Looking for advice on a Cummiting Bag

dave_o_brien

I commute 32km round each day, and need to carry a laptop, change of clothes and possibly some books on an occassional basis. I have a basic Jansport bag which currently does the job, but I definitely feel it on my shoulders when carrying it fully loaded, plus the shoulder straps and back are not exactly breathable... When I brought stuff in my travelling bag (a 45litre travelling hold all with chest straps, shoulder straps and a reinforced back for extra breathability) I was surprised that how comfortable it was, so now I'm thinking about a smaller version of the same for commuting.

I haven't a huge budget for the bag. My commute is to college, so my income doesn't allow me to spend tonnes on this! I have scouted the usual suspects, and these have caught my eye:

http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=65409

http://www.wiggle.co.uk/jansport-agave-32-litre-rucksack/

http://www.probikekit.com/eu/luggage-transport/backpacks-kit-bags/vaude-rush-hours-25-backpack.html

Anybody have any experience and opinions on these? Or any even better alternatives?!

Thanks,
Dave

ray o

I found this previous thread useful

http://www.boards.ie/vbulletin/showthread.php?p=70434671

This link is contained in the thread and at the time bike24 stocked it. Bout €80 so not cheap

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sec8LbNfp5k

Coronal

I use a Deuter Race Exp Air (also mentioned in that thread) and find it great. It takes a laptop, clothes and course material (though not too much). Clever packing should allow you to take a book or two. I don't really have that many problems with sweaty back, so it must be doing its job. Costs about 50 quid, I think.

ArticHare

If I was carrying that much stuff I'd probably go for panniers altogether, but I can understand these may be a bother.

I use my hiking backpack for commuting, its great as its structure allows air to flow between the bag and your back. Also as its made for long hikes, it sits very comfortably. I have a Berghaus Freeflow 35l to be specific, but many hiking backpacks have similar designs.

HivemindXX

I've been using a Timbuk2 messenger bag for over 10 years and I can't say enough good things about it. However they are expensive. Worth it though in my opinion.

http://www.timbuk2.com/tb2/products/messenger/

ccull123

I purchased the bag below in the north face outlet in kikldare. Think i paid about 36 euros for it. I was quoted for the exact same bag 75 euros in the north face shop temple bar.

Its a FANTASTIC bag, cheapish, and also is specially designed to hold a laptop(padded pockets) to protect it if the bags falls.

I purchased mine about 4 months ago so dont know if they have any left in the outlet store.
http://eu.thenorthface.com/tnf-eu-en/equipment/borealis-backpack.html?colour=788#item=borealis_backpack_4

kuro_man

I was thinking of getting a saddle bag instead of a backpack.
Carradice seem to be the recommended manufacturers with lots of different sizes/styles. Can be hard to find stock though.

http://www.carradice.co.uk/index.php?page_id=product&under=type&product_id=43