So what should you look for in a good college backpack? Durability is important – you’re going to be carrying a lot of weighty books and tech, not to mention likely using the backpack outside of college. But aesthetics also play a key role. After all, you want to look as awesome as possible and have a pack that suits your personal style. Not to mention budget considerations. School books, rent, booze (and more booze)…college life can suck up funds fast, leaving little in the way of cash for your carry. As the price goes up, in most cases so will the durability. But that doesn’t mean you can’t find a backpack that will last all the way through college without breaking the bank. And lastly, consider the intended use. While some bags just need to carry study essentials, others may need to carry a little extra to accommodate sporting activities or the gym.

With these considerations in mind, we’ve selected some of our top picks for the best college backpacks…

–

Burton Curbshark (from $35.98)

The Burton Curbshark is a great budget-friendly option that offers lots of pockets for organization. A padded laptop compartment and a fleece-lined tablet sleeve take care of tech, with space for books and a jacket. This pack is also an alternative to the hard-to-come-by Metro Backpack from Japan-based Gravis (owned by Burton).

The North Face Women’s Aurora Backpack ($74.95)

The Aurora pack’s back panel and shoulder straps are designed specifically for female users. Stylish looks complement the easy access provided by the Aurora’s wrap-around zipper, while fleece-lined compartments for a laptop/tablet and sunglasses keep valuables safe.

Incase ICON Slim (from $99.99)

Need to organize a lot of tech and small daily carry items like pens and notebooks? This pack provides a padded 15″ laptop compartment, space for a tablet, quick-access pockets and enough interior space to store a jacket and some snacks. All delivered with a clean and slim exterior aesthetic.

Aer Fit Pack ($120)

The Aer Fit Pack is an attractive way to carry campus and workout gear in just one bag. The pack features a separate compartment for shoes or dirty clothing, a laptop compartment that fits a 15″ laptop, and interior organization for small items.

Topo Designs Daypack ($148.95)

The simple and functional Topo Designs Daypack is versatile enough to hit the books or the trail. Durable 1000D Cordura construction, an interior laptop sleeve and organization panel, and a quick-access zipped exterior pocket are all wrapped up in Topo’s distinct heritage aesthetics.

Kletterwerks Day ($149)

The burly build quality of the Kletterwerks Day ensures this pack is tough enough for whatever campus life can throw at it, and ready for the outdoors and travel when studying is done. The pack includes a padded 15″ laptop sleeve, plus a front accessory pocket for keeping frequently needed items within easy reach.

Aer Duffel Pack ($150)

Work hard, play hard. That’s the name of the game with the Aer Duffel Pack. The 24-liter volume offers more space than the Fit Pack (19 liters), making it a handy choice if you have a lot of sports or gym gear to haul but still want to keep things sleek and stylish. The front-loading main compartment provides easy access to the contents, and the pack also includes a ventilated shoe compartment. Rounding things off are padded compartments for a tablet and 15″ laptop, plus convenient quick-access side pockets.

Arc’teryx Arro 22 (from $156.91)

Equally ready for urban and outdoor environments, the Arro 22 is happy to go where you go, whether it’s hunting down coffee for a caffeine break or getting some fresh air in your downtime. The pack accommodates a hydration bladder, fits a 15″ laptop, and offers a kangaroo pocket for storing an outer layer or study snacks.

Alchemy Equipment AEL006 20 Liter Softshell Daypack ($168)

If you’re after a more refined look for your campus carry, the AEL006 delivers with its understated and pared-back profile. This bag is good for users with smaller torsos, and fits up to a 13″ laptop. And for added peace of mind, the bag features a protective EVA exoskeleton to help keep your tech and other valuables safe and sound.

Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($235)

Love having a place for all your bits and pieces? Look to the Synapse 25, a great option for organizers who appreciate a choice of quick-access pockets. The main compartment suits flat items like notebooks and a laptop, but is large enough to stash a jacket or even use as an overnight bag. Water-repellent zips help protect your gear from the elements, making this a handy hauler for campus, day hikes and travel needs alike.

QWSTION Daypack (from $200)

Elegance meets multifunctional design in the QWSTION Daypack. The smart unisex design comes in a choice of colorways and materials and offers several carry options. The handles can be attached vertically or horizontally, allowing the bag to be carried briefcase-style or as a tote, while stowable shoulder straps convert it into a backpack as required.

The North Face Access Pack ($235)

As the name suggests, this backpack is all about prioritizing access. A quick-release latch provides access to the main compartment in an easy single touch, while ejector tabs provide ready access to tech devices. The pack fits a 15″ laptop and features a molded EVA foam body for protecting the contents.

Côte&Ciel Isar Twin Touch (from $251)

The eye-catching silhouette and flowing form of the Isar Twin Touch will draw admiring glances on the campus and further afield. Available in a variety of materials and colorways, this classy piece carries a 15″ laptop, documents and college essentials in effortless style.

Archival Rucksack ($260)

The slim profile and minimalist design of the Archival Rucksack makes it equally at home in classrooms, cafes or heading out for drinks at the end of the day. Durable materials including waxed cotton twill, Horween Chromexcel leather and solid brass hardware will age well, and two exterior pockets provide organization for smaller EDC.

Lexdray Copenhagen ($395)

The Copenhagen brings grown-up style to the classic school pack. Features include a fleece-lined 15″ laptop compartment, tablet sleeve, removable raincover, and plenty of exterior and interior pockets for organizing smaller items. Built with weather-resistant fabrics, this pack is smart enough for campus and beyond.

Custom Rucksack Village backpack

While there are lots of great college packs out there, sometimes you want something with that personal touch to it. A custom pack…like the ones crafted by James Kamo from Rucksack Village. If you do choose this route, we’re not sure how long it’ll take to receive your pack – the waiting list is long, like real long. But it’ll be amazing and worth it in the end.

The post The Best College Backpacks appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

–

Andy Fallshaw (Ando)

Every Day

Mystery Ranch ASAP

ZPacks Stuff Sacks and Belt Pouch. These are so light and useful.

Bellroy Card Pocket. Sometimes it’s my daily wallet. Sometimes it holds extra cards in my bag.

IKEA bags. I still live out of these some weeks. Shopping, car trips, works samples, anything.

Travel

CamelBak Tri-Zip. This bag is even better than the Mystery Rancg 3DAP because of the pocketing. It looks too tactical for work trips, but dang it’s good for other travel.

.
Samsonite Lite-Cube 82cm spinner (or Firelite). This is a workhorse for luggage that lets me load stuff on top for trolley-free travel with my family. I wish the casters held even heavier loads.

Outlier Ultrahigh Backpack. This pack is just so light and robust, two words not typically put together. It gets used as a travel daypack and on adventure excursions.

Bellroy Passport Sleeve. Leave it loaded with a passport, pen and frequent flyer cards. Then simply grab and go.

.
Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack. Really light, and epic for laundry, wet boardshorts, leaking sunscreen, or random protection.

Brian Park

Archival Work Bag — I’m not sure they even make this anymore. Heritage carry isn’t my vibe at all, but for some reason this bag gets pulled out all the time.

Kifaru X-Ray — I have lighter bags and more purpose-built bags for most things I do, but I grab this thing more often than not if I’m heading out for whatever.

.
Bellroy Travel Wallet — I will never travel without this (or something like it) ever again.

Various neoprene stash pockets (I like Tom Bihn) to protect and organize electronic gear.

Timbuk2 Copilot rolling luggage — I absolutely love this. It has skate wheels, is semi-structured, offers good organization, and has held up well over the past couple of years of travel.

David Vo

Work backpack – Incase ICON: This pack isn’t perfect but it’s pretty darned nice. I do rotations every six months or so but before that I was carrying some form of messenger, usually the Crafted Goods Carrera.

Weekender duffel – Everlane Weekender

Carry-on luggage – An old beat up Samsonite. I really need a new roller. I’m not a fan of carrying duffels on a plane.

Travel organization – Eagle Creek cubes. I swear by these.

Electronics organization – A set of Tom Bihn zippered cases for USB cables, chargers, etc.

Toiletry bag – Briggs & Riley. I’ve had this for probably 15 years. It won’t die. I want a new dopp/toiletry bag desperately though.

Wallet – Original OG Note Sleeve. I have a Slim Sleeve too. Both are beat to hell but still holding up.

Beach/picnic tote – Jack Spade. This is my go-to when I need to throw in a towel, some sunscreen, my Kindle, etc. for a trip to the park or sand.

Frank Sedlar

Every Day

Incase Tensaerlite ICON Sleeve for MBP

Bellroy Slim Sleeve

.
Whatever pack I’m testing for Carryology – sadly I have yet to find an everyday backpack that clicks for me. I guess writing for Carryology has made me too particular.

Defy Defender Workcase – I use this if the day requires something more formal than a backpack.

Travel

Arc’teryx Carrier Duffle 75L – This thing swallows anything.

.
Boreas Tsum Trek 55L – For hiking/backpacking trips.

.
A few MUJI packing cubes and an unhealthy supply of ziplocks.

Mr Zing

For daily carry I rotate through:

Joshu+Vela Zip Briefcase

Mixed Works Swift Backpack

.
GORUCK GR0 and GR1

.
Arc’teryx Granville

Bellroy Elements Sleeve: It’s awesome, the leather is really elastic. Before that I used the Bellroy Slim Sleeve, awesome as well.

Weekends and holidays:

Tumi Alpha boarding bag

Bergans Trollhetta 75

Accessories:

Tumi pouch

Tech:

MacBook Pro 13″
Bose QC25s
The Roost Stand
Apple keyboard and mouse
iPhone 5

Mike Weiss

Work backpack – DSPTCH Ruckpack: Between work, play and the gym in the mornings, I never run out of room in this bag. Tom Bihn’s Brain Bag was my go-to for 10 years before I found the Ruckpack.

Weekender – Now it’s the Octovo Weekender but before that it was the Amos Bag (now the company is called Alpine Modern). My girlfriend actually stole this one from me and won’t give it back.

Toiletry bag – Topo Designs Dopp Kit

Wallet – My new addition is the Octovo Purist. Before that it was DODOcase’s leather wallet.

Electronics organization – I don’t really have one but I am quickly becoming obsessed with Cord Tacos. These are a game changer for my headphones (and miscellaneous cables).

Travel bag – Osprey Farpoint

Messenger/Miscellaneous bags I throw in rotation: YNOT’s Viken (still one of my favorite “duffels” but I treat it more like a messenger. I use this in lieu of the DSPTCH depending on my needs). Timbuk2 Classic XS when I just need the essentials, or to bring a cold six-pack to a party.

The post The Gear We Use Every Day appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

In recognition of their sterling efforts, we’re shining the spotlight on the top 10 brands nailing waxed canvas in carry. The most renowned waxed canvas hails from the UK, which is why there are quite a few British brands on the list…

–

Trakke

Winner of several Carryology awards, Scotland based Trakke are proof that the right approach, the right materials, and the right team, result in world-class carry. Waxed canvas is used across the whole line, covering backpacks, messengers, totes, and cross-body bags. Sourcing materials directly from their Scottish supplier, the weatherproof bags are a fitting way to cope with the conditions they’re accustomed to around their Glasgow workshop. The highly awarded Wee Lug Mk II is a versatile messenger for work and play, the Fingal Daypack, and the alpine inspired Assynt range, are ideal as an EDC that’s just waiting for a chance to hoof it over the hills. Particular mention to the “Salt & Pepper” Bannoch backpack, created from a WWII inspired nettle/cotton fabric blend, and perfect as an urban pack.

Bedouin Foundry

Bedouin Foundry nail that careful balance of practical design and casual-chic aesthetics. Their bags are meticulously handcrafted with fabric sourced from waxed cotton heavyweights British Millerain and Halley Stevensons (both with well over 100 years of history behind them). These bags are built to last – yeah, we know, every brand says this. But Bedouin stands by their claim to the extent that they offer a lifetime guarantee on materials and workmanship (based on normal wear and tear, not a one-to-one with a bear – frankly, not much will survive that). With sleek styles like the Delireis roll-top backpack and Barbary messenger on offer, these are bags you’ll enjoying looking at just as much as using them.

Teranishi

Not a lot of brands can zone into carry Zen the way Teranishi does. How do they do it? By utilizing the ethos of wabi-sabi to create bags that are clean, functional and beautiful. We particularly dig the Teranishi Venture with its simple elegance but Teranishi has a range of other handsome waxed canvas bags, all carefully crafted by hand with top-notch materials. If cool, calm and collected could be expressed in bag form – well hey, Teranishi just did it.

Tanner Goods

Tanner Goods doesn’t know how to make a bad-looking bag. Seriously, just look at them (but not too long; beware the time frittering…). Combine this with rugged durability, solid craftsmanship and premium materials and you’ve got a bag for life that will draw appreciative glances wherever you roam. The Tanner Goods waxed canvas range covers a host of carry scenarios with styles including backpacks, totes, duffels, bike bags, boot bags and dopp kits. From the Wilderness Rucksack to the Everyday Tote, these attractive and hard-wearing haulers have travel, outdoor adventuring and day-to-day carry needs well in hand.

Archival

Embracing the less-is-more approach, Archival dumps all the design distractions in favor of sleek minimalism. The streamlined silhouettes of Archival’s bags are complemented by durable construction and functional features, resulting in carry that looks classy in the office or out and about on your day off. Peek the chic with pieces such as the Roll Top Backpack, Roll Top Messenger, Rucksack and Tool Roll.

Filson

A history spanning over a century and a reputation for long-lasting goods has garnered Filson a global fanbase. Is that fame well deserved? Heck yeah! You don’t clock up over a hundred years by messing about. Focusing on what they’re good at (creating functional, enduring and versatile gear), the brand has built up a wide choice of bags that bolster their solid rep. Ready to travel the world, head to the office, protect your camera gear or pick up some supplies at the local market, Filson’s range includes briefcases (such as the 24-Hour Tin Cloth Briefcase), duffels, photography bags, backpacks, luggage and more.

Billykirk

There’s a knack to ageing gracefully, and Billykirk bags have it down pat. Creating items that are made to last and only get better with age is a key factor in Billykirk’s design philosophy – and it shows. Stylishly practical, Billykirk’s waxed canvas bags fuse form and function for everyday and travel use. Cart their No. 166 Large Carryall or No. 233 Duffle Bag on your next weekend getaway and you’ll be carrying plenty of compliments back home.

Ally Capellino

“Let’s bung every bell and whistle we can on our bags.” Those are words that will likely never be uttered in Ally Capellino’s design HQ. Stripped back and refined, the British brand’s range of waxed cotton canvas bags bring class and versatility to your carry, with designs to suit work, leisure and travel. Pieces like the Robin Waxed Canvas Briefcase and the Arron Waxed Canvas Travel Bag keep things chic in the office and suave on trips.

Treesizeverse

Treesizeverse knows how to showcase waxed canvas: the beautiful fabric is front and center in the Belgium-based brand’s range of eye-catching designs. Hear a lot of whispering? It’s not whispering. Those are appreciative sighs (okay, perhaps some jealous whispering) as you turn heads with one of these fine pieces by your side or on your back. But there’s substance to go with the style. Crafted by hand, these are practical bags for daily use that range from totes and briefcases to backpacks and panniers.

Azo Equipment

Fashion-friendly aesthetics meet travel-friendly durability and performance with Azo Equipment’s carry. The British brand crafts bags that are designed for relishing life on the move, whether it’s the daily commute, a fun day trip or a weekend away. The Amhara and Bashilo both feature weatherproof construction and an interior sleeve for a laptop, while the Dessie Pouch includes a waterproof lining and corrals those smaller items that love to taunt you from the dark recesses of your bag.

The post Top 10 Brands Nailing Waxed Canvas appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

The post Archival Small Field Bag appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

–

Bedouin Foundry Delireis

Head-turning looks. Premium materials and hardware including Scottish waxed canvas, top grain vegetable-tanned leather and AustriAlpin Cobra buckle. Superb craftsmanship, with worksmanship and materials guaranteed for life. Pretty rad, right? Add in a hand-printed lining that gives great visual contrast to the exterior and you’ve got a bag that packs a serious punch.

Rivendell Mountain Works Jensen

With its distinct design, the Jensen stands out wherever it’s used. Three sections in the main pack provide organized storage, while a number of external attachment points let you carry extra gear as needed. Still as striking as when it first came out, this is a great option if you dig the heritage vibe but want something a little different.

Topo Designs Klettersack

Topo know how to do right by the heritage scene, crafting the Klettersack as a hard-working pack that will do double duty on the trails and the city streets. The construction is solid, with 1000D Cordura and leather lash tabs for external carry. A slim profile keeps things compact when you’re out and about and there’s a choice of 15L and 22L versions to suit your needs.

Gregory Kletter Day

This pack is all about stylish simplicity. If you like your bags with organization, this isn’t for you. However, if you love beautiful silhouettes with durable materials and hardware and attractive colorways, this is a fine choice.

Topo Designs Daypack

A balance of function and form makes this a great piece for work and play. A sleek profile in a variety of colorways, along with a mix of pockets to keep your gear organized, means this pack can handle itself in the city. When it’s time to venture further afield, there’s enough space and external attachment points to carry your exploring essentials while staying light on your feet.

Archival Roll Top

This pack ticks plenty of boxes, from style to build and versatility. The water-resistant waxed twill construction keeps the contents safe from the elements, while the roll-top format lets you expand or shrink the bag’s size as needed. Internal and external pockets help keep your bits and pieces in order and the clean, attractive design looks equally good in the office or taking in nature.

Archival Rucksack

A handsome combination of waxed cotton twill and Horween Chromexcel leather keeps this pack looking classy in urban and outdoor environments alike. Plus the weather-resistant build is a bonus for protecting your gear when the skies look ominous. Fashion-friendly with fuss-free functionality, this trooper is a reliable companion for the trail or the commute.

Brooks Dalston Knapsack

This foxy number packs plenty of cycling chic into a compact and smart design. Crafted by hand in Italy, the bag comes in two size options to accommodate 13-inch and 15-inch laptops. Three interior pockets, two outer pockets and a bottle pouch keep your smaller and frequently-accessed items in order. Want to look good while cruising on two wheels? Job done.

Brooks Pickwick

The Pickwick easily mixes business and pleasure, with its elegant looks that can glide between the office and leisurely cycles round the city. Two concealed pockets on the back of the bag keep prying eyes away from your important items and the roll-top design lets you tailor the bag to changing carry needs.

REI Flashback Pack

Forget all those superfluous design elements. This bag is a firm believer in keeping things simple. The interior of the pack has a zipped pocket and a sleeve for a tablet or hydration bladder. On the outside a lash tab, ice axe loop and shoulder strap loops let you haul extra items. Rounding things off is a tough construction that will withstand frequent use. Even better? It won’t strain your bank balance either.

Tanner Goods Wilderness Rucksack

Who knew a combination of waxed 18 oz. filter twill canvas, quality wool felt, Horween Rich Chromexcel leather and brass hardware could look so good? Well, apparently Tanner Goods. If you can snap yourself out of staring at it admiringly, you’ll find it doesn’t skimp on the functionality either. A laptop sleeve, pockets for your smaller carry items and a tough construction that’s built to last ensures you’ll get plenty of use out of this beauty for years to come.

Azo Equipment Bashilo

The Bashilo has understated heritage style in spades, along with a variety of handy features. Its 25-liter volume offers plenty of space for your daily carry, with a weather-resistant construction that merges British waxed cotton and vegetable-tanned leather into a harmonious whole. The pack also offers a choice of pockets including a sleeve for a 15-inch laptop.

treesizeverse Waxed Canvas Rucksack

Etsy can be a goldmine of carry goodness. Case in point, this attractive pack from treesizeverse. Carefully crafted by hand, the bag is an eye-catching blend of waxed canvas and waxed leather. The roll-top opening gives you carry flexibility and organization comes in the form of interior and outer pockets.

treesizeverse Waxed Canvas Backpack

Another hard-wearing pack from treesizeverse that rocks heritage styling with meticulous craftsmanship. The waxed canvas and vegetable-tanned leather will age beautifully, while the side compression straps and roll-top opening let you adjust the size to suit different loads.

Francli The Activity Rucksack

You’ll be feeling the upcycling love with this pack from Francli, which combines top and side access with interior slip pockets and an exterior zipped pocket. This is a fine addition to your carry quiver if you dig unique bags crafted by hand.

Kletterwerks Kletter Flip Backpack

The Kletterwerks Kletter Flip Backpack originally bounded onto the carry scene four decades ago as an alpine climbing pack. However, it’s more than ready to take on today’s modern carry challenges, featuring a rugged 1000D Cordura construction, a padded laptop section suitable for up to 17-inch tech, along with 22 liters of space for your urban and outdoor adventures.

Teranishi Venture

Fusing heritage vibes with a generous dose of freshness, the Venture backpack looks damn fine without forgetting the importance of a functional design. The waxed canvas and vegetable-tanned leather will hold up to abuse from the elements and frequent use, with pockets for quick-access items and your laptop adding to the functionality. The pack also combines a roll-top opening with side zip access, giving you options for packing and getting to your gear. In addition, it scooped a High Commendation in our Third Annual Carry Awards for Best Work Backpack, so you know it’s good.

Trakke Krukke Harris Tweed Backpack

A clean profile that exudes personality, beautiful materials that will age well and take on the unique signs of your own travel stories, plus Trakke’s attention to the details and reliable construction…there’s tons to love about the Krukke. The Harris Tweed and waxed cotton combo provides a slick visual contrast and there are enough pockets to prevent a tangled jumble of contents while still maintaining an appealing minimalist vibe.

Millican Dave The Rucksack

Dave The Rucksack is one for the organizers who love heritage looks with plenty of stash spots to keep bits and pieces tidy. The pack features a range of interior and exterior pockets and organization to avoid frustrating rummaging, plus space for a hydration bladder. A combination of side and top entry allows for easy packing and quick access to gear, while external attachment points let you secure extra items as needed. The weatherproof construction keeps the elements at bay, with a raincover included for extra peace of mind. When you need to carry a lot, the waist and sternum straps add carry comfort, but can also be removed when you’re traveling light.

Duluth Pack Scout Pack

A lot of brands produce bags that give a nod to heritage…but not so many can actually say they lived through the times that inspired the current trend. Duluth Pack have been in the bag game since 1882, so you know there’s a good dose of history behind the heritage vibes of the Scout Pack. Built to last with 15 oz canvas and leather, the pack is available in a wide choice of colorways and includes an interior zipped pocket for keeping smaller items within easy reach.

Alite X Boreas Collab Pack

The Alite X Boreas Collab Pack isn’t lacking in the looks department, but there’s no shortage of substance under the style. A tweaked version of the Pine to the Pacific Rucksack, the pack combines a weatherproof waxed canvas exterior with Boreas’s Super-Tramp Suspension system so you can easily adjust for more ventilation or stability to suit different situations. Inside is a pocket for your small carry, while the outside leather straps offer extra hauling capabilities for larger items. It’s unfortunately currently out of stock but if you can snag one second-hand it’s well worth it.

Haglöfs Ryggsäck N:o 1

The Haglöfs Ryggsäck N:o 1 is a story of history across a brand, a country, its materials and its craftsmanship. Created in a limited edition run of 1000 pieces, the Ryggsäck N:o 1 celebrates Haglöfs’ 100-year history and is inspired by one of the first Haglöfs packs, the Ryggsäck N:o 6. The bag is made completely in Sweden, using materials produced and sourced in Sweden. It also won the Gold in our Third Annual Carry Awards for Best Work Backpack, so if you want a work backpack with a great story behind it, this is a classy choice.

The post Buyer’s Guide :: Best Heritage Backpacks appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

Unfortunately, we’re fresh out of unicorns. However, we do have something to soften the hard landing back in reality. Our buyer’s guide to the best all-rounder backpacks. They’re not perfect, but they can do a lot of things well without being completely rubbish at anything. So if you need a pack that can trot between work, leisure and travel environments, check these out…

–

Arc’teryx Blade 30

When you need to carry your tech and a change of clothes, Arc’teryx’s Blade 30 has you covered. The pack features a clamshell style opening with a compartment for storing enough clothes for an overnight trip or several days depending on your packing style. The separate laptop section fits a 17-inch laptop and there’s plenty of padding to keep the pack’s contents safe while you’re on the go.

Arc’teryx Khard 30

The Khard 30 features Arc’teryx’s meticulous construction and fantastic access from the sides, front and top thanks to its zippered design. You can unzip the bag and lay it out flat for maximum packing access, or just unzip one section when you need to get to a particular item. Another highlight of the pack is that it’s esentially a blank canvas for you to customize as desired, thanks to interior Velcro strips for attaching pouches and the like, as well as exterior daisy chains. See our road test for more details.

Lexdray Boulder Pack 2.0

Lexdray’s Boulder Pack (version 2.0) straddles the work/adventure divide. Lots of interior and exterior pockets keep your gear organized, along with a fleece-lined compartment that fits up to a 15-inch laptop. The removable waist belt helps bear the load when you’ve got a lot to carry and can be left at home when you don’t. Plus a removable raincover protects the pack and its contents from downpours, whether you’re commuting to the office or setting off on a lets-see-where-the-day-takes-me trip.

Lexdray Tokyo Pack

Slightly smaller than the Boulder Pack (22 liters versus 24 liters), the Tokyo Pack is a compact daypack for your essentials. The aesthetics blend into work, travel and leisure environments and a choice of quick-access pockets and interior organization options prevents a free-for-all with jumbled contents. Like the Boulder Pack, the Tokyo Pack has a fleece-lined compartment for a 15-inch laptop and a removable raincover but forgoes the removable waist belt. See our road test here.

Modern Industry Drive

Lots of space when you need it. Less when you don’t. A rugged Raptor buckle and tough waxed canvas construction. Quick access to contents stashed in the front exterior pocket, while your laptop is readily available from the back exterior compartment. Plus the laptop section is suspended so you’re not going to bump your precious tech when you put the bag on the floor. There’s lots to like about the Drive rolltop backpack and its sleek looks keep things stylishly understated. Cruise for more info in our drive by.

Archival Rucksack

Looking for a pack that’s classy, minimalist and just as happy to lounge by your side in the park as it is to venture into new territory on your travels or carry your work tools in style? Meet the Archival Rucksack. The pack features quality materials, with an attractive combination of water-resistant waxed cotton twill and Horween Chromexcel leather. Organization comes in the form of two exterior pockets, while the drawstring closure under the flap keeps the contents secure. See it in action with Berlin Muse here.

Archival Roll Top

Rocking waxed twill and Horween leather but with a bigger volume than Archival’s Rucksack, the Archival Roll Top gives you the flexibility to deal with a variety of different loads thanks to the rolltop closure. There’s two side pockets on the outside of the pack, along with one internal pocket and a good dose of eye-catching aesthetics.

Tanner Goods Wilderness Rucksack

Whether you’re hitting the trail or the local coffee shop, the Wilderness Rucksack is right at home in both the urban jungle and more remote outdoor spaces. Featuring a choice of pockets (including a felted wool laptop sleeve) and crafted with attention to detail and premium materials, this is one handsome pack that will stand the test of time.

QWSTION Office Bag

Sometimes you need a backpack. Other times you may want a shoulder or briefcase-style bag. You could get three different bags…or you could get QWSTION’s Office Bag, which lets you carry it using grab handles or easily converts to a shoulder bag or pack. If you love organizing your gear, you’ll dig the variety of pockets in the Office Bag, and the laptop section will fit a 17-inch laptop.

The North Face Hot Shot

Lots of colorways, no shortage of pockets, plus a range of other handy features makes the Hot Shot a backpack that can suit students, working professionals, outdoor adventurers and travelers alike. Sternum and waist straps help distribute the load, while compression straps give you the flexibility of compressing the contents if required. The pack fits a 15-inch laptop and the daisy chain attachment points boost your carry capabilities.

Bedouin Foundry Delireis

A beautifully pared-back exterior gives the Delireis a clean look that fits in with work and play, while the hand-printed lining brings the fun on the inside. The exterior double sleeve pocket gives you quick access to items you need on the go and the interior laptop sleeve fits up to a 15-inch laptop. The construction is solid, with Scottish waxed canvas, top-grain vegetable-tanned leather and an AustriAlpin Cobra buckle, so you can rest assured this pack can handle heavy-duty use for years to come.

Boreas Kezar

The tactical inspiration for the Kezar is evident without being overwhelming, giving this daypack the flexibility to suit more casual work environments as well as downtime outings or travel use. In addition to being compatible with the Boreas modular Super-Tramp suspension, the pack’s concealed daisy chains in MOLLE-compatible rows let you customize your carry setup to your needs. Add in a hydration port and a front waterproof pocket and you can stay hydrated easily while making sure your important items don’t.

CamelBak TriZip

What do you get when you cross CamelBak with Mystery Ranch? The awesomeness that is the TriZip. The backpack features Mystery Ranch’s Futura Harness and tri-zip design which makes packing and accessing your gear a breeze. Combine that with a 3-liter hydration bladder and multiple exit ports for the drinking tube, a removable waist belt, MOLLE webbing and handy quick-access side pockets and you’ve got a tough companion for relaxed work environments, adventure travel or simply hauling your groceries home. Side note: CamelBak have discontinued the pack, so if you’re keen to snag one whilst they’re still available but aren’t entirely convinced, check out our road test to see if it’s right for you.

Burton Prism Pack

Vintage hiking pack meets modern tech carry with Burton’s Prism Pack. If you love having a range of pockets in your bag, you’ll be stoked with this pack. With space to stash all your EDC including a laptop and tablet, plus sternum and waist straps to keep the load secure and distributed while you’re on foot or two wheels, this handy all-rounder shows its credentials when work, school or travel calls.

Triple Aught Design FAST Pack Litespeed (2.0)

TAD’s uber-popular FAST Pack Litespeed was given an update last year, making a great pack even better (see key changes in our drive by). There’s a lot of scope for tailoring this bag to changing carry needs, and while the tactical vibe won’t gel with a suit, your inner Rambo will rejoice equally at the prospect of traipsing through a rainforest or tackling the challenge of hunting down a pint of milk.

GORUCK GR1

Load it up with more weight than you would ever realistically carry in a bag of its size, haul it through the mud, chuck it over walls…and the GR1 will simply ask “Is that the best you can do?” Built to withstand frequent abuse, the pack will happily keep up whether you’re at work or play. Plus with a design that lets you open it out flat, it’s easy to pack too. Chuck in a mix of organization options including zipped internal pockets, external and internal MOLLE webbing and a separate compartment that fits a 17-inch laptop, and you’ve got yourself a rad all-rounder.

–

We can’t include every great all-rounder backpack out there – we’d need a lot more than one post to do that! However, if you think there’s something rad out there that hasn’t been included, share it below in the comments and make others aware of it…

The post Buyer’s Guide :: Best All-Rounder Backpacks appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

It’s a single strap messenger that can deal with a laptop, some tech, a change of clothes, and will be comfortable enough for a cycling commute. Being Carryology, it also needs to be versatile, deal with at least a light drizzle, and even do well on a plane trip or three.

Is the position of Work Messenger up for grabs in your carry collection? These applicants are all eager to take on the role – welcome to part 2 of our buyer’s guide to the best work messengers…

–

Mission Workshop Rummy

Mission Workshop makes some of the best carry out there, particularly if you’re commuting to work by bike. The Rummy gives you rolltop and flap-down access for carry flexibility, a 27-liter volume, a mix of quick-access and interior pockets and solid weatherproof construction. If you’re on the go a lot and want a bag that can keep up and glide between work, play and travel, the Rummy is well worth considering.

Mission Workshop The Shed

Got a shed load of stuff you need to haul to work? Mission Workshop’s The Shed is ready for duty. The same handy features as the Rummy but with a 35-liter volume means you’re covered when you need to carry extra gear.

Mission Workshop VX

Like the sound of The Shed and Rummy but looking for something extra tough? The Mission Workshop VX messenger takes things up a notch, featuring the Arkiv® closure system and a three-layer VX fabric for increased durability and waterproofness. There’s two colorways and three sizes to choose from to suit your preferences.

Defy Recon

If you like your bags with a generous dose of stealthy style, scope out Defy’s Recon messenger. Available in M35 military tarp and waxed canvas options, the Recon rocks rugged hardware (AustriAlpin Cobra buckles) and a range of sizes to suit diverse missions. There’s also a choice of exterior and interior slip pockets to keep your gear tidy. If you want something that’s a lot bolder than your average messenger, this is it. See the road test here.

Defy Vicious

Sometimes you want to organize all your gear; other times you just want to bung everything in your bag and go. The Vicious from Defy does both. A variety of organization options are available on the front panel and the strap, while the main pocket-free compartment keeps things simple, with a red lining for enhanced visibility of the contents. While the strap has an AustriAlpin buckle, there’s two options for the flap buckles – wallet-friendlier chunky buckles or pimp the bag with more Cobra buckles.

Seventy Eight Percent Gustav

Tired of carting the same old boring bag around? Well be prepared for envious looks from colleagues because the Gustav messenger is one handsome piece of carry. It’s not all fashion without the functionality though, as the bag accommodates up to a 15-inch laptop, with front and back exterior pockets as well as interior pockets for organizing your work tools. Plus it works for travel and leisure use too, making it a good option for people who want versatility out of their bag. Find out more in our road test.

Property Of Tommy Work Bag

The Tommy Work Bag balances casual-chic style with office-friendly design. Slip a 15-inch laptop in the main compartment, while smaller quick-access items find a home in the front and back exterior pockets. Add the flexibility of carrying it with the shoulder strap or by the handles as a briefcase and you’ve got a bag that ticks all the boxes for good-looking and functional work carry.

DSPTCH Briefcase

Want a trusty work companion that’s simple to use, with reliable construction that will see you through long days and longer travel trips? Meet the DSPTCH Briefcase, which is full of everyday functionality to get the job done. Sling it over your shoulder when you’re on the go or stow the strap away and carry it as a briefcase. Separate sections for a tablet and 17-inch laptop take care of your tech, with external quick-access pockets for grabbing items in a jiffy.

Filson Padded Computer Bag

If you lean towards the everything-in-its-place approach to packing, Filson’s Padded Computer Bag is one to have on your radar. Plenty of pocketing means all your work gear can be neatly organized, while the rugged construction and understated aesthetics that work in a variety of settings means you can haul it pretty much anywhere. Speaking of hauling, you can either opt for the removable shoulder strap or grab handles depending on your needs.

Veja Acacia

Veja creates fair trade and eco-friendly goods and their Acacia bag is a fine offering for work environments. Available in a variety of fabrics and colorways, the bag will fit a 15-inch laptop and looks good whether you’re catching that business flight, meeting up with a client or kicking back in the coffee shop.

Tom Bihn Founder’s Briefcase

If you love organization, this briefcase will have you in your element. The briefcase holds a 15-inch laptop and an optional Packing Wedge clips into the bag for carrying the likes of a change of clothes for an overnight trip. The aesthetics tend towards casual, so if your work setting is more laidback or you need to hop on a plane or train, this bag will see you right. Check out our drive by for more details.

Crafted Goods Carrera

With a style that’s bike-bag-meets-work-bag, the Carrera lends itself to the commute and the office equally well – so much so it scooped a High Commendation in our Best Active Messenger Award. There’s a few different options for organizing the contents, a 15-inch laptop will fit inside, plus the protective recycled inner tube tire base is an awesome added touch. Find out more in our road test.

Archival Field Bag

Understated, durable and functional, if you don’t need to carry tons of stuff or awkward loads the Archival Field Bag has pretty much everything you need in a work bag. The timeless design has you covered for years to come, the front and back exterior pockets are handy for stashing quick-access items, while the main compartment is large enough for a laptop, work folders and other assorted daily items you might need.

Pacsafe Intasafe Z400

The work-friendly aesthetics and handy organization features of the Intasafe Z400 are great for the office, while the range of nifty security features provides peace of mind when traveling with the bag. This is a thoughtful, versatile piece of carry that deservedly scored top honors in our Best Work Messenger Award.

The post Buyer’s Guide :: Best Work Messengers (Part 2) appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

Faint light glistens in from the east. I wipe the sleep from my eyes as I engage in a psychological battle with the alarm, resisting further hits of the snooze button. The bed creaks as I climb out. The air is hot inside as it has been all night, our small and cosy apartment effortlessly heated by two, no radiator needed and no doubt a different story come winter.

The bathroom is long and slender with baby blue walls and a tiny mirror with Elvis Presley’s quaffed head printed on it that broods at you as you shower. There’s a roadmap of Berlin next to it, covering as far east as Kreuzberg, as far west as Charlottenburg, Tempelhof and the old airport to the south, Prenzlauer Berg, Mauerpark and the streets beyond in the north.

I eat, shave and pack the Archival, the rucksack that has fast become my trusty, everyday pack, a reliable workhorse, partner on my morning rides. It fits my 17-inch laptop perfectly, ample room for my morning pages and journals and two front pockets with brass-studded buttons for a Lamy pen and cylinders of ink refill. The bag is made of handsome, stout, closely woven waxed twill, built for understated resilience. I can’t imagine it would ever fall apart, or even look worn down. I pull the leather drawstring over my books and drape the outer denim fold over the books and the pen pockets too and slide the single brown leather strap through the heavy-gauge brass buckle that rests in the hold of an external studded strip that has been heat-branded with the unique number ‘2857’.

Archival have been dishing up charmingly durable carry offerings out of their factory in Eugene, Oregon since 2009. Dedicated to creating bags of simplicity, they employ lean, robust, locally sourced materials, free of complications, built for life. The Ranger Tan is a modern interpretation of the traditional canoe pack, rugged and American, a bag rich with heritage. It is in many ways the perfect backpack, one that says and does everything without needing to say much at all.

I peer out the window to the street below. The sun is misleading, clear sky a dead giveaway that it’s much crisper and colder out than it seems. I put on my blue leather jacket, grip the Archival by its neatly reinforced butter canvas straps where it sits snug on my padded shoulders, the straps easily adjusted through duel-brass buckles that look like gypsy rings or the eyelets of an old ship sail.

I unlock the apartment door. The cold stairwell smells like stale cigarettes. I summon the elevator, a tiny metal box running on a pulley that, when you get in, makes you feel claustrophobic with the sense that you aren’t moving at all until it shudders and the metallic doors slide across and you push open the security grill to walk out down a few stairs by the mailboxes at the heavy steel entrance door that groans when you pull it and you walk out into crisp morning.

When we first arrived in Berlin I used to ride east along Reichenberger over Ohlauer Strasse past the refugee school and the anarchist library and the old ‘kneipe’ pubs where the top halves of windows are hidden with white lace and in the evening you only see patrons’ hands and elbows and no faces. I would ride four blocks to Glogauer Strasse and turn north and turn left into the driveway at number ‘6’ to the rear carriage hall deep inside and up a flight of stairs. I would unlock another reinforced steel door and a studio where I’d sit in silence and write. I would make a pot of coffee and drink it and the hot caffeine buzz would wash through the front of my head. The studio was a space shared with a firm of young architects who were never there in the mornings, and a crew of visual artists who were never there at all. It was concrete, raw and cavernous and I found it hard to get work done there.

Lately I’ve been riding north up to Skalitzer where the overground U-Bahns glide gently across overground tracks like yellow Lego boxes past the Huhnerhaus chicken shack where Turkish men unravel corrugated roll downs to wash out their kitchen with hoses. All the while dealers rub weary eyes by the entrance ways to Görlitzer Park and further along Görlitzer Strasse where the light dapples through the tall oaks a woman bites into a warm croissant with deep intent as the sun washes over her on the corner. The sky above is rich and blemished by a solitary contrail and I think of past times living in New York City where the crisp air was exactly the same as it feels today.

I lock my bike to a tree and walk to Gipfeltreffen café. I sit at the table in the back room by a corner where I see out the front window to the graffiti-spiced brickwork of the park across the road. The waitress says ‘hallo’, lights a candle in a brass holder; I order a milchkaffee in my best, worst and only German. As I wait for it I unpin the gold latch of the Archival, glide the leather strap from its buckle, peel the outer flap over to expose my notebooks and pen and, if the pen is dry, replace it with new ink and I sit there for the morning drinking coffee and writing.

It’s grey out now and the pen silhouettes on the page in the candlelight as people come and go, but not many though, just a handful of early risers. Berlin is a night city and cares little for the morning. A familiar piano twinkle of a favourite old tune filters through speakers gently around the café as I polish pieces, finish letters, write about bags and travel and music and sometimes some poetry.

By midday I am hungry. I strap the Archival to my back and unchain my bike and ride home for a good lunch and maybe a little wine. When Berlin is wet the Ranger’s waxed canvas holds true and keeps everything inside dry without fuss. Then the day is free. HK and I might stroll to the Turkish market on the Maybachufer along the Landwehrkanal a block south and eat crispy hot gözlemes from the fellow with the ponytail and goatee; we’ll load up the Archival with fresh aubergines, fruits and herbs, fresh food for the week and return home with our spoils. We might ride to Tempelhof, shoot pictures, laze away in the sun on the grass by the tarmac and sometimes ride north across the Spree to Friedrichshain for a cold beer in a bar or further up to Prenzlauer Berg for coffee.

In time to come, when the mornings are no longer Berlin mornings, but Lisbon mornings or Paris mornings or even Melbourne mornings again, I’ll wake and ride and stumble on a little spot somewhere and sidle in and put down some words, the trusted Ranger Tan, effortlessly reliable, always by my side.

The post Berlin Muse :: the ARCHIVAL Ranger Tan Waxed Twill Rucksack appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.