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Pak^Man

macrumors regular
Original poster
Jul 28, 2008
192
0
Columbus, OH
Hi All,

I’m a self professed gadget-head and travel frequently for work, including internationally (where certain airlines are extreme sticklers for in-cabin luggage allowances). I have been searching for the perfect bag for years, as evident by the 8 or so that I currently own. But I’m still looking for the perfect ONE bad that I can use for 90-100% of my needs when it comes to air travel.

So I thought I’d reach out to the community at MR for help.

I’m looking for a messenger bag (strongly preferred), but a good bag pack will do. Needs to be strong, but light. External pockets are always a huge plus when travelling.

Ideally, I’d like bag that has different compartments, so that things stay organized, and will not cave into a giant mess as I remove items to go through security. Currently I’m using a medium or large Timbuk2 commute with a camera insert if needed, but those aren't the best from an organizational standpoint.


Here’s what I usually carry:

  1. Work laptop (Lenovo X220) + charger
  2. Personal laptop (MBA 11”…. Soon to be replaced by a rMBP 13”) w Apple USB DVD Drive
  3. iPad2 for work & iPad Mini for play
  4. Apple wireless keyboard & magic mouse
  5. NewerTech Guardian MAXimus mini: http://eshop.macsales.com/item/NewerTech/GMM8QKIT0GB/
  6. External battery pack for iPads
  7. iPhone 5 in Mophie Air case (personal) + iPhone 5s (work)
  8. A bunch of cables, chargers, international adapters, memory cards, usb dives, etc.
  9. Noise cancelling earbuds + Bose standard earbuds
  10. A few software disks (DVD)
  11. 2x legal pads, with pens


Nice to haves:

12- Nikon D90 with Sigma 17-50mm 2.8 lens & flash gun (only sometimes; but it’s a big item)
13- Thinkvision 14” portable monitor: http://www.amazon.com/Lenovo-ThinkVision-LT1421-Widescreen-Monitor/dp/B005L2NA54


Can you guys recommend something that would 1-11 comfortably, and maybe even 12 ideally, with room for some papers and files if needed?

I appreciate the help!
Regards,
 
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Billingham!!!!!

I am a huge fan of Billingham photo bags. Quality construction. I had one for almost thirty years before I had to break down and buy a new one. It had been on six continents and a whole lot of duress with no fuss nor muss. Take a look at the 550 and see if it does what you want.

Good luck.

Adam Rodman
 
Hey,
I just posted about which is the best portable monitor. How do you like the 14" ThinkVision, would you recommend it/review it?
Thanks!
 
Tom Bihn Brain Bag, it can carry two laptops with ease

TB0104_03b.jpg
 
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