Reddit mentions: The best messenger bags

So this may not be the help you want, but here's a quote of my response in which I quoted another of my responses to a guy who was asking about messenger bags. Most of what I list is about leather vs canvas messenger bags, but it's what I put together when I was doing my own shopping and after combing through FMF and MFA multiple times. Hope it helps:

>I just commented in the should I buy thread directed towards someone looking at canvas messenger bags for a more casual job. I responded with a recommendation that he go leather. Instead of typing it all up again, I'll just quote it here:

>---Hi I spent the last couple weeks doing some similar searching for a messenger bag. I'm not a huge fan of the one you've selected there. TBQH I would recommend a leather bag, and if not I'd recommend a different canvas bag. Imo, a leather messenger is never really out of place, and definitely can be used as a casual bag, whereas a canvas bag will seem out of place and "underdressed" in a more formal setting. If you ever see yourself moving into a formal setting, the leather will come in handy. There are a ton of places to check but here's what I've found:

>http://www.storenvy.com/stores/36675-deep-rooted-tree (these are expensive, but the 13" isn't too bad)
http://copperriverbags.com (massdrop is doing a sale and I believe it's still going where you get something like 30% off)
http://www.navali.com/bags/ (they have a nice leather messenger plus a lot of canvas ones that I think are a step up towards professional rather than student)
http://www.amazon.com/Visconti-Crossbody-Messenger-Plus-Leather-16054/dp/B008OJEP82
http://saddlebackleather.com

>You should also check the bag FAQ in the sidebar for more options, but it is slightly limited. Search /r/frugalmalefashion for "messenger bag" and you'll get a lot of results. These are the ones I was looking at personally.

>I ended up choosing a fossil bag because my girlfriend could get it through macy's with a lot of discounts that brought the price (245) down to something like 140. I am immensely satisfied with it but I haven't had it for long and unfortunately I couldn't find any info on what quality of leather it's made from. If you do decide to go for a leather item, be sure to check up on saddlebackleather's leather 101 to understand why it's important to search for full-grain over genuine leather. Hope this helps.---

>Since your price range is significantly higher than the guy I was responding to originally, I'll also throw in that Leyden and Sons make some pretty good bags at higher prices.
The bag you've selected here seems like a great option, but I'd be wary about materials used. See the saddleback leather guide or wikipedia it to learn more about different kinds of leather. When a website denotes it as "100% vegetable tanned leather" instead of giving you what grade of leather they are using, it raises flags in my mind. Before you buy, I would recommend getting in touch with the seller and asking about the grade of leather he is using.

>It's also very large. 18" is no joke, that's a foot and a half that you are lugging around. IMO, that's huge. They must have a 6'6" tall guy or larger modeling it. I find that 15.5" on my bag seems almost too big for me at 5'6". Please keep that in mind before you buy.

>Another thing is that for 265$, you have a lot of options and I would definitely explore those options before you buy. I highly recommend that if you spend that much on a bag, you buy from somewhere like LLBean or saddleback, who have lifetime guarantees for their products.

>Finally, I think what makes this bag appear casual is the flap. It's got a single buckle and that really pushes it towards casual/student instead of more serious/business. Here is the bag I got and you can see, imo, that the double buckle and the double-stitching on the flap add a lot towards giving it a more professional appearance, closer to a briefcase than a satchel. The reason I went with fossil was because I liked the bag after seeing it in person, rooting around in it, and trying it on, and it was at a price I couldn't beat because it was at Macy's and my GF had coupons+macy's card for a lot of discounts.

>I hope all this helps and feel free to ask me any questions. In response to the farhorizontraders bags, be sure to look at their blemished bags, as those come at a large discount and oftentimes have only superficial blemishes. Beware buying camel leather, as it will stink for awhile until you break it in. Rather pungently.

>Running errands: Right now, I take my bike to the grocery store 60% of the time. But an average bike right off the sales floor isn’t equipped for hauling even a small amount of groceries, and if you don’t want to ride back home with your knees banging the shopping bags hanging from your handlebars, you’ll need to add some accessories to your bike before biking your groceries home isn’t a gigantic pain in the ass.
>
> Rack: Pretty simple. Putting a rack on your bike massively extends its utility. You can hang a pannier (more on them later) from the rack instead of using a backpack, keeping your back sweat-free. With the addidion of a bungee cord or more permanent strap system, you can hold things on top of it. If your bike has disc brakes, you may need a wider rack to accommodate the extra wide axle. Also, some bikes with unusual geometry may require extra-long bars for installing the rack. This and the folding basket below are probably the trickiest accessories to install, and where you might be better off having them professionally installed.
>
> Folding basket: This was a major piece of the puzzle for me. I didn’t want my bike permanently widened out with a pair of baskets off the rack. But I also wanted to be prepared to stop and do some shopping on my way home without worrying about how I would carry everything. The folding rack was the perfect solution. When I need it, it unfolds in a couple seconds and I can put stuff in it. When I don’t need it, or space is tight, it folds up quickly and it’s more or less unnoticeable off the side of my bike. It means I can make unexpected stops while on my bike to pick up a few things without having to double back in my car later. I have this Wald one, and it’s very nice. It was quite a pain to install though. Be prepared for a bit of frustration if you go the DIY route. This was the one part of these accessory installs that I used a power tool.
>
> Pannier: I mentioned this one a bit under weather. The one I have and love is this Banjo Brothers waterproof pannier and backpack. It nearly effortlessly turns from one to the other and since it’s waterproof I can take it every time. The first time I biked to a shopping mall, locked my bike up, and turned my pannier to a backpack and went shopping, I felt like a goddamn superhero. This flexibility takes a lot of anxiety out of running errands on my bike.
>
> Water bottle cages: Pretty self-explanatory. Carry water with you when you bike. I have 2 mounted, one on the down tube at a diagonal, and one on the seat tube vertical. I can carry my coffee mug in there without spilling too much. You shouldn’t have to sacrifice your second cup of coffee just because you want to bike in.
>
> Compact shopping bags: Not really sure what to call these, other than the brand name I know, Chico Bags. They fold up into a small size and unfold quickly. You can get sling ones to go over your shoulder, or the smaller ones easily go into the folding basket. Just a good thing to with you for unexpected stops.
>
> Kickstand: A lot of people are surprised when bikes don’t automatically come with kickstands. And for a lot of people, a kickstand doesn’t make sense for the kind of riding they do. I am using my bike to commute, and am more interested in convenience than weight. I got a two-legged kickstand for added stability. Keep in mind, not every single bike will accept every kickstand. If you get one with a top plate like this standard one that every bike store carries, it will work for 90% of the bikes you would expect to take a kickstand. If you bought a $5,000 tri bike with areo bars and bladed spokes for reduced wind drag, you’re not going to get a kickstand on there, sorry. Also, kickstands come in a set length and may need to be cut down with a hacksaw to fit your bike. You should be able to turn the handlebars all the way from left to right without the bike falling over. If you don’t feel comfortable measuring and cutting a kickstand, consider taking it to a bike shop.
>
>Clothing/comfort: A pair of cushioned bike shorts makes a ride a lot more enjoyable. But they’re also a lot less comfortable for anything else you’re doing. Unless you’re going to bring a change of clothes with you, bike shorts aren’t a practical piece of attire once you step off your bike. It’s not necessary to get spandexed up to ride the bike, but casual clothing does present some barriers to biking. Here’s a couple common issues and how I address them.
>
> Comfortable saddle: We’re not talking about a carbon fiber road bike with skinny tires and aero bars here, we’re talking about a commuter bike. Hopefully you figured that out while installing the fenders, rack and folding basket. Saddles come in all shapes, sizes, and materials. And second only to making sure you have the right sized bike, this is the single most important element for your comfort. Find a saddle that makes sense for the type of riding you do, and if that means it’s a gel-cushioned saddle, then go for it. Find one that doesn’t rely on the cushioned posterior of bike shorts to let you ride comfortably.
>
> Pedals/Shoes: This is a big one. If I had to stop and consider what kind of shoes I’m wearing when deciding to ride or drive, it would cut down my biking drastically. Here’s a secret: most bikes are sold with the cheapest pedals available. Even fancy bike shop bikes are shipped with cheapo pedals. Some, like $5,000 road bikes, aren’t shipped with any pedals at all, because they know that pedals are one of the first things serious riders replace. That means if you haven’t installed new pedals, your bike is probably equipped with cheap pedals that aren’t designed for the kind of riding you do or the shoes you will wear. Sometimes, just upgrading to a pair or metal pedals with more grip might do the trick. There are also systems with toe cages that will let you strap your feet in. I find these to be more of a pain than they’re worth. If you’re not going to strap your feet in for every ride, they’re a hassle as the added weight makes the cages naturally hang upside down. There’s also clipless systems, but those involve special shoes and cleat systems which are more complicated than the type of riding we’re discussing here. If you’ve ever seen someone in biker gear in the store or coffee shop and they click with every step like they’re wearing horseshoes, those are clipless shoes.
>
>What I recommend is a platform pedal like these I have a similar pair on my bike. They work and feel just like a normal bike pedal. Designed for winter adventure biking, the large pins grip effortlessly onto every kind of shoe for an effortless connection. I can ride my bike while wearing my heavy-duty safety toe boots without any problems. Some of the ones I saw on Amazon are just as cheap as any other pair of pedals. I would recommend at least getting metal ones.
>
>Pedals come in two standards, ½” and 9/16”. This measurement is the diameter of the spindle that screws into your crank. Kid’s bikes and BMX bikes are usually ½”, adult bikes are almost always 9/16”. Make sure the pedals you get are the correct spindle size. Swapping out pedals is fairly easy, every pedal I encountered will come off with either a 15mm wrench or 6mm Allen wrench. One thing to watch out for is the left pedal is reverse threaded. It will unscrew to the right and tighten to the left. Remember it with this simple mnemonic: Your left foot goes on the left pedal and it tightens to the left. Any pair of pedals you get will have the left and right clearly marked. Double-check it before installation to avoid an expensive problem.
>
>* Outerwear: Naturally the weather will be a bigger impact on your day if you’re biking rather than driving. Nice days are nicer, bad weather days are worse, and even the moderate days can be a bit challenging when you’re kitting up for some bike-based errands. If it’s one of those days where you can’t decide on short or long sleeves, biking can make these decisions even more difficult. Chilly days get chillier once you start pedaling at 10-15 miles per hour, but bundle up too much and you can overheat. The real problem here is the wind of your own passage. A fluffy sweatshirt can keep you warm when you’re walking along, but wind can blow right through it. I recommend a light windbreaker like this one I found in REI’s Outlet. It will keep the wind off, but is light enough to keep you from overheating on those days where the sun is playing peekaboo. An added benefit of paying a bit more for bike specific gear is they’re often designed with high-visibility stripes for extra safety. It’s far from fashionable, but you can get a hi-vis vest pretty cheap. They’re lightweight to not really impact your ride and can be easily stowed if you want to stop catching everyone’s eye once you step off your bike.
>

>Running errands: Right now, I take my bike to the grocery store 60% of the time. But an average bike right off the sales floor isn’t equipped for hauling even a small amount of groceries, and if you don’t want to ride back home with your knees banging the shopping bags hanging from your handlebars, you’ll need to add some accessories to your bike before biking your groceries home isn’t a gigantic pain in the ass.
>
> Rack: Pretty simple. Putting a rack on your bike massively extends its utility. You can hang a pannier (more on them later) from the rack instead of using a backpack, keeping your back sweat-free. With the addidion of a bungee cord or more permanent strap system, you can hold things on top of it. If your bike has disc brakes, you may need a wider rack to accommodate the extra wide axle. Also, some bikes with unusual geometry may require extra-long bars for installing the rack. This and the folding basket below are probably the trickiest accessories to install, and where you might be better off having them professionally installed.
>
> Folding basket: This was a major piece of the puzzle for me. I didn’t want my bike permanently widened out with a pair of baskets off the rack. But I also wanted to be prepared to stop and do some shopping on my way home without worrying about how I would carry everything. The folding rack was the perfect solution. When I need it, it unfolds in a couple seconds and I can put stuff in it. When I don’t need it, or space is tight, it folds up quickly and it’s more or less unnoticeable off the side of my bike. It means I can make unexpected stops while on my bike to pick up a few things without having to double back in my car later. I have this Wald one, and it’s very nice. It was quite a pain to install though. Be prepared for a bit of frustration if you go the DIY route. This was the one part of these accessory installs that I used a power tool.
>
> Pannier: I mentioned this one a bit under weather. The one I have and love is this Banjo Brothers waterproof pannier and backpack. It nearly effortlessly turns from one to the other and since it’s waterproof I can take it every time. The first time I biked to a shopping mall, locked my bike up, and turned my pannier to a backpack and went shopping, I felt like a goddamn superhero. This flexibility takes a lot of anxiety out of running errands on my bike.
>
> Water bottle cages: Pretty self-explanatory. Carry water with you when you bike. I have 2 mounted, one on the down tube at a diagonal, and one on the seat tube vertical. I can carry my coffee mug in there without spilling too much. You shouldn’t have to sacrifice your second cup of coffee just because you want to bike in.
>
> Compact shopping bags: Not really sure what to call these, other than the brand name I know, Chico Bags. They fold up into a small size and unfold quickly. You can get sling ones to go over your shoulder, or the smaller ones easily go into the folding basket. Just a good thing to with you for unexpected stops.
>
> Kickstand: A lot of people are surprised when bikes don’t automatically come with kickstands. And for a lot of people, a kickstand doesn’t make sense for the kind of riding they do. I am using my bike to commute, and am more interested in convenience than weight. I got a two-legged kickstand for added stability. Keep in mind, not every single bike will accept every kickstand. If you get one with a top plate like this standard one that every bike store carries, it will work for 90% of the bikes you would expect to take a kickstand. If you bought a $5,000 tri bike with areo bars and bladed spokes for reduced wind drag, you’re not going to get a kickstand on there, sorry. Also, kickstands come in a set length and may need to be cut down with a hacksaw to fit your bike. You should be able to turn the handlebars all the way from left to right without the bike falling over. If you don’t feel comfortable measuring and cutting a kickstand, consider taking it to a bike shop.
>
>Clothing/comfort: A pair of cushioned bike shorts makes a ride a lot more enjoyable. But they’re also a lot less comfortable for anything else you’re doing. Unless you’re going to bring a change of clothes with you, bike shorts aren’t a practical piece of attire once you step off your bike. It’s not necessary to get spandexed up to ride the bike, but casual clothing does present some barriers to biking. Here’s a couple common issues and how I address them.
>
> Comfortable saddle: We’re not talking about a carbon fiber road bike with skinny tires and aero bars here, we’re talking about a commuter bike. Hopefully you figured that out while installing the fenders, rack and folding basket. Saddles come in all shapes, sizes, and materials. And second only to making sure you have the right sized bike, this is the single most important element for your comfort. Find a saddle that makes sense for the type of riding you do, and if that means it’s a gel-cushioned saddle, then go for it. Find one that doesn’t rely on the cushioned posterior of bike shorts to let you ride comfortably.
>
> Pedals/Shoes: This is a big one. If I had to stop and consider what kind of shoes I’m wearing when deciding to ride or drive, it would cut down my biking drastically. Here’s a secret: most bikes are sold with the cheapest pedals available. Even fancy bike shop bikes are shipped with cheapo pedals. Some, like $5,000 road bikes, aren’t shipped with any pedals at all, because they know that pedals are one of the first things serious riders replace. That means if you haven’t installed new pedals, your bike is probably equipped with cheap pedals that aren’t designed for the kind of riding you do or the shoes you will wear. Sometimes, just upgrading to a pair or metal pedals with more grip might do the trick. There are also systems with toe cages that will let you strap your feet in. I find these to be more of a pain than they’re worth. If you’re not going to strap your feet in for every ride, they’re a hassle as the added weight makes the cages naturally hang upside down. There’s also clipless systems, but those involve special shoes and cleat systems which are more complicated than the type of riding we’re discussing here. If you’ve ever seen someone in biker gear in the store or coffee shop and they click with every step like they’re wearing horseshoes, those are clipless shoes.
>
>What I recommend is a platform pedal like these I have a similar pair on my bike. They work and feel just like a normal bike pedal. Designed for winter adventure biking, the large pins grip effortlessly onto every kind of shoe for an effortless connection. I can ride my bike while wearing my heavy-duty safety toe boots without any problems. Some of the ones I saw on Amazon are just as cheap as any other pair of pedals. I would recommend at least getting metal ones.
>
>Pedals come in two standards, ½” and 9/16”. This measurement is the diameter of the spindle that screws into your crank. Kid’s bikes and BMX bikes are usually ½”, adult bikes are almost always 9/16”. Make sure the pedals you get are the correct spindle size. Swapping out pedals is fairly easy, every pedal I encountered will come off with either a 15mm wrench or 6mm Allen wrench. One thing to watch out for is the left pedal is reverse threaded. It will unscrew to the right and tighten to the left. Remember it with this simple mnemonic: Your left foot goes on the left pedal and it tightens to the left. Any pair of pedals you get will have the left and right clearly marked. Double-check it before installation to avoid an expensive problem.
>
>* Outerwear: Naturally the weather will be a bigger impact on your day if you’re biking rather than driving. Nice days are nicer, bad weather days are worse, and even the moderate days can be a bit challenging when you’re kitting up for some bike-based errands. If it’s one of those days where you can’t decide on short or long sleeves, biking can make these decisions even more difficult. Chilly days get chillier once you start pedaling at 10-15 miles per hour, but bundle up too much and you can overheat. The real problem here is the wind of your own passage. A fluffy sweatshirt can keep you warm when you’re walking along, but wind can blow right through it. I recommend a light windbreaker like this one I found in REI’s Outlet. It will keep the wind off, but is light enough to keep you from overheating on those days where the sun is playing peekaboo. An added benefit of paying a bit more for bike specific gear is they’re often designed with high-visibility stripes for extra safety. It’s far from fashionable, but you can get a hi-vis vest pretty cheap. They’re lightweight to not really impact your ride and can be easily stowed if you want to stop catching everyone’s eye once you step off your bike.
>

>Running errands: Right now, I take my bike to the grocery store 60% of the time. But an average bike right off the sales floor isn’t equipped for hauling even a small amount of groceries, and if you don’t want to ride back home with your knees banging the shopping bags hanging from your handlebars, you’ll need to add some accessories to your bike before biking your groceries home isn’t a gigantic pain in the ass.
>
> Rack: Pretty simple. Putting a rack on your bike massively extends its utility. You can hang a pannier (more on them later) from the rack instead of using a backpack, keeping your back sweat-free. With the addidion of a bungee cord or more permanent strap system, you can hold things on top of it. If your bike has disc brakes, you may need a wider rack to accommodate the extra wide axle. Also, some bikes with unusual geometry may require extra-long bars for installing the rack. This and the folding basket below are probably the trickiest accessories to install, and where you might be better off having them professionally installed.
>
> Folding basket: This was a major piece of the puzzle for me. I didn’t want my bike permanently widened out with a pair of baskets off the rack. But I also wanted to be prepared to stop and do some shopping on my way home without worrying about how I would carry everything. The folding rack was the perfect solution. When I need it, it unfolds in a couple seconds and I can put stuff in it. When I don’t need it, or space is tight, it folds up quickly and it’s more or less unnoticeable off the side of my bike. It means I can make unexpected stops while on my bike to pick up a few things without having to double back in my car later. I have this Wald one, and it’s very nice. It was quite a pain to install though. Be prepared for a bit of frustration if you go the DIY route. This was the one part of these accessory installs that I used a power tool.
>
> Pannier: I mentioned this one a bit under weather. The one I have and love is this Banjo Brothers waterproof pannier and backpack. It nearly effortlessly turns from one to the other and since it’s waterproof I can take it every time. The first time I biked to a shopping mall, locked my bike up, and turned my pannier to a backpack and went shopping, I felt like a goddamn superhero. This flexibility takes a lot of anxiety out of running errands on my bike.
>
> Water bottle cages: Pretty self-explanatory. Carry water with you when you bike. I have 2 mounted, one on the down tube at a diagonal, and one on the seat tube vertical. I can carry my coffee mug in there without spilling too much. You shouldn’t have to sacrifice your second cup of coffee just because you want to bike in.
>
> Compact shopping bags: Not really sure what to call these, other than the brand name I know, Chico Bags. They fold up into a small size and unfold quickly. You can get sling ones to go over your shoulder, or the smaller ones easily go into the folding basket. Just a good thing to with you for unexpected stops.
>
> Kickstand: A lot of people are surprised when bikes don’t automatically come with kickstands. And for a lot of people, a kickstand doesn’t make sense for the kind of riding they do. I am using my bike to commute, and am more interested in convenience than weight. I got a two-legged kickstand for added stability. Keep in mind, not every single bike will accept every kickstand. If you get one with a top plate like this standard one that every bike store carries, it will work for 90% of the bikes you would expect to take a kickstand. If you bought a $5,000 tri bike with areo bars and bladed spokes for reduced wind drag, you’re not going to get a kickstand on there, sorry. Also, kickstands come in a set length and may need to be cut down with a hacksaw to fit your bike. You should be able to turn the handlebars all the way from left to right without the bike falling over. If you don’t feel comfortable measuring and cutting a kickstand, consider taking it to a bike shop.
>
>Clothing/comfort: A pair of cushioned bike shorts makes a ride a lot more enjoyable. But they’re also a lot less comfortable for anything else you’re doing. Unless you’re going to bring a change of clothes with you, bike shorts aren’t a practical piece of attire once you step off your bike. It’s not necessary to get spandexed up to ride the bike, but casual clothing does present some barriers to biking. Here’s a couple common issues and how I address them.
>
> Comfortable saddle: We’re not talking about a carbon fiber road bike with skinny tires and aero bars here, we’re talking about a commuter bike. Hopefully you figured that out while installing the fenders, rack and folding basket. Saddles come in all shapes, sizes, and materials. And second only to making sure you have the right sized bike, this is the single most important element for your comfort. Find a saddle that makes sense for the type of riding you do, and if that means it’s a gel-cushioned saddle, then go for it. Find one that doesn’t rely on the cushioned posterior of bike shorts to let you ride comfortably.
>
> Pedals/Shoes: This is a big one. If I had to stop and consider what kind of shoes I’m wearing when deciding to ride or drive, it would cut down my biking drastically. Here’s a secret: most bikes are sold with the cheapest pedals available. Even fancy bike shop bikes are shipped with cheapo pedals. Some, like $5,000 road bikes, aren’t shipped with any pedals at all, because they know that pedals are one of the first things serious riders replace. That means if you haven’t installed new pedals, your bike is probably equipped with cheap pedals that aren’t designed for the kind of riding you do or the shoes you will wear. Sometimes, just upgrading to a pair or metal pedals with more grip might do the trick. There are also systems with toe cages that will let you strap your feet in. I find these to be more of a pain than they’re worth. If you’re not going to strap your feet in for every ride, they’re a hassle as the added weight makes the cages naturally hang upside down. There’s also clipless systems, but those involve special shoes and cleat systems which are more complicated than the type of riding we’re discussing here. If you’ve ever seen someone in biker gear in the store or coffee shop and they click with every step like they’re wearing horseshoes, those are clipless shoes.
>
>What I recommend is a platform pedal like these I have a similar pair on my bike. They work and feel just like a normal bike pedal. Designed for winter adventure biking, the large pins grip effortlessly onto every kind of shoe for an effortless connection. I can ride my bike while wearing my heavy-duty safety toe boots without any problems. Some of the ones I saw on Amazon are just as cheap as any other pair of pedals. I would recommend at least getting metal ones.
>
>Pedals come in two standards, ½” and 9/16”. This measurement is the diameter of the spindle that screws into your crank. Kid’s bikes and BMX bikes are usually ½”, adult bikes are almost always 9/16”. Make sure the pedals you get are the correct spindle size. Swapping out pedals is fairly easy, every pedal I encountered will come off with either a 15mm wrench or 6mm Allen wrench. One thing to watch out for is the left pedal is reverse threaded. It will unscrew to the right and tighten to the left. Remember it with this simple mnemonic: Your left foot goes on the left pedal and it tightens to the left. Any pair of pedals you get will have the left and right clearly marked. Double-check it before installation to avoid an expensive problem.
>
>* Outerwear: Naturally the weather will be a bigger impact on your day if you’re biking rather than driving. Nice days are nicer, bad weather days are worse, and even the moderate days can be a bit challenging when you’re kitting up for some bike-based errands. If it’s one of those days where you can’t decide on short or long sleeves, biking can make these decisions even more difficult. Chilly days get chillier once you start pedaling at 10-15 miles per hour, but bundle up too much and you can overheat. The real problem here is the wind of your own passage. A fluffy sweatshirt can keep you warm when you’re walking along, but wind can blow right through it. I recommend a light windbreaker like this one I found in REI’s Outlet. It will keep the wind off, but is light enough to keep you from overheating on those days where the sun is playing peekaboo. An added benefit of paying a bit more for bike specific gear is they’re often designed with high-visibility stripes for extra safety. It’s far from fashionable, but you can get a hi-vis vest pretty cheap. They’re lightweight to not really impact your ride and can be easily stowed if you want to stop catching everyone’s eye once you step off your bike.
>

I own two ~man~ bags, the first one I've had for a while and highly recommend (I carry water bottles in it all the time and never had an issue either), the second one is new but seems good so far.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07BGW19P1/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0753FN957/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I would like to copy paste a review from the first one, which is one of the best things I've read on amazon:

"I'm going to start by saying the ladies love this one. And I mean it. My daughter and wife both saw this and said they wanted one. Is that a good thing when I'm carrying it around myself? I'm a man. I don't shave very often. I work out a lot. So I'm pretty rough looking most of the time. Is my look so effeminate that the gals in my life think this would look good on a lady?

I don't know. I think they're probably wanting one because it IS rugged. Because it's not their normal ladylike purse. It's rough around the edges and makes them look a little tougher. Not because it's weak or pretty.

Either way, I love this bag. It has everything I need for my EDC essentials. I can tuck my pipe rollup, my leather journal and a good book into the large pocket, while my bottle opener and handgun go in the smaller pocket. And then I still have room. I dig this thing. I dig it like a ditch."

So yeah. Manly bag.

Hi, I think this is a really smart idea to get your child in the habit of being prepared and smart about their self-care.

One thing I use to save some room would be to something like this for finger sticks - and disposal is easier/ safer than with used lancets (I'm sure there are similar products, but I have liked this one. Having it has encouraged me to change cartridges much more - which is where all the lifetime supply of lancets remarks come from - diabetes seldom change the nasty end of those things, no matter their increased susceptibility to disease from infection, etc.):
https://www.accu-chek.com/lancing/fastclix-lancing-device

I also highly recommend something big enough to carry things like this to treat lows on the spot (the cylinder holds ~10 4gram tablets and is refillable from the larger container. It is handy enough to buy a few and keep one cylinder in the car, one in bedroom on night stand, one in pack, etc.):

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017A3136E/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8

The tabs I can't recommend enough. Low sugars that get low enough can cause brain damage and immediate treatment of lows is key. I carry a glucagon syringe with me, and roommates and office mates know what it is, where it is, and how to use it. There are new products emerging on the market that are much less invasive, and those are probably worth looking into (inhalers, etc.).

This year, I bit the bullet and got a letter carrier bag to contain all my diabetes "every day carry" equipment: regular meter, strips, finger stick device, glucagon kit, glucose tablets, spare pump battery, and glucose tabs:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01IWKGOOA/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8

If your child is small enough that the letter carrier is too big, consider a small laptop bag.

Last thing I would add is to highly consider getting a CGM so your child can learn to actively monitor sugars. Even without a pump, the CGM alerting during lows or highs can contribute tremendously to a much healthier, longer life. I waited some time before deciding on a pump because I thought that I needed to be hyper-regulated in order to use it effectively, but I found the opposite to be the case - better control of BG levels I think is demonstrated with pump use, and that means better control of long term symptoms. Ok - I didn't mean to hard sell you on things, just to identify some things that I wish a parent or competent adult had been there to advise me on.

Good luck on your journey.

http://amzn.com/B000UN267C

• 1. Leather! Like a few others have said, leather feels more mature. While I'm a student right now, hopefully this bag lasts me awhile and I can use it once I become a professional.
     
• 2. It was a gift, but at the time it was about $200-$220.
     
• 3. They sell it a The Bay (Canada), Kenneth Cole, or online.
     
• 4. It's approaching a year and still going strong! It doesn't have any weak points, but the back isn't as firm as it used to be. BUT I previously had a canvas bag. I wore it really tight to my hip, so over the 2.5 years I had it, the bottom and side that rubbed against my leg eventually wore out and completely came apart.
     
• 5. Awesome. It's retained the colour and quality of the original leather. I need to clean it/reseal it, but otherwise it's looking good!
     
• 6. It has strong magnetic snap buttons. A lot of them either have straps, buttons, or a weird combination. They make it super convenient for throwing the top back on quickly without having to align any parts or worry about contents flying out.
     
• 7. There could be more specific, compartmented storage I suppose. Johnston & Murphy sells some nice briefcase organizers that can help with that - they're just overpriced for the quality I'm looking at.

This is a bit of an investment at first, but Timbuk2 bags last at least 15 years (I know people who have had them for that long, my boyfriend has had his for 7, and I just got a new one. All in very good condition). A classic messenger can be $40, rainproof (which is mostly why I'm mentioning it), and last forever and a half. I would suggest a size "medium" if you're just carrying your laptop and other flat rectangular things like papers and notebooks. If you're also wanting to carry extra shoes or things like that you might want a large.

You'll also want fenders for sure.

I don't know anything about gears so I can't help you with that.

You should get a front light and a tail light. These are what I have, they're very small and simple and easy to take off. You can probably shop around and find something that suits you best, but in general Planet Bike is a very good brand.

I use a small Brady Ariel Trout bag in herringbone tweed for my laptop and a small camera, a cheap faded OD green Indian surplus small satchel for when I'm just going out with a camera and I have a large khaki Billingham I picked up at a flea market for 15 bucks that I used back when I had a full DSLR kit. In the past, I've also had a Frost River satchel that was great, but I sold it to a friend when I got a new laptop that was too big for it.

EDIT: This is the cheap indian small satchel I was talking about. You have to make your own interior, but it is ridiculously rugged for the price if you get a good one- it's better to pick one up at an army surplus store than ordering online, the quality control isn't perfect. It is utterly anonymous looking, and is a great size for a rangefinder, 2 or 3 small lenses, filters, an extra battery, a small tablet or moleskine notebook, and a cable release. I've had mine for years. It is sunbleached and patched, but still super solid. I've taken it on multiple trips, and it has never let me down.

We took a couple of WDW trips last year. The first one we started with a backpack. It was definitely doable, but kind of a pain. We quickly figured out that traveling lighter was better. This messenger bag with this strap pad wound up being perfect! Big enough to carry plenty of snacks and camera/phone batteries etc, but small and light enough to not be too cumbersome.

Bonus Tip: These water bottles combined with some super cheap D-rings from Harbor Freight worked great for us.

The original post found here.
Original post's bag here.
The bag I used here here.

While I was looking for the least expensive version of this bag, I came across a different version of the bag that seemed to work better towards this purpose. The big difference being that the top strap on the bag I used comes off and doesn't have any brass buckling. It has 4 loops (two on the top and bottom) on the back of the bag, which made super quick work with 4 zip ties.

Also, the leg buckle it came with added perfect as a seat strap. Loving the look of having both of them on there.

Filson is the famed durable fabric briefcase/messenger. I have the 257 and I love it.

Navali has good prices for what they offer but my first weekender from them broke after like 2 uses. However, their customer service is great and I sent it back to be fixed/replaced. Their second one is still working fine but I haven't put it to heavy use since I got it.

Before my Filson, I had this Samsonite that I got from Amazon Warehouse that worked pretty well.

Of course it isn't necessary. You can get an OK looking briefcase for $100. And, honestly, it'll probably last a decade just fine.

So why pay for high-end stuff? Well, as you mentioned there are durability issues. That consists in more than just whether the seams will burst open. It has to do with things like the way the leather will wear (corrected leather shows dull spots; that Samsonite I linked will start to have discolored patches and look ratty). Mostly, though, you're paying for attention to detail. Even stitching, nicely finished edges, smooth surfaces inside and out.

Maybe that seems frivolous. But then ask: why get a leather case at all? Why not just get an LL Bean backpack? They're cheap, and last a lifetime. Obviously, the answer is that you want a certain sort of look. That's a choice to go beyond raw functional considerations. So too with wanting something well-made. The reason I suggested canvas bags is because at the OP's price point she could get a flawlessly crafted bag. I think that's something worth valuing.

1. Seared Tuna with Mango, Kiwi, Avocado Salsa:
   
   

2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Gently lay the tuna steaks into the hot oil. Cook the tuna on one side for 3 minutes; remove to a plate. Pour the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil into the skillet and let it get hot. Lay the tuna with the uncooked side down into the skillet and cook another 3 minutes; remove from heat immediately.
   
   
3. Dice 1 Mango, 3 Kiwis, 1 Avacado.
   
   
4. Season with Lime Juice
   
   
5. Serves 4.
   
   

2. Life's a lot of fun. There's always something new to see, do, or laugh at. What'll tomorrow bring?
   
   
3. They said that no one could climb Mt. Everest in an inflatable sumo suit. They said it was crazy to try to fly by jumping off the space while flapping your arms. They say it was madness to run with the bulls, naked and painted red. But one man proved them all wrong.
   
   Come read about /u/rambopandabear, friend, father, lover. The only man to win the Tour de France on a unicycle. The only man to win the Heisman trophy as a cheerleader. The man who single-handedly turned back the Venusian invasion.
   
   
4. An Olive Green Messenger Bag

I have one from Lands' End Canvas. They have sales very often. I believe there's one going on right now, but they don't currently have a messenger bag on sale. I bought it when my cheap messenger bag broke.

http://www.amazon.com/Rothco-Classic-Heavyweight-Messenger-Bag/dp/B00101WG0K/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1348836344&sr=8-3&keywords=messenger+bag

I had this. It only took 5 months for everything to break.

http://www.amazon.com/Navali-Mainstay-Canvas-Leather-Messenger/dp/B005MS2BWU/ref=sr_1_23?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1348835692&sr=1-23&keywords=canvas+messenger+bag

I remember see this one on MFA before. It looks really nice and is very basic. I cannot comment myself on the quality. It's also a tad... not frugal.

http://www.amazon.com/Timbuk2-Commute-Laptop-Messenger-Mahogany/dp/B0080B7W34/ref=sr_1_38?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1348835692&sr=1-38&keywords=canvas+messenger+bag

Wow, look at that price range! Just kidding. If you are a fan of that style, TimBuk2 makes good bags. I personally do not like them because I think they're ugly.

http://missionworkshop.com/products/bags/messenger/

These are expensive. My brother showed me his large one. They're also quite expensive but from what I can tell, all around great bags. He bikes too, so it's why he got these bags specifically. He's much more frugal than I am, so I was surprised that he spent this much money on a bag to begin with.

You may want to check etsy.com too. I am not sure how much I would trust random person on internet making goodies, but hey, people do make nice things on their own.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004XAVT8K/ref=oh_details_o01_s01_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Thanks everyone for the help. I ended picking this one up. I saw the Kenneth Cole Reaction for under $50, but I just like the look of this one more. Under $90 is a great deal, as online, it seems to sell for a good amount more.

I got mine for a birthday present, but I'm using a Kenneth Cole bag similar to this one. Not a bad price really, usually if you go for leather it's going to cost around 100 bucks. The leather is pretty nice though, it's very soft and also looks pretty slick. The flap is magnetic too, which is a plus.

If price is an issue though you can always find a cloth one, like this.. Just browse around Amazon and see what they have.

I have a purse... Don't need a new one but want a new one....why?! Because I am a woman and we change our minds! Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag, Black, One Size https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005AIIPLS/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_cyRLwbVV30H1M

Random Fact: I am a Muslim, wear black a lot and have been asked by small children if I am a ninja. I love it! 😄

Those are some nice wallets! I especially like #1.

Good on ya for paying it forward and thanks for the contest!

This is probably my favorite Amazon item!

Yeah, definitely get the "mist" color, or the black if you prefer it, i guessl (sic.) Stoner chic, I'd call it. However, putting this company's crunchy positive intentions aside, you can certainly get a better messenger bag for $110. These to name a few. I guarantee in advance that a grey Abingdon would be the nicest-looking messenger bag anyone has at your school. Goes with any style, too.

I've been eyeballing this messenger bag for some time now. $99, Amazon Prime, good brand, and fits your laptop.

A little over your budget, but Samsonite is obviously a good brand. I'd also recommend searching for "Messenger Bag" in Amazon and looking in the ~$70 range. There are a lot of good bags on there.

Here's the link. I love it. Mens Vintage Canvas Shoulder Military Messenger Bag Sling School Bags Chest Military Leather Patchwork Messenger Bag(Khaki)- Great Christmas Birthday Gift for Families and Friends https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00S9279AU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_mvODzb5YGZCA4

I don't remember the size but I love my Timbuk2 messenger bag (made for MacBook Air) and the sleeve fits the pro1 w/type cover perfectly
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002V92YJI/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1382796909&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70#

I was hesitant to stat carrying around a man bag at first, but now that I'm the habit, it's awesome to have an excuse to carry a purse everywhere. I'd definitely recommend all of you dudes out there get over it and start carrying one. This is mine: https://www.amazon.com/Chrome-Mini-Metro-Messenger-Black/dp/B004670I78/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1466136836&sr=8-1&keywords=chrome+mini+metro

As for what I carry, I'm real new to all this, but so far it's just test kit, 1-2 Novolog pens depending on how far I'll be from home and how long, skittles, and a Frio depending on the weather.

Might be too small for most people, but I got the Kenneth Cole Risky Business messenger bag, and I'm very happy with it.

I haven't put it through too much heavy use yet, so I hesitate to recommend it too strongly, but it should be worth considering.

I used to keep a mid and putter in my school bag for impromptu rounds. I also have a backpack that I can fit twenty-five discs in when I'm planning on playing all day and want to try different lines. More often than not, though, I use my shoulder bag (an old ammo canvas shoulder bag that I have used for years) that holds only seven-eight discs for most of my casual rounds. I do a lot of field work and I have an MVP practice basket so I know exactly how my discs fly and I can narrow down my disc selection to just take what I feel would allow me to have a fun round.

But again, you do you, there's no magic disc equation that will perfectly fill every hole in your bag.

WTS

Lowepro Photo Sport 200 AW $125 Verification

[A] Used once, great light bag for photography on the go. Amazon Link

Samsonite Columbian Leather Messenger Bag $75 Verification

[A] Very well taken care of and great organization inside. There are no scratches in the leather. Amazon Link

Under Armour Huey Backpack $75 Verification

[A] Never used, basically brand new. Amazon Link

Alpaka Air Sling$60 Verification

[A] Used a few times, no issues. Alpaka's Official Link

NEPA Backpack [A] $50 Verification

F-stop Camera Bag [A] $30 Verification

I just got the Kenneth Cole Risky Business Messenger bag in Dark Brown and love it. Plenty of pockets, leather, casual yet also formal, and fits my 15" MBP perfectly. Highly recommend it.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000VZ8ZO2/ref=redir_mdp_mobile/178-3993861-5354712

I'm starting grad school and got a leather Samsonite messenger bag for Christmas, I love it! Lots of space + pockets and it looks pretty sweet too. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004XAVT8K/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_awdb_GOazybCCHD418

Been seeking out something that works really well for this as well.

Currently I use a heavy canvas messenger bag similar to the one I'm linking below, but I'm sure there's better options out there so curious what others use as a strictly/mostly PC as well.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001I15G4K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_OBr0DbRSRQJV8

I really want this ll bean field canvas messenger bag but mainly in the saddle color that is backordered all the way into fucking May. How do you guys like the navy?

Also like :

-Hudson Messenger Bag

-Jcrew Harwick Bag

-Everest Casual Laptop Messenger Bag

-Kenneth Cole Risky Business Messenger Bag

Also curious if anyone has any alternatives in that price range. I'm mainly looking at it from a stylish perspective.

I was looking to get a messenger bag for my friends birthday. I have purchased the samsonite one from amazon before and had a really good experience with it and its built very well.

Link to one I am considering buying again:
Samsonite Bag

Any recommendations for a messenger bag for a college student?

I got a Kenneth Cole Reaction Messenger that wasn't too ostentatious, and still fit everything I needed it to fit. Been working great for over a year now!

I was wondering about this myself. In a user posted image on amazon it looks a little more true to itself and still I don't mind the way it looks. I'm also using this as my first bag and am hoping it will hold me over until I'm well established and have a little more cash flow to run with. Appreciate the input.

I've carried this bag for three years now and I love it. Depends on the size of your laptop though--it comfortably holds my 13" MBA (what doesn't?), but a 15"+ PC would be pretty tight.

I'm searching for a good messenger/laptop bag for a 15" Macbook Pro for use in school, any suggestions of good bags that you are aware of? Currently looking at this bag in brown, but I'm not too sure on it. Open to a leather or canvas bag, with a flap over the top preferably.
Cheers.

What color shoulder bag would work for multiple styles (grunge, skinhead, punk, metal, casual basic bastard) Options like black, grey, olive drab, coyote, or tan? Also happy halloween all!


https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017KXTYEW/?coliid=I1NVKFGA2QHNNH&colid=33VMIYXICC0HG&psc=1

I just ordered this one last week: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001I15G4K/ref=ox_ya_os_product

Haven't used it much yet but I like it so far. It holds my 14" laptop and several books or notebooks quite comfortably.

I love my Chrome messenger bags (have three different sizes), https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004670I78/ref=mp_s_a_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1468290155&sr=1-6&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&dpPl=1&dpID=41FsnJAsAxL&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1

They aren't cheap but will last you decades and they repair them for free in their retail stores.

Copper River bags and Far Horizon Trader bags are just as good, if not better looking. I haven't seen that specific Kenneth Cole bag, so I can't comment on quality, but I have seen this one in person, and the quality was a meh at best.

I've used this one from Samsonite for two years. It has held up great and looks MUCH better than your standard issue nylon bag or backpack.

Samsonite Colombian Leather Flapover Case, Brown, One Size

Hard to get a good look at the bag from those photos, but I just bought this Samsonite messenger bag recently and it's been serving me well. Definitely fits a lot of stuff, and the inside has a padded laptop sleeve.

1.) I got mine from Amazon here's a link

2.) It cost only $25.99 with amazon prime.

3.)I really can't say from personal experience because I just got it for school which starts in a few days. But the reviews from Amazon are all positive.

4.) Dimensions: 15" x 11" x 6" (Inches)

For jackets, H&M has pretty reasonable prices. Target also has some decent options if you're not too skinny.

For a messenger bag, I kind of like these.

Also, it might help to give more specific prices next time. "I'd like a messenger bag under $50" is specific, but "college student budget" varies widely. I mean, I'm sure there are some Google college interns reading this right now making $8000/month at their summer internships.

I got this one when I started student teaching. I still have it three years later. It is great. It can fit larger laptops, isn't too expensive, and has lots of compartments.

Samsonite Leather Laptop Bag

This is my EDC bag. It hold my laptop, a big notebook, a couple textbooks, laptop charger, 2-3 bottles, and some other odds and ends (pens, gum, meds, etc.) It is surprisingly large and after I waterproofed it, it's been my best EDC bag that I've had in the past few years.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004XAVT8K/ref=oh_details_o01_s01_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I just bought this last month, is holding up well. Full grain leather and from a good luggage brand. Not the most stylish and the buckles arn't the easiest to use. But for the price i believe its good.

ok if you want a cheap recommendation - maybe try Rothco.

i don't have their messenger, but i have a duffle that i've put through the ringer for over 4-years and it's still holding strong.

https://www.amazon.com/Rothco-Canvas-Classic-Messenger-Black/dp/B004I48KEW/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1519529216&sr=8-3&keywords=rothco%2Bmessenger%2Bbag&dpID=41tRcNP9tuL&preST=_SX300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch&th=1


i'm big on canvas if you haven't noticed.

i use this. simple, cheap, effective. its less bright green than in the picture.

http://www.amazon.com/Classic-Army-Messenger-Weight-Shoulder/dp/B0031Q8U9S/ref=sr_1_2?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1408222605&sr=1-2&keywords=rothco+messenger+bag


EDIT:

more color accurate:

http://www.amazon.com/Original-Heavyweight-Classic-Messenger-Olive/dp/B001I15G4K/ref=pd_sim_a_5?ie=UTF8&refRID=129XWXSTBP12VZFR8HZC

I would love a new bag for when I go back into Education in September, since my current one is absolutely ruined! This one is beautiful, I want/need it, and it's under the limit. :D

If you aren't carrying much, maybe try a money belt or something that can be tucked under your clothes. There's also slash-proof bags and fanny packs out there - I've never personally tried one, but they seem like they'd work well for you.

Messenger bags are the way to go if you plan to spend any time in the dealers' hall. Way easier to manoeuvre through the crowds and much friendlier for those around you. I use the one I got Kickstarting D-Day Dice years ago.

Has anyone compared Navali Leather Mainstay to the Canvas Boatswain?

Do you think the leather is good enough to be worth the extra ~50 bucks compared to the waxed canvas of the boatswain?

Or should I go for this Samsonite instead of the other 2?

Yeah, I spent $10 on one of these, which is more than big enough, with bonus mag pouches, though due to the vagueness of "any lawful purpose," I don't expect to use it all that much.

Because I'm a none wealthy college student:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004O2T3SK/ref=mw_dp_img_1?in=1&is=300&vs=1

It fits my needs, and I think it looks pretty good.

I have one of these and I've been tempted to do this with it for a while now. It wouldn't be that hard, it actually looks pretty cool, and it would run less than $25.

What kind of bag you'll feel comfortable with depends on your office.

Timbuk2 bags are damn near bulletproof it seems. I carry this one in black and grey. They have similar bags built with laptop compartments. It's definitely the "young guy" look, but it works in an office setting where you're not surrounded by leather briefcases.

If it works for you, shop around. You can do better than the prices on the official website.

Note: You're not required to wear it crazy high up like they show on the website. I've always found that awkward.

So a few days ago I took a shot at trying a few of the 'cheap' $30 shoulder bags on Amazon. I ordered a bunch and this was the one that remained after a few hours of testing all of them. It holds absolutely everything despite being such a small bag (13.9" Height, 10.5" Width, 4.1" Depth). The pockets make the most sense when compared to competitors. Here is my carry list with some updates that show its full versatility (especially as a personal item when flying). Also, bag link here.

• MITB Minimalistic Wallet, Leather
  
  
• Galaxy S7 with Spigen Thin Fit Case
  
  
• Dell XPS 13, Developer Edition inside an AmazonBasics 11.6" Neoprene Sleeve
  
  
• Samsung Galaxy Tablet S2
  
  
• Nintendo Switch inside Tomtoc semi-hard case
  
  
• Innergie 45W USB type C Power Adapter
  
  
• Innergie USB-C (Female) to Micro USB (Male) Cable)
  
  
• JLab J5M Earbuds
  
  
• JBL E25BT Earbuds
  
  
• 8BitDo SN30 Controller with Case and Smartphone Clip
  
  
• TEAM 64GB USB 3.0 Flash Drive
  
  
• Schottenstein Edition Interlinear Siddur - Weekday Pocket Size
  
  
• Tefillin (Prayer Phylacteries)
  
  
• Talit (Prayer Shawl)
  
  
• Kershaw Clash
  
  
• Zippo Matte Black Lighter
  
  
• Leatherman Style PS
  
  
• Infaray LED Flashlight
  
  
• Kikkerland Multi-Screwdriver
  
  
• Moleskine
  
  
• Uniball Sygno
  
  
• Fischer Space Pen
  
  
• Signo Uniball
  
  
• Sharpie
  
  
• Jergens
  
  
• Blistex
  
  Edit: Also the water bottle holder holds either my Oakley or Ray-Ban sunglasses.

I have this one in tan: http://www.amazon.com/Visconti-Crossbody-Messenger-Plus-Leather-16054/dp/B008OJEP82

I like it. Have had it for almost two years now. Holding up well.

Here’s the messenger bag version! It’s on Amazon, I bought the backpack at Hot Topic years ago. 😀

Legend of Zelda Messenger Bag Standard https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B3U95T8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_zF2bBbQ5A00GW

32 year old male here. I used to use this: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BANOHKU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Now, I only use that to carry insulin and cooler packs. I carry all my diabetes-related stuff and some other things in this now: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001I15G4K/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

That bag fits a good bit of stuff and it's machine-washable.

If you want a cheap canvas bag, I've been using this bag for years with no sign of wear. It's just a plain canvas bag, not many pockets. But I use it for everything. This bag can take a LOT of abuse. I've never been careful with it, and it still doesn't have any issues.

I know you said leather bag, but this canvas one is amazing for the cost. So anyone else looking for a cheaper messenger bag that will last a very long time, this one has my recommendation.

Hard to find black these days. Brown is way more popular.

http://www.amazon.com/MOLLYGAN-Schoolbag-Crossbody-Shoulder-Messenger/dp/B011J4C7T2/ref=sr_1_1

http://www.amazon.com/Sechunk-Shoulder-Canvas-Messenger-Leisure/dp/B00RLEJCCA/ref=sr_1_4

http://www.amazon.com/Ibagbar-Military-Messenger-Shoulder-Crossbody/dp/B019GQSC4Y/ref=sr_1_11

http://www.amazon.com/Moore-Carden-Multifunction-Shoulder-Messenger/dp/B010WOH1WS/ref=sr_1_74

http://www.amazon.com/Messenger-Vintage-Classic-Shoulder-backpack/dp/B011ZOZLLW/ref=sr_1_94

http://www.amazon.com/Texbo-Genuine-Leather-Briefcase-Messenger/dp/B00XN3RKQ8/ref=sr_1_120

http://www.amazon.com/Simple-military-canvas-messenger-black/dp/B00J8KVJEE/ref=sr_1_164

http://www.amazon.com/Eshow-Casual-Canvas-Crossbody-Messenger/dp/B00GWYTC2A/ref=sr_1_272

https://www.fossil.com/us/en/men/bags/messenger/edison-courier-sku-mbg9256001c.html

http://www.thebay.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/en/thebay/brands/MENS-Accessories-BagsCases/single-gusset-flapover-messenger-0080-524545--24

http://www.amazon.com/Samsonite-Colombian-Leather-Flapover-Brown/dp/B004XAVT8K/ref=sr_1_2

http://www.amazon.com/Kenneth-Cole-Reaction-Come-Soon/dp/B0081X0IDC/ref=sr_1_25

http://www.amazon.com/Kenneth-Cole-Business-Messenger-Size/dp/B002E1RSE4/ref=sr_1_27

http://www.danier.com/antoine-leather-briefcase/d/1581_c_360_cl_6336

http://www.danier.com/aiden-smooth-leather-messenger/d/2795_c_360_cl_13099

http://www.asos.com/Tommy-Hilfiger/Tommy-Hilfiger-Story-Messenger-Bag/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=5901253&cid=9265&Rf989=6588&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Black&totalstyles=24&gridsize=3

http://int.debenhams.com/ca/product/designer-brown-leather-despatch-bag/083010317773/?categoryId=839618

https://www.wilsonsleather.com/product/kenneth+cole+split+leather+messenger+bag.do

https://www.wilsonsleather.com/product/marc+new+york+vacqueta+leather+porthole-handle+briefcase+w-+double+buckles.do

I got one of these as a gift years ago, and it's my daily carrier. On game days, I throw my stuff in there (1 x 1in. 3-ring binder, handful of notecards, dice bag, dice tray, DMG MM, PHB, sandwich baggie with monster cutouts, etc.)


Most nights though, I host, so I don't have to transport stuff. /r/foreverDMthings

This Samsonite Columbian Leather flapover case, Brown is what I've used for years. Sturdy, good looking, holds 14 and 15.6in laptops at the same time.

I have this one in brown and quite like it. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000VZ8ZO2

I have this one:

https://www.amazon.com/Samsonite-Colombian-Leather-Flap-Over-Messenger/dp/B004XAVT8K/ref=sr_1_1?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1468420618&sr=1-1&nodeID=15743231&keywords=briefcase

Lots of compliments, people ask me where I get it often, holds everything you need, etc.

I've been using this grey one for about the same amount of time https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017KXTYEW/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It has held up pretty well since it's canvas. It's not spacious, but that's a plus for me since it really only houses my work-issued phone and Surface along with a writing pad.

I like the Kenneth Cole messenger bag: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000UN267C/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?qid=1372817402&sr=1-4&pi=SL75

Fits a large book and a laptop

I want a messenger bag for college, but I'm not sure if it's worth it. Is this worth it?
http://www.amazon.com/Original-Heavyweight-Classic-Messenger-Olive/dp/B001I15G4K/ref=sr_1_15?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1355104492&sr=1-15

This is the bag I own: http://www.amazon.com/Kenneth-Cole-Risky-Business-Messenger/dp/B000UN267C/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=1ADDU7U0S0K3C&coliid=I139Z72F7MHKTF&psc=1

I've got the brown. The color is still strong, 1 year later. No issues w/ tears/rips/etc... I use it for school (grad), and don't really have a need for it w/ work.

Well you could get this: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001I15G4K/ref=redir_mdp_mobile?qid=1355104492&ref_=sr_1_15&s=apparel&sr=1-15

And wax it yourself so it can withstand the rain: http://www.reddit.com/r/malefashionadvice/comments/wxa0m/diy_waxed_canvas_messenger_bag_on_the_cheap

I don't know about that one, but samsonite leather brief is on sale at amazon.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004XAVT8K

So I've been using this samsonite for the past 3.5 years and it's in pretty good condition so far considering the abuse (rain and snow) it has taken.

https://www.amazon.com/Samsonite-Colombian-Leather-Flap-Over-Messenger/dp/B004XAVT8K/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1543511021&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=samsonite+messenger+bag&dpPl=1&dpID=41RAbhubnIL&ref=plSrch

You said you dont need a laptop pocket so I guess that's a plus.

im also interested in this.
closest one i could find is this one, but it seems a little to small. I think i will be buying it soon.
http://www.amazon.com/Kenneth-Cole-Reaction-524541-Messenger/dp/B000UN267C/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1317690981&sr=8-1

I think she just went to Amazon and typed in Metal Gear Messenger Bag.

found it on the us and the german amazon:

US:
http://amzn.com/B00AKFJ8J4


GER:
http://www.amazon.de/dp/B00B3U95T8


Just search for "zelda messenger bag".

Can't go wrong with the Jack Bauer bag. There are a few different colors. http://www.amazon.com/Original-Heavyweight-Classic-Messenger-Olive/dp/B001I15G4K/ref=pd_sbs_sg_6?ie=UTF8&refRID=1APSRTMK0MYTGD51RRVZ#customerReviews

• Planet Bike Blaze 1-Watt Headlight and Superflash Taillight Combination Bicycle Light Set
  
• Pump
  
• Tube
  
• Patch Kits (includes glue patches and sticker patches and tire irons)
  
• Adjustable crescent wrench
  
• Box wrench with 14 mm on one end and 15 mm on the other. (The sizes of nuts holding my wheels on)
  
• 3-way Allen key
  
• Leatherman wave
  
• Rag
  
• Nitrile gloves
  
• On Guard Mini DT U-Lock with 4-Inch Cinch Loop Cable
  
• Clean clothes stuffed into a cheap sinch sack.
  
• lunch
  
• All packed into a Timbuk2 Messenger Small
  
  EDIT:
  
  
• Small Altoids tin first aid kit

https://www.amazon.com/Sweetbriar-Classic-Messenger-Bag-All-Purpose/dp/B01IWKGOOA/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=Messenger+bag&qid=1562456198&s=gateway&sr=8-6

Have had this for 5 years and still use it every day.

https://www.amazon.com/Shoulder-Military-Messenger-Patchwork-Christmas/dp/B00S9279AU/ref=sr_1_22?ie=UTF8&qid=1494450354&sr=8-22&keywords=vintage+messenger+bag

http://i.imgur.com/aPNERIi.jpg

http://www.amazon.com/Original-Heavyweight-Classic-Messenger-Olive/dp/B001I15G4K/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1377470557&sr=8-1&keywords=olive+messenger+bag

Any opinions between these two:
http://www.amazon.com/Kenneth-Cole-Risky-Business-Messenger/dp/B002VECWXG/ref=pd_sim_193_6?ie=UTF8&dpID=41lrB8KkrkL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL200_SR160%2C200_&refRID=03VBQ1EMJ17H38FZ5S87

and

http://www.amazon.com/Navali-Leather-Mainstay-Messenger-Black/dp/B00I3LSRT4/ref=sr_1_1?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1450596273&sr=1-1&nodeID=7141123011

Dis one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0753FN957/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

http://amzn.com/B0013O579G

Compare with Amazon ($100): http://www.amazon.com/Timbuk2-Classic-Messenger-Bag-Black/dp/B002V92YJI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1348155385&sr=8-1&

Edit: I also want to add a warning that if you order it today, you won't receive it until October 18 at the earliest. Why they need 30 days to ship a premade bag is anyone's guess.

Does this bag work with a primarily black outfit? My initial thought was no, but the contrast it makes could work I think.


http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001I15G4K/ref=mp_s_a_1_sc_2?qid=1450095628&sr=8-2-spell&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70&keywords=classic+olive+messengre

Trying to decide between two messenger bags:

Kenneth Cole Risky Business

Kattee Men's Leather Satchel Briefcase

Any advice?

Not sure about that model but i have a rothco messenger bag thats really slack. if it was empty I could crumble it up and shove it in a cargo pocket.

Yeah bro,
I bought it this was around 15 dollars. I call it "the little bitch man purse bag" for when I wanna look stylish but not carry the arsenal. It fits my 2 commander decks and 2 modern decks with plenty of space for dice and my portable battery pack. I have asked several people I looked up to in the magic community and they said "it's not gay you're ok" so i have to say it was a good buy and my go to for events when I don't wanna shovel around my trade stuff.

https://www.amazon.com/Shoulder-Military-Messenger-Patchwork-Christmas/dp/B00S9279AU/ref=pd_sim_468_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=8BENTREEKRSC9FEWA64M

Number 2 we got the 40 liter pound town run around. This bitch fits everything, she can't go without a day without my stuffin shit in her. She also doubles as my carry on for flights and trips that last around 3-4 days. So long as your deck boxes are certin to not open just about anything works for transporting them. You could literally carry your cards in a fucking pillow case so long as your deck boxes are contained. But I bought 40 liter pound town run around because she can double as a backpack or side messenger bag if need be. It has a million little zippers and shit and straps and padding. Blows anything in the video out of water.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015H3CHLE/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Now you can go down to a 21 liter or even a 35 liter and you'll honestly be just fine. Theres no need to dump 100 bucks on little dividers in a bag. In fact for 100 bucks im sure you'd figure out how to just sew a bag at that point.

http://www.amazon.com/Samsonite-Colombian-Leather-Flapover-Brown/dp/B004XAVT8K/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1407194592&sr=8-2&keywords=samsonite+bag

Really want to purchase this but I am broke right now. Stupid college textbooks!