(Part 3) Best products from r/onebag

A lot depends on the style you're looking for. I'll also say that security in a bag is a myth. There are things to discourage certain behavior, but ultimately a bag should never be seen as a secure container. (after all it can always be cut)

What I chose.

I traveled for about a month in Europe staying in hostels. Even though it was only a month I could have traveled for about a year (adding only a tablet) with the bag/things I brought.

Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack - $150 (Discontinued)

[Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack

• $160 (New Version)](https://smile.amazon.com/Osprey-Farpoint-40-Travel-Backpack/dp/B014EBM3KA/)
  
  I love this bag but it might not be the single best option for you. It's low profile, turns into a duffle bag (more about that later) and although it doesn't look like a school backpack, it doesn't standout like this either.
  
  The reason I love that it turns into a duffle bag is because theres a semi hidden velcro pocket in the bottom where the cover rolls into. This is a great place to sew or velcro a small zippered wallet or bag to store extra money or valuables. It's not secure as much as its hidden. This won't help you if they steal the whole bag, but it will help you if they just ransack the place and steal from the open compartments.
  
  
  Other Options
  
  There are a ton of other options. I suggest watching the VagaBrothers Video - How to Choose the BEST Travel BACKPACK | Pros & Cons Minimalist Backpack Review and Travel Tips: Packing Hacks, Tips & Essentials
  
  
  The F Stop bags look great, but are pretty pricy. Depending on what lenses you're bringing (18-55mm kit lens VS 70-200mm VR f2.8) it may or may not be worth it for size and configurability. I personally bought a Sony a6000 and left my big DSLR at home. That was actually a really good choice for the type of trip I did, but if I was going for a year (like you are) I understand needing the big camera. You might want to get camera/lens inserts like this (but not necessarily that one, I just clicked on the first one I saw on amazon) to store and protect those other lenses.
  
  Hope that helps.
  
  
  The following is copy and pasted from an email I sent to family friends traveling abroad. It gives links and ideas for things that help when traveling minimally.
  
  
  
  
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• 2 Mini cologne bottles - Well worth it if you are doing carry on only, or if you like to bring more than one scent with you. Depending on how much you use I find that a bottle filled up lasts about 1.5-2 weeks if you are using 2-3 sprays a day. http://smile.amazon.com/MagnaKoys%C2%AE-Perfume-Cologne-Sprayers-Overcaps/dp/B00UKHLBEW
  
  
• World power adapter - http://smile.amazon.com/elago%C2%AE-Tripshell-TRAVEL-ADAPTER-Built/dp/B005AF0C2G Awesome adapter. A lot nicer than the 50 mini adapters you have to piece together like legos.
  
  
• Power strip - https://smile.amazon.com/Monster-MP-OTG400-BK-Outlets/dp/B000F9YN2M I never used this. I wouldn't get it unless you knew you needed it. They are good ways to make friends at airports though, as plugs are always in high demand and few people will say no to letting you free up a plug or two.
  
  
• Battery pack - (updated version) https://smile.amazon.com/Anker-PowerCore-20100-Capacity-Technology/dp/B00X5RV14Y/ OR https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00Z9QVE4Q While there are cheaper and smaller ones, this is the perfect size and capacity if you are bringing a couple or more devices. This will charge a phone many times over. It's especially handy if you want to leave it charging in the hotel then bring it with you during the day after it's charged.
  
  
• Compressed charcoal deodorizers - http://smile.amazon.com/Moso-Natural-Purifying-Deodorizer-Eliminator/dp/B0099K6OVQ Great to throw in shoes or bags that start to get smelly. Useful in hostels.
  
  
• Microfiber towel - http://smile.amazon.com/Sunland-Microfiber-Compact-Sports-Towels/dp/B00MGGYZVG Very useful for hostels as most will charge you to use towels
  
  
• Tripod - http://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00D76RNLS/ paired with a phone mount (https://smile.amazon.com/AUKEY-Samsung-Smartphones-Adapter-Monopod/dp/B01LYN73TQ) this can be used to hold the phone on long flights. Really nice for watching movies on the plane or waiting for a train.
  
  
• Roll up 1L water bottles - http://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00BI9AM3C/ Great for airplanes (no longer need to buy water after TSA).
  
  
• I packed all of my clothes into cubes and a flat packer. http://smile.amazon.com/Eagle-Creek-Pack-It-Starter-Set/dp/B00F9S84D8
  
  
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  Security:
  
  Since I was traveling alone, and in hostels, security was a slightly bigger deal for me. I carried my passport on my person or locked in my hostel (many had lockers or metal lock boxes).
  
  At all times I had a photo copy of my passport and everything in my wallet, some local currency, and a print out of all the embassies in the area. (Attached to this email.) I printed this double sided and had multiple copies with me.
  I told my mom, "At any time I want to be able to have everything stolen, but still have a way back home.” My credit card will do cash transfers internationally and also includes a continuous travel insurance package.
  
  I would highly suggest making three copies of your passport and all credit cards and other ID you are taking. One lives on your person when your passport is stored elsewhere (hotel, for example), one lives in your luggage (preferably hidden/tucked away), and one stays with a trusted friend or family member that will be in the States for the duration of your trip. If anything happens they will be able to assist with proving your identity to the State Department, thus speeding the process along. I suggest keeping some cash tucked in your passport (along with that embassy list), your copy of the passport in the luggage, and then the copy of the passport and embassy list in your wallet. At this point you have three possibilities of things to grab to prove your identity/pay for a cab/tell you where to go.
  
  While this may seem a little overboard, I find it doesn't take that long to set up and helps greatly should anything bad happen. Also consider registering with the State Department. This helps them track Americans abroad should anything happen, and also gives you alerts, should anything happen. https://step.state.gov/step/
  
  
  
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  Tech Tips
  
  I also used a service called Line2 to give me a US phone number to call from and receive calls to while I was away. I have T-Mobile that gives me included unlimited international data. As long as I had a 4g signal, I also had a phone I could make and receive calls on. Google Voice and Skype would also do this. Do be aware of how much international data costs. Wifi is easy to find, but I suggest using a VPN on your phone or laptop for any web surfing. And even with the VPN I would not suggest logging into any financial (bank, etc) while abroad unless you are on a trusted wifi network (aka, friends).
  
  For maps you can download parts of Google Maps by searching the city and clicking “Download." This should work on Android and iOS versions of Google Maps.
  
  

As a woman who normally carries a purse, I don't do it on big trips. For flights I put everything in my carry on (which is a backpack), with super important stuff - money & passport - in a belt pouch. Once I get where I am going, I unfold my travel daypack and keep the extra things in it - medicine, sunglasses, rainjacket, etc. - with some room left for souvenirs.

not crazy about this one, but haven't found a better one.

Mostly it's about efficient carrying. I can't carry a backpack and a purse without feeling like a pack mule. I used to do this, but I'm done with it. I like ONE bag.

Edit: want to add to this... I also bring one pair of slip-on shoes and one pair of good walking shoes. The slip-ons are what I wear while flying (good for getting through security where you have to take your shoes off and good for easily taking off your shoes on a long flight). They are also nice for when I want to dress up a little (I don't bring a lot of super dressy stuff, but I mean like casual rather than hiking). But then they are not comfy enough for long distance walking, so I bring my running shoes for that.

I really like this fan.

Efluky Mini USB 3 Speeds Rechargeable Portable Table Fan, 4.5-Inch, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00Y1VZ00E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_OmCeAbAN6TPPZ

The thing is you kind of have to make the jump to 18650 rechargeable batteries. I am a flashlight junkie so that helped when I decided to buy this fan. The battery that came with it is "OK" but there are better one out there. R/flashlights has a ton of info on 18650 batteries. 18650 batteries can also be used as power banks for charging your phone. I use the charger that came with this headlamp as a travel charger/power bank. I'm sure you can find it by itself. Make sure to buy quality batteries though.

Nitecore HC60 1000 Lumen USB Rechargeable LED Headlamp with 2x Nitecore 3400 mAh 18650 batteries, Nitecore USB Charger and LumenTac Car AC USB Adapters (White Light) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JH6SY64/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_ttCeAbG66RQR7

Good luck!

I have had great success with this bag (Amazon link below). It has a water bottle pocket that I find essential, and the three zipper compartments are more than enough for me to carry the following.

Rear Compartment

• iPad Sleeve containing:
  
• iPad Pro 10.5”
  
• Folding keyboard
  
• Apple Pencil
  
  Middle Compartment
  
• Sunglasses with case
  
• Small packing cube with assorted items like charger, battery, pen, adapters, folding reading glasses, etc.
  
• A packable jacket (when needed)
  
  Outer Compartment
  
• Napkins
  
• Plastic bag (for my dog’s poop when we go for walks)
  
• Keys, AirPods, and wallet if I’m going through security.
  
  It also has a phone pouch on the strap which I use infrequently because my phone is always in a pocket, but it is nice none the less.
  
  I like the single strap design because you can put it on one handed, and you can easily swing it around to access items without taking it off. You can also easily swing it around to your front to sit down without taking it off.
  
  Here’s the link:
  
  SEEU Sling Bag Backpack, Ultralight Water-Resistant Multipurpose Outdoor Crossbody Backpack Rope Bag for Women Men Kids https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071XX56DS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_LWOzDbB05NRTA

The suggestions here are great and OP has probably picked one, but I wanted to share an alternative for anyone else that may be looking. I really enjoy my $15 Xtar PB2 paired with two 2500mah 18650 batteries. You can get the batteries for just under $4 each. This way you get lots of capacity and you can swap out batteries and it still costs less than the typical powerbank of that capacity. Also some devices use the batteries directly like this flashlight.

I've been happy with the Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Quick Trip. It's about 50% the price of some of the other suggestions here.

It separates your toothbrush and your main compartment, washes easy, super lightweight. If you hang it by it's handle the zippers pull down so your stuff doesn't fall out.

Part of me wishes that it was a touch smaller, because it has way more space than I need… but it's so lightweight it compresses just fine. I could put rubber bands around it I guess… I usually just cram it in a corner and it's just as small as it needs to be.

I carried similar set of gear and (and then some) doing datacenter setups and on-site network installations for customers. For several years I carried the Thule Crossover 32L and even replaced it once after my dog wrecked some of the zippers trying to get to some of my snacks...I was VERY happy with it and even was able to pack for weekend trips and 4-5 day warm-weather vacations with ease in it in the onebag fashion. Also, some of them come with a bottle opener on them.

https://www.thule.com/en-us/us/backpacks/laptop-backpacks/thule-crossover-backpack-32l-_-tl_85854231374

I tried a handful of other bags and ultimately swapped it out for the Nomatic Backpack. It's definitely smaller, but it was a compromise as I purchased a 40L travel bag around the same time so was willing to slim down my daily carry a bit (the Nomatic Backpack is 20-24L). I'm still very happy with it, the organization is amazing, its comfy, and professional looking with its convertible straps. I get plenty of compliments on it.

https://www.nomatic.com/pages/nomatic-backpack?gclid=CjwKCAjwgqbpBRAREiwAF046JZIpSoeAaG-ULf66NNGUdOUSpSek3ht0Dh5h-vka_y32JPlWi95a0BoCVnwQAvD_BwE

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My ONE complaint about the Nomatic is the weight. It is a thicker, more durable, more water-resistant material and thus weighs more. I think it is just shy of 4 pounds (3 pounds, 10 oz according to some reviews....I should weigh it myself sometime) and the Thule is much lighter at 2.2 pounds. Also, from time to time, I long for it to be a *smidge* bigger for weekend packing w/o having to take out my daily carry items.

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So, consider adding either of these to your list, or possibly even the Nomatic Travel 'Travel Pack' ...i.e. slightly bigger backpack that goes up to 30L instead of 24.

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*edit* the thule bag I used was actually the Enroute Escort 29L, my bad.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B007Z4YHRG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I like over-the-shoulder slings, but not when I have a full bag with me. I could never get into fanny-pack / waist slings. I just picked this leg bag up: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001EDN58Q/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1


I'm going travelling for about 3 weeks, not doing anything crazy, but keeps my stuff (esp. passport, etc.) out of my main bag and next to my body which gives me some peace of mind + less hassle of all the stuff I normally keep in my pockets. The main pocket is also fairly large which is nice.

I have been using the Synapse 19 for a couple of years now and it still looks new. Things I've added/removed:

Removed all straps like hip straps, chest strap, etc for less dangles

Added a vertical cache for my Surface Book

Got some maxpedition organizers for some of the pockets to hold misc cables and adapters and what not a little better than say a snake charmer would

A mini organizer fits in one of the side pockets perfectly and holds a mini folding knife, some precision screwdrivers, etc: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00O45ISAG/ref=oh_aui_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

A skinny organizer fits in the bottom compartment perfectly and holds a network patch cable, ethernet adapter, some batteries, etc: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00U6AFK7W/ref=oh_aui_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I also got one of the little Tom Bihn halcyon zip pouches to hold some lip balm, decongestant and little things like that

Overall I'm really happy with it, but might swap out for a halcyon version after experiencing some of their bags with the Halcyon fabric, but this is mainly a cosmetic choice.


​

This is the one I use and love. Love being able to hang it up and it’s very lightweight and flexible.

Compact Hanging Toiletry Bag & Organizer | Water Resistant, Mesh Pockets Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017X2WJME/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Ayh1Cb5ZVV3CG

Anker!

Anker PowerCore 20100mAh because they are so so cheap and reliable!

or

Anker PowerCore+ 20100mAh if you have an item that needs more amperage. USB-C phones or Nintendo Switch, something that wants a little more oomf. Not that more exp.

We own two of each for our camper. We live on these things for a long trips. They're also under regulation size for all flights. Both not too bad for (mens) jeans or a jacket pocket for their capacity, kinda bulky but you aren't going to get slimmer for that size. Definitely comfortable to throw in your backpack for a hike. Durable so far (2 years of many many camping trips and flights home)

Anker are really good. I have the 20,000mAh USB-C power delivery ones. It's a lot more reasonably priced and is just small enough to be pocket sized (if a bit heavy). Get two of them instead.

I have 4 lined up for my vandweller weekends away and holiday/home visit flights and they are excellent and going strong a year later.

I use them for Nintendo Switch (probably closest in power requirements as your lappy), 2x Samsung S8, pico projector, interior lights, bluetooth speaker.

I might be late to this, but there are a bunch of packable daypack/backpacks on Amazon that would be great for this. Much cheaper than the Osprey/Patagonia brand name ones.

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Here's just one of hundreds on Amazon.

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https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07J6G7B43/ref=sspa_dk_detail_3?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B07J6G7B43&pd_rd_w=9hI88&pf_rd_p=8a8f3917-7900-4ce8-ad90-adf0d53c0985&pd_rd_wg=kdhgt&pf_rd_r=WW05068QYV6E05Q6ADJN&pd_rd_r=8d4d7320-a97d-11e9-9edd-f9a4489cb425

Asked same question 4 months ago and got a few suggesting these.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B013HW9XRS

Overall, very nice. A little heavy for shorts imo, could use a built in belt, other than that, they are great. Zipper pocket is nice and side pockets deep enough that my phone won't fall out.

Yeah it's sold by NeatPack on Amazon. Here's the link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017X2WJME

I'm gonna revisit the imgur album today to make sure I mentioned everything I liked and didn't like about what I took. I'm sure I missed something. Thanks for the feedback!

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07DG7YXZM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I know this is over $60 - but I just purchased this bag for my 4+ month trip to Australia. It was between that and the Tortuga which is was way over my budget.

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I love the brand Hynes Eagle - I got into it when I bought this 38L, which I used for my week and a half trip to Portugal / multiple other trips. It's sturdy with good pockets and you can wear it as a backpack or carry it with the handle. I always fit it under my plane sit or use an overhead, which was a big necessity for me as I hate checking bags.

https://www.amazon.com/Hynes-Eagle-Approved-Weekender-Backpack/dp/B01MF8P92M/ref=pd_sim__3/134-2761555-3501669?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01MF8P92M&pd_rd_r=b77d2734-5b04-11e9-9992-319b734d2df4&pd_rd_w=Cwu05&pd_rd_wg=m6LAY&pf_rd_p=90485860-83e9-4fd9-b838-b28a9b7fda30&pf_rd_r=FDB5B8MM7HT4SHJGJYCD&refRID=FDB5B8MM7HT4SHJGJYCD

Why can't you use the Osprey? Quick access issues, protection...?

FWIW if I use a non-camera pack, I put my gear in padded cases, pouches or wraps like these: https://www.speedgraphic.co.uk/128-tenba/lens_pouches__wraps/10160_0b.html

This is quite a good thing for the price https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00YAQW0GW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Fits at the bottom of my (non-camera) pack nicely.

A while back I ordered six different sleep masks to try out. I'm a side and sometimes stomach sleeper and most of them just don't work for that. Settled on this one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00S5Q826U/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1. The reasons I like it - it's thin for side-sleeping. It's large and fits well to block light coming in from edges. It blocks most direct light unless you're out in direct sunlight - then a little gets through.

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The others I tried were: the tempurpedic, nidra, two different dream essentials, and bedtime bliss. The free ones from airlines are junk. They don't block much light, don't fit, and break after a couple of uses.

Ok, so here's the items I often pack, and they have served me well so far:

[Redcross Flashlight] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003BYROUQ/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_2SSlxbRHB73T6) that handcranks to charge itself and small devices. Because of this, it's my top suggestion. I've used it to recharge my Kobo ereader, [my headset] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LAF23VI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_g3Qpxb5M3BKJP) (which I've been very happy with, and will order again if/when it breaks), and a small Bluetooth speaker for playing music in my room. I tried to charge my smartphone with the flashlight crank, but it's not advisable, it will take forever.

Other lighting includes [a headlamp] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015R1I6AM/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_b2Slxb0QVR92C) and when fighting the heat, I found this fan. For those into vaping, I suggest looking at Vapium Summit, I gave that as a gift, and it's nice for the price.

I tried to find a real sturdy USB hub, but just went with a cheap one with decent reviews.

And finally my portable powerhouse for when there's no outlets nearby: Orange Joos and i will agree that any solar panel will do, but this has a built in battery that holds a charge. It's not flimsy, but also not ultralight. I'm happy with it.

yup, someone referred me to these and I use them every time I travel.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0001XOIY0/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

have never had an issue - I travel with a few Xanax for flights, other perscriptions and nothing


edit: this is my Dopp kit: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EOF23CK/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1 a bunch of them fit perfectly on one of the shallow side zips

I've got the Manfrotto Pixi and it's pretty nice

Manfrotto MTPIXI-B PIXI Mini... https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00D76RNLS?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Amazon. You can track the price for an alert using https://camelcamelcamel.com

You can also get it from https://www.trekkinn.com/montagne/osprey-ultralight-stuff-18l/13560590/ for $25.

Maybe REI has it as well.

Your budget is probably not realistic. The Anker PowerCore+ 20100 charges and discharges via USB C, has two additional USB A ports for other devices, and offers 20100mAh. I had and loved that power bank until an improperly closed water bottle led to its early demise.

It's $70 USD, or about twice your budget.

Closer to your budget would be a Mophie Powerstation Plus Mini with USB C. It even has a little built-in cable. I got one of those because it's pocketable. It works, but it doesn't ensure days of travel the way the Anker CorePower+ 20100 monster does.

But 10+mAh, USB C PD, and decent quality on your budget? You won't find it.

I'm not.

I don't plan on sightseeing with the Farpoint. It'll remain at wherever I'm staying and I'll be walking around with a collapsible daypack. A 40L bag would be too heavy for me to carry around sightseeing.

I've taken the camera insert out of a Lowepro shoulder bag which goes in the Farpoint when I'm transiting and in the collapsible daypack when I'm sightseeing.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00EOF23CK/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1510519361&sr=8-4&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=eagle+creek+toiletry+bag&dpPl=1&dpID=319IOD-mesL&ref=plSrch