Need new dad bag

[rob_s]

This smaller version looks like something I'd like to try, except that the buckle would definitely be a problem. The side to side orientation is my preference, vs slings that wind up upside down when rotated between chest and back position.

I'm looking for a sling bag just big enough to empty my pockets (wallet, phone, key fob, knife, POM) and add a few "want to haves" (TQ, flashlight, a few other IFAK items). Definitely no need for a tablet or water.

That was basically my original game plan as well. Pretty much needed a place to put phone, EDC Leatherman, wallet and keys when doing outdoorsy things like paddle boarding or beaching where pockets may be an issue and/or water was involved. Added the single-serving packs because I could, and the battery and cord…

But having the bag led me to using it more, carrying more, wishing I *Could* carry more, etc. we vacation a good bit and so having something I can carry a kindle and water bottle (or, rum & coke bottle ;) ) down to the pool in has turned out to be a high demand for me.

I may well keep the smaller one and leave it in the RV or truck for those days when I meet the fam at the beach and wouldn’t otherwise have the slightly larger sling with me. I already keep rash guard, swim trunks, and slides in the truck for those same outings…

FWIW, it’s not as “larger” as I’d have thought, in practice.

ETA:
the Black Ember on my data chart is this one. If I was only wanting a pocket dump I would like.y choose this today
https://blackember.com/products/tks

There’s some cool features in this bag, like the poke through to hold your phone in the outer pocket and backup battery in the inner, and still be able to charge. The mesh bag on the interior is neat, as is the ability to stow the straps (a big wish list item for me that I don’t currently have with either Aer, although the new version of the City Sling, the City Sling 2 (https://www.aersf.com/city-sling-2-black), has that feature)

[RoyGBiv]

ETA:
the Black Ember on my data chart is this one. If I was only wanting a pocket dump I would like.y choose this today
https://blackember.com/products/tks

There’s some cool features in this bag, like the poke through to hold your phone in the outer pocket and backup battery in the inner, and still be able to charge. The mesh bag on the interior is neat, as is the ability to stow the straps (a big wish list item for me that I don’t currently have with either Aer, although the new version of the City Sling, the City Sling 2 (https://www.aersf.com/city-sling-2-black), has that feature)
That's been on my radar, but I'm leaning towards this smaller Heimplanet.... Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/HEIMPLANET-Original-Transit-DYECOSHELL-material/dp/B07YX51933/ref=sr_1_4?crid=AFEQSVW3O002&keywords=heimplanet+sling&qid=1640786487&sprefix=HEIMPLANET+%2Caps%2C297&sr=8-4). Review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E2PZyJHHOUs
1L vs the 2.5L TKS is a BIG difference... I may just need to buy one and see how I load/use it. Like my drawer of holsters :rolleyes:

[rob_s]

Have had some opportunity to carry the new sling. Some pros, some cons. Wife is gonna be pissed, but I kinda feel like I need both ;)

Packing the new bag is different. The way it’s stitched actually makes more room in the front pocket at the expense of the middle. Which isn’t a pro or a con just yet, but it’s different and takes some adjustment.

The uni-directional sling is good, although I could see being limited to just one shoulder being a challenge in the future.

Some good news on the storage front…

The slightly larger size allows me to get all my “care” shit into a sub-pouch which makes for easier finding of things and/or handing the smaller pouch off to someone else so they can find their own shit.

All this
82380

Packs in here (minus the after bite, which fits, but creates too much bulk and rigidity to the overall bag)
82381

And stows in this zippered compartment. Previously this stuff was all loose in this compartment, and in the similar compartment in the previous bag, but the larger size means there’s room for the clear zipper pouch in the new bag.
82382


Other good news, the Kindle fits. I presume a mini iPad will, and (while not my jam) it seems like a Nintendo Switch would fit.
82383

Once you compare the size of the kindle to the size of the bag, it would be odd if it DIDN’T fit
82384

[nalesq]

That was basically my original game plan as well. Pretty much needed a place to put phone, EDC Leatherman, wallet and keys when doing outdoorsy things like paddle boarding or beaching where pockets may be an issue and/or water was involved. Added the single-serving packs because I could, and the battery and cord…

But having the bag led me to using it more, carrying more, wishing I *Could* carry more, etc. we vacation a good bit and so having something I can carry a kindle and water bottle (or, rum & coke bottle ;) ) down to the pool in has turned out to be a high demand for me.

I may well keep the smaller one and leave it in the RV or truck for those days when I meet the fam at the beach and wouldn’t otherwise have the slightly larger sling with me. I already keep rash guard, swim trunks, and slides in the truck for those same outings…

FWIW, it’s not as “larger” as I’d have thought, in practice.

ETA:
the Black Ember on my data chart is this one. If I was only wanting a pocket dump I would like.y choose this today
https://blackember.com/products/tks

There’s some cool features in this bag, like the poke through to hold your phone in the outer pocket and backup battery in the inner, and still be able to charge. The mesh bag on the interior is neat, as is the ability to stow the straps (a big wish list item for me that I don’t currently have with either Aer, although the new version of the City Sling, the City Sling 2 (https://www.aersf.com/city-sling-2-black), has that feature)

Thanks to you I bought the Black Ember TKS, and though it was kind of expensive, I’m quite happy with it.

I’ve used a fanny type pack for many years whenever I wanted to be able to carry the stuff that would normally go in my pockets or on my belt, when I did not want crap in my pockets or on my belt. Or maybe didn’t have real pockets or a belt. Like when cycling or running long distances, or backpacking or hanging out at the pool or beach with my family or whatever.

I love the organization of the TKS and the clever way the strap can be quickly adjusted on the fly (though it took some time to figure that out). The adjustment is key to be able to run comfortably with it and still be able to access it easily, which I do on some longer runs. It also endured an unexpected downpour one evening, and kept all my stuff dry for miles.

It’s also just the right size to hold everything I want comfortably in a bag like this, which for me at most would be a phone, small flashlight, extra battery, keys, ID, a bit of money, boo-boo kit, OC spray, and a little gun.

In fact, the TKS is just barely long enough for the little gun to be a Beretta 21A with a Silencerco Warlock attached, if desired!

Finally, I like how the strap can be completely tucked out of the way. Thus it can easily either be stored nicely within or attached to the belt or strap of a larger bag, for consolidated travel.

My only minor criticisms are that I wish it came in some colors other than just black, and maybe the strap could be a bit wider.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[rob_s]

Thanks to you I bought the Black Ember TKS, and though it was kind of expensive, I’m quite happy with it.
That’s awesome!

And… sorry! :p


I’ve used a fanny type pack for many years whenever I wanted to be able to carry the stuff that would normally go in my pockets or on my belt, when I did not want crap in my pockets or on my belt. Or maybe didn’t have real pockets or a belt.

That’s basically where this all started for me. I think I had met the family to go paddle boarding after work, changed in the car into board shorts, with the intention of going to dinner at a restaurant within walking distance and wound up with my phone, wallet, and keys in my hand or some awkward pocket most of the time. All I wanted was a “pocket dump” for those three items.

Once down the rabbit hole, it started occurring to me that I could carry other shit too, then wound up with the bag a lot more often than I thought I would, found myself wants to stuff other shit in there when it was all I had, etc. to the point that now I kinda want an even smaller mini bag for the original purpose. :cool:

I wonder if this is the same progression that leads moms to having those giant purses? :o

One thing I did pick up that I’ve now put in my briefcase, backpack, and man purse is the BeeGreen Tote Bags -Reusable-Shopping-Bags Gift Bags with Pocket Ripstop 50LBS 5 Pack (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HMVGFK9/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_M2FAJERAWDJVY1PWKK4K?_encodin g=UTF8&psc=1). A little larger than I thought from the pictures, and I have t deployed one yet, but my thinking is that having a big dump bad might keep me in a smaller EDC bag.

82635

[peterb]

No-hands small folding bag options:

https://www.apidura.com/shop/packable-musette/

https://www.apidura.com/shop/packable-backpack/

Of course at some point you’d need a bigger bag to carry your bigger bag…. ;-)

[nalesq]

Once down the rabbit hole, it started occurring to me that I could carry other shit too, then wound up with the bag a lot more often than I thought I would, found myself wants to stuff other shit in there when it was all I had, etc. to the point that now I kinda want an even smaller mini bag for the original purpose. :cool:

I wonder if this is the same progression that leads moms to having those giant purses?

Yeah, I have suffered from the same temptation. Right now I’m telling myself that the TKS is as big as I should get with something like this.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[Maple Syrup Actual]

Here's a question that may fit in this thread...does such a thing exist as a low-profile sling bag, that's primarily intended to be carried in the front, like on your chest, I mean?

I'm often carrying my kid around on my shoulders these days and a bag I could access without a ton of setting down and picking up, or even without sliding the bag around on my body, might be nice to have.

I have a Hill People Gear kit bag which physically would be perfect but that seems...crazy looking for in town.

But I'm not sure if it's even really possible to keep a bag on your chest without a harness. Anyway I figured someone in here might have seen or experiemented with an option like that.

[RoyGBiv]

Here's a question that may fit in this thread...does such a thing exist as a low-profile sling bag, that's primarily intended to be carried in the front, like on your chest, I mean?

I'm often carrying my kid around on my shoulders these days and a bag I could access without a ton of setting down and picking up, or even without sliding the bag around on my body, might be nice to have.

I have a Hill People Gear kit bag which physically would be perfect but that seems...crazy looking for in town.

But I'm not sure if it's even really possible to keep a bag on your chest without a harness. Anyway I figured someone in here might have seen or experiemented with an option like that.

FWIW, I've had several people comment positively on my Hill People chest bag, "That looks very convenient" sorta remarks. Very positive for rambling about town. Mine is RED! Because hiding it isn't happening. Unfortunately, getting it on and off is nothing like the convenience of a sling. It's the only thing I don't love about it.

[Blades]

Here's a question that may fit in this thread...does such a thing exist as a low-profile sling bag, that's primarily intended to be carried in the front, like on your chest, I mean?

I'm often carrying my kid around on my shoulders these days and a bag I could access without a ton of setting down and picking up, or even without sliding the bag around on my body, might be nice to have.

I have a Hill People Gear kit bag which physically would be perfect but that seems...crazy looking for in town.

But I'm not sure if it's even really possible to keep a bag on your chest without a harness. Anyway I figured someone in here might have seen or experiemented with an option like that.

How big of a bag are you considering?
I saw these Merrell sling bags (https://www.merrell.com/US/en/crest-8l-sling/194917899908.html?utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=PLA&scid=scbplp194917899908&sc_intid=194917899908&msclkid=ae08e49c18141bb330a985420061ef9c&gclid=ae08e49c18141bb330a985420061ef9c&gclsrc=3p.ds) and almost ordered one for a small sling bag. It's 8L(about 490 cubic inches)so maybe too big for what you want.

I've looked at a dyneema fanny packs/pouches (https://www.etsy.com/search?q=dyneema%20fanny%20pack&ref=auto-1) on Etsy. Lightweight, and casual looking. I think this is the one (https://www.etsy.com/listing/1004336821/dyneema-ultralight-fanny-pack-dyneema?click_key=f520a1f2bbb90b2c957d60aafee86f8a 13bcf6ba%3A1004336821&click_sum=632dd6ab&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=Dyneema+waist&ref=sr_gallery-2-48&organic_search_click=1&frs=1&sts=1&variation0=1950954826) I looked at before. I was going to contact them and see if they had heard of the D3 Traveller from SDR Traveller. (https://sdrtraveller.com/collections/catalog/products/d3-traveller?variant=39383613571152) It is dual shelled; from their website: "The D3 is made of two layers of SDRT Grade Dyneema® (enough to make two duffels) with one layer suspended inside the other. This adds protection; structural support; and maintains a relaxed finish even when fully packed. Visibly overstuffed luggage draws unwanted eyes." If I could get a small fanny pack/sling bag that is dual shelled, so when it's full, it doesn't look full, I might actually use it. Because, no matter what bag I carry, I always pack it full.
If I ever wear out my HSGI bag I use for travel and have an extra $560.00, I'll get a D3 Traveller. :)

[nalesq]

Here's a question that may fit in this thread...does such a thing exist as a low-profile sling bag, that's primarily intended to be carried in the front, like on your chest, I mean?

I'm often carrying my kid around on my shoulders these days and a bag I could access without a ton of setting down and picking up, or even without sliding the bag around on my body, might be nice to have.

I have a Hill People Gear kit bag which physically would be perfect but that seems...crazy looking for in town.

But I'm not sure if it's even really possible to keep a bag on your chest without a harness. Anyway I figured someone in here might have seen or experiemented with an option like that.

If you tighten the strap down enough, the fanny pack/sling bag will stay on your chest slung across the chest. It just looks kind of goofy. But if you have a little kid on your shoulders, no one will care.

I did this a lot myself when carrying one of my children on my own shoulders while wading through the surf at the beach, and didn’t want the fanny pack to get too soaked from the water.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[rob_s]

Here's a question that may fit in this thread...does such a thing exist as a low-profile sling bag, that's primarily intended to be carried in the front, like on your chest, I mean?

I'm often carrying my kid around on my shoulders these days and a bag I could access without a ton of setting down and picking up, or even without sliding the bag around on my body, might be nice to have.

I have a Hill People Gear kit bag which physically would be perfect but that seems...crazy looking for in town.

But I'm not sure if it's even really possible to keep a bag on your chest without a harness. Anyway I figured someone in here might have seen or experiemented with an option like that.

My new Day Sling 2 (https://www.aersf.com/day-sling-2-olive) is designed to work in front or back. Having the option of front or back, plus the ease of swinging it to the front for access, is one of the reasons I “upgraded”. The orientation of the strap attachment on the one end, plus having the buckle on the end of the strap instead of the middle (so that it’s not digging in when wearing with a backpack) are the main design choices that make it feasible.


82665

82666



FWIW, I've had several people comment positively on my Hill People chest bag, "That looks very convenient" sorta remarks. Very positive for rambling about town. Mine is RED! Because hiding it isn't happening. Unfortunately, getting it on and off is nothing like the convenience of a sling. It's the only thing I don't love about it.

Looks like they make a couple versions? Assuming you mean the “kit bag (https://hillpeoplegear.com/Products/CategoryID/1)”?

[RoyGBiv]

Looks like they make a couple versions? Assuming you mean the “kit bag (https://hillpeoplegear.com/Products/CategoryID/1)”?

Yes. Kit Bag.

I wish I could find that Sling 2 in a half size version.... A bit shorter and a bit less tall.

[Maple Syrup Actual]

How big of a bag are you considering?


I haven't really thought it through too much but fairly small - smaller than the HPG Kit Bag, I think, but similar: I would want it fairly flat, basically there to hold all the critical stuff from my pockets, but when I'm either carrying my kid on my shoulders, or running around in summer gear which is board shorts and t-shirts.

But my pockets are generally pretty freaking full on account of my survival-oriented semi-suburban off-grid wilderness ocean dad lifestyle.

Now that I've mentioned the kit bag twice I've gone back to look at the HPG site and I'm feeling a bit of interest in this Snubby Belt Pack:

https://hillpeoplegear.com/Products/CategoryID/1/ProductID/129

That's roughly the proportions (and actually the concept) I was thinking of, I guess.

I can't get the Aer site to load correctly and the first picture I looked at of it the Day Sling 2 made me think it was more shoebox- or tube-proportioned for some reason, and I initially discounted it, but I just went and looked at a third party review and...yeah, that looks REALLY similar to the HPG Snubby Belt Pack, actually. I think my application is similar to what Rob is describing, also, so I can see how similar products would appeal.

[RoyGBiv]

I haven't really thought it through too much but fairly small - smaller than the HPG Kit Bag, I think, but similar: I would want it fairly flat, basically there to hold all the critical stuff from my pockets, but when I'm either carrying my kid on my shoulders, or running around in summer gear which is board shorts and t-shirts.

But my pockets are generally pretty freaking full on account of my survival-oriented semi-suburban off-grid wilderness ocean dad lifestyle.

Now that I've mentioned the kit bag twice I've gone back to look at the HPG site and I'm feeling a bit of interest in this Snubby Belt Pack:

https://hillpeoplegear.com/Products/CategoryID/1/ProductID/129

That's roughly the proportions (and actually the concept) I was thinking of, I guess.

I can't get the Aer site to load correctly and the first picture I looked at of it the Day Sling 2 made me think it was more shoebox- or tube-proportioned for some reason, and I initially discounted it, but I just went and looked at a third party review and...yeah, that looks REALLY similar to the HPG Snubby Belt Pack, actually. I think my application is similar to what Rob is describing, also, so I can see how similar products would appeal.
I'm feeling a bit dumb for not looking at other bags from HPG. The Snubby looks great. Thanks!

Using their dimensions of 8.5x6x2 inches I get 102cubic inches = 1.67Liters

[Maple Syrup Actual]

I'm feeling a bit dumb for not looking at other bags from HPG. The Snubby looks great. Thanks!

Using their dimensions of 8.5x6x2 inches I get 102cubic inches = 1.67Liters

I had the exact same reaction when I went and looked at their site. How is that I liked the one bag, and didn't think to ask if they had something else that would work for this? I was actually looking at other stuff and unintentionally clicked on that snubby one and realized how similar it was to what I was hoping for. Derp.

Anyway at 122 mighty US greenbacks, or seven Frostback car payments, I'm not sure I'm going to jump on that but it's similar to what interests me, for sure.

[Maple Syrup Actual]

Oh also following that this thread popped up:

https://pistol-forum.com/showthread.php?41923-Hill-people-vs-spiritus-fanny-pack

which may contain relevant info.

[Crashpad]

I haven't really thought it through too much but fairly small - smaller than the HPG Kit Bag, I think, but similar: I would want it fairly flat, basically there to hold all the critical stuff from my pockets, but when I'm either carrying my kid on my shoulders, or running around in summer gear which is board shorts and t-shirts.

But my pockets are generally pretty freaking full on account of my survival-oriented semi-suburban off-grid wilderness ocean dad lifestyle.

Now that I've mentioned the kit bag twice I've gone back to look at the HPG site and I'm feeling a bit of interest in this Snubby Belt Pack:

https://hillpeoplegear.com/Products/CategoryID/1/ProductID/129

That's roughly the proportions (and actually the concept) I was thinking of, I guess.



I'm feeling a bit dumb for not looking at other bags from HPG. The Snubby looks great. Thanks!

Using their dimensions of 8.5x6x2 inches I get 102cubic inches = 1.67Liters

I have one of the HPG snubby belt packs. It's nice and I use it a lot when mountain biking and sometimes while paddling. I thought that I would use it for running, etc also but it's really too big for what I want or need for that. I wished that they offered a smaller version, maybe one not designed around being able to hold a G19 sized handgun. That would be great for running and beach trips, among other things.

[Savage Hands]

So seeing this thread pop up made me want to look for some newer options to the HPG small Belt Pack (Medium is being released soon btw), the HPG Runner's kit bag, Eagle fanny pack and a Maxpedition sling I currently have. I usually carry my Vertx Gamut 2.0 with me to work and if I'm dressed in basketball shorts (I'm a slob so sue me) I'll use the HPG Belt Pack like a sling to carry my G48, small folder, spare magazine, wallet and phone. The Belt Pack works ok but is not comfortable as a sling IMO, it does the job and I was going to order the new medium Belt Pack for just a hair more storage which is pretty much vaporware at this point. I want something that works well as a sling and I might have found a solution that may replace my Gamut 2.0 and HPG Belt Pack.

https://evergoods.us/collections/packs/products/mountain-hip-pack-3-5l (https://evergoods.us/collections/packs/products/mountain-hip-pack-3-5l)



https://youtu.be/b0V9rGjjYW8


https://youtu.be/JtWiGGjhgvI

At first I was thinking this bag is bigger than I wanted to replace the HPG Belt Pack, than I thought maybe it can replace my Gamut 2.0 in most cases as well. The ergonomics look excellent and I like how it curves into your body, yes I'll look like a big doofus carrying this thing but outside of annoying my wife I don't care much haha. The drop in pocket looks big enough to secure a G48, though it won't be as fast access as the HPG Belt Pack but I'm going to find out.

Here is my initial thoughts on the HPG Runner's kit bag https://pistol-forum.com/showthread.php?40344-Hill-People-Gear-Runner-Kit-Bag

[vcdgrips]

I do not need another bag...

I am ecstatic with my Black Tom Bihn Synik 30L as an EDC, my Black/Grey Tom Bihn Brain Bag (36L) as a dedicated overhead big plane travel bag, backed up my blue/grey Ebags Motherloade (45ish L) and Eagle Creek (OD) and Patagonia Black Hole (Dark Teal) duffels (40L max) for smaller overheads/underseat bags along with multiple other 10-30 L backpacks.

Having said that, I just got an email from REI re closeouts. The linked 20L Eagle Creek Bag would be ideal for low/mid frequency carry. At 25 ish (retail at 75 ish), I humbly submit it far exceeds the intersection of quality/value based on my prior experiences with Eagle Creek Products as I am a huge fan of their duffels as well as the "specter" packing cubes etc.

Presently avail in - 2 tone blue, 2 tone grey and all black. Though designated a "womens" pack, I would not let slow me down a bit if I could justify the 2 tone blue to go with my Motherloade or the black one because one can always use another black backpack....

FWIW/YMMV

https://www.rei.com/rei-garage/product/189074/eagle-creek-wayfinder-20l-pack-womens

[rob_s]

PS-Rob S/ How is the Gregory working for you as your most recent edc bag?

I kinda missed this question back in August, maybe because I am so enamored of my sling bags (which may have been what I needed all along when I started this).

The Gregory is working out great. With the addition of the sling bag, I don't need it nearly as often, but I carried it around at the Newport Folk Fest and related flights (which include a stopover "on the way home" in Chicago for a couple of days) and I was happy to have the slightly larger overall space AND the lighter overall weight. Particularly since I wound up with a leg issue that made walking... uncorfortable.

[rob_s]

Fortunately, Aer makes a Day Sling 2 (https://www.aersf.com/day-sling-2-olive) that's slightly larger, has a side buckle, and otherwise appears to be functionally about the same.

so I ordered one up in Olive and it should be here in a couple of days.


I am so enamored of my sling bags (which may have been what I needed all along when I started this).

Using the new sling this past weekend made me think of this thread.

I can’t say enough good things about it. So nice to be able to just grab that little bag, throw it over my shoulder or even stuff it in another bag and have a reasonable sense that pretty much everything I need is in there. Totally man-pursing it.

At this stage of child-rearing (they can pretty much carry their own shit) a sling bag is the answer.

My quoted comment above, however, about “may have been what I needed all along” is probably not accurate. This thread goes back 5 years now. At that time we were Disney annual pass holders, the kids weren’t really able to carry much of anything at all on their own, and I was doing a lot more Sherpa duty.

Now with one in 5th grade and one in 8th grade, the only person I’m really worried about stocking for is me (emergencies excluded) and so that makes the sling bag perfect. Tiny Leatherman, chargers & cords, etc.

I frankly realized the other day that I haven’t touched the “pack” since the slings arrived. We are going RV camping this weekend and even then I don’t think I’ll take the pack. The sling should be fine.

Flying on Tuesday, and if it wasn’t a work trip (necessitating laptop and associated bag) and if I’d already bought the iPad mini, it would probably be my only carryon. I’ll be adding zip ties to it either way ;)

[rob_s]

I can’t say enough how much I’m loving my sling(s). It wouldn’t have been the right solution for me way back when I started this thread, but today it gets 10x the use of the backpack.

This just came out, reviewing the two slings I’ve gone through (and still have) but in one generation newer in both cases than the ones I have.


https://youtu.be/mi9grJv94wY

[Erik]

Why is the sling better than a fanny pack? Size? Location? Thanks.

[RoyGBiv]

I can’t say enough how much I’m loving my sling(s). It wouldn’t have been the right solution for me way back when I started this thread, but today it gets 10x the use of the backpack.

This just came out, reviewing the two slings I’ve gone through (and still have) but in one generation newer in both cases than the ones I have.


https://youtu.be/mi9grJv94wY

That was a great video. Thanks for sharing it.
I'm on the edge of trying a DS 3. The only remaining question is how much of an impact it has on accessing a pistol carried AIWB. Any thoughts would be appreciated if you have any experience with this.

Thanks!

[rob_s]

That was a great video. Thanks for sharing it.
I'm on the edge of trying a DS 3. The only remaining question is how much of an impact it has on accessing a pistol carried AIWB. Any thoughts would be appreciated if you have any experience with this.

Thanks!

I don’t carry apendix but one issue with the day sling is that it can really only be carried in one side, meaning that for a right-handed shooter it’s going to interfere with a 4-o’clock carry when worn on the back or, likely, an appendix carry when worn on the front.

If that was a concern, I’d stick with the city sling and carry it over the opposite shoulder. It could still affect an appendix draw when carried in the front, but not quite as bad, I’d think.

[rob_s]

Been away for some time, carrying the current Aer sling almost all day for several days in a row. It’s really worked out well, and I added an iPad mini 6 to my tech tools and it fits, just barely, which made for a very pleasant flying experience.

All that said, the one thing I wish it had was bottom straps for lashing on other items. Which has me somewhat considering things bag. Wife will kill me though, she’s as tired of all of this as all of you.

It’s larger overall than my current bag as well which could be a pro/con

Chrome bag
SIZE
6.5" H | 13.25" W | 3.13" D
VOLUME
5L
WEIGHT
.77 lbs | .35 kg

Aer city sling 2

Dimensions
Length: 12.5" (32 cm)
Width: 6" (15 cm)
Depth: 3" (7.5 cm)

Volume
4.5 L

Weight
0.7 lbs

https://www.chromeindustries.com/product/mini-kadet-sling/BG-321.html


https://youtu.be/zL6BK87-KvI

[Mirolynmonbro]

I'm considering that kadet bag but I saw some videos and some complained about the lack of sternum strap on the mini. I might go with the regular sized one but it is pretty big...

The leather / green color is 🤩🤩

[Maple Syrup Actual]

I ended up using my already-available HPG kit bag...I took it on a ten day trip to Ontario through airports etc etc with all the critical stuff.

It was actually really, really handy. I thought it might cause trouble in airports for looking to military or something, but the only problem I actually had was with a totally civilian, innocuous grey shoulder bag, which I was asked to empty in front of a flight security agent.

It was a pain, because the thing was really overstuffed and I'd been in line for three hours with a two year old who was up five hours earlier than usual and they were trying to force me to make him walk the security gauntlet through the scanners alone and he was freaking out and things got hostile from there because I was about out of patience with lowly-trained idiots enforcing rules that were evidently beyond their own comprehension.

Anyway their reasoning for forcing me to empty it was "to take that case of beer out."

"You want me to remove a case of beer from this bag?"

"Yes, that's right."

"No, I can't do that. Sorry."

"If you won't, I will."

"No, you won't."

So the agent opened it up furiously and started pulling stuff out, eventually getting to a baby formula box (incidentally not all that close in proportion to a case of beer.)

"I figured you wouldn't be able to pull a case of beer out of that bag. Anything else before I tie up your table for a while repacking it?"

"You still can't have this much liquid in a carry-on," she said, holding the box.

"How much liquid is that?"

"Each bottle would have to be under 100ml and you couldn't have 12 of them."

"Fine. You want to throw away every single bottle you find in that box, or what?"

"I can throw out the entire box."

"No, I need the box and all its contents."

"I told you, you can't take this much liquid on the plane."

"I can and I will."

"Sir," she said, emphasizing each word, "you can not."

"Do you want to open the box?"

The box contained a carefully folded suit which weighed nothing even close to the equivalent amount of baby formula.

"Great work, agent. Keep those skies safe."


Usually by this point Erin is trying to make me stop talking but they made the kid cry and I am pretty sure she wanted me to make the agent cry in retaliation.

[Mirolynmonbro]

Reading that was making me mad lol

[Cookie Monster]

I ended up using my already-available HPG kit bag...I took it on a ten day trip to Ontario through airports etc etc with all the critical stuff.

It was actually really, really handy. I thought it might cause trouble in airports for looking to military or something, but the only problem I actually had was with a totally civilian, innocuous grey shoulder bag, which I was asked to empty in front of a flight security agent.

It was a pain, because the thing was really overstuffed and I'd been in line for three hours with a two year old who was up five hours earlier than usual and they were trying to force me to make him walk the security gauntlet through the scanners alone and he was freaking out and things got hostile from there because I was about out of patience with lowly-trained idiots enforcing rules that were evidently beyond their own comprehension.

Anyway their reasoning for forcing me to empty it was "to take that case of beer out."

"You want me to remove a case of beer from this bag?"

"Yes, that's right."

"No, I can't do that. Sorry."

"If you won't, I will."

"No, you won't."

So the agent opened it up furiously and started pulling stuff out, eventually getting to a baby formula box (incidentally not all that close in proportion to a case of beer.)

"I figured you wouldn't be able to pull a case of beer out of that bag. Anything else before I tie up your table for a while repacking it?"

"You still can't have this much liquid in a carry-on," she said, holding the box.

"How much liquid is that?"

"Each bottle would have to be under 100ml and you couldn't have 12 of them."

"Fine. You want to throw away every single bottle you find in that box, or what?"

"I can throw out the entire box."

"No, I need the box and all its contents."

"I told you, you can't take this much liquid on the plane."

"I can and I will."

"Sir," she said, emphasizing each word, "you can not."

"Do you want to open the box?"

The box contained a carefully folded suit which weighed nothing even close to the equivalent amount of baby formula.

"Great work, agent. Keep those skies safe."


Usually by this point Erin is trying to make me stop talking but they made the kid cry and I am pretty sure she wanted me to make the agent cry in retaliation.

I’ve seen them make a weeping mother dump out breast milk needed for her infant. We had struggles getting milk through those mofo when they had no definition of a toddler. Our autistic boy soothes with milk from a sippy cup. I have had times wanting to throat punch those mofos.

[Maple Syrup Actual]

I’ve seen them make a weeping mother dump out breast milk needed for her infant. We had struggles getting milk through those mofo when they had no definition of a toddler. Our autistic boy soothes with milk from a sippy cup. I have had times wanting to throat punch those mofos.

Yeah, there's a Ulysses S. Grant quote about nothing eroding respect for authority like enacting rules you can't enforce...but personally, I think enforcing rules you can't justify is at least as bad.

[rob_s]

Not sure how long ago the 3.0 version came out, but it’s nice to see Vertx continuing to iterate and make improvements.

I still don’t think this would work for me, personally, but I like a lot of these features. For one thing, they’ve turned the hidden pistol compartment from a uni-tasked that just added built and weight for someone that wouldn’t be putting a gun in there to something that’s more multi-tasked and has potential function for others. It now opens up Al, the way, fully flat, and I could see using that compartment for a laptop and/or iPad, myself.


https://youtu.be/EHIt8EuZSUI

[rob_s]

little bit of an update, mostly for myself…

Firstly, the sling Concept has been great. I even had occasion to bust out the backpack again a few weeks ago and really missed the simplicity of the sling. And the Aer Day Sling 2 has been really great. I think the newer3 is a little smaller and might not actually work for me if I were to buy today.

That saidkive done what women do with houses and put so much day to day stuff in there that I don't have room to carry other stuff when I need or want to. About the only thing I can feasibly cram in there now is the ipad mini, and once that's in there the whole thing gets really tight.

So I'm kinda back on the prowl, not sure if I'm willing to go larger, haven't really found the right combination of size and internal organization, wondering if I even *need* all the organization...

There's what I have in there now, by default at all times. I think mostly it's self explanatory. Everything to the left of the small zipper bag goes in that bag, then in the sling inside the interior zipper pouch.
111663

There's my current comparison chart.
111662

[breakingtime91]

At labor and delivery now, wife is due in two days but we might have a early baby this time around. Im not new to dad bags but I may steal Robs idea. That's a great sling bag for fathers!

[RoyGBiv]

At labor and delivery now, wife is due in two days but we might have a early baby this time around. Im not new to dad bags but I may steal Robs idea. That's a great sling bag for fathers!

Prayers up for smooth sailing! :cool:

[cmbarny2]

New dad here and tired of the giant bag the wife has packed to take the baby anywhere.
Looking for a small sling bag basically like the Viktos Upscale 3 sling. This is a short trip bag so looking for something for a few diapers, wipes, bottle, change of clothes, booboo kit, and a regular sized water bottle. I feel like I could make the Viktos bag work for everything short of the water bottle. Anyone have some ideas?

[rob_s]

New dad here and tired of the giant bag the wife has packed to take the baby anywhere.
Looking for a small sling bag basically like the Viktos Upscale 3 sling. This is a short trip bag so looking for something for a few diapers, wipes, bottle, change of clothes, booboo kit, and a regular sized water bottle. I feel like I could make the Viktos bag work for everything short of the water bottle. Anyone have some ideas?

I never did that level of dad-baggery, but I'd be looking at some of the larger slings like the chrome Kadet Max (15L)
https://chromeindustries.com/products/kadet-max

You might even make the OG Kadet work for you (9L)
https://chromeindustries.com/products/kadet-sling-bag

Or possibly even the Chrome Tensile (7L)
https://chromeindustries.com/products/tensile-sling-bag

Generally I haven't gotten into these bags because of the lack of interior dividers but for your use case of some bulkier items they might be just the ticket

[rob_s]

Probably had a thread elsewhere on this but this seems as good a place as any...

Still super happy with the sling option, but also still on the hunt for something slightly larger for actual travel (e.g. take it on an airplane) as the current bag can get a little stretched.

Point of this post, however, is that I'm back in the market for a work backpack. Resisted for a long time because backpacks are for kids, but they have become commonplace enough that I'm ok with it.

The company gave us branded Ogio bags so I've been testing with that. it's big, bulky, has too many pouches, it's heavy... but I'm good with the backpack at work idea now.

Been shopping a bunch of different makes and models, but haven't come up with just the right match, and at the price of some of these things it's tough to order something that might not work out.

Recently, Alpha One Niner (https://www.alphaoneniner.com/) came out with their Evade 1.5 bag (https://www.alphaoneniner.com/collections/bags-cases/products/alpha-one-niner-evade-1-5-backpack?variant=44415940165861). I think I bought one of the earlier versions and, for the "dad bag" use where it was getting carried a lot, it was just too heavy, and the dedicated pistol pouch added weight and bulk I didn't need or want. The 1.5 is still a little heavy at 3.3 lbs for the 500D model (coming from my old shoulder bag at 2.6 lbs and a few of the other bags I'm considering at ~2.5 lbs), but I think it'll carry better than the Ogio I'm testing with now.

One thing that I like in a work bag is a lot of internal partitioning, and the 1.5 has a little of that off the bat but also allows for a lot more with the addition of their velcro organizers (https://www.alphaoneniner.com/products/organizers-hook-back?pr_prod_strat=jac&pr_rec_id=29529fec7&pr_rec_pid=1933925875825&pr_ref_pid=8407182803173&pr_seq=uniform). yes, it adds even more weight, but it adds 8-9 more pouches. I also like that the bag has a water bottle pocket and two compression straps.

I've also toyed with a divided accessor pouch to toss into the bag, which seems like the more popular option on YouTube these days. Still, I dislike having to open a zipper, pull out a pouch, and open another zipper, maybe even a third zipper, to get to what I want. I like just reaching into my bag and pulling out what I need after opening one or maybe two zippers.

the one thing that has me close to changing my mind on the accessory pouch idea is the Evergoods CIVIC ACCESS POUCH 2L (https://evergoods.us/collections/pouches/products/civic-access-pouch-2l) which you can plop down on the desk, open up, and have access to all your stuff in one place.

Evergoods also sells a bag, the Civic Panel Loader 24 (https://evergoods.us/products/civic-panel-loader-24l), that's #2 or 3 or my list of possibles. A little lighter than the Evade at 3.1 lbs, and a little more offic-y looking IMO, but also goddamn expensive at $280. lacks compression straps and an external water bottle pocket (which I like mostly as a quick stash pocket for an umbrella, etc.).

In case anyone is surprised, the comparison chart of bags (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1qQJUq1G7Nr-kV5aq8Z508ycZSk173gntdovw5W3F3eg/edit?usp=sharing) has gotten completely out of hand...


Evade 1.5
117335 117336


Civic Panel Loader 24
117334 117337


Civic Access Pouch 2L
117338 117333

[vcdgrips]

Rob S -

A quick review of this thread and re reads of my posts at 131, 211 and 217 still has me recommending something in the 20Lish to 30Lish range by Osprey at sub 100USD or a Tom Bihn Synik 22/30.

While I acknowledge the temptation to go smaller as you like to use your sling bag, I am a huge proponent of going bigger so long as the bigger bag does not size you out of a commonly used storage space i.e. under seat/over head on an airplane.

The TB 30 will fit in any jet overhead and will fit the vast majority of the time under seat so long as it is not packed out 100+% and you are not in a funky one off row with a weird box sticking up out of the floor.

The Synik has a built in padded laptop area, comes with a frame sheet that takes some weight off the back and has a pass thru slot so it fits on the handle of a pull suitcase i.e. checked bag.

I sold multiple bags and bric a brac in 2021 to fully fund an S30, a Freudian Slip and various org pouches from Tom Bihn. The stuff is not cheap. It is sewn in the USA with Tier 1 materials and it simply works and works well. I use the bag 5 +days a week with no appreciable wear. The clamshell zipper has NEVER come open unintentionally.

Multiple car and airline trips to NYC/OKC/STL and Europe keep me convinced that the brand/bag is superlative.

FWIW/YMMV Greatly

[Savage Hands]

I've used various Vertx bags over the years and after running around Shot Show with my Gamut 2.0 (26L) I decided I needed something smaller, lighter and more breathable.

I ran across some videos from Evergoods, these guys are true nerds (in a good way) when it comes to bags and storage items. From the materials to their design they sold me.
I decided to grab their 20L Panel Loader Classic 20L, Civic Access Pouch 2L and Civic Access Pouch 1L for more organazation.

Wow! With my typical loadout it weighs as much as my Gamut 2.0 empty, I'll weigh them again when I get a chance but they were very close in weight.

Materials are top notch and have a lifetime warranty from Evergoods, I've had one of my Vertx Gamuts break a zipper after the 2 year warranty which isn't a huge deal but annoying.

Both Civic Access Pouches are extremely useful, the 2.0 has all my charging equipment, medicine, batteries, a leatherman etc... The 1.0 has some pokey equipment and spare mags, I have it in green at the bottom of my bag that can easily be removed if going in NPE.

My organization level is much better overall and when I need a bigger bag eventually, I will be looking towards Evergoods first.


https://evergoods.us/products/panel-loader-classic-20l

https://evergoods.us/cdn/shop/files/PANEL-LOADER-CLASSIC-PLC20-SOLUTION-DYED-BLACK-QUARTERPROFILE-min_1_5000x.png?v=1708468377



https://evergoods.us/collections/pouches/products/civic-access-pouch-2l

https://evergoods.us/cdn/shop/files/CIVIC-ACCESS-POUCH-2L-COYOTE-BROWN-CAP2-DESK-CADDY-min_5000x.jpg?v=1710958584



https://evergoods.us/collections/pouches/products/civic-access-pouch-1l

https://evergoods.us/cdn/shop/products/CIVIC-ACCESS-POUCH-1L-BLACK-CAP1-OPEN-min_5000x.jpg?v=1710958530

[theJanitor]

Any way of attaching a wrist strap on the civic 2L? I've been looking pretty hard for a pouch I can hand carry. I'm looking to put a simple med/trauma kit, a battery pack, and other small daily things. I prefer slings over backpacks for their ease of use, and the ability to get them off my back and onto my chest when catching a cab, etc. But I found on this last vacation, I just wanted a 2-3L pouch with a wrist strap.

[PNWTO]

Any way of attaching a wrist strap on the civic 2L? I've been looking pretty hard for a pouch I can hand carry. I'm looking to put a simple med/trauma kit, a battery pack, and other small daily things. I prefer slings over backpacks for their ease of use, and the ability to get them off my back and onto my chest when catching a cab, etc. But I found on this last vacation, I just wanted a 2-3L pouch with a wrist strap.

Looks like it has molle along the top, so limitless options.

I would go for a DSLR sling to play up the “svelte vacay” vibe.

https://alpakagear.com/products/pro-strap?variant=41615240233122&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjww_iwBhApEiwAuG6ccMSpSQ2WXHvsed0qfgGu fhj8DZuCAbW4jkdWJOrMv59DFKsxMa5N_xoChJ8QAvD_BwE

Edit: FWIW, I really like the Alpaka sling bags, no experience with their packs.

[theJanitor]

Looks like it has molle along the top, so limitless options.

I would go for a DSLR sling to play up the “svelte vacay” vibe.

https://alpakagear.com/products/pro-strap?variant=41615240233122&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjww_iwBhApEiwAuG6ccMSpSQ2WXHvsed0qfgGu fhj8DZuCAbW4jkdWJOrMv59DFKsxMa5N_xoChJ8QAvD_BwE

I've got two alpaca slings, and two chrome messengers. The large alpaka is too heavy for the volume it carries, and the padded shoulder part sits on my collarbone wrong. the Chrome automotive buckle does the same. It's like the chrome ones are built for skinny metro kids.

I just watched the video for the 1L and I think I'm gonna order that first, and see if I can fit what I need in there.

[rob_s]

Any way of attaching a wrist strap on the civic 2L? I've been looking pretty hard for a pouch I can hand carry. I'm looking to put a simple med/trauma kit, a battery pack, and other small daily things. I prefer slings over backpacks for their ease of use, and the ability to get them off my back and onto my chest when catching a cab, etc. But I found on this last vacation, I just wanted a 2-3L pouch with a wrist strap.

I believe there is a picture somewhere of someone carrying it by the top strap.

117358

[PNWTO]

I've got two alpaca slings…

I like their little slings but I’ve sold them off or given them away since going anywhere with a 3yo and a 1yo makes them irrelevant. The nerve issues in my shoulder also means that any sling load compressing that side translates into redlining Tylenol if it is above a very light load.

I like the looks of the Evergood bag but my 2019 GR2 doesn’t seem like it will give up the ghost anytime soon. But it does work well enough for the toddler load out.

Probably way too outdoorsy for this thread but I love the MountainSmith lumbar bags for bumming around. The belt stows pretty nicely.

[theJanitor]

Luckily my kid can carry his own bag. He prefers the alpaka with the unpadded strap. The pad gave me shoulder aches on our last vacation

117361

[rob_s]

I've got two alpaca slings, and two chrome messengers. The large alpaka is too heavy for the volume it carries, and the padded shoulder part sits on my collarbone wrong. the Chrome automotive buckle does the same. It's like the chrome ones are built for skinny metro kids.

I just watched the video for the 1L and I think I'm gonna order that first, and see if I can fit what I need in there.

this one is starting to look like the Goldilocks for my "larger" wants.

https://alpakagear.com/products/bravo-sling-mini-v2?variant=43632175382690

[theJanitor]

this one is starting to look like the Goldilocks for my "larger" wants.

https://alpakagear.com/products/bravo-sling-mini-v2?variant=43632175382690

EDIT: my son uses the X sling v2, not the mini

And I'm gonna order that civic 1L for sure. this lady configured it exactly how i want to. I think med items, passport, and some power supply stuff would work perfectly in there. and it won't be so big that I pack up the kitchen sink. It'll be small enough that I can take it to a restaurant, and secure enough to hold onto the bars on a subway car, or hold onto my kid, and not lose it

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i2eSG5uifjk

[Savage Hands]

Any way of attaching a wrist strap on the civic 2L? I've been looking pretty hard for a pouch I can hand carry. I'm looking to put a simple med/trauma kit, a battery pack, and other small daily things. I prefer slings over backpacks for their ease of use, and the ability to get them off my back and onto my chest when catching a cab, etc. But I found on this last vacation, I just wanted a 2-3L pouch with a wrist strap.

Yes as answered earlier there is a little handle you can attach a strap too :)

[Savage Hands]

I forgot that I have the Element Drop in as well https://evergoods.us/products/element-drop-in

I figured why not? Having a little extra water resistance in a sleeve that doesn't take up much room and weighs nothing. So far I've used it once to protect my Marriage Certificate when I surprised my wife with a recommitment at the same chapel at The National Lampoon's Vegas Vacation haha


AN RF-WELDED AND BONDED POUCH, DESIGNED FOR LIMITLESS CARRY VERSATILITY IN A WATERPROOF PACKAGE.
Minimalist yet substantial, utilitarian but still elegant; the ELEMENT Drop In is an essential weatherproof tool in your carry arsenal. Backed by 3+ years of internal R&D efforts, EDI is constructed using radio frequency welding and flat bonding techniques. This is made possible by a custom-developed solution-dyed black textile with a TPU laminate and kiss-coated face. Despite its slim appearance, our signature 3D patterning, mobile dividers, and drop-in slots allow EDI to flex to hold a myriad of everyday and travel loadouts: travel essentials to tech items to even camera kits.


EDI is the first product in our emerging ELEMENT line; a line of EVERGOODS performance equipment comprised of advanced technical construction, innovative manufacturing, and premium textiles.

https://evergoods.us/cdn/shop/files/ELEMENT-DROP-IN-EDI-ZIPPER-WATERPROOF-POUCH-CAMERA-POUCH-min_5000x.jpg?v=1700016874

[javemtr]

Is it simply Evergood's version of the Magpul DAKA pouches or does it offer significantly more capabilities?

[rob_s]

Is it simply Evergood's version of the Magpul DAKA pouches or does it offer significantly more capabilities?

That’s an interesting question that hadn’t occurred to me.

One difference, from the Evergoods website:
Center divider contains two (2) 4" wide drop-in slots for EDC items and one (1) 1.25" pen/pencil drop-in slot.

Also FWIW

Evergoods
– Weight: 6.85oz
– Dimensions: 13.25" x 8.38" in
– Zipper opening: 10.5"


Magpul
Zipper length 10 in.
External height 9 in.
External width 13 in.
Weight: 41 grams (1.44 oz)

[rob_s]

On the subject of wanting a sling that’s larger than my current Aer..

Below is the current sling comparison.

I ordered, and returned, the Chrome Tensile prior to a recent trip to try it as an airplane bag. It proved to be Too floppy, with no iPad slot, and not enough internal storage.

The use-case for this bag is the “personal item” (ignoring how out of hand and lax that has gotten lately…) that can fit under the seat in front of me while leaving room for my feet at 6’-1”, carries all my normal sling bag kit, plus an iPad (mini at least) as well as the over-ear headphones. I’m toying with whether or not it should also have room for a pullover or a lightweight change of clothes for certain applications. Would also be nice to have something a little larger when I’m attending conferences (as I happen to be right now, so that and the flight to get here are top of mind at the moment).

Really wanting that Chrome Kadet Max…*

ETA: based on this video (https://youtu.be/cSlLzAzdEjg?si=iTrP22awm_fscnM9) it seems like it may be too large for the under-seat option, but it also looks like my Lenovo work laptop would fit in it (mine looks a lot like his). This has me thinking of categorizing the slings based on a size hierarchy

Fits Laptop
Fits full-size iPad
Fits iPad Mini
smaller than iPad Mini

On that note, there are quite a few bags that are within a hair of fitting the mini, but just barely won't. Even my Aer has a new version out that's slightly smaller which means it wouldn't fit (mine has to kind of stretch to fit). Kind of a shame.

117380

[Savage Hands]

Is it simply Evergood's version of the Magpul DAKA pouches or does it offer significantly more capabilities?

Looking up the Magpul Daka, it looks very similar in function.

[vcdgrips]

On first blush, the evergood looks to be a bit more “waterproof” To me, it does not look 3x+ more water proof given the price differences. Obviously a little side by side with the DAKA stuff in the sink/pool/shower would sort that out rather quickly.

Moreover, if I really wanted something to stay dry, I would never rely on anything with a just a zipper. I would be adding a zip lock or a compactor or a dry bag of some sort to the mix depending what the item was and what were the stakes involved ie. When hiking Philmont, my sleep system was in a “dry” compression bag, inside a trash compactor bag, inside the pack itself that may have had a rain cover deployed. I was going to and always slept warm and dry.


Evergoods stuff looks to be well designed with an interesting USA based origin story. They certainly want to give you the impression that they sew in Bozeman MT.

Multiple sources say they sew in Vietnam. A little transparency on the issue would be appreciated.

[Savage Hands]

On first blush, the evergood looks to be a bit more “waterproof” To me, it does not look 3x+ more water proof given the price differences. Obviously a little side by side with the DAKA stuff in the sink/pool/shower would sort that out rather quickly.

Moreover, if I really wanted something to stay dry, I would never rely on anything with a just a zipper. I would be adding a zip lock or a compactor or a dry bag of some sort to the mix depending what the item was and what were the stakes involved ie. When hiking Philmont, my sleep system was in a “dry” compression bag, inside a trash compactor bag, inside the pack itself that may have had a rain cover deployed. I was going to and always slept warm and dry.


Evergoods stuff looks to be well designed with an interesting USA based origin story. They certainly want to give you the impression that they sew in Bozeman MT.

Multiple sources say they sew in Vietnam. A little transparency on the issue would be appreciated.


117383

Here is the tag on mine, I believe it is sewn in Vietnam from what I gathered around the net. They were made here until about 7 years ago: https://www.reddit.com/r/EVERGOODS/comments/6xi7ry/manufacturing_is_moving_overseas/

This doesn't change my opinion on their products if their quality continues like what I have. "But" whenever I can buy a similar product that is a little more and not made in China, I will do so.

My Vertx Polo I'm wearing was made in the Honduras :)

[Savage Hands]

I took some quick pics of how I typically set up my EDC Bag when I go to the office, Evergoods Panel Loader Classic 20L and their pouches.

117384
117385
117386
117387
117388
117389
117390
117391
117392
117393

117394
117395
117396

117397
117398

[theJanitor]

I have half a dozen of the large DAKA's. I use them for everything, from document storage to pistol and electronic pouches. MAGPUL says their current DAKAs are waterproof. I think first generation ones were considered water resistant

[Savage Hands]

I have half a dozen of the large DAKA's. I use them for everything, from document storage to pistol and electronic pouches. MAGPUL says their current DAKAs are waterproof. I think first generation ones were considered water resistant


I had no idea all these DAKA options existed, I'll be picking some up!

[rob_s]

I took some quick pics of how I typically set up my EDC Bag when I go to the office, Evergoods [COLOR=#3A3A3A]Panel Loader Classic 20L and their pouches.


Other than not having the external access for the laptop that looks like it could work really well for me, so I think that's moved the CPL 24 to the top of my list.

Now the dilemma of black that goes with everything, or tan for that less professional look... :D

[theJanitor]

I just ordered the 1L in the ECOPAK material. man, they're proud of this pouch

[rob_s]

I just ordered the 1L in the ECOPAK material. man, they're proud of this pouch

out of curiosity, what made you go ecopack? Just wanted the blue, or something else?

[theJanitor]

out of curiosity, what made you go ecopack? Just wanted the blue, or something else?

I got black, as I want to take this into nicer establishments.

I like the surface finish of the eco pack type materials. They don’t show scuffs as easy, and don’t pick up lint too.

[rob_s]

On the subject of wanting a sling that’s larger than my current Aer..

The use-case for this bag is the “personal item” (ignoring how out of hand and lax that has gotten lately…) that can fit under the seat in front of me while leaving room for my feet at 6’-1”, carries all my normal sling bag kit, plus an iPad (mini at least) as well as the over-ear headphones. I’m toying with whether or not it should also have room for a pullover or a lightweight change of clothes for certain applications. Would also be nice to have something a little larger when I’m attending conferences (as I happen to be right now, so that and the flight to get here are top of mind at the moment).



I'm really feeling the need for that slightly larger sling that holds at least a change of clothes but still fits under the seat right now.

The conference I'm at has an after-event pickleball thing. Shots and t-shirts are the norm. I'm not playing, but still outside. What I'd *like* to do is make an appearance there and then dip out to a nice bar for a cigar, but I will currently have to come back to the hotel for a change of clothes first.

[rob_s]

For the growing squad of evergoods fanbois…

https://www.instagram.com/evergoods_/

117630

[rob_s]

For the growing squad of evergoods fanbois…

https://www.instagram.com/evergoods_/

117630



CIVIC ACCESS POUCH 0.5L (https://evergoods.us/collections/pouches/products/civic-access-pouch-0-5l)


117666

117665

[rob_s]

sooooo close to pulling the trigger on this, but goddamn... ouch

117667

[vcdgrips]

Evergoods looks to be quality gear as I posted before. There is a certain value to buying a brand centric integrated system of edc.

An Alterative- Similar functions as the Rob S product suite. Different aesthetic. Made in the USA and 100.00ish cheaper. All from Tom Bihn. Multiple other combinations available
117677

[rob_s]

CIVIC ACCESS POUCH 0.5L (https://evergoods.us/collections/pouches/products/civic-access-pouch-0-5l)


117666

117665


https://youtu.be/WES3Aidx1oM?si=8rfG1QfcKsRwI4Cq

[rob_s]

The orange pouches became available and by resistance Kolter!

I missed out on the first run of 0.5 but I can always pick one of those up later I hope.

117954

[Spectre3]

I've been looking for a more normie looking replacement for my trusty Camelbak Linchpin for some time now and I'm seriously considering the NoSurrenderGear Paradigm.

https://www.nosurrendergear.com/products/paradigm-pack?variant=40216619384898

I haven't been able to find any reviews on it aside from a few comments on reddit where it was recommended, but the people that have it are all using it for everything from skiing to commuting and none of them have come up with any complaints or issues when I've asked.

It's design is well thought out to be adaptable to just about anything you would use a pack this size for. I like that it has a removable hip belt and the shoulder straps are designed in such a way that they'd have better airflow than the Mystery Ranch bags I've been using for over a decade.

Also, not that I'm advocating off-body carry, but the laptop sleeve is flannel lined and can be accessed externally.

Assuming this is the bag I end up with, I'll probably be removing the little gas mask dude that is their company logo.

[CS Tactical]

The orange pouches became available and by resistance Kolter!

I missed out on the first run of 0.5 but I can always pick one of those up later I hope.

117954



I like that Orange! Since my wife and I are taking 2-4 day trips to our up and coming new home state, I'm debating on the CTB 26L and 35L which are supposed to be carry on friendly.
https://evergoods.us/products/civic-travel-bag-26l
https://evergoods.us/collections/backpacks/products/civic-travel-bag-35l

Also a Transit Packing Cube or two: https://evergoods.us/products/transit-packing-cube-8l

[rob_s]

I like that Orange!

yeah I think it'll be nice to have the orange inside the bag and be kind of a fun "pop" to whip out at meetings haha. :D

[vcdgrips]

CST:

The 26 will fit in any commercial overhead and under seat. The 36 will fit in the overhead and under seat so long as not stuffed to the gills.

Historically, I have been a huge believer in getting the bigger bag because 10L more is 10L more so long as it does not size you out of your common use case ie. Overhead, Underseat or Locker, as applicable.

This Osprey bag is on sale at 70USD ( rust/green/bright blue) marked down from 150+. It admittedly is not nearly as well organized such that it is not the EDC bag of choice.
For a travel bag, particularly if you use packing cubes/stuff sacks/organizers, it represents great value/function etc with a best in class warranty.

https://www.osprey.com/heritage-scarab-30-ohscarab-366#color=Blueberry

https://www.osprey.com/customer-support/all-mighty-guarantee

[CS Tactical]

CST:

The 26 will fit in any commercial overhead and under seat. The 36 will fit in the overhead and under seat so long as not stuffed to the gills.

Historically, I have been a huge believer in getting the bigger bag because 10L more is 10L more so long as it does not size you out of your common use case ie. Overhead, Underseat or Locker, as applicable.

This Osprey bag is on sale at 70USD ( rust/green/bright blue) marked down from 150+. It admittedly is not nearly as well organized such that it is not the EDC bag of choice.
For a travel bag, particularly if you use packing cubes/stuff sacks/organizers, it represents great value/function etc with a best in class warranty.

https://www.osprey.com/heritage-scarab-30-ohscarab-366#color=Blueberry

https://www.osprey.com/customer-support/all-mighty-guarantee


I bought an Osprey bag for my wife that she does not like for whatever reason, but she loves the Evergoods backpack and pouches I bought recently :o


Women! Haha

[theJanitor]

yeah I think it'll be nice to have the orange inside the bag and be kind of a fun "pop" to whip out at meetings haha. :D

Looks like they used to have a green set with orange on the inside. I def would have got one of those

[Doc_Glock]

I've been looking for a more normie looking replacement for my trusty Camelbak Linchpin

I happily rocked a Linchpin for many years. Great bag.

[Savage Hands]

Looks like they used to have a green set with orange on the inside. I def would have got one of those



I have a CAP 1 in that color :)

[Spectre3]

I happily rocked a Linchpin for many years. Great bag.

I love my Linchpin. However, I've been out of the army for over a decade and out of LE for almost 2 years and I'd like to just look normal. The Linchpin doesn't have any molle, but even in the grey looking foliage color it's obviously a "tactical" pack. The giant embroidered skull logo doesn't help.

If they'd bring it back in more normal looking colors without the embroidery and elastic Nalgene compatible pockets on the sides in place of the mag pouches, I'd be all over it.

[rob_s]

Looks like they used to have a green set with orange on the inside. I def would have got one of those

Never occurred to me to try and shop 3rd party

Goddamnit

https://storminggravity.com/en-us/products/evergoods-civic-access-pouch

[rob_s]

looks like maybe I had my bag chart as private. hopefully this link works as a public view-only version.
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1qQJUq1G7Nr-kV5aq8Z508ycZSk173gntdovw5W3F3eg/edit?usp=sharing

[mattm]

I'll join the commentary on EDC bags for "dad needs" - Attending a million different sporting events, gatherings, events etc I find myself needing such a "dad bag" that can schlep a small mac book, phone, cables, light wind jacket (always have this with you!) and depending on location, carry items from XMacro down to some pepper spray etc. Randomly, I was given a backpack for some volunteering coaching I was doing for one of my kids teams and it's become my GO TO for all things carry.

https://www.nike.com/t/brasilia-95-training-backpack-medium-24l-zz5tL7/DH7709-010

This Nike bag is laid out in what seems to be the go-to setup (very similar looking to the Alpha One Evade) with Two Main pockets - The rear laptop sleeve and front misc pocket along with smaller sunglasses pocket (soft lining) and side pockets for bottle and zip closed mesh. The materials are NOT up to high end standards eg VX fabric and YKK and it lacks niceties like a sternum strap but for sub $50 it hits a LOT of wins for me. It can haul all the smaller EDC stuff, the soft pocket is great for power packs or sunglasses and the two MAIN pockets are split nicely volume wise (often the laptop sleeve is too small so it ONLY takes laptop).

The main thing is it is BORING. Just a plain Navy NIKE bag. I live in a state where a LOT of the population probably can pick out VERTX, Sitka, Eberlestock etc so in areas where low pro or NPE comes up, this wins every time. The 24L size is ideal for most needs (They do have a 30L size as well). The Alpha One Evade 1.5 in VX42 is a wish list item for sure but man, $255 is a LOT for a school bag... YMMV

[rob_s]

The orange pouches became available and by resistance Kolter!

I missed out on the first run of 0.5 but I can always pick one of those up later I hope.

117954

Arrived today and the orange is actually way cooler than I expected. I thought it would be more like a super-bright hunter orange but it's almost like an... orange drab?

Very neat!

[rob_s]

Got everything moved over, but haven't carried with the new bag yet.

Still not sure how I'll like going from carrying everything in sub-pockets within the bag vs carrying one sub-bag with sub pockets within the bag.

I was working from a hotel last week and thought of this as I was reaching behind me to pull individual items out of the larger bag and wishing I had a single desk-caddie to place on the desk with everything I need, but then noticing that I really didn't have any room on the tiny hotel desk anyway...

One other possibly hiccup... the laptop fits but JUST barely. Like as in, had to move my USB mouse receiver from the side of the laptop to the back to get it to fit.

As of yet, I haven't figured out where to stash the iPad either. the laptop compartment has a divider but not sure that's the right answer.

Oh and the 1L pouch is totally empty.

[rob_s]

The orange pouches became available and by resistance Kolter!

I missed out on the first run of 0.5 but I can always pick one of those up later I hope.

117954


Got everything moved over, but haven't carried with the new bag yet.

Still not sure how I'll like going from carrying everything in sub-pockets within the bag vs carrying one sub-bag with sub pockets within the bag.

I was working from a hotel last week and thought of this as I was reaching behind me to pull individual items out of the larger bag and wishing I had a single desk-caddie to place on the desk with everything I need, but then noticing that I really didn't have any room on the tiny hotel desk anyway...

One other possibly hiccup... the laptop fits but JUST barely. Like as in, had to move my USB mouse receiver from the side of the laptop to the back to get it to fit.

As of yet, I haven't figured out where to stash the iPad either. the laptop compartment has a divider but not sure that's the right answer.

Oh and the 1L pouch is totally empty.

Carried it home and back last night. Definitely way better carrying than my "free" work company-branded Ogio backpack.

Got the laptop in on the way out the door, and out again this morning. Remains to be seen if the tight fit becomes an issue.

Besides the zipper opening size being only a scosh larger than the laptop itself, I'm also noticing the overall bag width is just barely bigger than the laptop width of about 10.25-10.5", which is also making is sit/carry a little oddly.
- Dimensions: 18 x 7 x 11.5in

[vcdgrips]

MattM

That Nike bag is the kind of bag that will bust a seam or have a zipper problem at precisely the wrong time. Not a fan at all.

There are many bags that shoot the gap between 47.99 and 247.99 Opsrey generally and particularly when on sale comes screaming to mind. The Osprey website and Sierra Trading Post are two places I look along with REI for decent packs on sale, Osprey and otherwise.

That Nike bag (and bags like it) at 47.99 retail is often found at TJ Maxx, Marshall's, etc for 29.99 as last season's black/blue sports bag.

If price is really driving the train, vintage bags sewn in the USA with YKK zips and Cordura are often sub 10.00 at thrift store. A soak in the tub with some dawn dish soap/rinse and line dry and you are good to go.

[mattm]

Agree with everything below. Zippers are a noted weakness (seams not as much but certainly not on par with noted brands). I've got a massive collection of TNF, Osprey, BD REI level stuff and even some burly canyoneering stuff that all fits the bill as well. The Nike bag serves a specific, very low profile need as the events this goes is AWASH in similar Adidas, Nike, UA stuff. There are also numerous other VERY similar layouts one can find in the ~25L range. Extremely rapid deployment isn't the goal here so some zipper "risk" is deemed ok. I'd swap out to my TNF 30L travel setup with much higher quality YKK if I anticipated long carries or higher levels of abuse.

I will say, knowing the industry a bit, $250 for a 25l bookbag is a bridge too far for me as you gain almost nothing over a $130 Osprey beyond niche sew shop claims.

MattM

That Nike bag is the kind of bag that will bust a seam or have a zipper problem at precisely the wrong time. Not a fan at all.

There are many bags that shoot the gap between 47.99 and 247.99 Opsrey generally and particularly when on sale comes screaming to mind. The Osprey website and Sierra Trading Post are two places I look along with REI for decent packs on sale, Osprey and otherwise.

That Nike bag (and bags like it) at 47.99 retail is often found at TJ Maxx, Marshall's, etc for 29.99 as last season's black/blue sports bag.

If price is really driving the train, vintage bags sewn in the USA with YKK zips and Cordura are often sub 10.00 at thrift store. A soak in the tub with some dawn dish soap/rinse and line dry and you are good to go.

[vcdgrips]

If one was considering a gray Tom Bihn Synapse 25 and thought that 169.00 USD shipped from the USA
was a good price for a lightly used one on the bay, one might get on and check it out. Retail is 250 plus shipping

No relation or knowledge re seller at all-I just saw the listing and thought it notable.

[rob_s]

I will say, knowing the industry a bit, $250 for a 25l bookbag is a bridge too far for me as you gain almost nothing over a $130 Osprey beyond niche sew shop claims.

Maybe I don’t know the industry as well, but I think that statement depends on perspective.

If all you’re worried about paying extra for is burlier material, another line of stitching, and general durability, maybe you’re right.

But for me, what sets a lot of these niche bag makers apart is the design itself and the unique approach to pouches, zipper placement, overall aesthetic, modular systems, etc.

If I thought there was an Osprey that combined those things the way I wanted them combined, I’d have been happy to save myself $100+. My “dad bag” before the sling (which I still have but rarely use now) is an Osprey, but after a ton of youtubing etc. what I arrived at was that the bag that “does it” for me is (unfortunately, I guess) the one that cost me near $500 with accessories.

[rob_s]

The orange pouches became available and by resistance Kolter!

I missed out on the first run of 0.5 but I can always pick one of those up later I hope.

117954



Still not sure how I'll like going from carrying everything in sub-pockets within the bag vs carrying one sub-bag with sub pockets within the bag.

I was working from a hotel last week and thought of this as I was reaching behind me to pull individual items out of the larger bag and wishing I had a single desk-caddie to place on the desk with everything I need, but then noticing that I really didn't have any room on the tiny hotel desk anyway...

Oh and the 1L pouch is totally empty.

Last Friday I was WFH and stumbled on a realization that even my relatively-massive power supply for my laptop appears to fit in the larger pouch, along with all of my “use computer at desk” equipment like external mic, external HD, mouse, etc.

I’m going to experiment with moving all of the ancillary stuff like charging cables, etc over the the smaller 1L pouch under th notion that the larger pouch would be deployed when setting up the computer and the smaller pouch deployed for connecting things to it for longer periods, as well as strictly charging devices.

I think that combo will result in the ability to only have to deploy one pouch or the other or both but not always having to deploy two pouches.

Yes, this is way down the rabbit hole, but I am one of those people that gets an imense amount of joy at discovering I’ve figured out a good “tool” workflow. The first time I grabbed my drill off the tool wall in my workshop I was giddy for days.

[Spectre3]

I know my comment was barely a blip on the radar in this thread, but I reached out to NoSurrenderGear to ask some clarifying questions and after some helpful back and forth, they gave me a pretty significant discount in exchange for my feedback. I'll probably go further than that and make a full-blown review since there's so little info out there about their packs.

I'm taking a trip to DC for a few days in July with the wife and 4 yr old so it'll be a good chance to evaluate how it performs as a "dad bag" and how comfortable it is in hot weather.

[rob_s]

well son of a bitch.


CIVIC TRAVEL BAG 20L (https://evergoods.us/products/civic-travel-bag-20l?utm_source=Klaviyo&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=06.10.24%20CTB20%20LAUNCH&utm_id=01HZK8ABY868BAYAZDAJX3PT7E&_kx=hMveZ-l5sa8nF0VS6Kx2ssWaUwz-OBTzUelc5CzNMZ4B1K6agTBEEIfwS_3IrbPA.SEFCtv)

119749

119750



https://youtu.be/zX4irQOoKQM?si=LDp0HAIPrJ8aGLRw

[rob_s]

sooooo close to pulling the trigger on this, but goddamn... ouch

117667


Carried it home and back last night. Definitely way better carrying than my "free" work company-branded Ogio backpack.

Got the laptop in on the way out the door, and out again this morning. Remains to be seen if the tight fit becomes an issue.

Besides the zipper opening size being only a scosh larger than the laptop itself, I'm also noticing the overall bag width is just barely bigger than the laptop width of about 10.25-10.5", which is also making is sit/carry a little oddly.
- Dimensions: 18 x 7 x 11.5in

still finding the CPL a *little* too small.

I'm considering the CTB 26 as a replacement already. It's 1" taller, 0.5" wider, and 1" deeper. 4 oz heavier, but still more volume:weight efficient. It also adds water bottle pockets which, for the way I generally carry, is great as it puts the umbrella I EDC in SEFL on the outside of the bag for accessibility as well as helps avoid those "what the hell, I could have sworn the umbrella was in here yesterday!" moments.

In the pics, it just *looks* so much bulkier. If it only had factory cinch straps I could at least clamp it down when I wasn't packing it out.

CTB26 (https://evergoods.us/collections/backpacks/products/civic-travel-bag-26l) | CPL 24 (https://evergoods.us/collections/backpacks/products/civic-panel-loader-24l)

120916

[Cool Breeze]

rob_s - in this extensive search, have you found any packs that stand up on their own? My vertx edc pack falls over and it drives me nuts. I hate having to have to lean my pack up against something in order for it to stand up properly. Apparently, not many packs do this (at least in my search).

[Cool Breeze]

rob_s - in this extensive search, have you found any packs that stand up on their own? My vertx edc pack falls over and it drives me nuts. I hate having to have to lean my pack up against something in order for it to stand up properly. Apparently, not many packs do this (at least in my search).

[rob_s]

rob_s - in this extensive search, have you found any packs that stand up on their own? My vertx edc pack falls over and it drives me nuts. I hate having to have to lean my pack up against something in order for it to stand up properly. Apparently, not many packs do this (at least in my search).

I know that it comes up fairly frequently in a lot of the review videos that I watch, and it was or even is certainly part of my criteria as well. I kind of gave up on it as I found that in actual practice a bag that stands up just fine when empty or on a video up toppling over but I load it up my way.

[ubervic]

I have not read thru the entire thread. It's very possible I'm repeating another's recommendation.

Check out Pakt. I've used the Pakt One Travel Duffle (35L) on several international trips up to 11 days at a time. Love it. Roomy enough to carry just about all I need for a week-long (or longer) trip; small/soft enough to fit into small overhead bins; designed to make all items easy to pack as well as access; sturdy & durable materials.

Not suggesting you select that bag, of course; just sharing my experience based on how well designed their gear is.

Their Everyday 15L Bag may suit you: https://paktbags.com/products/everyday-15l

[rob_s]

I have not read thru the entire thread. It's very possible I'm repeating another's recommendation.

Check out Pakt. I've used the Pakt One Travel Duffle (35L) on several international trips up to 11 days at a time. Love it. Roomy enough to carry just about all I need for a week-long (or longer) trip; small/soft enough to fit into small overhead bins; designed to make all items easy to pack as well as access; sturdy & durable materials.

Not suggesting you select that bag, of course; just sharing my experience based on how well designed their gear is.

Their Everyday 15L Bag may suit you: https://paktbags.com/products/everyday-15l

Their everyday 22 (https://paktbags.com/products/everyday-22l-backpack?variant=44304768336110) was very near the top of my list despite being listed as a 22 its about the same overall size as the Evergoods that I bought, while also being significantly lighter.

I was so sure iw as going to get the apakt that I even bought a couple of their clip-in accessory pouches (https://paktbags.com/products/accessory-pouches).

How the everyday 22 stacks up to the evergoods bags.
121279

[rob_s]

As usual, wrapping up a trip has me thinking about my gear.

I think I want to explore the larger sling options out there. Something that I could carry a lightweight lair of pants, and button down shit, and underpants. Uber minimalist but also “hey they lost my luggage” emergency kit.

Having it also have a skish more room for adding things I pick up along the way, or want to pack as a one-off when walking about destination (like, say, a beer, or a light jacket smashed down…)

I'm guessing ill need to be in the 5L market. Maybe as much as 10…

eta
Kinda looking like at 10L and up maybe a small backpack starts to make more sense.

[rob_s]

The 10-14L backpack market is kinds interesting in it's lack of options. Here's what I've found so far

122004

[Default.mp3]

The 10-14L backpack market is kinds interesting in it's lack of options. Here's what I've found so far

122004Lots of options if you're willing to go up to 16 L:

https://www.nemoequipment.com/products/resolve-15-liter-endless-promise-daypack
https://www.cotopaxi.com/products/batac-16l-pack-del-dia?variant=32161708426
https://www.cotopaxi.com/products/tasra-16l-backpack-del-dia?variant=41467157381181
https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mantis-16-backpack
https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/granville-16-backpack
https://www.osprey.com/daylite-daylites21-794?color=Smoky%2520Desert%2520Print%252FMagma%252 0Brown (13 L)
https://www.osprey.com/daylite-cinch-daylitdraws21-795?color=Tie%2520Dye%2520Print (15 L)
https://www.osprey.com/osprey-arcane-small-day-arcansmdays20-377?color=Purple%2520Dusk%2520Heather (10 L)
https://www.gregory.com/packs-bags/nano-14/124896XXXX.html?dwvar_124896XXXX_color=Obsidian%20 Black&cgid=packs-bags (14 L)
https://www.gregory.com/packs-bags/verte-12/147905XXXX.html?dwvar_147905XXXX_color=147905A181&cgid=packs-bags (12 L)
https://www.gregory.com/packs-bags/nano-16/111497XXXX.html?dwvar_111497XXXX_color=111497A263&cgid=packs-bags
https://www.gregory.com/packs-bags/miko-15/145274XXXX.html?dwvar_145274XXXX_color=Volt%20Blue&cgid=packs-bags

Etc. Just some random brands with packs about that size that I thought of, I'm sure I could find way more.

[Blades]

Lots of options if you're willing to go up to 16 L:

https://www.nemoequipment.com/products/resolve-15-liter-endless-promise-daypack
https://www.cotopaxi.com/products/batac-16l-pack-del-dia?variant=32161708426
https://www.cotopaxi.com/products/tasra-16l-backpack-del-dia?variant=41467157381181
https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mantis-16-backpack
https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/granville-16-backpack
https://www.osprey.com/daylite-daylites21-794?color=Smoky%2520Desert%2520Print%252FMagma%252 0Brown (13 L)
https://www.osprey.com/daylite-cinch-daylitdraws21-795?color=Tie%2520Dye%2520Print (15 L)
https://www.osprey.com/osprey-arcane-small-day-arcansmdays20-377?color=Purple%2520Dusk%2520Heather (10 L)
https://www.gregory.com/packs-bags/nano-14/124896XXXX.html?dwvar_124896XXXX_color=Obsidian%20 Black&cgid=packs-bags (14 L)
https://www.gregory.com/packs-bags/verte-12/147905XXXX.html?dwvar_147905XXXX_color=147905A181&cgid=packs-bags (12 L)
https://www.gregory.com/packs-bags/nano-16/111497XXXX.html?dwvar_111497XXXX_color=111497A263&cgid=packs-bags
https://www.gregory.com/packs-bags/miko-15/145274XXXX.html?dwvar_145274XXXX_color=Volt%20Blue&cgid=packs-bags

Etc. Just some random brands with packs about that size that I thought of, I'm sure I could find way more.

Now I'm clicking each one....

[rob_s]

Lots of options if you're willing to go up to 16 L:

https://www.nemoequipment.com/products/resolve-15-liter-endless-promise-daypack
https://www.cotopaxi.com/products/batac-16l-pack-del-dia?variant=32161708426
https://www.cotopaxi.com/products/tasra-16l-backpack-del-dia?variant=41467157381181
https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mantis-16-backpack
https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/granville-16-backpack
https://www.osprey.com/daylite-daylites21-794?color=Smoky%2520Desert%2520Print%252FMagma%252 0Brown (13 L)
https://www.osprey.com/daylite-cinch-daylitdraws21-795?color=Tie%2520Dye%2520Print (15 L)
https://www.osprey.com/osprey-arcane-small-day-arcansmdays20-377?color=Purple%2520Dusk%2520Heather (10 L)
https://www.gregory.com/packs-bags/nano-14/124896XXXX.html?dwvar_124896XXXX_color=Obsidian%20 Black&cgid=packs-bags (14 L)
https://www.gregory.com/packs-bags/verte-12/147905XXXX.html?dwvar_147905XXXX_color=147905A181&cgid=packs-bags (12 L)
https://www.gregory.com/packs-bags/nano-16/111497XXXX.html?dwvar_111497XXXX_color=111497A263&cgid=packs-bags
https://www.gregory.com/packs-bags/miko-15/145274XXXX.html?dwvar_145274XXXX_color=Volt%20Blue&cgid=packs-bags

Etc. Just some random brands with packs about that size that I thought of, I'm sure I could find way more.

Yes, I'm seeing that too.

16L seems to be then”floor”

And no, I don't think I am. Based on my initial googlkinnup to this ointmi think I'm targeting the under 1,000 CI range

[vcdgrips]

I am always about buying the biggest bag that does not size me out of my use case ie overhead/underseat/locker/locked drawer etc.

If we are stretching to 15L —-PAKT is a brand that is intriguing. They are clearly thinking about what they are doing. Kind of an AER meets Tom Bihn Vibe. https://paktbags.com/products/everyday-15l


165USD
Tier 1 fabric
YKK zippers
Fits a 16 inch laptop and a tablet with a set aside padded area
Can be worn like a backpack or a sling pack
Integrated into a larger “suite” of bags
Sewn in Vietnam v PRC

The stated use case of one day change of clothes ( nylon travel pants/shirt/uw/socks/ travel or decanted toiletries) would likely fit in any 5 liter compression cube/tube/bag.

Thule Compression Cubes- 19.99+

https://www.rei.com/product/207408/thule-compression-packing-cube-small

Tom Bihn Packing Cube Shoulder Bag 48.00
https://www.tombihn.com/collections/all-organizational-bags/products/packing-cube-shoulder-bag?variant=41975674994877

[rob_s]

I am always about buying the biggest bag that does not size me out of my use case ie overhead/underseat/locker/locked drawer etc.
Generally, I'd tend to agree.

I'm also not fully settled on the current needs other than "bigger than current sling (https://aersf.com/products/day-sling-3), smaller than current pack (https://www.gregorypacks.co.za/product/anode-30/)". *Possibly* a need to be able to fit (or force-fit) into both super casual like a music fest and more business attire like a professional conference. Interestingly both events/uses have some commonality (multi-day, mostly on feet, crowds, basic load like snacks and various EDC trinkets, limits on "weapons", flight to attend, etc.).


If we are stretching to 15L —-PAKT is a brand that is intriguing. They are clearly thinking about what they are doing. Kind of an AER meets Tom Bihn Vibe. https://paktbags.com/products/everyday-15l


165USD
Tier 1 fabric
YKK zippers
Fits a 16 inch laptop and a tablet with a set aside padded area
Can be worn like a backpack or a sling pack
Integrated into a larger “suite” of bags
Sewn in Vietnam v PRC

As I may have mentioned previously here or in another thread, they were at the top of my list for my office pack recently. Evergoods edged them out at the last minute, as evidenced by the fact that I even bought a couple of the accessory pouches from Pakt.

[theJanitor]

Currently at the airport waiting for my flight to Portland. I’ve got to see some machinery across the river in Vancouver, WA tomorrow. I’ve got the Evergoods 1L loaded up with a brief med kit (tq, wound gauze, seals, combat gauze, gloves), eye drops, battery, cords. I’ve got a wristband I ordered from Amazon. I think it’ll be a fine companion for the next couple days

Hershel tote has enough room for a couple sets of clothes, laptop, etc

122945
122946

[Cookie Monster]

10 to 14 L packs are a purse.

You need to carry 20 to 26L to exit purse territory and get your manhood back.

My bias.

[scottyjr07]

This has been a pretty good bag for the 6 weeks or so I've used it. Vertx EDC Ready Pack. Big fan of the layout and size. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240828/2906f8d1e28c8bd8fcf75f97ad41a862.jpg

Sent from my SM-G991U1 using Tapatalk

[rob_s]

Discovered Greenroom 136 and ordered a Metrorunner

https://www.greenroom136.com/

May wind up with more from them.

https://youtu.be/lqCttkwzAu8?si=Zx0VAD3sTSdhCYGS

[rob_s]

and, as these things are want to go, I immediately stumbled on the Loculus from Kargo that looks even better than the Greenroom bag that I ordered.

https://kargogear.com/products/kargo-sling-bag


https://youtu.be/u7EbiSr8QsQ?si=LecJdSXLtnCJUD5f

[Dr_Thanatos]

OK, I'll necro this thread.

I"m looking for a small sling bag: keys, flashlight, ear buds, assorted toiletries, first aid, etc. I"m in scrubs a lot, and have no pockets. I'm tired of carrying a huge bag for what would ordinarily be in my pockets if I was wearing real clothes. Some internal organization would be very nice. No desire for firearm storage. Knife and gun would be on me, not in the bag. No need for laptop/Ipad/etc. Big enough for a kindle wouldn't suck, but I can easily live without that.

I would really like a outer pouch for a water bottle. I want to be able to carry my bottle, but it's not insulated, and I don't want condensation on the internal materials that I may have in there.

Non-tactical would be most preferable. I've kitbashed something similar with MOLLE before, but it's larger than I want, and decidedly tacti-cool.

I'd prefer it not look like a purse. I recognize that I"m asking for a purse.

Any thoughts?

[rob_s]

OK, I'll necro this thread.

I"m looking for a small sling bag: keys, flashlight, ear buds, assorted toiletries, first aid, etc. I"m in scrubs a lot, and have no pockets. I'm tired of carrying a huge bag for what would ordinarily be in my pockets if I was wearing real clothes. Some internal organization would be very nice. No desire for firearm storage. Knife and gun would be on me, not in the bag. No need for laptop/Ipad/etc. Big enough for a kindle wouldn't suck, but I can easily live without that.

I would really like a outer pouch for a water bottle. I want to be able to carry my bottle, but it's not insulated, and I don't want condensation on the internal materials that I may have in there.

Non-tactical would be most preferable. I've kitbashed something similar with MOLLE before, but it's larger than I want, and decidedly tacti-cool.

I'd prefer it not look like a purse. I recognize that I"m asking for a purse.

Any thoughts?

this is actually where I started my sling journey. I went paddleboarding with the family and wanted a bag to stick my EDC knife, wallet, keys, and phone to keep all that stuff together and then carry to lunch when I'm already in board shorts.

Your water bottle component is going to be the challenge. For the pocket gear, you can easily get by with a 1L or smaller size sling.

you *might* be able to do something with a 1L bag where you leave it empty enough to add the bottle inside.

My vote would go to starting with Aer. I still think they're the best thing going in Slings, provided they have a model sized to what you need.
https://aersf.com/collections/slings

[Default.mp3]

OK, I'll necro this thread.

I"m looking for a small sling bag: keys, flashlight, ear buds, assorted toiletries, first aid, etc. I"m in scrubs a lot, and have no pockets. I'm tired of carrying a huge bag for what would ordinarily be in my pockets if I was wearing real clothes. Some internal organization would be very nice. No desire for firearm storage. Knife and gun would be on me, not in the bag. No need for laptop/Ipad/etc. Big enough for a kindle wouldn't suck, but I can easily live without that.

I would really like a outer pouch for a water bottle. I want to be able to carry my bottle, but it's not insulated, and I don't want condensation on the internal materials that I may have in there.

Non-tactical would be most preferable. I've kitbashed something similar with MOLLE before, but it's larger than I want, and decidedly tacti-cool.

I'd prefer it not look like a purse. I recognize that I"m asking for a purse.

Any thoughts?I was just browsing the other day and saw the deuter Stroof 8: https://www.deuter.com/us-en/shop/bags/p1679480-shoulder-bag-stroof-8

Not sure how big your bottle is, but it does have a bottle holder, which is why I remembered it. No experience with it myself, though I am mildly intrigued by it. deuter also has a pro deal and is on ExpertVoice, should you qualify.

[rob_s]

Discovered Greenroom 136 and ordered a Metrorunner

https://www.greenroom136.com/

May wind up with more from them.

https://youtu.be/lqCttkwzAu8?si=Zx0VAD3sTSdhCYGS


and, as these things are want to go, I immediately stumbled on the Loculus from Kargo that looks even better than the Greenroom bag that I ordered.

https://kargogear.com/products/kargo-sling-bag


https://youtu.be/u7EbiSr8QsQ?si=LecJdSXLtnCJUD5f

Glad this got Necro'd

I got my Greenroom 136 and have been stuffing it (lol) with gear. Haven't had a reason to carry it anywhere yet but the construction is great and I'm really loving the organization in it. Have a couple new purchases due any day and once I get it populated I'll post a bag dump.

[Blades]

OK, I'll necro this thread.

I"m looking for a small sling bag: keys, flashlight, ear buds, assorted toiletries, first aid, etc. I"m in scrubs a lot, and have no pockets. I'm tired of carrying a huge bag for what would ordinarily be in my pockets if I was wearing real clothes. Some internal organization would be very nice. No desire for firearm storage. Knife and gun would be on me, not in the bag. No need for laptop/Ipad/etc. Big enough for a kindle wouldn't suck, but I can easily live without that.

I would really like a outer pouch for a water bottle. I want to be able to carry my bottle, but it's not insulated, and I don't want condensation on the internal materials that I may have in there.

Non-tactical would be most preferable. I've kitbashed something similar with MOLLE before, but it's larger than I want, and decidedly tacti-cool.

I'd prefer it not look like a purse. I recognize that I"m asking for a purse.

Any thoughts?

An idea for your water bottle is a sleeve. Etsy, or Amazon has a lot of choices. The only other thing I can recommend is a wide strap. I bought a little lightweight fanny pack for a trip and the strap cut into my shoulder.

[feudist]

OK, I'll necro this thread.

I"m looking for a small sling bag: keys, flashlight, ear buds, assorted toiletries, first aid, etc. I"m in scrubs a lot, and have no pockets. I'm tired of carrying a huge bag for what would ordinarily be in my pockets if I was wearing real clothes. Some internal organization would be very nice. No desire for firearm storage. Knife and gun would be on me, not in the bag. No need for laptop/Ipad/etc. Big enough for a kindle wouldn't suck, but I can easily live without that.

I would really like a outer pouch for a water bottle. I want to be able to carry my bottle, but it's not insulated, and I don't want condensation on the internal materials that I may have in there.

Non-tactical would be most preferable. I've kitbashed something similar with MOLLE before, but it's larger than I want, and decidedly tacti-cool.

I'd prefer it not look like a purse. I recognize that I"m asking for a purse.

Any thoughts?

some iteration of a water bottle carrier with a pouch?
Here's a cheap one for proof of concept.

https://www.amazon.com/Bstge-Carrier-Shoulder-Insulated-Neoprene/dp/B0D1XKJF15/ref=pd_sim_hxwPM1_sspa_dk_detail_d_sccl_4_2/131-8491445-6256950?pd_rd_w=zmtl9&content-id=amzn1.sym.3a852a98-d65f-4301-9bd0-9b589b14d1ef&pf_rd_p=3a852a98-d65f-4301-9bd0-9b589b14d1ef&pf_rd_r=9PJ4CPX2F2FAT59W107E&pd_rd_wg=diiJv&pd_rd_r=acb76b6c-a362-4326-9a8c-b89a2a6dc22f&pd_rd_i=B0CNGBGDH5&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9kZXRhaWxfdGhlbWF0aWM&th=1&psc=1

[Erik]

I came across the Patagonia Atom Sling (https://www.patagonia.com/product/atom-sling-bag-8-liters/48262.html?dwvar_48262_color=BLK) the other day and thought it looked pretty good. It has straps on the outside that could be used to hold a water bottle in a sleeve with a handle (https://www.amazon.com/SLEILIN-Compatible-Stainless-Sweat-Wicking-Insulated/dp/B0D5H3CRF5?crid=5ZJJLTWXUBKL&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.DZXPB_oJJcdhyuZTyreBATDtKAdHysJD_ WDKlmjU6uK8SP4c3K1OZMcKTXVElZ7Gu2r4WsayIf5PIojCw7O GFGmQjyKth1JNEHlQAzM3nkocNB8TmrPJk37cCfHILBFfjOCIg BUMR6GjVkbgQWFh67Dy7Uv2maYtNA5Oh6SJBmcan2OMr5p6Xrj WfcS1OzCr5IYWTdtOguiNljiI6ifsMmwgR6vSlNEcj0PNbaaVh UzhgLsGS_7CETA__xndryHDMWmcNSPwc_1FIxKJxniF2aFH-sDMgZjbKkyka9Tp4LQ.d6Dl_RBEtnR-HdRhNPfwFf78EoUDDmJ9aXSKb4V_vEI&dib_tag=se&keywords=water%2Bbottle%2Bsleeve%2Bfinger%2Bhandle&qid=1732156561&sprefix=water%2Bbottle%2Bsleeve%2Bfinger%2Bhandle% 2Caps%2C202&sr=8-1&th=1).

[rob_s]

I came across the Patagonia Atom Sling (https://www.patagonia.com/product/atom-sling-bag-8-liters/48262.html?dwvar_48262_color=BLK) the other day and thought it looked pretty good. It has straps on the outside that could be used to hold a water bottle in a sleeve with a handle (https://www.amazon.com/SLEILIN-Compatible-Stainless-Sweat-Wicking-Insulated/dp/B0D5H3CRF5?crid=5ZJJLTWXUBKL&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.DZXPB_oJJcdhyuZTyreBATDtKAdHysJD_ WDKlmjU6uK8SP4c3K1OZMcKTXVElZ7Gu2r4WsayIf5PIojCw7O GFGmQjyKth1JNEHlQAzM3nkocNB8TmrPJk37cCfHILBFfjOCIg BUMR6GjVkbgQWFh67Dy7Uv2maYtNA5Oh6SJBmcan2OMr5p6Xrj WfcS1OzCr5IYWTdtOguiNljiI6ifsMmwgR6vSlNEcj0PNbaaVh UzhgLsGS_7CETA__xndryHDMWmcNSPwc_1FIxKJxniF2aFH-sDMgZjbKkyka9Tp4LQ.d6Dl_RBEtnR-HdRhNPfwFf78EoUDDmJ9aXSKb4V_vEI&dib_tag=se&keywords=water%2Bbottle%2Bsleeve%2Bfinger%2Bhandle&qid=1732156561&sprefix=water%2Bbottle%2Bsleeve%2Bfinger%2Bhandle% 2Caps%2C202&sr=8-1&th=1).

I got my wife one of those.

She absolutely loves it.

[BobM]

I have a Kelty sling pack designed to also carry a pistol. I don’t see an easy way to add a water bottle but it’s small enough to be unobtrusive but probably big enough for your other needs.

[4RNR]

No water bottle option

https://www.helikon-tex.us/rat-waist-pack-cordurar.html

[rob_s]

Discovered Greenroom 136 and ordered a Metrorunner

https://www.greenroom136.com/

May wind up with more from them.

https://youtu.be/lqCttkwzAu8?si=Zx0VAD3sTSdhCYGS

A couple of starter thoughts on this...

The bag is stoutly made. Obviously, pros and cons to that. Cons being bulk, weight, inflexibility, etc.

The interior organization is nice. I wish there was at least one interior zipper pouch as I like to keep my booboo kit in a pouch... in a pouch.

I also already miss the back pocket that my Aers have. It's a nice place to stash a wallet and phone when doing a pocket dump.

I love the tech slot. fits the iPad mini with just the right amount of room to spare.

I wish I'd gotten the molle version. The molle slots would have been a great place to attach a red light when biking/e-scootering at night. Which I hadn't though of.

[MGW]

I’ve been considering one of these for work stuff.
https://nutsac.com/products/sling

I would prefer a water bottle pocket too but I don't know if that would work on a sling bag. I think it would make it unbalanced.

This bag from Vertx might work if you want external water bottle storage.

https://vertx.com/transit

[Dr_Thanatos]

I was just browsing the other day and saw the deuter Stroof 8: https://www.deuter.com/us-en/shop/bags/p1679480-shoulder-bag-stroof-8

Not sure how big your bottle is, but it does have a bottle holder, which is why I remembered it. No experience with it myself, though I am mildly intrigued by it. deuter also has a pro deal and is on ExpertVoice, should you qualify.

I think I'll give this one a try and see how it works.

Thanks everybody for the help. I'll report back with an update when I get the bag.