I've been doing a lot of research and I think I'm going to need two bags. I think i like the bailey works super pro in size small. I don't like the huge messenger bags because i don't take a ton of stuff when I bike to school or to the store. I like the bag to be in the 15 to 18 liter range.

Anyways, now i'm looking for a second bag that is much smaller that i can take on joy rides. Something to hold my phone, keys, wallet, a few snacks, possibly u- lock, maybe a tool. Maybe something in the 5 liter range? Does anyone know of a list of good bags based on volume? Like 2 liter range, then 5-10 liter range, the 10-20 liter, and then 20 and above? Or something like that? Or can you recommend a good small bag? The one i'm looking at is the Chrome Chekhov. So far that's he closest to what i'm looking for but i don't think i'm in love with the look and the shape. I like the Chrome Victor but it's a little too small. Help/ suggestions are appreciated. I was able to choose the bailey works super pro just based off of reading the forums, but didn't find much about these smaller utility bags.

Have you looked at Tom Bihn bags? They have loads of options and don't charge for extras like key clips and pockets.

for a extra small messanger bag I use the patagonia sling. Patagonia Atom Sling Bag

For other sizes, timbuk2 has lots of sizes for their messanger bags, and they hold up under daily use for years.
Classic Messenger Bag | Best Messenger Bags, Crossbody | Timbuk2 Bags
Lots of nice features there!

+1 Have an ancient Tumbuk2 (>10 years) XXL bag that I hauled my life around in for a long time. I won't say it looks new, but I do plan on getting another 10 years out of it easily.

The pagagonia atom goes over the right shoulder? Not sure I'd like that. I think I'm leaning towards the crumpler barney rustle blanket. I like the fact that it has a spot for a u-lock. Its also 9 liters so not too small but not too big.

I'm quite happy with my ARC'TERYX bag. It gets used 6 days per week (4 bike commuting and two 3hr train rides per week). Also, only flights are such with no discernible wear after 4 years of heavy use.

Never tried it myself (mine is 20L):

Chilcotin 8 Backpack / Packs / Daypacks / Arc'teryx / Arc'teryx

Haglöfs makes some good stuff as well (Gram 3 may be what you want):

Intense Unisex | Haglöfs

I use a Duluth Pack shell bag when just cruising around; holds what I need, stays out of the way and has worn very well.

Jandd bags are exceptionally well made, reasonably priced, and come in different sizes. Love mine.

I put the Atom over either shoulder. Typically I favor the left shoulder. Both the Atom and the Timbuk2 bags have a cross strap to keep the bag in place when biking. That is a key feature for me.

Hi guys,
I was just wondering. I always use a normal backpack, why do you use/want a messenger bag?

Another vote for timbuk2. I have a large one that I currently use for my commute and used to have a XS one. I'm not quite sure what happened to the small one, but I suspect my wife accidentally gave it away during one of her cleaning binges. It was probably a bit bigger than what you are looking for, but it was perfect for just a few items. I would carry pants and a shirt in it. Anyhow...nice, comfortable bags that seem to last forever.

Hi Oliver,
That's a topic worthy of its own thread.
Why don't you start one?
And welcome to the forum.

Cyril

I'm an Arkel fanboy. If money is no object, I would definitely consider any of their "urban/commuter" bags:
Get the best laptop bicycle panniers on the market

Lifetime guarantee and YKK #10 zippers should do it.

Some of their panniers (another section of their website) can also be shoulder strapped or humped on the back.

Ortlieb may also have some stuff.

I'm liking my Timbuk2. After half-a-year of hard daily use it's almost as new. The only difference I can discern is the addition of sweat stains and I'm certain that's my fault. The fabric, the stitching, etc... all look unworn at this point. Being a bit of a connoisseur of working backpacks it's wearing in about how I'd expect one of my $300 work packs to. That is I expect it to last decades with minor repairs. My only complaint is that the main chest strap could be wider. I wouldn't describe it as narrow but wider would be nice for heavy loads. That change would worsen ventilation and sweating though. If you're interested in a Timbuk2, keep an eye on their website. They routinely do 50% off deals on a lot of their products there.

Another option and I think a better one for what you want is a bento bag. It's a small bag that mounts to your frame and stem. I know Jand makes a popular one that I see in bike shops. Similar carrying capacity to a saddlebag so if you're saddlebag is full of tools and spare tubes the bento bag can take your keys, wallet, phone, and snacks. It won't fit a u-lock though. The main advantages of bento bags is that they're cheap ($5-10), don't cause sweating like backpacks, and the stuff is easily accessible while you're riding. And a bento bag would complement your big messenger bag by giving you a place to store pocket items rather than constantly loading and unloading them from the backpack.

Another vote for timbuk2. I have 2 of there messenger bags. Long lasting and Love the warranty.

Just got Especial Cycling Messenger for my commute (lrg capacity). Loving it!