TREXAD Air Pack

Packable, lightweight backpacks are great for compact storage. But when it gets down to the business of actually carrying items, you’ll often find comfort has been sacrificed in favor of packability. Not so with the TREXAD Air Pack. The backpack is highly packable and weighs just 300 grams, while still offering a comfortable design. How does it do it? An innovative build featuring interconnected inflatable air cushions on the shoulders and back, distributing the load and relieving carry strain on the go. The 33L rolltop pack lends itself to a variety of uses, from urban sightseeing to exploring outdoor trails. And the integrated valve lets you easily deflate it when required. The pack includes a removable waist strap and luggage passthrough feature, along with a durable and weatherproof Cordura construction.

Teva x Snow Peak Hurricane XLT2

Need a travel sandal? Check out this collab from Teva and Snow Peak. This limited edition version of the Hurricane XLT 2 features paracord used in Snow Peak’s gear, along with tri-rings that give a nod towards Snow Peak’s camping equipment. The sandals can be used on land and in the water, with a Durabrasion Rubber outsole for durability and traction. They also feature a cushioned heel tab and EVA foam midsole for comfort, with a quick-release buckle and hook-and-loop closure for ease of use.

The James Brand The Mehlville

There’s no shortage of carabiners in the carry world, so it takes something pretty special to stand out. Something like the James Brand Mehlville. Crafted from lightweight yet strong aluminum, the Mehlville features two separate compartments. The design prevents items accidentally slipping off while attaching or detaching the carabiner. And for added functionality it also doubles as a bottle opener.

Bellroy Shift Backpack

Office-savvy styling with active performance? A hard mix to get right, but Bellroy’s Shift Backpack nails it. The clean exterior looks slick in work settings, while the durable and water-resistant Venture-weave fabric handles the elements and demanding use with ease. Thoughtfully positioned pocketing ensures your smaller EDC and work tools are always within easy reach. Additionally, the unique Slide Hook provides smooth, secure, one-handed access and closure. And with its adjustable volume, you can squeeze in a little extra or keep it compact for smaller loads. Carry comfort is well considered too, with integrated lumbar support and a removable sternum strap.

Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus

Bellroy’s new Classic Backpack Plus helps you conquer the work/play divide with considered organization, understated style and adaptability. The pack features two separate compartments to keep your gear in order. The back compartment is dedicated to your tech and small work or EDC tools, with a weatherproof YKK AquaGuard zipper. The main compartment provides versatile storage for an outer layer, gym gear, travel essentials or bulkier work supplies. The contoured back panel and removable chest strap offer carry comfort throughout the day. And with handy front and top pockets, those smaller essentials will always be at the ready too. Add in a water-resistant Venture-weave exterior for added protection, and you’ve got a solid all-rounder.

DSPTCH Sling Pouches

When you don’t need to carry a lot, why carry a big bag? DSPTCH’s Sling Pouches deftly handle smaller loads, keeping gear secure, tidy and easily accessible when you need it.  Available in Small, Slim and Medium sizes, the pouches are a useful solution for keeping bulky pockets at bay. In addition to three sizes, they also come in a choice of two colorways (black and with a clear laminate front panel) to suit your style preferences. Durably made with 1680D Ballistic Nylon featuring a DWR coating, these pouches will keep going strong for years of trusty use.

Aer All-New Travel Collection

Traveling can be tiring, stressful and frustrating. But a solid piece of luggage by your side can help your trip run more smoothly. Aer’s All-New Travel Collection features thoughtful updates to existing pieces, from redesigned shoulder straps for improved comfort, to better organization and luggage passthrough sleeves. Complementing the updated pieces are some nifty new additions to help you navigate a variety of travel environments. The collection includes the Travel Pack 2, Flight Pack 2, Day Sling 2, Travel Sling, Travel Kit and Dopp Kit, available in a choice of colorways to suit personal tastes.

YETI Tocayo Backpack

YETI’s Tocayo Backpack delivers the pared-back looks you’d expect from a slick urban pack. But don’t let its low-key style fool you. This pack may look at home in urban settings but it’s built to embrace city streets and beyond. The pack features a weatherproof and self-standing design, with padding throughout to protect your gear from life’s bumps and scrapes. The bag offers a 15″ laptop compartment, with further pockets and attachment points to tailor your setup to changing needs and environments.

Mismo M/S Passage

The Mismo M/S Passage is designed to carry your day-to-day essentials in understated elegance. Crafted with casual-chic style and functionality in mind, the sling features a handsome combination of Italian nylon and vegetable-tanned full-grain bridle leather. A selection of internal and external pockets keep your EDC and travel items accessible yet secure on the go. Practical and refined, it’s a classy companion when you want to carry light.

Mismo M/S Drawstring

The simple drawstring bag is a fairly common design. But what’s not common is elevating the simple utility with refined craftsmanship, quality materials and low-key style. Mismo takes the lead on this with the M/S Drawstring. The bag is made with durable, lightweight Italian nylon and vegetable-tanned full-grain bridle leather detailing. Inside you’ll find three pockets adding to the functionality of this adaptable, attractive bag that works just as well on the beach, in the gym, on your travels, or carrying daily essentials.

Tortuga Setout Divide Backpack

For short trips and light packing you don’t need a large bag. But a little flexibility is always handy for accommodating a souvenir or extra outer layer. Tortuga’s Setout Divide delivers that flexibility. The design can expand from 26L to 34L, so you can fit in more or keep it compact as required. The pack features dedicated storage for a laptop and tablet, a clamshell divided main compartment for easy packing, and quick-access pockets for smaller essentials. And with its luggage pass-through sleeve you can secure it to rolling luggage for all-in-one portability.

Osprey Transporter Wheeled Duffel Bag

Sometimes it’s better to save yourself unnecessary strain and let your carry shoulder the load. Osprey’s new Transporter Wheeled Duffel is designed to bear the burden so you don’t have to. It comes in three sizes to suit a variety of trips, including 120L, 90L and a carry-on friendly 40L option. The duffel is made with 800D TPU-coated nylon for hard-wearing abrasion and water resistance, as well as tough #10 YKK zippers with overlapping flaps for added weather protection. The oversized wheels easily tackle a variety of terrains, while the large U-zip opening, interior pockets and internal compression straps make it easy to pack and organize your gear. For added functionality the duffels also include a choice of padded grab handles and lashing points to secure the bags to cargo racks. The range is available from 1 September 2018.

Mission Workshop Integer Camera Pack

Whether your lens leads you to urban or outdoor environments, Mission Workshop’s Integer Camera Pack is designed to embrace and thrive. Adaptable aesthetics, a tough and weatherproof build, and versatile organization lets the pack accommodate diverse photography, travel and everyday needs. The pack’s padded camera compartment can be accessed from the front and side, with customizable dividers to adapt to different loads. The compartment is also removable to create a standalone travel or EDC bag. Complementing the camera compartment is a large upper compartment with rolltop access for personal gear, along with a dedicated laptop compartment. And with a tripod holder, luggage pass-through sleeve, and additional organization pockets you’re set for photography sessions near and far.

Alchemy Equipment AEL021-GPH 30 Litre Office Pack

Alchemy Equipment brings their signature style to work carry with the AEL021. The limited edition backpack combines understated aesthetics with performance, featuring a clean silhouette and magnetic twist Fidlock closure. The free-standing design offers wide-opening access and organization for documents, tech and tools, with a useful ejection handle for the 15″ laptop pocket. Durable and weatherproof, it’s crafted with water-resistant waxed 600D Kodra, a PU-coated 900D Kodra base and YKK AquaGuard zips. Functional and stylish, this adaptable pack moves beyond work too when it’s time to relax or travel.

Watershed OTB 75 Backpack

A bag you can take from underwater adventures to the top of a mountain? The Watershed OTB 75 Backpack is designed to be that bag. Fully submersible, the bag is made with double-coated 500D Cordura, welded seams and a YKK Aquaseal drysuit zipper. For maximized carrying comfort the pack also includes Mystery Ranch’s amphibious NICE Frame. Internal and external MOLLE panels enable customizable organization, while the compression straps let you adjust the volume from 75L to 47.5L as needed.

NOMATIC 30L Travel Bag

NOMATIC’s 30L Travel Bag finds that sweet spot between short trips and day-to-day use. A bag that has been designed for one to three-day trips, but with the versatility to also serve as a daily commuter bag, gym bag, or outdoor gear bag. The pack offers a wide opening for easy packing and access, along with a ventilated shoe compartment and laptop and tablet pockets. Organization pockets keep smaller items in order and there’s also a water-resistant pocket for liquids or damp clothing. Further handy features include a luggage pass-through sleeve and a removable waist strap for added comfort with heavier loads.

Tailfin AeroPack Bike Bags

Bike bags can be a tricky business, time-consuming to attach to your bike (if they fit at all), and restrictive in what they can carry. But Tailfin delivers an impressive solution with their AeroPack range, designed to fit virtually any road, gravel or mountain bike. The range features three options. The AeroPack Carbon and AeroPack Alloy feature an integrated, all-in-one bag and rack. The AeroPack Trunk on the other hand is a bag-only option that fits Tailfin’s T1 rack. Each option in the range features the same rolltop waterproof bag, easily adaptable to a variety of loads. Lightweight, stable and secure, the range lets you easily attach or remove bike carry in seconds so you can focus on the ride instead of wrestling with your gear.

Peak Design Travel Line

Peak Design have gone from strength to strength, taking their considered design approach from camera carry to everyday bags. And now they’re set to make your travels easier with their new Travel Line. Central to the line is the 45L Travel Backpack. What makes the pack stand out is that each feature and component has been carefully considered, from the adjustable volume to the back panel access and stowable harness. The line also features a host of travel-friendly accessories including a Tech Pouch, Wash Pouch, packing cubes and camera cubes. Again, that attention to detail is there throughout the accessories too, making this a highly thoughtful line designed to elegantly solve real travel problems.

Forsake Range Low

When it comes to travel packing, bulky shoes can take up a considerable amount of space. But what if you’re planning to roam between urban and outdoor settings and need footwear to handle both? The Forsake Range Low has you covered. These all-terrain travel shoes move easily from urban streets to wilderness trails, with stylish aesthetics and a rugged, waterproof and supportive build that will see you right when the terrain gets more challenging. The shoes include a Vibram Megagrip outsole for reliable grip on a range of surfaces, while the EVA foam midsole keeps your feet in happy comfort all day long.

Arc’teryx Alpha SK 32 Backpack

Want to keep things sleek and minimalist on the slopes? Look to Arc’teryx’s new Alpha SK 32. Tough, lightweight and highly weather resistant, this daypack carries backcountry essentials in trusty style. The clean silhouette is designed to reduce the chance of snagging, with side access to the main compartment and a front pocket for safety gear. A helmet or rope can be stored under the lid and skis can be attached diagonally (with optional straps allowing A-frame carry and vertical board carry).

Arc’teryx Arro 22 Backpack

The Arro 22 is a cult classic, but there’s no reason you can’t give a classic a little refresh now and then. And that’s what Arc’teryx have done, introducing a range of new colorways to add some pop to your setup. The classic Black is joined by Nocturne, Caribou and Silva, so you can keep things stealthy or add a touch of color character to your carry.

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But to really merit a place by your side, a carry-on bag needs to work hard to make your journeys as hassle-free as possible. Whether that’s providing quick and convenient access to gear, ensuring the load stays comfortable on the move, or providing a trusty barrier against the elements. Our Best Carry-On Bag Finalists are designed to thrive on the move, helping you make the most of your trips. But which one delivers a truly first-class performance? Choose your top pick below.

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Keen to embrace this way of traveling but not sure what bag to choose? The one-bag travel bag comparison below is a great place to start…

Small One-Bag Travel Carry

These bags are good for shorter trips and can double as day bags at your destination.

Tom Bihn Synapse 25

WANDRD PRVKE

YNOT Magnetica

GORUCK GR1 (26L)

Medium-Small One-Bag Travel Carry

These bags are solid options if you’re looking for good capacity for single-bag travel. However, they aren’t as well suited to daily use at your destination due to factors such as size or less adaptable aesthetics.

Tortuga Homebase Backpack

Arcido Akra

Minaal Carry-on 2.0

Medium One-Bag Travel Carry

These options have a bulkier feel to them, beefy in build with a slightly less sleeker feel than previous options.

Aer Travel Pack (updated to version 2)

Tortuga Outbreaker

Tom Bihn Tri-Star

GORUCK GR2

NOMATIC Travel Bag

Large One-Bag Travel Carry

It’s important to note that these options may have the same capacity as previously mentioned bags. However, they have a large feel to them and some will simply be larger.

Tortuga Setout

Timbuk2 Bruce Pack

Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45

Patagonia MLC

Heimplanet Monolith Weekender 40L Backpack

Tortuga Homebase Duffle Case

YNOT Viken Duffel

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Böker Plus Rocket Pen

Tactical pens tend to be bulky and conspicuous. But not the Böker Plus Rocket Pen. Designed by custom knife maker Darriel Caston, this is an elegant alternative if you want a discreet tactical pen that looks right at home in your EDC setup. Functional and comfortable to use, the bolt-action pen is available in black anodized aluminum or brass.

Remote Equipment Alpha 31

From EDC companion to weekend adventure buddy, the Remote Equipment Alpha 31 is designed to perform across diverse and demanding settings. Built with rugged X-Pac material, the Alpha 31 features an expandable rolltop closure so you can squeeze in extra or keep things compact as required. Top and front access and multiple pockets keep your gear within easy reach, while the hydration bladder compatibility keeps water at the ready when it’s time to get active.

Millican Tinsley The Tote Pack

Totes are handy for everyday carry, while backpacks lend themselves well to venturing on longer outings and hauling heavier loads. So Millican decided, why choose when you can have both? Tinsley the Tote Pack is a 14L tote bag that can be carried by hand or over the shoulder. But the carry handles can also adjust to create backpack shoulder straps. The weatherproof rolltop opening caters to a range of changing loads, while an exterior pocket provides an ideal stash spot for quick-access items. And for added functionality, its ability to roll up compactly makes it a useful day bag for storing in your luggage.

NOMATIC Messenger and Laptop Bag

NOMATIC are dedicated to maximizing functionality in your carry. So when their attention turned to messenger and laptop bags, they were determined to help you get more out of your daily carry. And they did. With weatherproof builds, great access, a host of organization options, and a choice of shoulder bag or briefcase-style portability, their Messenger and Laptop Bag really do help you get more out of your EDC.

DSPTCH Utility Brief

Your day-to-day carry needs change. But so does the DSPTCH Utility Brief, helping you easily adapt with just one bag. DSPTCH offers a fresh take on an earlier design with the updated Utility Brief, which can be carried as a shoulder bag, briefcase or backpack. Multiple quick-access pockets and Fidlock connectors allow convenient and fast access to your gear on the go. And for added convenience, a luggage passthrough sleeve provides a simple way to secure the bag to rolling luggage.

Topo Designs x Danner Daypack

Topo Designs and Danner are both brands that focus on helping you get out there. So when they team up, pretty awesome things are sure to follow. Such as their Topo Designs x Danner Daypack, which offers a handsome combination of Horween® leather and 12oz cotton canvas. The black colorway is complemented by pops of red detailing, with a versatile design that moves smoothly from urban to outdoor settings. Just like the Topo Designs x Danner Mountain Light Boot, which sports the same attractive colorway and adaptability to roam wherever the day leads. Both pieces are limited edition and made in the USA.

KEEGO Water Bottle

A squeezable metal water bottle. Yes, you read that right. The KEEGO Water Bottle is made with elastic titanium, allowing for a squeezable yet durable design. The bottle lets you quickly access water with a high flow rate, while keeping the taste fresh and your carry weight down. So you can enjoy the benefits of a metal bottle and plastic bottle while avoiding the drawbacks of either. Check out more details via the KEEGO Kickstarter campaign.

Mission Workshop The Capsule

Mission Workshop brings their brand of tough urban functionality to camera carry with The Capsule. This padded camera insert offers top and front access and adjustable interior dividers to suit changing gear setups. The Capsule fits Mission Workshop (and most other brands’ packs) 20L and larger, letting you easily convert your existing backpack into a camera bag. It’s also handmade in the USA and backed by a lifetime guarantee, so you can feel confident it will protect your gear for years to come.

SuperStraps

Is your current backpack weighing you down? Tired of aches and pains from simply carrying around everyday gear or trail essentials for a quick jaunt outdoors? SuperStraps aim to relieve shoulder, back and neck tension, and are designed to lift 27 lbs of force off your neck. The design moves the weight closer to your spine for more ergonomic carry and long-term comfort. SuperStraps can be attached quickly and easily to your existing backpack’s straps and are activated with a simple pulling motion. Check out the SuperStraps Kickstarter campaign for more details.

F/CE Packable 2-Way Daypack and Waist Bag

Waist bags are great for minimalist loads, but what happens when you need to carry a little extra unexpectedly? The F/CE Packable 2-Way Daypack and Waist Bag has you covered for either occasion. The versatile design serves as a waist bag for essentials, but can convert into a daypack for larger loads. Durable and water repellent, the bag also offers a range of pockets for storing small items and is an adaptable piece for EDC and travel alike.

Patagonia Nine Trails Pack

Heading outdoors for the day? Patagonia’s Nine Trails Pack helps you make the most of your excursion with its lightweight, comfortable and versatile design. The 28L daypack features a breathable back panel, load lifters, waist belt and sternum strap for carry comfort. Quick-access pockets on the front, sides and waist belt provide handy storage for frequently used items, and the compression straps can also help secure bulkier items externally. The pack is made with water-repellent 210D Cordura nylon for protection against the elements, and is also hydration bladder compatible.

MyMedic The Solo

Hopefully injuries and accidents don’t happen when you’re out and about. But it’s good to be prepared if they do. The Solo is a compact first aid kit that can be easily stored in a bag or secured to the exterior with the included paracord. Well suited for solo use, the kit features a waterproof, crushproof, and dustproof case made with high-impact ABS material. Even better, it floats too and is backed by a lifetime guarantee. Store it in your outdoor pack, everyday bag or car for fast access to supplies to treat a range of first aid needs.

Moshi Tego Collection

Techwear style meets everyday practicality with Moshi’s new Tego Collection, featuring four versatile pieces in two colorways. Clean aesthetics, clever features and functional designs let these sleek pieces move easily between work and play environments. Made with lightweight yet durable fabrics, the bags include anti-theft concealed zippers, a reflective strip for improved visibility at night, and RFID-blocking pocket to keep personal details secure on the go. The Tego Backpack fits up to a 15″ laptop and offers a pass-through USB port for easy charging. The Tego Crossbody Sling fits up to a 10.5″ tablet in a padded sleeve, and allows fast access to gear by simply swinging the bag from back to front. A quick-release design and ActiveStrap keeps the Tego Sling Messenger Bag secure yet accessible on the go, with space for up to a 13″ device. And for smaller loads the Tego Slingpack is ready to go, providing compact storage for essentials and an ActiveStrap for stability.

GORUCK Black Multicam Collection

Keen to add rugged and functional camo to your carry? GORUCK have you covered with their new Black Multicam colorway, available across the GR1, GR2, Echo, Rucker 2.0 and Kit Bag. The bags are built with durable 1000D Cordura and are a solid choice if you want stealthy style that packs a practical punch.

Away Carry-On With Pocket and Aluminum Edition

Having quick access to essentials is key during your travels. And Away takes care of this with a new addition to their Carry-On, an integrated nylon front pocket that keeps your tech and travel essentials within easy reach. The Carry-On with Pocket comes in two TSA-approved sizes and features an ejectable battery for easy charging on the go. But Away aren’t content to leave the new offerings there. They’re also switching things up on the material front with their Aluminum Edition of cases. Available in four sizes, the cases are made with stylish and durable aluminum and replace the zippers with two TSA-approved combination locks.

Côte&Ciel Oril Small, Sormonne and Oder-Spree

Côte&Ciel have a reputation for creating carry that offers a refined balance of form and function. And the purveyors of Parisian chic don’t disappoint with their Oril Small, Sormonne and Oder-Spree. The Oril Small Backpack offers two front compartments and a back tech compartment that fits up to 13″ devices. The Sormonne Backpack fits up to a 13″ tech device in the main compartment, while two low-key front pockets keep frequently used items within easy reach. The Oder-Spree offers a luxurious take on your everyday messenger, with space for a 13″ device in the main compartment, two front pockets for smaller essentials, as well as a rear pocket for further organization. All delivered in sleek style that looks equally suave in the office or about town.

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The messenger bag is the larger of the two offerings and measures 16.5″ x 12″ x 5.5″ with a total volume of 15 liters. It is 50% larger in volume than the smaller laptop bag but you pay for that in weight with a little over a pound in bulk. I chose the messenger over the laptop bag because although I like that minimalist life, I also know I want to have certain things with me just in case. The main compartment and organization of the messenger looked right up my alley.

Who It Suits

The Messenger bag is definitely geared towards a business professional who needs to carry a set of items to help them with their everyday job or with them on a business trip. Similarly, it would be suited for a professor or possibly a student, but definitely someone in a white collar profession. Due to the extra space of the messenger, compared to the laptop variant, this person has a need to carry things beyond just a laptop and some documents. The Messenger is for someone who appreciates having the extra room to fit an occasional package shipped to work or perhaps a camera setup for a photo session after checking out. Finally, the Messenger bag is for someone who appreciates good design and functionality in a bag.

Who It Doesn’t

The Messenger bag would not be suited to anyone who needs to carry a lot of heavy or bulky items. There is plenty of room in the center compartment but it has a specific rectangular shape so bulbous items or items that exceed the depth of the bag simply won’t fit. The bag also is not well suited to anyone with shoulder or neck pain problems since carrying a loaded one with a MacBook Pro can be close to 10 pounds. The load on a messenger is not spread the way it is on a backpack.

Specs

The bag boasts so many features, I wouldn’t be able to do them all justice but I’ll list some of the standouts:

• Fidlock straps
• TSA laptop pocket (up to 15″)
• Roller bag sleeve
• Retractable key leash
• Sunglasses shell
• Magnetic bottle pockets
• Cord pass throughs
• Customizable panels

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“The Messenger is for someone who appreciates having extra room to fit an occasional package shipped to work or perhaps a camera setup for a photo session after checking out.”

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The Good

The thing that really stands out for me is how thought out the features are. Whenever I demo it to someone, they are constantly muttering “oohs” and “ahhs”. We go through a lot of bags here at Carryology and sometimes take things for granted, but if you show useful features to most people, they are really impressed.

The first thing that I like is the bag’s ability to stand on its own without falling over or needing to lean on anything. I am usually a backpack kind of guy and all my bags fall over in a slump. When I get to work, I always have to lean my bag against the file cabinet under my desk and when I get home I have to carefully place it on a dining table chair, making sure it doesn’t slip off and hit the floor. With the NOMATIC Messenger bag, I just plop it down and it stays put. This is useful for grabbing things out of it like keys or a badge, or loading things into it like documents. I did find an issue where if you put only a laptop in the bag, it will fall over because it’s too back-heavy. This is an unusual situation since you are probably not walking around with just a laptop.

I love all the organization in the bag. The rear compartment holds a 15″ MacBook Pro with ease, has a document sleeve, and can open clamshell fashion for easy TSA scanning. The front compartment drops down like a glovebox, giving you easy access to pens, an RFID pocket for your passport or sensitive cards and additional stretchy and zippered pockets.

Moving on to the main compartment – this is where all the magic is. Included with every Messenger are two inserts plus a sunglasses case. The first one is the one you’ll find me primarily rockin’ – the admin panel. It’s primarily a document holder, complete with securing strap, a large elastic pocket and two more smaller pockets. This is perfect for a USB pack, some small earbuds, my Kindle, and of course any printouts or documents I need to carry around. I also prefer accessing them in this area versus the rear. The other insert is sort of a cube organizational system featuring adjustable panels that allow for customization. This is great if you want to carry specific bulky items like a camera and some lenses, or perhaps binoculars or a first aid kit. The thing I love the most about these two inserts is how well they fit into the main compartment and against the rear panel. I know this sounds like something silly to praise but I cannot stand it when two surfaces don’t mate well due to dimensional differences.

Aside from the inserts, the main compartment has a large mesh zippered pocket in the drop down panel and two elastic pouches on either side. One of them has a retractable key leash, but unfortunately that was not included in my factory sample.

Let’s talk about the straps. First, both ends attach with Fidlock (magnetic) ends. They snap on almost magically and remove quite easily (once you get the hang of it). We’ve seen this in other popular bags but designers are starting to realize that having a larger range of motion (in this case, arguably “360” degrees), really opens up possibilities for better comfort and body compatibility. The spring loaded compression buckle is intuitive to use and very easy to adjust. The shoulder pad is adjustable and really comfortable.

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“The first thing that I like is the bag’s ability to stand on its own without falling over or needing to lean on anything.”

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Water bottle holders on the NOMATIC Messenger; sorry for the slightly off focus photo

My final favorite feature of the Messenger is the water bottle holders. They flank each side and sit firmly against the bag with a long magnetic strip waiting for deployment. Once open, they hold bottles that I use with no issues thanks to the elastic band. When you are done with them, you just give it a quick nudge and it’ll close right up. I am a huge fan of space that is only available when you need it.

The Not So Good

No bag is perfect and if I am being really critical here, there are some small niggles I had with the NOMATIC Messenger. The first is I felt the laptop strap is a little too long. I know that companies have to accommodate different shapes and sizes but the stated max supported size is a 15″ laptop. I put in a MacBook Pro which is a pretty representative size and I have more slack than I’d prefer. Speaking of straps, while I found the laptop one to be too generous, I had the opposite reaction for the document strap in the admin panel insert; it bears down on even standard file folders.

I found the magnetic buckles super fun to use and they were really great for comfort but because they can spin 360 degrees, they can also get twisted pretty easily. I think it just takes some getting used to and once you learn how to disengage the buckles quickly you can sort yourself out pretty easily.

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“I felt the laptop strap is a little too long.”

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The good news about these complaints is I already shared them with the founders. They are aware of them and for the ones that can be addressed, they’re already on it.

Alternatives to Consider

This is a really tough one. Due to the looks, I don’t feel like the NOMATIC Messenger really stands out. But, that’s kind of the point. It’s supposed to look subtle and not be out of place in a boardroom or by an executive’s desk. Since they opted for a shinier material, I think it should be compared to traditional messenger bags or briefcases from the likes of Kenneth Cole and TUMI. However, I don’t think that’s doing justice to the bag since its feature set is much more clever than your standard bag. Features-wise, I’d say you can look at the Peak Design Everyday Messenger, the Tom Bihn Founder’s Briefcase, or maybe a DSPTCH Utility Brief.

Verdict

If you’re still with me up to this point, then it should be no surprise that I am very impressed with what NOMATIC has pulled off. My only previous experience with them is through their notebooks which my fiance uses for planning, but after using the Messenger, I am curious about what their backpack and travel pack/bag are like. They managed to put together a complete package of very useful features while eliminating any of the unnecessary fluff nobody uses. If you are the type of person who needs to carry a laptop every day, plus a handful of other accessories (battery pack, sunglasses, keys/fob, cables, documents) and you want a bag that performs when you need it to but gets out of your way the rest of the time, the Messenger might be for you. As of this writing, it’s currently on Kickstarter.

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This week’s selection: NOMATIC and their Messenger and Laptop Bags. 

Not just another messenger and laptop bag…

From travel bags to everyday backpacks, NOMATIC are dedicated to creating highly functional and versatile gear that shifts perspectives on what carry can achieve. So when they decided to put their minds towards creating a messenger and a laptop bag, they knew they had to raise the bar. And they did.

Meet the NOMATIC Messenger and Laptop Bag.

Everyday features that simply make sense 

NOMATIC worked hard to create a feature set that really works well together, helping you make the most of your EDC with intuitive and adaptable functionality. The 10L Laptop Bag is ideal for carrying the essentials, while the 15L Messenger provides extra space and additional features for larger loads.

Both bags feature a durable, weatherproof construction that will keep your gear well protected from the elements. And with their lifetime warranties you can feel confident these bags will keep going strong wherever the day (or night) leads.

Carrying portability forward

To take carry comfort to the next level, both pieces feature custom magnetic Fidlock strap buckles that provide 360-degree rotation for maximized user comfort. Additionally, a spring-loaded compression buckle makes it quick and easy to adjust the strap to your preferred length. And if you don’t want to use the strap? Simply remove it and carry the bags briefcase-style using the top handle.

Clutter? What clutter?

Tired of having to rummage around in a jumbled mess of bag contents, untangling a twisted ball of cables or rooting around for keys you’re sure were in there somewhere? Sit back and relax. Thanks to multiple pockets and wide-opening main compartments, you’ve got plenty of organization options and easy access to your gear. There’s even a lockable RFID safe pocket, removable protective shell for glasses, and a retractable key leash.

The Messenger and Laptop Bag also include a document pocket and a TSA-ready 15″ laptop and tablet compartment; handy for zipping through airport security. Speaking of travel, the bags feature a luggage passthrough sleeve too, making it simple to secure to rolling luggage. Added bonus? Reflective detailing on the bags provides enhanced visibility at night, helping you stay safe on the go.

Sending a message your bag can do more

The Messenger shares the Laptop Bag’s features but also offers extra features for further functionality. The self-standing bag comes with two removable Velcro panels, namely an organizer panel and customizable compartments panel for tailoring carry setups to changing needs.

Other useful additions such as a magnetic bottle pocket, top quick-access pocket, and cord passthrough system all play their part in making this a great bag for work, play and travel alike.

Rethink your daily carry

NOMATIC are no strangers to crowdfunding success, and have lots of experience delivering practical and adaptable gear to their backers. With their fifth successful product launch they’ve smashed their target yet again, but you’ve still got plenty of time to get involved in the good stuff. Enjoy what really considered carry can do for you by picking up a NOMATIC Messenger or Laptop Bag (or both!) over at their Kickstarter campaign which runs until 21 April 2018.

Note: this is a sponsored series, but only the best candidates are given this feature placement.

Above are the facts, but there’s always a little risk when backing a crowdfunder, so keep that in mind before you decide to back/purchase.

The post Kickstarter Highlight: NOMATIC Messenger and Laptop Bags appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

This week’s selection: NOMATIC and their NOMATIC Backpack and Travel Pack.

Made history. Now for the second coming. 

Creating the most funded travel bag in Kickstarter history is no mean feat. But the founders of NOMATIC, cousins Jacob Durham and Jon Richards, were able to do just that, with their first NOMATIC Travel Bag raising over $1.7 million in funding.

Though the bag was great for longer trips, Jacob and Jon knew their backers were keen for bags that excelled in everyday use and shorter trips too. So they sought out user insights, asking their backers what features they really valued in a backpack. Then followed a year of development and refinement, and the launch of the NOMATIC Backpack and Travel Pack.

Insight-fueled functionality

Similar in styling, both bags share common features such as a full-perimeter zip that enables a wide opening as well as easy access to the contents from all sides. The weatherproof and self-standing bags can also switch between backpack and briefcase carry modes, allowing you to carry comfortably over longer distances or present a more professional appearance for business use.

With over 20 pockets available, from the concealed valuables pocket and magnetic water bottle pocket, to storage for a notebook, sunglasses, cables and more, you can keep items organized and within easy reach when you need them. Plus cord pass-through holes between all of the compartments means you can easily charge devices on the go.

Fit for purpose 

However, though they share certain elements, each backpack is also tailored to meet its intended function. The NOMATIC Backpack is designed for everyday carry and comes with three interchangeable Velcro panels so you can easily adapt to changing needs. The paper organizer is handy for storing documents or magazines, the tech pocket keeps tech devices and accessories organized, and the third pocket can be used for storing shoes or clothing separately from the rest of the bag’s contents. In addition, the NOMATIC Backpack features a dedicated 15″ laptop compartment, and can also expand from 20L to 24L when you need to carry a little extra.

The NOMATIC Travel Pack on the other hand is intended for trips spanning one to three days (though it can also double as a day bag). Need to squeeze in a last-minute souvenir or pack a few extra items for your trip? No problem. The Travel Pack can expand from 20L to 30L to accommodate a range of loads. The bag features a mesh divider along with an inbuilt shoe or clothing compartment for organization. In addition, the laptop and tablet compartment lays flat for added convenience while navigating through airport security. Fancy a little extra functionality? The Travel Pack also includes a compression packing cube with two compartments for separating clean and dirty clothing.

Looks like another home run!

The NOMATIC Backpack and Travel Pack Kickstarter campaign is well on its way to repeating NOMATIC’s initial success, having far surpassed its funding goal with over $700,000 raised so far. There’s still plenty of time to add one or both of the bags to your carry quiver though, as the campaign ends on 1 July 2017.

Note: this is a sponsored series, but only the best candidates are given this feature placement.

Above are the facts, but there’s always a little risk when backing a crowdfunder, so keep that in mind before you decide to back/purchase.

The post Kickstarter Highlight :: NOMATIC Backpack and Travel Pack appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.