5 Bags the Doctor Ordered

As with shoes, cars, and haircuts, taste in bags is personal. But you need not sacrifice comfort and safety for style. Just shop for a bag that fills our expert prescription.

Minimal Hardware

Buckles, grommets, belts, and other adornments create heft; a sleeker style automatically lightens your load.

Navoh Zoey bag, $99; navoh.com

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Wide Strap

Look for one that's at least 2 inches across to disperse weight evenly. A narrow strap concentrates force.

UGG Australia Straw Convertible Tote, $275; uggaustralia.com

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Lightweight Material

A nylon or fabric shell is typically much lighter than leather, although butter-soft leathers may trim ounces.

Dooney & Bourke Nylon Large Pocket Satchel, $198; dooney.com

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Small Size

It's only logical: the bigger the bag, the more junk you haul around. Choose a medium style that won't tempt you to kitchen-sink it.

B.bags Plaid Box Bag, $30; lisaberck.com

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Back Straps

They're not on every style watcher's list, but studies show that backpacks distribute weight best.

Tignanello for QVC Canvas Backpack with Front Pocket, $59; qvc.com

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