You need at least one hand to hold your coffee, right?

Style Picks: Soft Empire Carryall Bag 40, Soft Empire Carryall Bag 48

Zip & Snap Closures

Choose a style with a zip-top or snap closure for extra security while dashing from one side of campus to the other.

Internal & External Pockets

Prioritize interior and exterior pockets for a bag that fits all the essentials—like your phone, wallet, keys, laptop, tablet and reusable water bottle—in an organized manner. The last thing you want to worry about during a day of back-to-back classes is digging through your bag.

Overall Capacity

Before deciding on the campus bag for you, consider all the items you plan to take with you every day (and any extras you might throw in for post-class plans with friends). Capacity is of the utmost importance.

Leather

Back-to-back classes can feel overwhelming, which means you should have a bag that can handle the pressure. A sturdy, durable material can make all the difference. Consider a style crafted of Natural Grain Leather (like the Brooklyn)—your bag will develop a rich patina over time, with each outing only deepening its unique character.

Canvas

Coach canvas is a durable and easygoing material crafted with the everyday in mind (including those spent running across campus). Choose a style in Coach Signature Canvas for an ultra-durable and water-resistant choice that will take on even your heaviest back-to-school loads—laptops and books included.

Suede

For a luxe, cozy feel that pairs well with all your fall favorites, go for a bag crafted of suede. The soft, supple exterior will add dimension to all your on-campus outfits (think vintage tees, denim jeans and knit cardigans). While Coach suede is a durable pick, make sure to keep it away from water to keep it looking its best.