For the most part I am an over one shoulder bag type of guy. Since my freshman year in high school I have been using a messenger style bag of some sort — that was 1998.
In his post, Ben outlines his usage of his new backpack — a Tom Bihn Smart Alec.
I — like Ben (and Michael Lopp) — switched from a messenger bag to a backpack this year.
I use an older[1. This bag used to be Patrick Rhone’s, but I bought it over Twitter from him. It enjoys the warmer weather we have here.] STM Revolution. Mine is the small version, in graphite with orange highlights.
It’s got a large back pocket with a laptop sleeve that easily fits my 13-inch MacBook Pro and iPad 2, with another pocket up front with a zippered section and a spot for cables. The bag has two water bottle pockets and a built-in rain cover. The shoulder straps are wide and comfortable. The zippers and handles
Here’s what is normally in my backpack on any given weekday:
- 13-inch MacBook Pro
- iPad 2 with Smart Cover
- Kindle 4 in carrying case
- Laptop and iPhone chargers
- Miscellaneous cords and cables
- Two USB thumb drives
- Thinline ESV Bible
- Field Notes brand notebook
- Manila folders for current projects
- Two blue Pilot G2 .07 pens
- Wallet & Keys
With a messenger bag, this just wouldn’t be possible. Ben, Michael and I might not be the coolest kids on the block with our backpacks, but I don’t mind one bit.