Travel Products - Recommend a brief case/messenger style bag?

So my current messenger bag is past repair, so I'm here for recommendations for a new one:

Requirements:
-cheap
-messenger or shoulder strap. No wheels, handles other than the shoulder strap optional.
-business presentable
-Big enough to hold: 14" slim laptop in a neoprene sleeve, a thin file or two, headphones in their case, a BE amenity kit of misc items, and maybe a bottle of water.
-slim enough that if it ends up under the seat in front of me, it leaves me as much room as possible.
-Roll-aboard attachable is a plus, but not an absolute requirement.

Recommend away!

Thanks

So my current messenger bag is past repair, so I'm here for recommendations for a new one:

Requirements:
-cheap
-messenger or shoulder strap. No wheels, handles other than the shoulder strap optional.
-business presentable
-Big enough to hold: 14" slim laptop in a neoprene sleeve, a thin file or two, headphones in their case, a BE amenity kit of misc items, and maybe a bottle of water.
-slim enough that if it ends up under the seat in front of me, it leaves me as much room as possible.
-Roll-aboard attachable is a plus, but not an absolute requirement.

Recommend away!


Well, there are 1001 choices. I had to buy an emergency one at the airport a few months back, and from the fairly limited selection I picked up this;

http://www.samsonite.co.uk/pro-dlx3-business-laptop-briefcase-l-expandable-40-6cm-16inch-black/product-en.htm?or=6666655451 (I didn't pay that price though).

I'm not a Samsonite fan and it's not particularly attractive but the layout of everything is pretty good. The strap for putting over the trolley handle is also quite robust and does not seem to slide sideways at all.

If I'm only carrying a small laptop I can manage a weekend quite comfortably using just this bag.

Eastpak Delegate Reminder(in Business Black).

http://www.eastpak.com/uk-en/delegate-black.html

http://www.eastpak.com/uk-en/reminder-black.html

Other colours are available.......

Does for me as a briefcase. Can be overstuffed as a overnight back in extremis.

Useful zip pockets front and back, for Kindle and Tickets. Loop for rolling back handle on rear.

Padded laptop partition.

Well, there are 1001 choices.

That's why I'm asking for recommendations!

The eastpak delegate is in the size range I'm looking for. Though when I look here:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Eastpak-Unisex-Delegate-Messenger-Bag/dp/B0014ZNC32 I don't see the rolling bag loop. Don't love the styling, but staying cheap probably limits that.

That's why I'm asking for recommendations!

The eastpak delegate is in the size range I'm looking for. Though when I look here:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Eastpak-Unisex-Delegate-Messenger-Bag/dp/B0014ZNC32 I don't see the rolling bag loop. Don't love the styling, but staying cheap probably limits that.

Ahhh - you can't see the loop as it's not there...... You need to look at the Eastpak Reminder! You'll see the loop on this one. I had both at home from Amazon before choosing, and forgot the one I finally ordered. (Free returns in the UK at the time)

The Delegate has a zipped expansion gusset, but no rear pocket and no loop for a roller bag.

You're right about the looks, but it's functional for the price and a prim leather folio doesn't work for me. When I'm allowed only one carry-on, it does squash up small and fit well in my main bag for use when I arrive on the hotel-office shuttle.

Ahh, that works.

Anyone have experience with the timbuk2 commute 2.0 small? Most place seem to have the medium or large in mind. It's not quite cheap, but it should be high quality.

http://shop.samsonite.com/Samsonite-Pro-Gusset-Business-Briefcase/dp/B004ETTSCE?ie=UTF8&id=Samsonite%20Pro%20Gusset%20Business%20Briefcase&field_product_site_launch_date_utc=-1y&field_availability=-1&field_browse=2235734011&searchSize=12&searchNodeID=2235734011&searchPage=1&class=quickView&refinementHistory=brandtextbin%2Csubjectbin%2Ccolo r_map%2Cprice%2Csize_name&searchRank=salesrank

$179.99 and $30 off if you order online.

I used to have a Tumi brief, I switched to this bag, it is lighter, but also a ballistic nylon material, sturdy, and so far holds up well. Also, when expanded, it can hold enough for an overnight trip easily.

Shaam

I use a medium timbuk2 messenger bag.
Cant remember the model.

The quality is very good and still going strong after 10 years!
The bag itself is a bit heavier than others because of all the padding and materials used.

I've since switched to a smaller style messenger bag from Crumpler.
Less padding and lighter than timbuk2.


Ahh, that works.

Anyone have experience with the timbuk2 commute 2.0 small? Most place seem to have the medium or large in mind. It's not quite cheap, but it should be high quality.

I use a medium timbuk2 messenger bag.
Cant remember the model.

The quality is very good and still going strong after 10 years!
The bag itself is a bit heavier than others because of all the padding and materials used.

I've since switched to a smaller style messenger bag from Crumpler.
Less padding and lighter than timbuk2.
Probably not the commute 2, since it's only been around a couple years. For durability and such the timbuk2s are great. I'm just not sure how well it translates from bike messenger to business bag.

The crumpler skivvy looks interesting too, but also not particularly inexpensive. I might need to order from ebags or somewhere with free returns to try them out.

One of the best messenger bags that I know is the Tenba Messenger Satchel. You can do a search for it here. I have written about it before since I don't get tired of recommending it and people have been very pleased with the rec. Tenba is a Japanese brand and has been in the business for a long time but they hardly make any marketing effort so they are only known to "baggies".

The small satchel should be under $100. Not exactly cheap given that you can buy messenger bags also for 20 bucks but for what you get it's definitely great.

It comes in three sizes. I have the small (big enough for a 16" laptop). Large is huge. In your case I'd recommend mini.

I actually got mine because it was also usable as a photo bag and I liked that. You can take out the insert and it's a perfect messenger bag.

http://www.tenba.com/products/Messenger-Mini-Photo-Laptop-Bag.aspx

Till

One of the best messenger bags that I know is the Tenba Messenger Satchel. You can do a search for it here. I have written about it before since I don't get tired of recommending it and people have been very pleased with the rec. Tenba is a Japanese brand and has been in the business for a long time but they hardly make any marketing effort so they are only known to "baggies".

The small satchel should be under $100. Not exactly cheap given that you can buy messenger bags also for 20 bucks but for what you get it's definitely great.

It comes in three sizes. I have the small (big enough for a 16" laptop). Large is huge. In your case I'd recommend mini.

I actually got mine because it was also usable as a photo bag and I liked that. You can take out the insert and it's a perfect messenger bag.

http://www.tenba.com/products/Messenger-Mini-Photo-Laptop-Bag.aspx

Till

hmmm. my laptop is 13.5" wide and 1" high, and the specs say it takes a laptop up to 13" and 1-2" deep. I wonder how much wiggle room there is in those measurements. The small would definitely fit the laptop, but be larger than I had in mind...

I don't see it - does it have a rollerboard loop on the back?

have a look at the new tumi range. they are convertible. i'm impressed...looking around for the best price now. called "dror for tumi"

http://www.tumi.com/home/index.jsp

I love my tenba messenger small. It is for people with cameras but the protective thing for cameras can be taken out and the bag is just a plain laptop messenger bag. Comes in many colors. I have one in olive. A friend has one in black. The black is very business like in its look.

www.tenba.com

You might consider this bag: Kata DB-455 DPS camera bag (http://www.adorama.com/KADB455.html?utm_term=Other&utm_medium=Shopping%20Site&utm_campaign=Other&utm_source=dealtime&utm_term=Other&utm_medium=Affiliate&utm_campaign=Other&utm_source=cj_552179).

Cheap: $29.95 with free shipping from Adorama.
Messenger bag with strap and no wheels: check.
Business presentable: you'll have to make that decision; works for me in that sense, might not for you.
Items you need to store: will handle a 15.4 inch laptop and I've packed an overnight change of clothes, including shoes, in front of it so I don't think you'll have a problem with the items you've listed.
Sized to fit underneath airline seat: 34 linear inches; approximately 1200 cubic inches interior volume.
Rollaboard attachable: two straps on the rear for that purpose.

When I need to take my 15.4 inch work laptop, this bag is now my "personal item." I use a smaller Case Logic camera bag (about 2/3 the size) when I can get away with a netbook and ereader.

hmmm. my laptop is 13.5" wide and 1" high, and the specs say it takes a laptop up to 13" and 1-2" deep. I wonder how much wiggle room there is in those measurements. The small would definitely fit the laptop, but be larger than I had in mind...

I don't see it - does it have a rollerboard loop on the back?

I have the small version. If the mini version is built like the small version there is easily an inch of wiggle room because the sides are totally soft. There are no specific loops on the back but the handle is pretty wide so you could just slip the handle over most rollerboard handles.

Till

I have the small version. If the mini version is built like the small version there is easily an inch of wiggle room because the sides are totally soft. There are no specific loops on the back but the handle is pretty wide so you could just slip the handle over most rollerboard handles.

Till

Till.

Thanks. That bag is seriously under consideration. Any place to put my hands on it without buying it (or, I suppose, with an accommodating return policy)?

Timbuk2 put out a new command messenger that fixes some of the complaints about the last one. It's also on my short list. http://www.timbuk2.com/tb2/products/command-laptop-messenger-2012
TSA friendly laptop, plus the timbuk2 small is about the size of the small tenba. I don't love the aluminium closures, but if you use the velcro flap, they are hardly necessary to close.

I like the Timbuk2 as well. Very nice design, even if I find the Tenba esthetically a bit more pleasing. Too much going on in the Timbuk2 design. The TSA sleeve in a good saddle bag construction is nice. Such a hassle when you need to undo and redo zippers or buckles for the TSA sleeve to work. Might as well take out the computer. :td: So T2 solved that well.

Not sure about a place to try out the Tenba. If you have a good photo store anywhere close maybe that would work. Did you check for store locations and return policy on their own site?

I am not sure anymore where I bought mine. It was either bhphoto or amazon. Amazon has a decent return policy I know. And they are reliable.

Good luck,

Till

I like the Timbuk2 as well. Very nice design, even if I find the Tenba esthetically a bit more pleasing. Too much going on in the Timbuk2 design. The TSA sleeve in a good saddle bag construction is nice. Such a hassle when you need to undo and redo zippers or buckles for the TSA sleeve to work. Might as well take out the computer. :td: So T2 solved that well.

Not sure about a place to try out the Tenba. If you have a good photo store anywhere close maybe that would work. Did you check for store locations and return policy on their own site?

I am not sure anymore where I bought mine. It was either bhphoto or amazon. Amazon has a decent return policy I know. And they are reliable.

Good luck,

Till

Thanks. Didn't even think about a photo store for the Tenba. There is an excellent photo store around the corner, and their website seems to say they carry some Tenba stuff. So I'll pop in and check.

The T2 command still has a zipper to open to use the tsa flap. At least, if you don't want to walk around with the saddle bag flapping. But you don't need to close it before you walk away.

One of the best messenger bags that I know is the Tenba Messenger Satchel. You can do a search for it here. I have written about it before since I don't get tired of recommending it and people have been very pleased with the rec.

Till, I hope you keep recommending this bag! I saw this post last week and promptly ordered the Mini version - hands down the best option for someone who wants to keep a laptop and other items organized. Love the pockets!

I do wish the drop on the strap were a bit longer, but that may just be a feature of the "Mini" size, and is certainly not a deal breaker.

To the OP, my laptop is a "generous" 13" (with an expanded battery pack), and it fit just fine. There's definitely some wiggle room with the sizing.

To the OP, my laptop is a "generous" 13" (with an expanded battery pack), and it fit just fine. There's definitely some wiggle room with the sizing.

Awesome. Is there extra width or mostly depth?

I also found this bundle:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004FPZ3GM

It has a similar bag ( note the front pockets are different as well as the dimensions are slightly different) with a tripod as well for less $.

Awesome. Is there extra width or mostly depth?

I also found this bundle:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004FPZ3GM

It has a similar bag ( note the front pockets are different as well as the dimensions are slightly different) with a tripod as well for less $.

Hmm, I think you could probably fit a 13.5" laptop in the designated space, as long as you took it out of the sleeve. The laptop pouch is not quite the full width of the bag. Mine will fit inside its sleeve, but only just.

However, if you're not actually going to be carrying camera gear, and still want the Mini sized bag, you could just take out the camera inserts (they're velcro), and then put your files in the laptop space, and your laptop (in its sleeve) in the main space.

I'm not sure about the value of that Amazon bundle, but I will note that there doesn't seem to be anywhere to attach a tripod. I ordered from ebags (10x Ultimate Rewards points right now) and they seem to have a good return policy as well.

Although, as I'm typing this out, I'm thinking that I may exchange the Mini for the Small size, as the extra room might create more flexibility, rather than having to squeeze things in.

Yeah. The tripod is somewhat disconnected. I couldnt find any details of that bag other than from the sellers. But you are right the small might be worth the flexibility in exchange for a little more competition for underseat space.

Tebfunk, glad you like the bag. I am almost certain the shoulder strap would be shorter on the Mini. I am 6' tall and I have to shorten the shoulder strap on my Small version otherwise it hangs too low.

Exactly right what you say about putting files in the laptop compartment and the computer in the main compartment. Way to go, IF you even feel the need to have the computer in a sleeve because the laptop compartment IMO is good enough to protect the computer without a sleeve being needed.

BTW, I have used for two or three years now a simple Poly-Mailer bubble envelope for my Macbook13. It works like a charm. Great protection, super cheap, easy to replace, conversation starter, easy to customize and I got an extra envelope should I ever need to mail something. :)

Till

I have the small version. If the mini version is built like the small version there is easily an inch of wiggle room because the sides are totally soft. There are no specific loops on the back but the handle is pretty wide so you could just slip the handle over most rollerboard handles.

Till

That's precisely what I do.

BTW - Till, I can't thank you enough for recommending this bag. I showed it to a client who instantly wanted one. I'm thinking of getting more in various colors just to be able to play things up every now and then.

That's precisely what I do.

BTW - Till, I can't thank you enough for recommending this bag. I showed it to a client who instantly wanted one. I'm thinking of getting more in various colors just to be able to play things up every now and then.

Thrilled to hear that, Emma. It's the greatest joy for me when people actually like my recommendations.

Me, too, I am thinking of getting another satchel in Platinum. I got the orange one. I was thinking of perhaps getting the Mini version. And somehow the color I like best is Plum. They really got a nice shade there. But I'm afraid it's too unmanly even for a metrosexual like myself. ;)

Till

Have you considered Knomo? They have some great looking messenger bags.
http://www.caseluggage.com/a-l2-knomo-l3-brompton.html

I almost visit for business purposes and got a huge cargo bag about 2 years ago. It's suitable for my laptop and other small things. I was a little bit nervous to spend a lot on my Muzetto but the build quality and design is a cut above. Had an exceptional experience of such purchase. It's made up of leather has an awesome color. I feels really good and smells great also.

Both the Knomo and Muzetto are attractive, but both out of the price range I'm considering. I like the leather look, but I wonder about the extra weight, as well as how it wears/lasts, etc..

I went to the photo store I was thinking of, not only did they have the Tenba messenger, they had it in every color and every size. Next time I'll be smart enough to bring my laptop and see if it fits in the mini. Though size wise, I wonder if the small isn't the better purchase anyway. Seems like minimal difference in impacting my legroom, but a sizable different in capacity.

That said, the cheap-skate in me is contemplating the tripod bundle. If the bag included is similar, it's like getting the tripod for free with $30 in the box too. But that makes me wonder what's different about the bag....

The total cheap-skate in me says to stick with my functional, but not ideal messenger of the moment. I'll fight that urge.

I like the Ogio City bags. You can find good deals on ebay.

I went to the photo store I was thinking of, not only did they have the Tenba messenger, they had it in every color and every size. Next time I'll be smart enough to bring my laptop and see if it fits in the mini. Though size wise, I wonder if the small isn't the better purchase anyway. Seems like minimal difference in impacting my legroom, but a sizable different in capacity.



Wow, that's nice that they had every size in every color. Amazing! I've never seen that. They must have just had a fresh shipment. Too bad you didn't bring the laptop, duh! I would have probably just bought it, leave all the stickers on and tried it at home, knowing that I could take it back to the store if it were too small.

Given that you will most likely put the bag perpendicular to the seat, yes, the legroom lost is minimal. Also, you can easily put the bag behind your calves while in flight. They only object to that for take-off and landing.

What color did you like best?

Till

Wow, that's nice that they had every size in every color. Amazing! I've never seen that. They must have just had a fresh shipment. Too bad you didn't bring the laptop, duh! I would have probably just bought it, leave all the stickers on and tried it at home, knowing that I could take it back to the store if it were too small.

Given that you will most likely put the bag perpendicular to the seat, yes, the legroom lost is minimal. Also, you can easily put the bag behind your calves while in flight. They only object to that for take-off and landing.

What color did you like best?

Till

It's quite a store actually. I wouldn't put it past them for this not to be a new shipment. But since the prices were almost 50% higher than I see online. I can't justify buying and returning, since I wouldn't keep it even if fit. I'll likely stop in on Tuesday with my laptop and current bag for hands on scale comparisons.

Actually all the colors are appealing, but I'm leaning towards black. Boring or sleek depending on your perspective. But, since all my daily use bags for the last 15+ years have been black, I probably shouldn't fight it. Though I have eyed many a brown leather bags and the occasional black bag with a strong accent color.

I'm also a bit on the fence about the Tenba - On the one hand it's a much nicer bag than what I'm using. On the other, the biggest complaint about my current bag it solves is new-bag-itis. Sure, the organization is way better, it's much nicer, etc..., but few of my big "practical" complaints are solved.

Edit: I should add that between posting this thread and debating, I resurrected from the closet a barely used messenger that I didn't love when I got it, and still don't. Despite being quite serviceable. Much easier to contemplate buying what I want when I don't have something usable than when I have something that's just not ideal.

Thrilled to hear that, Emma. It's the greatest joy for me when people actually like my recommendations.

Me, too, I am thinking of getting another satchel in Platinum. I got the orange one. I was thinking of perhaps getting the Mini version. And somehow the color I like best is Plum. They really got a nice shade there. But I'm afraid it's too unmanly even for a metrosexual like myself. ;)

Till

The orange one I didn't like when I saw it on the website but in real life it looks much better. I'm considering it. Or a chocolate. The platinum was what I wanted but was told it stains easily. The black one is very classy looking but I'm trying to be less boring.

I don't know how I missed this thread until now, but I just wanted to chime in and say that it's nice to hear the positive comments about the Tenba Messenger on here. I am a voracious FT reader, but I also happen to be the Tenba product manager, so I'm happy to answer any questions either publicly on the forum or over PM.

I'd also like to send out an open invite to any Tenba bag owners to send me their feedback. We're always interested in the very personal feedback that users have based upon their specific needs. :)

I don't know how I missed this thread until now, but I just wanted to chime in and say that it's nice to hear the positive comments about the Tenba Messenger on here. I am a voracious FT reader, but I also happen to be the Tenba product manager, so I'm happy to answer any questions either publicly on the forum or over PM.

I'd also like to send out an open invite to any Tenba bag owners to send me their feedback. We're always interested in the very personal feedback that users have based upon their specific needs. :)

Awesome to have you here.

Here's a question for you:
What's the difference between the tenba messenger and the tenba messenger 15" le that is included in the bundle with a tripod?

Awesome to have you here.

Here's a question for you:
What's the difference between the tenba messenger and the tenba messenger 15" le that is included in the bundle with a tripod?

Good question. The LE version that Amazon has was custom-made to their specs for a little bit lighter weight, and it has a slightly different configuration of pockets. It's a very good bag, but it does not feature the military-grade cordura of the stock Messenger. The warranty is the same for both bags (5 years).

Good question. The LE version that Amazon has was custom-made to their specs for a little bit lighter weight, and it has a slightly different configuration of pockets. It's a very good bag, but it does not feature the military-grade cordura of the stock Messenger. The warranty is the same for both bags (5 years).

Is the basic sizing the same as the small messenger?

I don't know how I missed this thread until now, but I just wanted to chime in and say that it's nice to hear the positive comments about the Tenba Messenger on here. I am a voracious FT reader, but I also happen to be the Tenba product manager, so I'm happy to answer any questions either publicly on the forum or over PM.

I'd also like to send out an open invite to any Tenba bag owners to send me their feedback. We're always interested in the very personal feedback that users have based upon their specific needs. :)

Cool to have you here! :)

Congrats on some fantastic products. My father has been using Tenba photo bags for a long time. That's how I know them. For me it started with the awesome D10 or D12. Then the Messenger Satchel. What a fine messenger bag. I still think it is the best bag of its kind I have seen so far.

My only suggestion would be to maybe put two extra pieces of velcro in the bag so that the user can decide to "block" the velcro closures. You know what I mean? Just a piece the size of the velcro patches that will prevent them from sticking together.

Why? You ask. Because the velcro can be very loud. When you sit in a lecture or conference (many users will be students, profs or businessmen) and you need full access to the bag, the zipper won't do, and the velcro is so loud that you attract unwanted attention and cause a distraction. Very embarrassing. Also bad for bird watchers and photogs.

I know this would be a very simple fix for the end user to apply if he/she wants to. But it would be even better if it came with the bag. Imagine the unique selling point it would be. Customers will be impressed by your super detailed thinking and design.

In the same way you could change either the strap carabiners or the bag's D-rings to versions that have some plastic on them. Tumi and Andiamo both used those. Again, this is for noise prevention. A side effect is that the lacquer on those pieces won't wear off so fast. It helps the bag look good longer.

Cheers,

Till

My only suggestion would be to maybe put two extra pieces of velcro in the bag so that the user can decide to "block" the velcro closures. You know what I mean? Just a piece the size of the velcro patches that will prevent them from sticking together.

Why? You ask. Because the velcro can be very loud. When you sit in a lecture or conference (many users will be students, profs or businessmen) and you need full access to the bag, the zipper won't do, and the velcro is so loud that you attract unwanted attention and cause a distraction. Very embarrassing. Also bad for bird watchers and photogs.


Not quite unique - see the Timbuk2 Command 2012 - but still an excellent idea!

Not quite unique - see the Timbuk2 Command 2012 - but still an excellent idea!

Nice. It's always refreshing to see that one is not the only smart person on the planet. :D

Nice bag, too. If one needs the TSA separation and the roller handle passthrough this is definitely an alternative to the Tenba, albeit at a 30% higher price. And I don't like the metal hook main closures. Not safe enough, to clanky, can scratch stuff. Much prefer the quicklocks on the Tenba for that. BTW, what is the correct term for these closures?

Till

Nice. It's always refreshing to see that one is not the only smart person on the planet. :D

Nice bag, too. If one needs the TSA separation and the roller handle passthrough this is definitely an alternative to the Tenba, albeit at a 30% higher price. And I don't like the metal hook main closures. Not safe enough, to clanky, can scratch stuff. Much prefer the quicklocks on the Tenba for that. BTW, what is the correct term for these closures?

Till

Indeed, if it was for the odd clasps and price (and lack of availability anywhere willing to discount, since it is brand new), I'd own one.

The Tenba could also use a better water bottle type pocket. I realize one is theoretically available as an add on, but that's not quite the same.

I actually like the add-on system. You pay it if you need it, otherwise you don't. And it's modular so you can put other stuff on it. Doesn't even need to be Tenba brand. So you can really customize the bag according to the use it gets. Use it as office bag, ditch the bottle holder. Use it as travel or day bag, put it back on. Use it as photo bag, put a large lens tube there.

Till

I actually like the add-on system. You pay it if you need it, otherwise you don't. And it's modular so you can put other stuff on it. Doesn't even need to be Tenba brand. So you can really customize the bag according to the use it gets. Use it as office bag, ditch the bottle holder. Use it as travel or day bag, put it back on. Use it as photo bag, put a large lens tube there.

Till

My lowepro bag for the digicam snaps on to the sideloops just fine.

I actually like the add-on system. You pay it if you need it, otherwise you don't. And it's modular so you can put other stuff on it. Doesn't even need to be Tenba brand. So you can really customize the bag according to the use it gets. Use it as office bag, ditch the bottle holder. Use it as travel or day bag, put it back on. Use it as photo bag, put a large lens tube there.


Since Tenba is a New York City brand, and so many of our bags are used in big cities around the world, we always sort of feel that side pockets are where things might get stolen. That's why we have side loops instead of mesh pockets. So it's more of a conscious decision on the part of the user to add pockets there (from any brand, as you mentioned). And that's why we have zippered pockets in the flap. They provide out-of-sight, out-of-mind security for expensive items like smartphones and audio players, while still allowing instant access to them, like when your phone rings.

Since Tenba is a New York City brand, and so many of our bags are used in big cities around the world, we always sort of feel that side pockets are where things might get stolen. That's why we have side loops instead of mesh pockets. So it's more of a conscious decision on the part of the user to add pockets there (from any brand, as you mentioned). And that's why we have zippered pockets in the flap. They provide out-of-sight, out-of-mind security for expensive items like smartphones and audio players, while still allowing instant access to them, like when your phone rings.

Fair enough. Water bottles, however, are not particularly theft prone. Since water bottles are not something I like to carry inside of a bag I like to see an exterior pocket for one. Add on's are functional, but I don't like the aesthetics, or the potential misalignment/gap from an add on.

I don't know how I missed this thread until now, but I just wanted to chime in and say that it's nice to hear the positive comments about the Tenba Messenger on here. I am a voracious FT reader, but I also happen to be the Tenba product manager, so I'm happy to answer any questions either publicly on the forum or over PM.

I'd also like to send out an open invite to any Tenba bag owners to send me their feedback. We're always interested in the very personal feedback that users have based upon their specific needs. :)

Awesome! I did end up exchanging the "Mini" for the "Small", and I really love this bag. I spent some time this afternoon packing for a trip and am just delighted with all the pockets and the space allocation.

The only thing I don't love about the bag is the strap, and I realize I might be the only person in the world that feels this way, but the "fixed" padding makes it difficult to carry the bag in more than one position.

Sometimes I like to swing a messenger bag behind me, or pull it around in front, but (at least for me) the only way the padding can set on my shoulder is if the bag is at my side. I'll see how it goes this week, but my guess is that I will be sourcing a separate strap before long. If Tenba sold a different style of strap as a separate accessory I would snatch it up in a second!

As a side note, since we're talking about the strap, it would be amazing if the strap drop for the various bags was listed in the product specifications on the website.

Glad I found this thread too and I just bought one of those in the title largely as a result of this thread. I got the 'small' size which is just fine for me to use as my personal item (in addition to my B&R computer roller).

The small size is plenty big enough for me to 'decant' myself in to for security as well as my carry around day bag when I get there.

Glad I found this thread too and I just bought one of those in the title largely as a result of this thread. I got the 'small' size which is just fine for me to use as my personal item (in addition to my B&R computer roller).

The small size is plenty big enough for me to 'decant' myself in to for security as well as my carry around day bag when I get there.

Nice. Did you get the 2012 or the old version? I haven't pulled the trigger yet as I'm trying to make the most of the workable, but not so satisfying bag I have now.

I have the large version of the Tenba Messenger bag, previously
mentioned by another poster, and can highly recommend it.

I'm able to stuff it with...

- cpap
- notebook computer
- medications
- Kindle
- camera
- odds & ends

I could stuff it with more if I removed in inner divider sleeve.

In addition to the shoulder strap it does have one outside handle
which may disqualify it, but I have found that handle extremely
handy at times.

I ordered it from Timbuk2 direct so I assume I got the latest 2012 version - commute 2.0 anyway.

What is the difference?


Nice. Did you get the 2012 or the old version? I haven't pulled the trigger yet as I'm trying to make the most of the workable, but not so satisfying bag I have now.

I ordered it from Timbuk2 direct so I assume I got the latest 2012 version - commute 2.0 anyway.

What is the difference?

Water bottle pocket, removable shoulder strap. Ipad+laptop sleeve. Quieting strips on the velcro. Redone organizer (old organizer was a free floating insert). Mostly little things, but I think the new one is a much nicer bag, at least for me.

Then I definitely got the 2012 version - mine has water bottle pocket, fixed divider, removable strap.


pocketWater bottle pocket, removable shoulder strap. Ipad+laptop sleeve. Quieting strips on the velcro. Redone organizer (old organizer was a free floating insert). Mostly little things, but I think the new one is a much nicer bag, at least for me.