Monday
Apr132009
Bag it up
Monday, April 13, 2009 at 07:33AM 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?
Reader Comments (16)
My inclination is with the 2nd bag, but I think part of it is that I keep expecting the small head of a chihuahua in a pink sweater to come popping out of the 1st one. Plus it's too luggagey for me. But whatever you'll be more comfortable with...you don't want to spend the whole trip self-conscious about your bag.
If I have to pick between the two, the first one. I would get annoyed carrying the second one around. At least with the first bag, you have the option of carrying across your body. If you're going to carry it all day, that may be very handy. I personally prefer an actual back pack when I'm traveling. I know that's not super "professional" though, but it is really comfy. Another idea is a messenger bag. This is a little pricey, but super good quality: http://duluthpack.com/product_detail.aspx?product=Book%20Bag-Standard
(I have one & love it)
Definitely not the first one. The second one is okay, but I'm not in love with it. I think I would like it if it were a solid color. That way it will go with everything you wear and not look so casual. Did you go to Target? They have some great options.
The thing that really gives you away as American is sneakers. So find different walking shoes if that's your concern. The second is cute but not as practical. Is it wrong to tell you to keep looking? That's probably the wrong answer.
I would pick bag No. 2. The first one looks too much like luggage and too big and bulky. The second one is cute, casual and smaller. However, I can understand that the strap might not be the most useful - can't put it across your body and throw the bag behind you.
Did you think about a messenger bag of some sort? Or a backpack would be good, too.
you could always wait altogether, see what the locals are carrying around, and purchase some authentic digs when you're out there. i know it's scary to think you'd be going out there WITHOUT a bag...but it's kind of the same mentality as back to school shopping...you always end up spending money on something "the other kids have" once school starts! either way, happy travels and may the luck of the irish be with ya ;)
I would recommend either a backpack so that you have two shoulder straps or a sling type bag like this: http://www.rei.com/product/738793. I would also suggest black, brown or other neutral color. From experience, I think having a bag that sits on just one shoulder is going to be a killer before you know it.
Hm, I agree neither of these are preferable but I would choose #1 over #2 wholeheartedly, for the single reason that your ONE SHOULDER WILL BE CRYING OUT FOR MERCY after two days (nay, even just one) of lugging that shit around town.
Save yourself the pain. I'm sure Patagonia or REI or maybe even Target (or Target online, they usually have more stuff) would have something suitable. However, I'm still on the quest for a perfect bag and it hasn't happened yet.
While I like the design of bag #2, I have to agree with Willikat in that your shoulder will be ACHING if you use it on your trip.
I'm with Angie, when I travel - I generally use a backpack. I like to distribute the weight across both shoulders. :-)
I like bag #2 WAY better. Can't you just switch shoulders periodically?
Also check out EMS for cute-yet-practical travel gear:
http://www.ems.com/catalog/subcategory_simple.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302876302
Oh, and Marshall's and TJ Maxx have excellent selections of affordable luggage. Not sure if they have those stores nationwide though.
Of those two, I vote number one ALL THE WAY. However, I agree with everyone who said maybe you should keep looking and consider a backpack. I think you might also realize that you really don't need something very big. If your jacket is the bulkiest item in the bag, couldn't you just tie it around the outside of a bag?
I agree #2 is cuter, but #1 is more practical and a much better option for carrying things around ALL DAY LONG. I have to say, though, something that can be comfortably worn cross-body and even slung around to be entirely behind you, would be preferable. I bought something like that on eBay last summer and was sooo happy to be hands-free while shopping and tourist-ing in LA. .... Have you tried TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Target... maybe some sports stores, even, that carry camping and traveling gear?
definitely #1
the zip closure is SO important
if you're travelling on buses and trains, your bag will be on the floor a lot and there's the potential for it to be knocked over
if you're going to be doing a lot of walking, I'd go for a backpack instead
Based on your pose, I would definitely go with number one. You look much more serious and I figure men will figure your someone important with such an important stance. The Americaness will cause them to become intrigued by you.
Number two seems more friendly and possibly more approachable. But you have a man and don't need them to approach you. You just need them to stare at your divine beauty (and possibly ask for your autograph). Plus you could just be anyone with that pose.
So definitely number one, no contest.
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