I'm looking for a small messenger bag for commuting. I have a large Timbuk2 which I use for grocery shopping. What I want is something that is smaller and more structured (compartments, etc.) I want it just to carry documents plus my U-lock and cable, and occasional articles of clothing, etc. It would be nice if it looks good so that I can be presentable at work.

I am of the persuasion that wears the bag low on the back and carabiners it to my belt so that it won't migrate. Therefore, I need an available clip for the carabiner. I also don't want to spend Chrome/Timbuk2-type bucks. I have seen some bags on Amazon that interest me, but I don't dare buy them without some advice (the ones I am interested in at present are the Osprey float and the Everest W-1003 Crinkle. The Everest is cheap and looks nice but has zero reviews.)

I expected that people would be lining up to give me advice on the right bag to buy, which I guess demonstrates that I'm a N00b. However, based on a comment by f4rrest in an earlier thread, I bought the Osprey, and it seems to be the ticket: I can wear it low on my back, and it doesn't wander. I think they're discontinuing that model, however.

Naa, to be honest with you many of us stay away from these threads, although there are a lot if you use the search function.

The reason many stay away any more is they usually start a messenger bag vs backpack war then the guys with panniers have to weigh in then it just all goes to hell in a handbasket. Then the person that asked the question just gets confused and goes and buys what they want anyway. So see all the drama you saved by being proactive?

That said, I use a Chrome bag. Expensive but you'll only ever need to buy one given the way it's made..

I commute with panniers, but also have a chrome bag for bikes without a rack. I end up using it off the bike more than on, good bag.

I would say that you would be hard-pressed to find a really great durable messenger bag for cheap. I am going to have to go with Seagull Bags. I got one for Christmas after trying a Timbuk 2 and Chrome. The Chrome was surely durable feeling and comfy, and the Timbuk 2 less so on both fronts. The Seagull cost me less (Black bag) than a Chrome and has a PERFECT design. I also feel it looks loads better than Chromes and is devoid of logos except for a tag on the front buckle. The thing is also EXTREMELY durable and have ran it under water to test it's weather resistance, which is unbelievable. I highly recommend them. Also, the staff is nice and small and REALLY responsive. I sent an email about how much I enjoyed the bag and they got back to me in a mere three hours. Awesome service.

Messenger bags suck -- I use panniers.

See? There it is, you can go do whatever you already wanted to do now .

See? I said it would happen!!!

I think I may actually try the handbasket.

Good call.

everywhere I go, one of my chrome bags goes too. My metropolis has done time on planes, trains, automobiles, and even the occasional bike. It's the most comfortable bag i've ever owned...twice.

I too have a Chrome Metropolis and I am impressed with how much punishment this bag can withstand. After three years of heavy use, this thing will not die. The Metropolis is a big bag. I feel like a jackass when I hardly have anything in it. and when heavily loaded, it isn't the most comfortable bag in the world. Of course, the best single shoulder bags will never be as comfortable as the best double shoulder bags. I hear Timbuk2 bags are notorious for their less than stellar carrying capacity.

The car belt buckle is actually pretty useful when you want to quickly unload your bag without having to loosen the strap.

Unfortunately, if you need a messenger bag of reasonable quality and convinience, you are going to have to pay a little more for it. Seagull, Chrome, and Timbuk2 do make great, durable bags. And you should be able to find a small or medium Timbuk2 on Amazon for a very reasonable price. Seagull's black bags are a great bang for the bucks.

You should re-think this. Having a messenger bag that sits high and wraps around your back is much more comfortable and stable on a bike than a "messenger style" bag that basically hangs off your shoulder. This is one of the reasons I bought my Chrome Citizen. My leather messenger bag was fine for walking around, but on the bike it sucked. Having a real messenger bag is worlds better.

Check out Sierra Trading Post and Ebay, you can find Timbuk2 bags for cheap, new or used. I just bought a brand new Swig Medium backpack off of Ebay for just 40 bucks incl. shipping. Small messenger bags are really cheap, and if you like Timbuk2, you'll be able to stick with that brand for cheap.

bt93, thank you for saying what I was going to say. Sierra Trading Post is awesome if you want a Timbuk2 bag. I have two and love them so much. I will try another bag for a while then go right back to my Timbuk2. They hold plenty and is easy to find everything in it. I have an Xtracyle
so I can carry whatever I want, but for short distance errands on the way home the messanger is great for keeping on my back then jumping off the bike, swinging the bag around grab whatever I need. I use it daily.
Good luck

I have the small Timbuk2. It's actually quite comfortable with my laptop in it. I have a medium Timbuk2 and it's not as comfortable as the small with the same amount of stuff in it.

I have a Timbuk2 bag which I use for grocery shopping, because it can easily hold 25 lb. worth of items. The problem is that when I am carrying considerably less, it flops about and the waist strap has little effect.

Actually, the Osprey works exactly the way I had hoped. The problem with having the bag high on the back is the same problems with a backpack -- sweaty back, and difficulty of access. I know that with the Timbuk2 and similar designs, you can "quick release" the strap and bring the bag down where you can access it. But I find the Osprey altogether more convenient for doing my usual commuter stuff.

timbuk 2 sucks for any real use. I swapped to my chrome a year ago, and never looked back. high and tight is the only way to carry a load.

Milk crate...


If your bag flops around it's too small(counter-intuitive) and low, but a large bag will wrap around you. Alternatively consider a more supportive choice in undergarments.

I've never used carabiners because the bag rests high and tight, like a tiger on my back... it's not a purse i'm trying to clip to my belt, lol.

Get a bag with good padding, so when you stick your big heavy junk in there it doesn't poke you like your ***friend does at 3am. Also consider cambuckle and chest-straps... u know a f'n messenger bag