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Shoulder/messenger bag VS Backpack

F

Fudgepuppy

Banned
I've been using messenger bags religiously for the last couple of years, but now I feel like I'm carrying way too much and I need more space.

The stuff I want to be able to carry, are the following:
My thermos
My powerbank
My headphones (Beyerdynamic)
My windbreaker/bomberjacket (thin AF)
My portable speaker

As it is right now, with summer going on, I have to always carry a separate bag with me for the remaining things.

Because of this, I've been thinking about getting a backpack, but it just seems impossible to find something that looks even halfway as decent as a nice messenger bag.

What's your preference, and if it's a backpack, please give me some good recommendations :(
 
Backpack. Messenger bags never made sense to me except for fashion. I've heard some tortured arguments about biking but unless you're slinging newspapers out of it a backpack is much more practical and comfortable.
 
Stinkles said:
Backpack. Messenger bags never made sense to me except for fashion. I've heard some tortured arguments about biking but unless you're slinging newspapers out of it a backpack is much more practical and comfortable.
Click to expand...

Yeah, but is it possible to look good carrying a backpack? At least for men.

A man carrying a backpack either looks like he's on his way hiking or camping, or like he's going to 7th grade.
 
You're prolly fine with a messenger bag, but if you had a heavier load a backpack would make more sense so you don't hurt your shoulder

I've had the same backpack since 7th grade lol
 
I've used both, with weighty items.

Backpacks are better as you're using both shoulders for the weight. But you have to be more wary of pickpockets if you're standing on a train.

I use a swissgear laptop backpack.
 
North Face, Oakley and ogio make great bags but if you care more about fashion than practicality then just stick with what you like.
 
https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/116656?page=llbean-continental-rucksack
304331_5755_41
Click to expand...
I've had one of these for a while.

PROS:
- The build quality is fantastic and it comes with a lifetime warranty.
- More than enough space for what you need, I use it as a carry-on for vacations.

CONS:
- A little more hiker-ish than you're probably used to, but imo it's a bit more subtle than most hiking packs.
- There are straps everywhere on this pack.
 
Real messenger bags are great for quick transportation of goods on a bicycle. They're easy to get on and off, easy to adapt to carrying a variety of items, and are actually pretty comfy when riding! They're terrible as every day bags though because the pressure is on your shoulder and not your back.

Now there are bags that are marketed as "messenger bags" but they're just briefcases with a shoulder strap. They can look nice, but I find them uncomfortable with heavy weight.

If you're looking for something comfortable and versatile, get a backpack.

Ps: are you commuting by bike? If so, look into a rack and pannier system. I switched to that after years of using a messenger bag and I can't see me ever going back.
 
Backpacks are back in. Jack Bauer left with messenger bags. Dora brought the backpack back.


507-backpack-parade-flejxx.jpg



But seriously, backpacks make more sense if you're riding a bike or don't want to worry about the bag swinging in front of you.
 
I rotate between both. If I am just going to coffee shop on a weekend, then I carry a messenger bag for the laptop and notebook.

For work, I have a backpack. I carry an extra light jacket, umbrella, glasses, coffee tumbler, laptop, and notebooks. My shoulders don't hurt when I use a backpack vs messenger bag.

Both are Timbuk2 bags.
 
The only con I've read about backpacks is that if you're carrying heavy loads for long periods, it can leave a serious sweat spot on you.

I have a mass-produced Timbuk2 messenger + laptop sleeve mostly because it's less expensive than a "real" messenger (I did the research, and would be paying at least 2-3x the price for similar features but the obvious quality improvement. I just want something to throw around on occasion).

Not my pic, from Amazon (Medium classic)

71ShBJcMc3L.jpg
Click to expand...
 
A classy looking backpack looks good if you are in shape.

Kinda like shorts.

A messenger bag is easier to pull off in general but less convenient.

Kinda like jeans.
 
rtcn63 said:
The only con I've read about backpacks is that if you're carrying heavy loads for long periods, it can leave a serious sweat spot on you.

I have a mass-produced Timbuk2 messenger + laptop sleeve mostly because it's less expensive than a "real" messenger (I did the research, and would be paying at least 2-3x the price for similar features but the obvious quality improvement. I just want something to throw around on occasion).

Not my pic, from Amazon (Medium classic)
Click to expand...

Nah, I've seen some of the older bike messengers in SF/Oakland still rocking the classic Timbuk2 bag that you have that have to be at least 10-15+ years old but pretty much a number of messengers I've seen around use either Chrome Industry bags, Mission Workshop or other lesser known brands.

Personally, I use a messenger bag on occasion, but the load has to be on the small side. Otherwise, my Mission Workshop Sanction backpack is my go-to for regular use and travel. The lifetime warranty and the waterproofing make it a no-brainer and well worth the premium I paid for it.

rucksack-sanction-charcoal_grande.jpg
 
Auron_Kale said:
Nah, I've seen some of the older bike messengers in SF/Oakland still rocking the classic Timbuk2 bag that you have that have to be at least 10-15+ years old but pretty much a number of messengers I've seen around use either Chrome Industry bags, Mission Workshop or other lesser known brands.

Personally, I use a messenger bag on occasion, but the load has to be on the small side. Otherwise, my Mission Workshop Sanction backpack is my go-to for regular use and travel. The lifetime warranty and the waterproofing make it a no-brainer and well worth the premium I paid for it
Click to expand...

If you buy a Timbuk2 from anywhere but their site (and not a custom one at that), it's made overseas and not in San Francisco. But from what I've read, the quality is still pretty good considering the price you're paying.

I've always wanted a Mission Workshop Monty/Rummy, but as someone who doesn't live in a metro or visits one enough, it's overkill and may actually be worse for my "carry random shit and a laptop at times" needs. As for Chrome, those belt buckles I've heard are quite noisy and well I'm definitely clumsy enough to whack myself in the face.
 
Backpack.

Used a messenger for years. Switched to a backpack and my life changed.

You can carry far more stuff and it's way more comfortable. Fuck messenger bags.
 
You look like you're carrying a lot of stuff. I'd recommend cutting down on one or two things (read: the thermos); you can then consider a medium size backpack or messenger.

I've mostly given up on *completely* marrying utility and fashion in backpacks. You can get close, but especially if you're looking to carry around the amount of stuff you're looking to carry on a daily basis, you're either going the route of unsightly bulk w/ a backpack or back pain w/ a messenger. I say this as a guy who's 6'2; it's probably even worse if you're smaller.

Btw this is what imo the utility/fashion spectrum is w/ bags, assuming you're aiming for even a little bit of good looks.


More utility:
lrg-rucksack-1.jpg
Click to expand...

Half-way-in-the-middle:
27949332122_5e20e8509b_o-800x533.jpg
Chrome-Kadet.jpg
056.jpg
Click to expand...


More fashion:
MD-37200_20170412134250_ba5aa684b18e13c7.jpg
Click to expand...
 
I have a Chrome bag that's like half backpack half messenger that I love.. spendy, but well built and looks sharp.

People love the buckle.. and I can use it just over one shoulder when needed, or strap it on and it's a backpack. Holds enough shit for me.

Your stuff doesn't take up much room.
 
Stinkles said:
Backpack. Messenger bags never made sense to me except for fashion. I've heard some tortured arguments about biking but unless you're slinging newspapers out of it a backpack is much more practical and comfortable.
Click to expand...

Bored before your turn at the stage? Right before the start of the conference!

On topic, I agree. Messengers look better but from an ergonomic's standpoint backpacks are WAY better. The biking argument is also rather dumb.

I use a chrome barrage which is great. It's got a sternum strap, two bottle holders, one small pocket for easy access and the main compartment which is water sealed. It's also got a cargo net so I can keep stuff like my jacket when traveling.

http://www.chromeindustries.com/product/barrage-cargo-backpack/BG-163.html
 
Lucumo said:
Most people who use bikes have backpacks if they want to carry anything, I also see them a lot on the train to work each day (including myself).

Just use something like this:
Click to expand...

Is pickpocketin a concern? Its going to be a lot easier for someone to open a zipper and do some fishing if you can't see the bag, much less feel someone's hand on it.
 
Messenger backs actually look really late 90s to me. At least that's the last time I tried to wear one and immediately got back pain from it. Not saying they're not good for people who like them, I just never really considered them practical, even when I wanted to love them.

I'm quite happy backpacks are fashionable these days, just like glasses. I have a rather basic one, completely black, from an company called Mammut, with this neat little red mammoth logo on it.

I actually love the hiking vibe it has, feels like I'm going on an adventure, even if I almost never do. It's aspirational!
 
I work in the city in a corporate office and bring a small adidas backpack with me. I've decided that I should really attempt to be somewhat more fashionable as I'm usually wearing corporate office attire (suit) and I look like an asshole wearing what looks like a bag I stole from a 12 year old.
What are my options? I need to carry the following:
Laptop and cables
Nintendo Switch
Kindle
A4 notepad
My lunch

The only thing in here that looks ok is that Indiana jones style leather pouch thing but I don't think it would be very comfortable as I'm used to backpacks, but I'm sick of my partner calling me Dora the explorer
 
Escape Goat said:
Is pickpocketin a concern? Its going to be a lot easier for someone to open a zipper and do some fishing if you can't see the bag, much less feel someone's hand on it.
Click to expand...
Not really, in my opinion. Only real option is the one in the front and it depends on what you put in there. If it's a mobile phone, you have to open it a good bit to get it unnoticed.
For everything else you would have to pull the zippers upwards (and they are lower than on the picture unless you close them there for some reason) which is way more noticable. If you aren't moving and standing in a crowded place (like a subway after work)...well, if you are polite you would take off your backpack anyway and hold it in your hand.

JimmyRickard said:
I work in the city in a corporate office and bring a small adidas backpack with me. I've decided that I should really attempt to be somewhat more fashionable as I'm usually wearing corporate office attire (suit) and I look like an asshole wearing what looks like a bag I stole from a 12 year old.
Click to expand...
Ha, that's why I usually suit up at work, especially now, when it's warm. It's one of the things I asked at the job interview, whether there is such a possibility (leaving shoes and suit there).
 
proto said:
https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/116656?page=llbean-continental-rucksack

304331_5755_41


I've had one of these for a while.

PROS:
- The build quality is fantastic and it comes with a lifetime warranty.
- More than enough space for what you need, I use it as a carry-on for vacations.

CONS:
- A little more hiker-ish than you're probably used to, but imo it's a bit more subtle than most hiking packs.
- There are straps everywhere on this pack.
Click to expand...

Did Tetsuya Nomura design this backpack?
 
rtcn63 said:
If you buy a Timbuk2 from anywhere but their site (and not a custom one at that), it's made overseas and not in San Francisco. But from what I've read, the quality is still pretty good considering the price you're paying.

I've always wanted a Mission Workshop Monty/Rummy, but as someone who doesn't live in a metro or visits one enough, it's overkill and may actually be worse for my "carry random shit and a laptop at times" needs. As for Chrome, those belt buckles I've heard are quite noisy and well I'm definitely clumsy enough to whack myself in the face.
Click to expand...

Oh yeah, all my Timbuk2 bags are from San Francisco - they're tanks. I've got a Timbuk2 outlet near me and they still have a number of SF made bags for sale, which is a great option too.

The great thing about Mission Workshop bags are that they're not really overkill, rather they're mostly well-designed and quite nondescript. Just because all the compartments are there, I rarely ever feel the need to overstuff my Sanction.

With my Chrome Citizen, I never thought the buckle was loud when locking into place. It's really the Velcro that's more noisy than the metal buckle imo heh.
 
Backpacks are the way to go. Shop around and you'll come across some stylish backpacks if that's your thing. Messenger bags I would think kill your shoulder if kept using them with heavy things.
 
I have a Wolffepack Metro.

It has a mechanism that allows the pack to swing from your front to back without removing it. Very handy for travelling on congested transport or taking something out while travellinylg.

Read reviews saying the mechanism is awkward but it really isn't. I couldn't go back to a standard pack.

It has padded compartments for laptops and tablets etc... Very secure. You could leave your regular cases at home even. I still have my laptop in a soft case, but my Switch and tablet and phone all get carriedcarried case less and the bag keeps them in perfect condition.

They do larger versions. Mine is enough to comfortably carry:

Dell XPS 13 + soft case
Nintendo Switch
IPad
Phone
Notebooks (A5 and A4)
Ruler, pens
Leads for devices
Lightweight rainproof
1 litre flask
Water bottle

Room to spare.
 
I ended up using this for the past year (my senior year of college) since I'd be on campus for most of the day. It's not the most stylish messenger bag but it holds a ton of stuff, which helped a lot.
 
Carl-Sagan said:
Backpacks are the way to go. Shop around and you'll come across some stylish backpacks if that's your thing. Messenger bags I would think kill your shoulder if kept using them with heavy things.
Click to expand...

I've found that though I wouldn't carry over 20lbs on a regular basis in it, my Chrome Citizen could handle it easily. The wide shoulder strap and sternum strap to stabilize helped alleviate some of the weight.
 
Auron_Kale said:
I've found that though I wouldn't carry over 20lbs on a regular basis in it, my Chrome Citizen could handle it easily. The wide shoulder strap and sternum strap to stabilize helped alleviate some of the weight.
Click to expand...

I suppose it depends on what you're doing plus what you're carrying each day. I didn't even think of straps helping alleviate the weight off of your shoulder.
 
I use a messenger bag. I get paranoid about people poking around in backpacks and a messenger bag's just easier to grab and go for me.
 
Messenger bags are more fashionable, but you are trying to carry a thermos, jacket and speaker. Only a backpack will do, the messenger bag will look ridiculous when filled to the brim and to the sides
 
Every now and then I see someone with a messenger bag and think they look cool, then I buy one and remember how shit they are. Get a backpack and enjoy being able to carry more stuff more comfortably.
 
I was using a messenger bag. I noticed for the past few years I have had some lingering back issues. Switched back to a backpack recently and my back has started feeling better. If you carry a lot of gear backpack is the way to go.
 
I carry around a messenger bag daily. I don't keep a lot of weight in it and I find it extremely handy.

When I do need to carry more weight and support it better, I use a backpack. I'm fond of a lot of Timbuk2's stuff for looks. Both my messenger bag and backpack are by them.

edit: I keep re-reading the OP and struggling with the list. My messenger bag isn't huge and I carry 2 reusable shopping bags (take up basically no space), a light sweatshirt/jacket, steel water bottle, power bank, and a sunglasses case and have tons of extra room. Even if I threw in my bluetooth speaker and largest studio monitors which are pretty big it wouldn't be fully stuffed or too heavy.
 
Bumping this thread, as I after having my second messenger bag in one year breaking (two great ones that I loved), I decided to do a favor for my back and get a backpack instead.

I decided on this one:
71B8tsFlCDL._SL1149_.jpg
Click to expand...

Kind of wish I could've bought any of the other colours, but I don't wear a lot of clothes they would've matched with, especially around winter. I've learned that it's important that you ensure certain parts of your outfit can match your winter outfits.

61Yn1wyw4%2BL._SL1100_.jpg

712lRXL8bDL._SL1100_.jpg

61gu2fNptPL._SL1100_.jpg
Click to expand...
 
Backpack shopping is hard.

I ended up with the eastpak floid mono.

My goals were 'small' because most backpacks make a dude look kind of dorky like blackberry on a belt clip.

It's 16 lItre and a perfect laptop plus some other shit - bag.

A jacket being in there with a laptop basically totally packed full though.
giam-gia-10-50-tai-noi-ban-balo-laptop-nho-gon-HCM-5.jpg


^this guy possibly a midget bag is tiny
 
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