Messenger Bags Vs Back Packs

[Blade Runner]

Does one have superior functionality when it comes to carry stuff between home and work, or is the difference purely a matter of style? Do you prefer one versus the other from a functional angle? If so, why?

Edited January 24, 2014 by Blade Runner

[Shangas]

I use messenger-style bags. Easier to open, close and carry around.

[Blade Runner]

Shangas, Isn't the big flap of a messenger more of hindrance than the direct access of a back pack?

[Wolverine1]

I use a backpack because it is better for me, the weight is better distributed, and it is better than having all the weight slung over one shoulder. Admittedly, it is supposed ly easier to access the contents of a messenger bag, but, the benefits offered by a backpack outweigh the negatives.

[panpan]

I couldn't resist this one....

 

I have quite a few bags for different purposes and needs and sizes. Rather than list all of them, I'll tell you simply I prefer messenger bags. In particular, I like Mission Workshop (no affiliation) and Chrome (the people who later opened Mission Workshop). I find them functional but, specifically because of the construction they ar waterproof and durable. In particular, with the Mission workshop bags, they have a place for my Macbook separate from the main compartment and a couple pockets for other stuff including ink and my pens (which are in a pen wrap). And the Mission Workshop bag can be re-arranged to carry on either shoulder rather than ordering for either the right or left shoulder.

 

Blade Runner, I don't think either is more or less of a hinderance but very few backpacks (that I know of) are truly waterproof (if that is a concern for anyone). As I said, I need it functional as well as sure that my stuff will be protected. They are a bit pricy, but you can get a number of other (messenger) bags like "timbuktu" but I really have found the Mission Workshop bag (I have the Monty) to do everything I need, be comfortable, but not look out of place in an office. They also sell backpacks but....I don't like the weight digging into my shoulders.

 

Again, for the price, it will last... my Chrome bag has been run over, rained on, dirtied to no end, tossed around as I travel in and out of the country and looks pretty darn good.... after almost 10 years of wear. My Mission Workshop bag is not a year old yet. Besides that, you can wash either (it has a liner that is sewn into the but can be washed out with water and the canvas outershell too can be washed. Then just let it dry....). For my money I would get either of them but the design of the Mission Workshop fixed some complaints about their earlier design. Really a good bag. It took me about a month of researching and I stumbled upon them (mission workshop). Check them out http://missionworkshop.com/

 

When it comes down to it, you gotta know what you need first and why.

 

Panpan

Edited January 24, 2014 by panpan

[panpan]

For some reason the link is broken....their site works though...

 

Mission Workshop

[Silvermink]

I vastly prefer backpacks for the even weight distribution. One of my shoulders is already not in great shape and it doesn't need any encouragement in that direction.

[Blade Runner]

Panpan, Thanks for sharing your experience. Btw, what's the purpose of the roll top? Waterproof when rolled down, not waterproof when rolled up?

Edited January 24, 2014 by Blade Runner

[wallylynn]

depends on what you're carrying. some simple office supplies (books, laptop, pens/paper) then a messenger bag. Groceries - backpack with hip belt.

[Wolverine1]

I agree with SilverMink with his choice of the backpack over a messenger bag or a laptop bag. In my case, ever since I suffered a series of serious strokes, I went from an active, athletic guy to a guy with mobility issues, who can barely get around, shuffling around like I am a 90 yr old guy. So, the equal weight distribution provided by the backpack is good for me.

And I must quibble with a assertion made by Panpan- namely, that backpacks are not fully waterproof. If you look for a pack made and designed well, you can buy a fully waterproof backpack.

[Blade Runner]

My Vaude back packs that I used for hiking have a built in rain fly (stored in a zippered compartment at the bottom) that you can take out to cover the entire pack when it rains. It's also neon green and reflective.

[AndrewC]

First thing to ask yourself-will you actually wear the backpack as it is supposed to be, using both straps? If not, don't get one because using a backpack with only one strap is bad for your back/body. If you will use both straps, go for it if you are going to carry a heavy load. Get a lightweight smaller summit bag with internal frame.

 

I use both. I like my Timbuk2. The flap is not really a problem. With a mess bag, you can see all your junk at once. Pack, you might have to dig a little. Make things easier and get some organizer bags and pen pouch.

 

I have a bad back. I use both, The strap for the mess bag is wide and thickly padded. On days my back acts up, it is the back pack, and BOTH straps. BTW, you can get waterproof bags in both formats. A messenger bag with a big flap could be useful in that you do not have to open the bag all the way in the rain, just lift up a little and reach under the flap. Whatever you do, I have found that cheap packs and bags will cost more in the long run as they wear out fast. Look for YKK zippers, too, as they are very sturdy.

[panpan]

I agree with SilverMink with his choice of the backpack over a messenger bag or a laptop bag. In my case, ever since I suffered a series of serious strokes, I went from an active, athletic guy to a guy with mobility issues, who can barely get around, shuffling around like I am a 90 yr old guy. So, the equal weight distribution provided by the backpack is good for me.

And I must quibble with a assertion made by Panpan- namely, that backpacks are not fully waterproof. If you look for a pack made and designed well, you can buy a fully waterproof backpack.

I agree that many of the messenger bags, especially the earlier ones, made the shoulder hurt because of the unequal weight distribution. But as I said, Mission Workshop bags, made by the original owners of Chrome (who subsequently sold it to start MissionWorkshop) addressed many of the issues that plagued earlier messenger bags. In particular, the strap is broader and sits differently along the chest and shoulder so as not to restrict circulation and the bag sits more centrally along the back spreading the weight more evenly. It really feels differently than previous messenger bags. Comfort was high on my list as I am not as young as I used to be.

 

As far as waterproof, I made sure to qualify my statement not to suggest all backpacks are not. Only that I have had a hard time to find one and waxed isn't what I intend when I mean waterproof. I've ridden my moto through a heavy storm (I stayed ahead of the brunt of it) with my Chrome bag with my laptop and papers loose and in folders...completely dry after 30 minutes in the rain. They are really well made bags, particularly the Mission Workshop bag. More comfortable than you think. I was even happily surprised.

 

The roll top is specifically to make access to the two pockets you see accessible easier. If you notice, the liner goes all the way to the top and it can still be closed. The volume you can store in it is incredibly massive... deceptively massive.

 

Wallylynn, I beg to differ... I carry groceries in one of my messenger bags...a lot of stuff fits in and nothing is ever damaged. Really you'd be surprised how much can fit in the newer messenger bags, specifically Chrome or the MissionWorkshop bags.

 

Seriously, no affiliation...I have two Chrome (large metropolitan and extra large Kremlin[discontinued]) and one Mission Workshop bag and they are my go to for travelling out of the country, grocery shopping and general WTH-ery.

 

Check out their sites and descriptions and comparisons to other messenger bags. Worthwhile investment.

[panpan]

Blade,

 

If you haven't, check out a few reviews on youtube. there is someone who compares backpacks vs messenger and a variety of messenger bags against each other. Timbuktu, Mission and Chrome are usually on top...

 

As was said earlier, how you wear it will make a difference too as it concerns a backpack..

 

Sorry the editing in my last message was nonexistent.

[Inkling13]

The backpack and messenger bag served two distinct functions. The backpack is as is name, implies something for packing things onto your back. It's designed to distribute weight evenly across your shoulders. A messenger bag was concieved out of the need for a bike courier's duty, as in to be able to deliver small parcels and letters quickly as possible. Thus the large flap that was acessable by reaching under and around one's body. A backpack is good for long term storage, and a messenger bag is there for light carry and fast access. Long term carrying of a messenger bag, especially an overweight one, results in the body needing to compensate with the lateral muscles of the spine, aka, it's not healthy and you become unbalanced, a backpack would be a better option. However, if you're only carrying 10 lbs or so, either will suffice. I have a Saddleback backpack and messenger bag, and I use both interchangeably, with the backpack for larger loads, and the messenger bag for lighter loads.

[Beethoven]

I'm old fashioned, I still use a battered old briefcase.

 

[Aquinata]

Panpan, thanks for this link. They have some great looking gear!

[panpan]

Aquinata---- you're welcome!!!

 

Blade Runner--- I just checked my Mission Workshop bag. The two outer pockets are lined also, so the larger flap when rolled will give access to the second flap to cover the two pockets and a smaller flap that velcroes to keep the roll...rolled. And, every pocket is completely waterproof.I've tucked postertubes in the roll once as well as an umbrella. I've used the straps to hold other stuff since I don't use carbiners.

 

Mission Workshop says weatherproof rather than waterproof....

 

Semantic issues aside the current designs of these bags makes the original use of either the messenger bag or backpack a moot point. But I see what was intended.

 

Beethoven--- +1 to ya!!!!

[Koyote]

It's not an either/or proposition. I wear a backpack when appropriate (larger/heavier loads, especially when riding a bike) and carry a briefcase (with long shoulder strap) when appropriate.

[cellopen]

Hi, one more thought on this: museums usually force you to check backpacks but not messenger bags. When I holiday in NYC I spend much of my time walking - for that a backpack would be best. But I often go to museums where I might want access to my tablet, journal, pens, paper, etc. Also checking a bag is a hassle. So when I travel, my walk-about gear is always in a small leather messenger.

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