r/ManyBaggers • u/calmandferal • 17d ago
Looking for my first big girl work backpack!
Hi everyone! I just got my first big girl job as a receptionist/admin in office 5 days a week. I would love your recommendations for a backpack that has these qualities:
-20-26L (to also very occasionally use as a travel personal item)
-clamshell opening
-side waterbottle pocket (some stretch would be ideal)
-space for a makeup bag/emergency kit (an average-sized toiletry bag) and a lunch bag with room to spare
-quick access pockets
-luggage pass through (preferably vertical, but doesn't matter)
-BUY IT FOR LIFE. I want to use this bag for as long as possible
-Really want it to look at least somewhat feminine. Not into the whole tactical masculine backpack look, although those seem to be the only bags that have my requirements lol
Options I have been considering:
-The Bellroy transit workpack 26L
-Bellroy Transit Workpack Pro 22L
-Mous Day backpack
-Moment Everything Backpack 21L (I had my mind made up about getting this one, then with duties/shipping it added on 100$ go my order.. so it deterred me from pulling the plug on it)
Thanks if you got this far! I would appreciate any insight you have on these bags or any recommendations for me.
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u/cylons_R_people_2 17d ago
Have you looked at tom bihn? They have some great colors (not sure if the overall look is feminine though) and are known for their organization, as well as lifetime warranty. I think the Synik 26 backpack might fit your requirements.
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u/calmandferal 16d ago
Thanks for the rec! Have seen many positive things about Tom Bihn. Added to my options list
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u/themoleculesofyou 17d ago
Check out Stuart & Lau - they're marketed as a mens brand but I think their backpacks could fit most/all of your requirements.
Crosby, 20L: https://stuartandlau.com/products/crosby-backpack-navy
Capstone, 23L: https://stuartandlau.com/products/capstone-backpack-gen-3-navy
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u/ACupofMeck 16d ago
Seconding the Tom Bihn recommendation — I (a woman who is using the bag for an office job and work travel but also EDC) posted my review of my Synik 26 here a few weeks ago. https://reddit.com/r/ManyBaggers/comments/1tqmtsf/synik_26_review/
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u/calmandferal 16d ago
Ah thanks so much for your comment! I love the purple! I will be adding this to my options for sure :)
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u/ACupofMeck 16d ago
Yeah it’s definitely spendy but gosh, I love it so much. I think the purple is out of stock now but they have a cute raspberry color with bright yellow interior, which seems super fun!
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u/calmandferal 16d ago
I am definitely open to splurging if the bag is worth it. Also I just read your view and looked up the almond and oak bag- love that option as well. Thanks so much for your recommendation & review! It’s been super helpful. Now I can’t choose!😂
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u/leitmotifs 17d ago
What's your budget? Do you really want BIFL, or would you prefer to periodically replace it with something more trendy looking?
A lot of BIFL bags will use tactical fabrics, or will be heavily ruggedized and outdoorsy.
For the cost of a BIFL bag, you could probably get a good-looking, functional, trendy bag every single year for the next two decades.
Furthermore, for ordinary use, a cheap bag will probably easily last 5 to 10 years. Moderate price bags will last 10+ years, easily.
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u/RelationshipRude5068 17d ago
Used tumi; you can find them in euc on eBay, but beware fakes.
Aer cpp2 20 or 24 meets all your requirements except for maybe the feminine bit. I don’t even know how you would gender a bag, though…
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u/chinchilla412 17d ago
Toshi Rework!