What’s the Ideal Bag for a Junior in Finance?

I'm looking for ideas for bags that are either functional yet stylish, but not flashy, for the finance world. What should I be looking for in terms of size, material, and features? Should I go for a classic briefcase, or are backpacks or tote bags acceptable?

5 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights on choosing the ideal bag for a junior in finance:

Key Considerations:

  1. Functionality and Style:

    • Aim for a bag that is both functional and stylish but not overly flashy.
    • It should be able to carry your laptop and other essentials comfortably.
  2. Size:

    • Ensure the bag is large enough to fit a laptop, documents, and other daily necessities.
    • Avoid overly bulky bags that might be cumbersome to carry around.
  3. Material:

    • Leather: Full-grain brown leather is a popular choice for its durability and classic look.
    • Durability: Choose materials that can withstand daily wear and tear.
  4. Features:

    • Compartments: Look for bags with multiple compartments to keep your items organized.
    • Padding: Ensure there is adequate padding to protect your laptop and other fragile items.

Types of Bags:

  1. Leather Laptop/Messenger Bags:

    • These are highly recommended for their professional appearance and practicality.
    • Brands and styles that offer clean lines and traditional looks are preferred.
  2. Briefcases:

    • A classic choice that exudes professionalism.
    • Opt for a modern briefcase with compartments for better organization.
  3. Backpacks:

    • While functional, backpacks might not always align with the professional image in finance.
    • If you choose a backpack, go for a sleek, leather design to maintain a professional look.
  4. Tote Bags:

    • Totes can be a good option, especially for ease of access.
    • Ensure the tote is structured and made of high-quality material to avoid looking too casual.

Recommendations:

  • Leather Laptop/Messenger Bags: Look for traditional full-grain brown leather bags within the $200-400 range.
  • Briefcases: Choose ones with a modern design and multiple compartments.
  • Avoid: Overly casual or flashy bags, as they might not fit the professional environment.

Additional Tips:

  • Matching Accessories: Leather bags do not necessarily need to match your shoes.
  • Professional Image: Always consider how the bag complements your overall professional appearance.

By considering these factors, you can choose a bag that is both functional and stylish, fitting well within the finance world.

Sources: Any recommendations for leather laptop/messenger bags?, Do Analysts have work bags? (male), Girl Investment Bankers - Any tips?, New To Formal Fashion? Start Here. PT1, girls internship attire

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

$115K 😁

This link is to a bag that I’ve used since 2018. It’s spacious enough to pack clothes if you ever need to but seriously a concise size, just large on the inside with great pouches on the outside zipper compartment. I no longer use the shoulder strap but it does come with a nice one.

<img src="https://www.macys.com/shop/product/samsonite-leather-slim-portfolio-laptop-briefcase?ID=622511&amp;pla_country=US&amp;CAGPSPN=pla&amp;trackingid=509x1057773333&amp;m_sc=sem&amp;m_sb=Google&amp;m_tp=PLA&amp;m_ac=Google_SH_PLA_Luggage&amp;m_ag=Luggage-PLA&amp;m_cn=GS_Luggage_PLA_Restructure_Medium&amp;m_pi=go_cmp-16822925664_adg-157463479181_ad-696962282326_pla-299473773978_dev-m_ext-_prd-43202508547USA&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gbraid=0AAAAAD-Tw4L2KncMG4miUmRb5Uot_WbQK&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjwrKu2BhDkARIsAD7GBouiZ4Yu1Bo7k2uYY831tqxX1EnCyuXyAmiHG9VNkidXhp2-9kX_eg4aAm5IEALw_wcB" __jsogobjectid="21">
 

If you're business casual, you can get away with a backpack. They're better for your back than a crossbody. This one is pretty nice and there are a ton of other options: https://www.tumi.com/p/search-backpack-01424801041/

If you're wearing a suit or even a blazer to work though, don't wear a backpack. You will look like a dork. Get something like this: https://www.tumi.com/p/expandable-organizer-laptop-brief-01173211041/&n…;

Commercial Real Estate Developer
 

Voluptas minima et rerum. Sit nemo fugit facere quia ratione. Architecto voluptatum totam qui est. Veniam id dolore sit fugiat blanditiis et.

Career Advancement Opportunities

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.8%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.2%
  • Guggenheim Partners 01 97.7%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.1%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Morgan Stanley 01 98.8%
  • Evercore 01 98.2%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.6%
  • Banco Santander 01 97.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Evercore No 98.8%
  • Morgan Stanley 05 98.2%
  • JPMorgan No 97.7%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.1%

Total Avg Compensation

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (14) $434
  • Associates (43) $259
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (22) $179
  • Intern/Summer Associate (13) $156
  • 1st Year Analyst (75) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (68) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”