The Best Briefcases for Every Profession

Last Updated August, 2019.

What makes a good briefcase? Ask any suit with a 9-to-5 and a penchant for vicuña, and you’ll hear a few requirements: it should be lightweight, with a comfortable handle; large enough to carry a computer and some documents (the word “briefcase” is derived from the legal documents, or briefs, that lawyers carry), but not so bulky it looks like a weekender; and made of materials built to last so it can be passed on to the progeny. A slim messenger or duffel bag with a shoulder strap, but no handle — that isn’t a briefcase. It’s time to get serious about the things you carry. These briefcases cover the spectrum, from simple and affordable to luxuriously-detailed and expensive.

Cambridge Satchel

Made in the United Kingdom, this textured leather briefcase has a minimal profile offset with slim handles and an adjustable shoulder strap. It is unlined and has a steel bar closure that fastens the flap.

Filson Original Briefcase

This classic style is made from soft, semi-vegetable tanned leather and has a zip closure. It is lined with green canvas and is designed to hold a 15-inch laptop and other daily necessities.

Jack Spade Barrow Leather Briefcase

This refined briefcase is made from rigid Saffiano leather. It features a zip top and a lined interior with a padded laptop sleeve.

Tecovas Briefcase

This leather briefcase from Tecovas is streamlined and minimal. It features a zip top, canvas lining, detachable shoulder strap and interior organization pockets.

Polo Ralph Lauren Leather Briefcase

This classic briefcase from Polo Ralph Lauren is made from pebble-grain black leather, guaranteed to look better after years of use. The exterior pocket easily accommodates small necessities (e.g. keys, passport, tickets); interior pockets do so for a laptop, smartphone and office papers.

Korchmar Dylan Briefcase

This briefcase from Korchmar has a zip-top design crafted from American aniline leather. Made in the USA, it holds most 15-inch laptops as well as business files.

J.W. Hulme Co. Leather Briefcase

This American-made briefcase from J.W. Hulme Co. features a zipper-topped main compartment and two external zip pockets. It includes rolled leather handles and is accented with brass hardware.

Lotuff Leather Briefcase

Made from fine pebbled leather, this zip-top briefcase has three main compartments designed to hold a laptop and business papers and files. This American-made briefcase features rolled leather handles and an adjustable shoulder strap.

Dunhill Duke Briefcase

Made in Spain from full-grain leather, this briefcase is sleek and refined. It is fully lined with navy canvas, and features an internal laptop pocket and two internal pouch pockets.

Bole Country Governor Briefcase

This Swedish briefcase is made from spruce-bark-tanned leather and has Italian brass locks. Its interior compartment is lined with Nordic reindeer skin and it features a strap handle. Definitely one of the most beautiful briefcases money can buy. It also includes a 15-year guarantee.

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