Every Day Manly Pack Carry

Triquetra

Triquetra

Joined
Mar 7, 2002
Messages
759
I've been looking for some type of pack or bag for daily carry to work, church, kid's softball game or wherever. I don't want anything too military looking that will draw attention. I want to carry my backup survival items (typical PSK), small flashlight, first aid kit, daytimer, change of clothes for the 4 year old, etc. This may sound funny but I don't want it to look like some kind of purse. Most backpacks seem a little big for everyday carry. Not sure that the messenger bags are what I want. Not sure if those sling back packs are designed more for women. Briefcases are too formal and hard to carry. Anyone here carry anything or have any suggestions or ideas.
 
Go to www.redoxx.com and check out their gator bag. I got one last May and I love it. Very well made and very functional. Red Oxx makes a very good product. You can't go wrong with one of these.
 
used to work for Duluth Pack when I lived up there going to college...have many of thier packs and used almost all the ones they make...I use a pack called the wanderer everyday, back and forth to work, the gym etc...cant beat the workmanship (made right in Duluth) and a lifetime warranty!
 
just look for a smaller duffel bag. Something like that won't look too "feminine", and you can find them in almost any color or motif you choose. Think your favorite sports teams, or if you want something a bit more formal, just go with basic black. They are available almost anywhere, and if price is still an issue, don't be afraid to look for second hand. I've found perfectly servicable, good quality items that way, once in a while even new stuff, just without the new price tag. Sports shops have them, even Walmart.

You can find smaller sizes, and if you do have trouble, look in the kids section. If it has a sports logo or the right color combination, no one will know it came from the kids section.

If you have a more "rugged" look in mind, check out some of the tool bags that are made. they are usually lower in price, but still have sturdy construction. I've seen some in leather, and black and grey canvas that would work great for an every day carry all. Also, if it is tough enough to withstand a jobsite, it might survive a four year old. maybe.

good luck, I hope you find what you need. :)
 
I sure do like those Duluth bags, but a good euro rucksack is much easier on the pocketbook.
 
try maxpedition or camelbak. camelbak makes some fairly inocuous looking packs and they are extremely well made and handy.
 
MORIMOTOM said:
try maxpedition or camelbak. camelbak makes some fairly inocuous looking packs and they are extremely well made and handy.
Click to expand...

I was kind of looking at the Camelbak Mule tonight and removing the waist straps and hiding the hydration tube for everyday use. Looks like it might be a pretty reasonable size and look.
 
pink_purse.JPG


only real men wear pink :p
 
Mountainsmith Or Cabellas Lumbar Bags. The belt straps tuck in to allow you to carry it with the included shoulder strap or you buy the strappetts and carry it like a backpack.

www.campmor.com
 
I just picked up a used L.L. BEAN "Original Continental Rucksack" It is comparable in size to the German surplus rucks but lighter and better padded. I just checked their web site and they still carry them in a variety of materials and colors, nylon pack cloth, waxed canvas, wool and an all leather one that looks great. I like the one I got for my Urban BOB, it is light, well made, will carry what I need and is not real tactical looking so it won't stand out among the sheeple. The nylon pack cloth model goes for $39 and goes up to $ 250 fotr the leather.
You will have to look for them on their siteby clicking veiw all items but they are there.
 
I commute by bus and I've run the gammut of messenger bags, soft breifcases and backpacks, and the good ol' daypack has won out. I have an ArcTeryx Amp model-- two layers on the main compartment with an organizer sleeve/divider in the outer one. There is a full height verticle zipper comparment on the outer side and a couple mesh pockets that will hold a one liter Nalgene or large tall thermal coffee cup. It will hold all my PSK stuff, pens pencils, radio, camera, small umbrella, lunch, some extra clothes, rain hat, gloves, etc. The waist belt is removeable and that's what I did-- not much use unless I'm climbing. IIRC, it is about 2400 cubic inches and I wouldn't go any larger.

There must be 20 zillion kinds out there. Better brands hold up better on zippers, strap attachments, and so on. I only bought an ArcTeryx becuase I got it in a trade. North Face, Jansport, Lowe, GoLight, REI, Vaude, LL Bean, and many more make very serviceble packs that will fit any budget.

Messenger bags can hold a lot, but most are open under the flap and don't have good security for smaller (and more expensive) items. The soft briefcase style works better for me as it has the compartments to keep it all organized.

For urbal survival, you want to fade in, look ordinary-- "walk softly and carry a big stick" :D
 
I have found Hedgren products to be good for both daily use and rough use.

Finding them can be a pain, though.
 
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