Forgive the generalization, but we’re guessing your father probably complained about the number of bags your mother had. While he used the same battered duffle man bag for everything, your mother took up prime real estate at the bottom of the wardrobe with shoppers, handbags, clutches and weekenders.

Guess what? Mother was right. You need different types of man bags depending on where you’re going, what you’re transporting and who’s going to see you along the way. The same goes for all accessories, including sneakers and watches. You need a rotation, if not a full-blown collection. Call it a man purse if you must, so long as you heed our advice.

With that in mind, we present nine types of bags for men to carry home from your next trip to the shops.

9 Essential Types of Bags For Men

1. Backpack

Like sneakers and baseball caps, the backpack is one of those once-sloppy afterthoughts that have become considered, coveted purchases in the last decade. It’s the most versatile design on this list, but also the only man bag where you can conceivably buy three and get use from them all.

Depending on your lifestyle, it could be a smart backpack for the business-casual commuter, a rugged companion for weekend pursuits or a training buddy for your gym kit. Adopted by virtually every style tribe on the planet, your old school bag is officially an all-grown-up men’s bag style: a genuine menswear classic.

For an everyday pack or commuter bag, adjustable air mesh straps will keep things comfortable while anything but canvas will keep things dry. Look for padding to keep the contents from jamming in your back. Then it’s a case of tailoring the bag to your needs. Leather styles work best for the office, and many come with a laptop sleeve. Going to the gym? You’ll need extra compartments. Getting on the bike? Look for reflective panels.