Messenger Bag Question

Gargs

Gargs

Joined
Oct 3, 2007
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I'm going to get a messenger bag and need some input. It'll be used locally for carrying around my laptop and the usual junk that goes with it.

Sometimes it'll be used for carryng my digital SLR (though generally not at the same time as the computer).

I'd also like to use it for weekend getaways, probably without the computer or the camera.

Most use will be computer around town, followed by weekend getaways (I travel light - two t's, shorts, socks, toothbrush).

I've got it narrowed down to:
Tenba Small Messenger
Timbuk2 Commute 2.0 (Small)

I'd appreciate hearing any opinions on the choice from people who have/use a bag like this.

Thanks for any help.
Gargs
 
I don't think so. I have an MPB and it's one of my best bags, but not for regular carry. It is a briefcase and it is an organizer, more for a lot of small items than for a computer or a camera.

I recently got a medium classic Timbuk2 It has a small organizer panel and otherwise, lots of wide open space, with a waterproof lining. Much better for general hauling. Also, definitely high quality materials and construction.
 
Esav,
Just finished looking the MPD over and came to just about the same conclusion as your posting indicates.
Could that medium classic haul a laptop without an envelope? And the reason I'm going to the "small" is because the medium looks a little too big.
Steve
 
The medium has a lot of capacity -- 18" across and 10" high. It might be more than you need. I've carried two bags of groceries home in it, with the cover over them. On the plus side, the bag itself is very lightweight.

I would probably want a cover of some sort for my laptop, not necessarily a thick, professional job, though.
 
Timbuk2 has a great site where you can actually play around and see the size over a model's shoulder. I'm going to have to run down to some local outdoorsy place and get a real sense for the size. Two bags of groceries...on the other hand, it is a bag to be used!
 
EBags also shows a model carrying its bags, and often has alternate views of the interiors.
Seeing one in person is definitely best, though.

I'm generally happiest with a bag that's a little too big rather than too small.
 
EBags also shows a model carrying its bags, and often has alternate views of the interiors.
Seeing one in person is definitely best, though.

I'm generally happiest with a bag that's a little too big rather than too small.
 
Thanks, Esav. Just out of curiousity, have you seen the Tenba? I was pretty much set on the Timbuk2 until I ran across the former. There's just too much and too many choicesout there for an old guy like me anymore!
 
Have a look at the Mountain Hardware Sentinel or Sentinel Jr. I own a bunch of messenger bags (old canvas custom made Timbuk2, Jandd Hurricane bag, etc) including the Sentinel, and I think for your purposes it would be ideal. The bag is very well made and the feature I think would appeal to you the most is that the inside organization pocket can be removed, so you have a choice of running it like a typical laptop/commuter bag or as a traditional no-frills messenger bag (which is great when you want to use it for a weekend bag, clothes, etc).

One of the things I like and also dislike about the bag is that beneath the flap there is a full zippered flap to get into the inner compartments, so if you need quick access to things, this is not a great choice, but then again if you're traveling and shoving the bag into overhead compartments or under the seat, it's awesome because you won't lose anything. To see it go to Mountain Hardware's website, click "Backpacks" and then "Daypacks" and you'll see both bags.
 
If you're looking for something a bit more on the classic side check out saddlebackleather.com they have some amazing bags. I've got some miles on my messenger bag and it looks better than when it was new!
 
Timbuk2 makes a computer oriented bag, along the size lines with the medium bag which I went with while I thought shoulder bags would work... My only observation is that any over-the-shoulder bag will, in the long run, contribute to back problems/spinal alignment issues... I've since ditched all my shoulder bags and will pretty much exclusively use backpacks... Even distribution and endless options in terms of actual bags... But, the comp bag by Timbuk2 was the best bag I found for what you are indicating you'll be carrying...
 
Thanks all. I think it's time to head to a few stores and see what they have. Sounds like REI has a few.
The MHadware Sentinel Jr will get a look - I like that it has a handle and it goes on the list.
The Saddleback is a beautiful piece, but about $200 over my budget for this. However, it'll get filed away...Christmas is always coming in my mind!
I'll take a look at that comp bag...even though the recommendation comes from the "other side of the mountains..." :D
Steve

Edited to include: Actually searching around with Joeshredd's advice in mind, I came acros the Timbuk2 "Swig" Small Backpack, which can be used either way (like most backpacks). I spoke to somebody at the company and asked their opinion/advise re. the Swig vs. the Small Commute and he liked the SWIG better.
 
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Gargs said:
I'll take a look at that comp bag...even though the recommendation comes from the "other side of the mountains..." :D
Steve
Click to expand...

LOL!!! I won't hold it agin ya either!!!! :D

You mentioned "handle" and "REI"... I got the computer bag from REI. It's expensive, but IIRC <$200... I got it for my laptop, but it holds a ton of other stuff, still has the extra cross-sling to snug the bag in and I like it over any other Timbuk2 bag 'cause it actually has two water bottle holders sewn on.. That was big in my eyes. Also has nice organizational features, and... I was able to carry concealed easily with it and still have it readily accessible!

Dang... now for the bad news... I thought I'd check the REI website and give you a link... But Damn! :mad: They don't carry the one I have anymore! They're more TSA freindly and don't have the same features mine has!!!

Oh well, they do have the Swig you mentioned...

Good luck... from the wet side of the mountains!!! :D
 
Actually the one that looks best to me is at www.tenba.com Pull down their "messenger" bag link and there's a video that also describes it.

Tomorrow is a new day, bringing new opportunities to spend and, I might add, no rain in sight. Can't say I miss your part of the state, joeshredd. Lived there from '77-'88. There was still a toll on one of the floating bridges - and none of them had been blown away by a storm yet. :p '77 was also the Mariners first year and, I may be wrong on this one, but think the Sonics won the NBA championship then too.

I'll post again when I actually buy something related to this thread!
Steve
 
Damn it.....now you guys have me wanting one, especially since the strap broke on my old laptop case and I've been carrying it around in a cheap backpack.

Both the Tenba and Maxpedition bags look great, and there's only about a $25 difference between the two. Decisions, decisions.....
 
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