As I’ve already mentioned, I’m busy and overwhelmed lately, and I’ve hardly had a second to think about or prepare for my Ireland trip. But this weekend I squeezed a little bit of shopping in between homework marathons and other obligations because there are several things I need for this trip that I didn’t or don’t have.
And I bought a bag. Two bags actually. Because I can’t decide. And I need your help.
Here’s the situation: I need a bag that I can carry around Ireland with me. It needs to fit a jacket (when I’m not wearing it), a water bottle, notebooks, wallet, sunglasses and my camera. This is for daytime when we’re moving around from place to place. We’ll be doing some sightseeing and some agency visits. We’ll be riding buses and trains, as well as doing a lot of walking.
This bag needs to be comfortable to carry, easy to get into and easy to transport. It needs to be somewhat professional, but also kind of casual. If that makes sense.
When I first started shopping, I had sort of an idea in my head, but I couldn’t find anything that matched my vision. Everything I found was either modern-day briefcase-like (leather and buckles and such) or too beach baggy (bright patterns and no structure). I wanted something with structure, compartments and some kind of closure (zipper was my first choice). So here’s what I found:
BAG 1

Pretend like this is me walking around Ireland:

Pros:
- Compartments! I won’t have to dig to the bottom to find my sunglasses.
- Seconds as a great carry-on.
- Sturdy; good structure (as in it stands up on its own).
- More professional.
- Zip closure.
- Extendable strap for when I want to carry it across my shoulder and be totally hands-free.
Cons:
- Too utilitarian?
- Too bulky?
- Too I’m-obviously-an-American?
BAG 2

Pretend like this is me walking around Ireland:

Pros:
- Cute.
- More casual without being too beachy.
- Pretty good structure.
- Some compartments.
- Comfortable to carry.
Cons:
- Not the best carry-on so I’d have to pack it separately.
- No long shoulder strap.
- One-snap closure.
- Too I’m-obviously-an-American?
Remember, I’m going as a student but also as a tourist. I need a bag that works for both. And the cost difference is only about six bucks, so that isn’t a factor. I’m tempted to take both and see which works better once I get there, but that’s just silly and a waste of money since I won’t be able to return either when I return (30 day limits and all).
So which is the better bag for my Ireland trip?