There are tons of fantastic reviews for moms and teachers, but nothing robust for my fellow work travelers. Look no further if this describes you!
I bought this bag because a backpack doesn’t always cut it for me when I want quick access to my things (insert the on/off shoulder hustle that is unavoidable with a standard backpack), hoping I could carry the same amount of items in this bag. While it is not able to fit everything my traditional backpack would, it does come very close. See photo 2 and 3 for a ‘travel pack,’ which includes everything I fit in the bag (minus a sweatshirt I put in one of the side pockets—which tells you how deep the side pockets are. You could also do a pair of flats or sandals in this pocket). The only thing missing that would fit in my backpack is a change of clothes, but if you can fit that in your carry-on, this would be a non-issue for you. This bag is exactly the same width as my backpack, so no issue fitting beneath the seat on a plane. I think with a new packing strategy for my carry-on (mostly in relation to my toiletries and makeup), this will be my go-to personal item bag for air travel.
I love that I have the backpack option with this bag for when my shoulder gets tired, but the main shoulder straps are very wide which helps offset the weight better than other designer shoulder bags that dig in due to design. So far I have not HAD to use the backpack option based on weight, and the distinction between have to and want to is very important to me. I am very happy to have the strap for crossbody or backpack use, though, if needed.
Lastly, picture 1 is showing a normal non-travel ‘day pack’ for me. I have a full size iPad and a Nintendo Switch in the laptop pocket, which you can see fits both very comfortably. Also have my wallet, keys, two glasses cases, hand sanitizer, hand lotion, wipes, a small first aid kit, a small cosmetic bag, and plenty of room in the main compartment for more items like a planner or book as you’ll see in some of their ads.
The only feedback I would give for absolute perfection is a strap to secure the bag on a suitcase like other backpacks have, but it’s not a requirement with the normal purse straps to hang it over as an option.
The final verdict for me? This bag can honestly do it all. It is gorgeous and superbly functional—I am already thinking about what other colors I have to have it in!