Originally Posted by
vaticdart
Most of the good messenger bag companies (Bailey Works, Chicago Wig, Pac Designs, Zugster, etc.) offer 2nd shoulder, or x-strap, options. This massively increases the amount of weight you can carry comfortably. Without using my x-strap I can comfortably carry 20 - 25 lbs in my bag, but with the strap, that about doubles.
I have an ancient very large Timbuk2-- I seem to be able to carry a ton in it without serious collarbone discomfort-- no 2nd strap. And I'm not really all that tough.
Liter of water, Vacuum sealed old glass thermos of coffee, lesson planner and grade book, new york times, rain pants, multi-tool, work clothes, etc...
and when it's errand time, I can fit a 1.5L bottle of red fir my wife and a 12 pack of beer (out of the box and the bottles tucked in... or even the whole 12 pack if there's no wine.) on top of all that.
I guess it depends on what you draw the line at "discomfort."
Sorry, no recommendation to offer other than giving one strap messenger bags a serious try.