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Work/commuting backpack, ideally not a US company (lemmy.ca)
submitted 6 months ago by to c/buyitforlife@slrpnk.net
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My cheap no-name Chinese backpack is finally falling apart, after over 20 years of absolutely solid service.

I want something that will last at least another 20 years, will hold a modern 16" laptop (e.g. Macbook), and will also let me toss a pair of jeans and light jacket in, when I ride home from work in the spring and fall afternoons.

I'd like to avoid American brands if possible.

Looked online at the SwissGear 5698 and Endure, but don't know how well they're built, or if they'll hold my junk.

Any recommendations?

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[–] 15 points 6 months ago (3 children)

If you're going to be riding a bicycle, then I highly recommend using a pannier - being able to carry stuff on the bike as opposed to on the body is fantastic.

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  • [–] [S] 1 point 6 months ago* (1 child)

    I need it for general commuting - on the train, walking, and also biking. I just mentioned the bike because of the need for clothing space. In Spring, it might be +5 in the morning (need something on my arms and legs) and +25 in the afternoon (shorts and short sleeves baby!).

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  • [–] 5 points 6 months ago

    You could look to pannier/backpack hybrids, these may be appropriate for your use-case. Personally, I solve this issue by having two different bags - a pannier for cycling and a backpack for other times.

    Panniers can come in pretty large sizes, I'm usually able to accommodate a laptop + accessories + a change of clothes. Pannier racks fit two of them, so you can always double the carrying capacity when it's warranted.

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  • [–] 1 point 6 months ago (1 child)

    Can you recommend any panniers or features to look for?

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  • [–] 2 points 6 months ago* (last edited 6 months ago)

    This is probably going to run a bit counter to the spirit of the community, but I am quite happy with the pannier I bought off of AliExpress from a brand called Rhinowalk. It cost me a bit under $30.

    I had a set from Lidl before which were not at all as nice (obviously).

    Some of my favourite features with my current panniers are:

    • They come with a securing clip that keeps the pannier in place even when riding over bumps
    • They adjust to the amount of things packed in them, with a horizontal strap and a roll top
    • It handles rain pretty well
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