Aznman

The type of pack that I am interested in is a messenger-backpack-briefcase hybrid. Large, organized space is what I am interested in - though, of course, I do not want it to be as hilariously large as the hiking backpacks pictured below:
https://image.dhgate.com/0x0/f2/albu/...ugXZxiA477.jpg

Of course, I want the pack to be usable for outdoor activities, but I really want one that can be described as being most fitting for business office/professional settings. I am only interested in capacities capable of containing a 14 inch laptop, a single large textbook, some food jars, and some thin clothings (possibly in vacuum bag). Here are some pictures of some supreme Zojirushi canteens and food jars below. The backpack must be able to contain and MAINTAIN ORGANIZATION OF the materials. In other words, the backpack must not extremely large but greater than 9.5 x 2 x 11.8 inches.

https://secure.img2.wfrcdn.com/lf/ma...Jar-SW-EAE.jpg

Being part messenger bags, I'm sure it is inevitable that the straps would contain some webbing like the picture below. I don't want webbing, but if it the design is unavoidable then I am fine with it.


THE BACKPACK MUST BE EITHER SQUARE OR RECTANGULAR. However, I do not want any hard plastic exterior; instead the exterior must be natural cloth or leather or any other soft materials.

As already stated, I am interested in packs capable of containing a 14 inch laptop, a single large textbook, some canteens, and some thin clothings. In order to protect my posture, I want the the messenger bag to have LIGHT metal frames reinforcements. THE FRAMES MUST BE AT LEAST STYLISHLY INCONSPICUOUS AND EASY TO ATTACH TO BICYCLES. The frames must also be removable.
It would be most pleasing if the straps are made of flat chains of high quality metal. But normal soft straps are okay. Finally, sweats must be easily removed from the exterior of this messenger bag.

You guys cannot help me find this most superior product, right? In that case, do you guys know any company that creates customized backpacks of superior qualities for a good price?

BTW, remember the high importance of great capacity and ability to maintain great organization.

randomgear

I like cake and I eat it, too.

Aznman

gregf83 

Sounds like just about any decent pack will meet your needs. If you want a nicer looking bag Tumi makes some inexpensive backpacks: Knox Backpack - Alpha Bravo | Tumi North America

TenSpeedV2

I think that what you want doesn't really exist. You would need to have that custom made, and with your requirements, I don't think that superior quality and good price will be in the same sentence. All of the criteria you listed are just more than what the average person needs or wants, and that is why you are not finding it.

Make some compromises in what it is exactly about this bag that you need and then go from there.

Aznman

Thanks for the answers so far guys.
Okay TenSpeedV2, what is your recommended company for good custom made packs?

Archwhorides 

Screw the backpack. My Ortleib Office pannier meets 95% of those requirements, has a shoulder strap, and it's waterproof. (I do not like commuting with a hot backpack during the summer).

Aznman

Thanks for the suggestion.

ShadowBoxer

If I understood you correctly, you are looking for
• a large briefcase, office/ professional looking (not looking like a typical backpack),
• that can hold your large laptop and other items in a structured way (some dividers inside rather than just an open bag),
• and you are okay with leather or cloth but not hard plastic.

I'm sure I missed some of the points you listed but I'm trying to focus on a picture of what you WANT, rather than confusing the issue with an additional list of Don't Wants.

I have something that actually fits all of the above.
The only negative is it's leather and is very well made, so there would be a substantial weight penalty.
I ride with it as a backpack on my motorcycle and the motorcycle doesn't seem to mind.

When I am the engine, I'm not sure it would be as fun. No doubt it would be hot after a while unless you were dressed for a workout.
On the other hand, the straps (shoulder straps are actually converted cross-body strap) could be made to wrap around the rear rack.
Then you would have a very large pannier on one side. I don't know how that would affect the ride/ steering with a lot of weight on one side like that. Maybe one could get used to it. Using it as a pannier would certainly keep it off your back and that would no doubt keep you cooler.

Last time I used it was on a 4 day business trip. It was my carry on and only luggage. It fits under the seat in front or over head of course.

Is that sort of what you want?

NormanF

I use the large classic Timbuk2 messenger bag.

Tough and well built. For most needs, its huge storage space is more than enough.

bmthom.gis

Have you looked at Brooks yet? Cycling gear doesn't get much more classy, but be prepared for the appropriate price tag

Aznman

Late reply I know, but yes I think those are the main issues that I care about. I also want soft materials that are dirt, water, and rot resistant.

BTW, I own one of the Blackburns with interlocks.


I have side panniers right now, so when I buy a messenger bag, I prefer it to be strapped on the TOP not the SIDES.
And yes, I know that Blackburn have bags for this purpose but I just don't like the looks.

2 Piece

Osprey Momentum 34. Here is a link to a guy reviewing it, www.youtube.com/watch?v=ISdTuOVAGxc . I think it would be hard to beat Osprey quality and warranty for the price. I really like the handles, you can carry in a vertical or a horizontal position and the backpack straps can be tucked out of site. This is a large bag but it has cinch straps which makes it smaller when the extra room is not needed.

bmthom.gis

@Aznman - check out Carradice bags as well. I think all of their bags are water proof and definitely hold up for decades.

RubeRad

So the security on that is to hope the thieves don't have scissors or any kind of knife to slice the straps?