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timmmay

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#242622 6-Nov-2018 07:52
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Update - people have given me many options, thanks for all your ideas. I don't need any more options unless you've found something awesome and cheap :)

 

--

 

I'm looking for a new a backpack for daily use. There are heaps of online options, I wondered if anyone here had any good ideas. Last time I needed a bag I went to a store and bought one, which has been ok, but there are many many options now.

 

I don't want anything too large or heavy. I drive in and walk a block or two to work. I'm a consultant who largely works in one place, but sometimes moves between customer sites, so I carry basics like painkillers, mouse, 

 

Requirements / I need to carry daily:

 

  • A compact laptop (Surface Pro)
  • A very thin A4 folder to keep documents inside
  • A few sets of keys
  • Very compact first aid kit (plasters, painkillers)
  • Sunglasses
  • Bluetooth headset for phone
  • Sometimes I need to carry something a bit larger, the size of a six pack of cans, but that's not essential.

I don't need anything like drink bottles, straps to carry things on the outside like hiking bags, etc. Some kind of compartments to divide the many random things I carry would be useful, maybe even zipped from the outside but that's not essential.

 

Any suggestions or ideas?


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Coil
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  #2120689 6-Nov-2018 08:04
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http://www.dynamix.co.nz/46703

 

Wait for Dynamix to do another 50-80% off promotion for one of these. I got a $120 laptop bag for $28 and its the best one ive ever come across. Lifetime warranty I think too..




gcorgnet
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  #2120690 6-Nov-2018 08:04
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Hi, as a photographer, I am sure you have heard of Peak Design and their famous "Everyday Backpack". If not, check it out..

 

Those things are a bit pricey but very well made and well thought out. (Heaps of handy pockets, etc..) Comes in 20L or 30L.


gehenna
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  #2120691 6-Nov-2018 08:10
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I've used Timbuktu for years.  I'm on my 2nd bag in about 10 years right now.  The first one lasted about 8 years before some of the stitching gave out but that was because I wasn't treating it kindly.  I could have had it repaired by Timbuktu if I'd kept the receipt.  

 

Not a backpack, but still a very comfy messenger bag that fits HEAPS.  I've often had a MacBook Pro, Surface, iPad, and all sorts of accessories in it at the same time.




Stu

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  #2120692 6-Nov-2018 08:17
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Another vote for the Peak Design Everyday Backpacks. Excellent products. Good warranty.

Disclaimer: Totally biased view. Bit of an ambassador I guess. Own at least one of pretty much everything they make.




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BTR

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  #2120708 6-Nov-2018 08:34
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+1 for the Dynamix range, I use one for work. It  carries  my MB Pro, iPad Pro, External HDD, keys, wallet etc. Very comfy and well built. 


timmmay

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  #2120784 6-Nov-2018 10:24
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Thanks for the thoughts all. Peak design at about $400 is way more than I want to spend, and it does look to be a bit photography oriented. The Dynamix ones look to be reasonable, especially if they go on sale. Any particularly Dynamix model? Are there any stores that stock them so I can have a look?

 

Timbuk2 are probably at the top of my price range according to prices on their website. I'll have a look at those when I have some time free thanks. Any model in particular looking good?


Coil
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  #2120801 6-Nov-2018 11:00
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timmmay:

 

Thanks for the thoughts all. Peak design at about $400 is way more than I want to spend, and it does look to be a bit photography oriented. The Dynamix ones look to be reasonable, especially if they go on sale. Any particularly Dynamix model? Are there any stores that stock them so I can have a look?

 

Timbuk2 are probably at the top of my price range according to prices on their website. I'll have a look at those when I have some time free thanks. Any model in particular looking good?

 

 

 

 

Anything Everki is like permanently on sale, I am sure there are a few guys here with Dynamix accounts that would be more than happy to get one for you.


 
 
 

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Paul1977
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  #2120807 6-Nov-2018 11:09
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Coil:

 

Anything Everki is like permanently on sale, I am sure there are a few guys here with Dynamix accounts that would be more than happy to get one for you.

 


 

I recently got an Everki messenger bag for my Surface Pro and small lunch box etc, built quality seems pretty good.

 

If the OP is specifically after a backpack, this one might suit. It looks fairly compact and light weight - so may not do fit the 6-pack.


ResponseMediaNZ
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  #2120814 6-Nov-2018 11:18
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timmmay:

 

Thanks for the thoughts all. Peak design at about $400 is way more than I want to spend, and it does look to be a bit photography oriented. The Dynamix ones look to be reasonable, especially if they go on sale. Any particularly Dynamix model? Are there any stores that stock them so I can have a look?

 

Timbuk2 are probably at the top of my price range according to prices on their website. I'll have a look at those when I have some time free thanks. Any model in particular looking good?

 

 

PBTech has EVERKI a limited range of them anyway if you want to go have a look at them.

 

I'm on my second Everki bag (first one replaced under warranty) The Titan https://www.everki.com/nz_en/titan-travel-friendly-laptop-backpack-up-to-18-4-inch.html (which I have) is a big bag.

 

They are a great backpack but also the service you get when you need to claim is superb, from memory it took me 3days to get a new one after showing them photos


dryburn
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  #2120816 6-Nov-2018 11:19
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I currently use a Dakine 101 Backpack

 

https://www.dakine.com/en-us/bags/backpacks/street-backpacks/101-29l-backpack/

 

 

 

I have had my bag for almost 9 years with daily use. I use it for travelling, work, day trips, etc. Just and excellent sturdy bag.

 

 

 

I'm actually thinking of getting a new one as the inner waterproof lining of this one is coming apart.

 

 

 

Edit: Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mebwWMhwdo8

 

Just watching the video makes me want to get a new backpack! Some designs are a bit different but still similar


ratsun81
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  #2120817 6-Nov-2018 11:22
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Im a fan of the macpac range of bags, i currently have similar usage case to yourself. 

 

This doesnt look too bad. 

 

https://www.macpac.co.nz/equipment/packs-bags/everyday-backpacks/atlas-24l-aztec-backpack/114059.html#q=laptop&sz=20&start=16

 

 

 

 


nzkc
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  #2120827 6-Nov-2018 11:38
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Ive got a Kathmandu one I've had for years. Gets lots of abuse and whilst starting to look a bit tired it is still solid.  I think its this model (or perhaps an earlier version): https://www.kathmandu.co.nz/cubic-pack-v4.html  Looking at their site I see they have smaller (and cheaper) versions.


rscole86
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  #2120829 6-Nov-2018 11:41
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ratsun81:

 

Im a fan of the macpac range of bags, i currently have similar usage case to yourself. 

 

This doesnt look too bad. 

 

https://www.macpac.co.nz/equipment/packs-bags/everyday-backpacks/atlas-24l-aztec-backpack/114059.html#q=laptop&sz=20&start=16

 

 

Or there is the 22L Kahu, I dont use it for the OP's usage case, but the wife has a few times for work trips and is happy with it.


timmmay

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  #2120912 6-Nov-2018 15:43
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Thanks all. I'll have a look over all your recommendations over the next few days.


networkn
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  #2120934 6-Nov-2018 16:03
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I've been looking at this over the past few months preparing to replace my carry on luggage. I got the Samsonite backpack from Strandbags for around $190 I think. It's very good quality, carried everything I needed it for. 

 

I also bought a Matein from Amazon which arrived today. Quite a bit smaller, and ligher with lots of extras like USB etc, for about $72 landed. I am impressed. Unsure if it MIGHT be a bit small for you. The Samsonite is good. 

 

 


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