Originally Posted by
fuzz2050
Would you mind specifying, how much time do you spend carrying your stuff while not on the bike?
If you have a long ride in the morning and then remain relatively stationary until you ride home, and Ortleib pannier is a great option. I don't think panniers come much better. Thing is, they suck off the bike, I mean they make a decent enough tote bag, but the backpack harness isn't really effective, and it takes an unfortunately long time to actually install.
If you have some off the bike carrying to do, something with a nice shoulder strap is essential. I have no actual experience with the Bug, but it looks pretty decent.
If you're going to be walking around a bunch once you get to campus, you might even be a good candidate for a waterproof messenger bag in a milk crate. Inelegant, yes, but it's stable and waterproof on the bike, quick to get off the bike, and comfortable off the bike.
Sorry to take so long to reply. The thread hadn't had any answers for a while so I stopped watching it.
I carry a lot off of the bike a lot. A calc book, binder, and two chemistry notebooks at a minimum, not counting whatever little odds and ends I need for the day. I have been putting a large satchel in my panniers and hauling it out, but the strap broke and I've already fixed it twice before. Plus, I'm carrying the weight of the pannier and bag, not using the space efficiently, and having to waste time moving stuff between bags.
Also, leave the books at home and take really, really good notes. Most of my classes that I took tested from the notes and not the reading material. I could've saved a ton of $$ without having to buy those doorstoppers...
Did that with one of my classes already. I usually buy my books after the first week of class so I can see how badly I'll need it. Sadly, I'll be stuck with my beefy math book for at least two more semesters.
There's some new Arkel stuff coming out and at least one new backpack. Here's the link to the 2012 catalog:
Thanks, the Sherpack looks cool. I'd totally go that way if I was willing to change out racks too.
Thanks for the replies everyone. I think I'm just going to bite the bullet and get a Bug.