Let's be friends.

I am a very poor shopper. Since we decided to live debt free and within our means, shopping just holds no value and instead stresses me out. I go to one store and if they don't have what I want, I assume it doesn't exist.

I need help finding a good bag to take to Amsterdam. On longish trips I usually take Logan's very rugged Jeep Gear backpack (guess who Logan does design work for) and my laptop bag onto the plane. For my actual luggage I have a Jeep rolling duffle and a Jeep rolling suitcase. Again, can you guess who Logan does work for?

The backpack works because I can shove my purse in it, the Rebel, books and magazines to read. But you know it's really ugly and awfully touristy.

I need a bag to carry on the plane and through the Toronto airport (hello six hour layover!) and around Amsterdam. I'm open to carrying this bag in addition to my laptop bag, the most important part is that it have room for a book and several magazines, my camera and other purse items (lipstick, phone, wallet).

Won't you help me find something? Remember when I needed shoes and you were all so helpful? Speaking of shoes, I found a pair of Danskos at Nordstrom Rack for $50. (They're like these only with one strap instead of two.)

It could be a messenger bag or a tote bag but it can't be too huge because I'm hoping to use it as an oversized purse while in "Antsterjam" (as Max calls it) so I can easily carry my camera and take pictures of Alice doing things.

Oh and also it can't be terribly expensive because shopping gives me hives as it is. But even if you find a bag that's really expensive, share it because maybe it will lead me to a cheaper version.

Comments

[madge]

Hmm. These are sturdy enough for travel, semi-stylish and not too expensive.

http://www.manhattanportage.com/catalog/index.php

I carried one around Ansterjam. Which is such a fantastic city! (Except when I went, they were having the worst heat wave to hit Europe EVER and I was six weeks pregnant. Um, barf? Yes, I did. Often.)

Have a fantastic time travelling alone, ALONE! ALONE! ALONE!

[Bre]

Not knowing your personal style makes it challenging, but I use Vera Bradley bags for hauling all of my work gear back and forth. They come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes and patterns that you can check out at www.verabradley.com. They're not cheap, but they really are top quality (and they fit LOTS of things!)

If they aren't really your style, I also really enjoy Timbuk2 and their bags - I'm not sure what their website is, but zappos has them: http://www.zappos.com/n/es/d/722313299/show_all/1/page/1.html

Good luck! Safe Travels!

[Boulder]

Try ebags.com - their service rocks, they have an excellent selection, and their pricing is really respectable on most items.

[meander]

I am coveting the Dakine Mailboy bag for future travels:

http://www.ebags.com/dakine/mailboy/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=41312

It is out of stock there, but the black one at amazon seems nice too.

[Emily]

I really love this bag, and it's bigger than it looks. http://www.zappos.com/n/p/dp/4496339/c/3.html

in general zappos.com is awesome because they have free shipping, even on returns. So if you don't like it, no big deal! This is especially awesome when buying shoes.

also, here is the page of all small travel-y bags.

[DottyDi]

http://www.zappos.com

They have some really outrageously expensive handbags and then some in the $60 range.

[GinnyF]

Take this with a grain of salt because I've never been on a plane in my life, but I love the Travelsmith site: www.travelsmith.com

Their travel bags are functional but look good, too. I also love to browse through their wrinkle-free clothes.

[Lauren]

This one is a laptop bag - and the photos are not great, but I bought one of his other bags and really, really like it. Also? Ten bucks, and reasonably cute. I mean, at least, I think it is. It's similar to the Timbuk2 bags, but made by some independent guy who has decided that he can't get the business off the ground is is just selling of his stock. And: $10. Which I can afford w/o feeling awful about it. Maybe you'll like:
http://tinyurl.com/aljt8

[EmLocke]

I second the Vera Bradley rec. The best thing about them is that they add virtually no weight to your arm. There are a lot of different styles depending on how you carry your bag and they're surprisingly durable and almost comfortable to carry. I'd probably recommend the "handbag" or "the villager" because they are roomy and also have a zip-top. I have a duffel in a pink pattern for traveling between home and school and every time someone says "That is the perfect pink!" I love it.

[Cinders]

Does it make me a complete and total loser that when I found out you had a layover in Toronto, I became excited because I thought, wow, she's only going to be an hour from me, and then came to the crushing realization that although I *feel* like I know you from being a faithful reader, I never comment and you in fact have no idea who I am? How disappointing.

On another note, I just found a fabulous bag for the gym which probably would work for you, at a place we have in Canada called Winners. I think it's the same TJ Maxx in the States. You could try checking there. My bag cost me $35.00 (CND) and I love it. I will take it on vacation and it can easily hold a ton of stuff. I bought it because I knew that a fabulous bag would motivate me to go to the gym more often. But they had lots of bags and luggage.

[MelanieinOrygun]

I am a recovering tomboy, but some things you just don't grow out of for the sheer sake of utility. Because of this I might appear in public as what my husband so charmingly calls a "fashion victim," but who cares? Not me. Besides, you'll never see many of those Amsterdammers ('ites? 'ese? 'ish?) again, so don't worry as to whether they will rate your baggage.
For me, I go to an Army Surplus store and buy one of those Airborne bags, the ones that look like bike messenger bags only they have some military logo on the side. They last forever plus they hold lots of stuff without being ginormous.

[christy]

This backpack is probably just as ugly and touristy as the one you have, but it's actually free after rebate and you can't get much cheaper than that: http://tinyurl.com/8n4tr

And it has a "cushioned computer nest!"

This one from overstock seems big enough to carry everything and the strap is big enough to put over your shoulder. It's basic and black, not too offensive: http://tinyurl.com/dgomc

This one is orange, if you're into that, and the size is good, but best of all it's marked down to $45 from $200! Woot! http://tinyurl.com/a2mh4

Ok, I could post every single thing on overstock.com that seems interesting, or I could just suggest overstock. That's easier.

Have an awesome trip!

[Ceri Richards]

i use my Patagonia half mass messenger bag all the time; as a diaper bag and a travel bag. this new Patagonia bag also looks like a good walkabout bag:

http://www.patagonia.com/za/PDC?OPTION=PRODUCT&merchant_rn=7385&cgrfnbr=500994&sku=48810&ws=false&promo_cat=&promo_cat_id=

[Jenn]

I have one of these that I've carried all over the place, and I love it: Victorinox Sapienza

It holds a good amount of stuff but isn't too huge, plus it's practically indestructible. eBags has the orange & pink ones on sale for $30, and Amazon has black & blue for $40. Not a bad deal, IMO.

Have a great trip!

[leigh]

I was just going to say Timbuk2 as well. They're cute, sturdy bags - not cheap, but not crazy expensive. And they're messenger bags designed by an actual bike messenger, which I think is pretty cool.(www.timbuk2.com)

Or try Overstock.com - don't know if you've used that site before, but they have a really cheap flat rate for shipping, and when I searched for "messenger bag," they had some nice options, including this: http://www.overstock.com/cgi-bin/d2.cgi?PAGE=PROFRAME&PROD_
ID=1835593

[Carla*Hinkle]

My all-time favorite carry on and Europe purse/bag has got to be a $20, black, shoulder bag from the Saks outlet. Indestructable. Perfect, perfect size -- yet looks semi-chic b/c it is black and over the shoulder. Held high up on the shoulder with a full zipper so safe. And it is practically indestructible.

Unfortunately I can't find one online, but it looks like the one at this eBay listing: 5665165233

Though that one is a cosmetic bag.

I cannot say how great this bag is -- good luck and have fun!

[Karen]

It's time for you to Flee, my dear:
http://fleebags.com/
I LOVE mine.

[cai]

Are you planning to shop in Amsterdam? Because you should plan to shop in Amsterdam. I think the dollar is crap now, but you will still be able to get a bag there that's a lot nicer and better made than anything in the US. Seriously, Europe rules on bags and shoes. I spent a lot of time over there growing up and I have bags I bought in NL like 20 years ago that I still use.

For the trip over--for a temp bag--have you looked at Old Navy? I know, I know...but they actually do have cute, if very basic (like no pockets, etc.) totes and things that are super inexpensive and if you lose it, you will shrug and say, "but it only cost $11.50. Pfft."

[Meghan]

I also highly recommend Timbuk2. I've got several of their bags, their laptop bags are fantastic, and I've got a large messenger (that I custom designed via their website) that is great for travel. They mostly do messenger style bags (that's how the company started) but they've started branching off into tote bags and some quasi-retro designs. The ballistic nylon is awesome, I've thoroughly abused my bags and they still look like they day they came home with me.

They're pricey, (the medium laptop bag I have is $90 on their site) but it has a padded and secure compartment (that my 15" powerbook fits in perfectly) and still had room for my binders and textbooks. (The non-laptop bags are less expensive.) I normally fly with it as my only carry on, it had room for the various computer cords in the side and front pockets, and had room for harry potter #4 and my canon rebel in the main compartment, with magazine room in the back zippered compartment. They sell a few colors at the apple store, so if there's one nearby you could go check them out in person.

The other bonus is that it doesn't scream "I'm a laptop bag! Please steal me!" So I always felt secure, especially with the bag over my shoulder and using their (removable but included) second strap that helps hold it close to your body. (The bags were designed for bike messengers in San Francisco, thus having a bag that fits securely was a major issue.) Ok, I didn't mean to post that much, obviously I swear by this product. I even coughed up the change and bought one for my little sister when she went off to college with her first iBook.

[Monica]

Shopping sucks! Unless it's online. Second ebags.com.

[mamaloo]

These bags are made in Portland and everyfreakingbody has one. They're vinyl (or some such) and very durable. And cool! Check em out.

[Kellie Sullivan-Herring]

http://www.target.com/gp/detail.html/ref=br_1_9/601-8762269-9342524?%5Fencoding=UTF8&frombrowse=1&asin=B000E1D7JG

This is really cute. I almost bought this one this week for a hospital stay, but instead got this one (http://www.target.com/gp/detail.html/ref=br_1_7/601-8762269-9342524?%5Fencoding=UTF8&frombrowse=1&asin=B000BJ14DC) because I can use it for two trips coming up and i way over pack.

Anyway, it's decent quality and the price isn't crazy. It's pretty girly, but also has a vintage feel. I hope you find something you like!

[SuzanneinATL]

Melissa, how do you feel about this? http://store.nordstrom.com/product/product.asp?styleid=2784045&category=2376779~2376804~2379262&PrevStyleID=2871122&NextStyleID=2806033 I use this bag for everyday and travel use, and it's functional but also really stylish and classic looking.

Do you have Marshall's or TJMaxx near you? I've found brand name leather bags at really great prices, but it's very hit or miss.

Happy shopping!

[candace]

my partner went to paris last spring and wanted a similar such bag...she went to REI (the one in troy at rochester and BIG BEAVER)...found a sturdy and very useful messenger bag. Not sure if it your style, but they have other bags like it...it's a good place for bags.
i agonize over finding things that are *perfect* and usually end up with nothing...or something that i already own because nothing i find is any better. ...good luck.

[maiareads]

I don't understand.. Dooce is already there and you leave when?

No advice on bags. Sadly I never seem to go anywhere I can't throw all our stuff into a laundry basket (camping or a trip to the MIL's.) I am seriously jealous!

[christine.]

Hi, new "poster" here. I have 2 types of bags I take on trips with me, depending on the trip. The Vera Bradley Totes are really cool, about 70 bucks for a decent sized http://www.verabradley.com/Site/Home.aspx? ... they are sorta 'fun girly styles. I'm sure there are stores that carry them in your area. The other bag is SUPER AWESOME, but if you don't live in Minnesota, you'll have to order from their website. The Duluth Pack Co. I use the tote (see tote section). Super durable thickest canvas that won't rip for anything. http://www.duluthpack.com/
I'm jealous.

[Me And My Camera]

Get thee to TJ Maxx, Melissa! Their items are ever-changing, but I can always find a good bag there inexpensively when I need one.

[Wendy Mac]

I am on the same page as Lisa- when I had to suddenly go to Washington, DC for a funeral, I hit Target for some cheap travel gear I really needed. I don't travel all that often, and hence don't need to invest heavily in really durable, long term luggage. I just needed something to get the job done.

Also, wanted to say LOVE the photos of Madison and Logan. You made me cry, that was so darn adorable! Madison looks so much like you :-)

[Jessica]

Try e-bags online -- they are reasonably priced and have a wide variety.

[jewelly]

I don't know if they can ship to you in time, but I love using my Brooklyn Industries H-bag on the plane. Its deceptively small... sort of like a diaper bag for hip cute pretty ladies like yourself.

http://www.brooklynindustries.com/H-Handbag-P55C17.aspx

I can take 2 novels, a magazine, my iPod and giant earphone, a manicure kit, etc etc etc. Plus, its $44 before shipping, so that's kind of cheap. They're well made and should stand up to a plane trip plus traipsing about Amsterdam. Have a wonderful trip!!! I'm horribly jealous.

[lisa]

Definitely check out Jack Spade's day bags:
http://tinyurl.com/arv3g

They are under $100 and you'll use it for absolutely everything. Sturdy, stylish. And not too prissy.

[dvsDave]

I just found this, and I think it might be perfect, it comes with a removable make-up kit, jewelry organizer, multiple pockets for exceptional organization, and is designed to carry a laptop. Plus it comes in 3 colors.
http://www.overstock.com/?page=proframe&prod_id=1461015
overstock.com has a lot of other really well priced bags that might work too.

Rachel

[purplegenie]

I have the perfect -- PERFECT -- bag for you. I had to get a bag to use as a briefcase, and b/c I don't like to carry a purse *and* a briefcase, it had to accomodate that. Then I had to find something my PDA would fit in, and cell phone, and digital camera, and water bottle, and hairbrush, and...could double for a carry on bag I could use as an overnight bag and oh, yeah, on top of fulfilling all these needs? It had to do all this and still look chic.

I almost gave up before finding it, but THIS BAG DOES EXIST!

It's a black microfiber tote (way tres chic) made by Ellington. It's light-grey inside, so you can easily find your shit without having to do much digging, and there are even side pockets for a water bottle.

This bag knows no defeat. You must check it out. Ebags (always looks like a dyslexic spelling of "Egads!" to me...) has it for $60.

That's half what I paid for mine two years ago, but I am not even bitter. That's just how hard it rocks.

http://www.ebags.com/products/index.cfm?modelID=19143&Subcategory_Link=Details_Ellington%20Leather_19143

[purplegenie]

Concerned that the Ellington bag link got cut offf (and being, who am I kidding, just a touch anal) here is the tinyurl of the bag link:

http://tinyurl.com/cvdjc

[Croila]

Hi, just dropped in here via Zoot and thought I'd say hello.

I've RSS'd you and will definitely be back :-)

Regards
Croila
Edinburgh

[Ms Sisyphus]

Well, no bag advice since I'm either a backpack or pockets kind of girl. But the yummy links here are doing their best to lure me into believing that I could change my disorganized, still thinks she's in uni ways.

I will second Cinders excitement at finding out about your layover in TO, though. I know, prolly not so fabulous for you, but my heart skipped a little beat and I immediately began plotting ways to pawn off The Ladies and get myself to the airport. But then I realized that would not do much to promote the idea that I am NOT a scary stalker.

Although, if you do want to kill some time by having a drink with a totally not scary stalker, I'd be walking on air and taunting all my friends with fact that I had a drink with *the* MelissaS. (Hmmm. Prolly shouldn't have used the word kill there....)

[Genie]

First, I'm so pleased about reading all the comments from everyone else and browsing for new stuff! But I still can't say enough great things about my Timbuk2 messenger bag. I have the medium classic messenger and it holds letter paper in a pinch but isn't so huge you feel like you'll fall over.

I custom ordered the colors I wanted and I use it every day! I've had this bag for three years using it daily and it looks brand new, so it's very durable. It's certainly not a leather handbag, but you can't beat the practicality of it.

And really, compared to the $20-$30 bags I was buying every few months trying to find the One True Bag (tm), I feel like I've saved money over time. :) I can justify anything.

[JustLinda]

Hi! I signed up! For a typepad account! Just so I could comment!

But I'm clueless on the bag recommendation. Ha!

[kelli]

Hi Melissa,
Never commented before, but I'm a long time reader. We just went on a trip and I needed new luggage. I bought a carry-on by Nine and Co at Kohl's. I'd been avoiding buying luggage because it's so damned expensive but Kohl's was having a sale for 50% off. (When aren't they having a sale?)
here's a link (you can't order online, but just so you can see) http://www.kohls.com/products/product_page_multiple0.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=245162699&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=249931869&bmUID=1139770206811
I have the 2 handled rectangular tote and I LOVE IT. Highly recommended... :)

[pseudostoops]

I, too, love Timbuk2 and Brooklyn Industries for a nice style/durability combo. I carry my laptop EVERYWHERE, and hate the "please, steal me!" look of laptop bags that Meghan mentioned, so I got a sleeve (the envelope kind with the flap that closes over the top) at Waterfield Designs:

http://www.sfbags.com/products/sleevecases/sleevecases.htm

This way, I can put my laptop in whatever bag I carry. And you can buy the cheaper Timbuk2 bag without the built in laptop case.

[Dianne]

try this site. everything they make is for travel.they have everything you could ever need for any kind of trip. The hats are awesome. both my hubby and i have hats and he even has a winter hat.

http://www.tilley.com/thumbnail.asp?catId=14&gender=w&extractBy=CategoryId&id=5

[Melissa]

Ditto on ebags.com I like to at least look around online and see what is new & exciting. If I have time I'll order from there.

I too let out a little WHOOP when I read that you'll be in TO for a long layover. Oh I need to get a life!

[the happy homewrecker]

I wholeheartedly second the In-Flight Tote from Ellington. I have two; one in the kiwi microfiber and one in brown canvas, and I love them both. They're huge space-wise, but not unmanageable, and they're big enough for me to haul around a couple of books, a knitting project, two sippy cups, diapers/wipes, snacks for the kids, my wallet, pens/lipstick/lotion, plus other assorted crap. I haven't used mine during air travel, but there's a kind of upside-down pocket on it that lets you slide it over the handles on rolling luggage so you don't have to have it over your shoulder while you're wheeling your suitcase around. I bought both of mine from eBags.com.

[Wineflinger]

What I would do instead of getting a shoulder bag is get the smallest rolling bag that you can that will fit your laptop et al. It doesn't have to be majorly expensive. Pack a purse in your luggage, or in the bag, for when you get there...a rolling bag is so much easier to haul around in airports especially with a long layover. I never carry a shoulder bag for travel anymore, just a tiny rolling carry-on.

[Lori]

One word: Target.

Target has a great selection of reasonably priced luggage in all shapes and sizes. And colors, so you don't have to settle for basic black. I agree with the above poster to look for a small rolly-bag that fits your laptop et al. SO much easier than a shoulder bag or tote. Good luck!

[margalit]

I'm another Vera Bradley fan. I like them for several reasons. They are sturdy as hell, are washable, and they hold a laptop well without screaming "There's a Laptop in here, please steal me!" They come in a variety of sizes and shapes and I have several because I found an outlet store for them years ago and stocked up. http://www.verabradley.com/

I also have a Timbuk2 laptop bag that I use for everyday use in and around town. It's boring, but sturdy. I only look for sturdy in bags because I've killed hundreds of them over the years. If you're taking a rolling bag for carry-on, be sure to include bungie cords so you can strap on your other bags and not have to shlep everything all over the airport, especially on a 6 hour layover.

[Cat]

Can't comment on the bag, but did want to chime in on the shoes. I got a pair of similar Danskos for Christmas -- Fran -- and love, love, love them! Seriously. I've worn Dansko clogs for years but got tired of being the only non-medical personnel wearer in the entirety of west Michigan, so switched to the Frans. Could walk all day in them, I swear. I got them at Zappos, so much pricier than Nordstrom's rack, but you might check them out if you're feeling a little wild with the old Visa card. Good luck with your planning and shopping for the trip. Can't wait to hear about your experiences!

[Becky Scott]

i found a great bag, called Hip-On. it has a ton of pockets, room for a regular camera (but not my D70), magazines, and you can fit your laptop into the front pocket - it's padded. or, use it for all your odds and ends and keep the laptop separate. i carry it to work everyday and school two nights a week. you can find it at the container store. it has a TON of pockets, nooks, and crannies.

http://www.containerstore.com/browse/Product.jhtml?CATID=255&PRODID=67048

[Katie]

Hey! I don't really have anything to contribute to the "bag" conversation, as I'm still a college student :). But I just wanted to say I've found your site through fussy.org, and you've got a new regular reader. Have fun on your trip!

[CursingMama]

For practical, yet stylish, bags I love a few that Coldwater Creek has. They aren't too expensive, they look great, they hold up well, they aren't too large to double as a purse, and most of the bags have a zippered top to keep out pick pockets.

Good luck on your search!

[cjkal36]

i recomend
http://www.timbuk2.com/tb2/retail/catalog.htm

you can build your own bags..pick the colors, pockets..all of that stuff..plus it is really durable and kinda a good looking bag..lots of sizes and colors...I love mine and so does my boyfriend..they can be gender neutral, which i prefer

[amyp]

i think someone else mentioned them already but i absolutely love queen bee for bags of all sizes.

i have the trucker bag and while it's a little big for a day to day purse; i love it for travel. fits my big ol'camera, books, magazines, food, everything.

they are a little pricey ($50 - $80) but totally worth it. made of vinyl w/ a soft interior and nearly indestructible.

[kelly]

I love the Overland Donner. It's basically an oversize purse, I use it for all my trips and it has room for my camera, a book, and a place to stick a water bottle or two.

http://www.rei.com/product/47694892.htm

[TeriLynn]

Screw buying one- I have a great old Wonder Woman bag you can borrow. It's big enough to fit your laptop and magazines & other essentials in, and it's super cute and not-touristy. Plus, I'll even throw on a good sturdy handle instead of the scarf I've been using on it!

Also, I'll check with Chris to see if he has any good ideas of things to do close to the airport for that 6 hours, if you'd like.

-miao.

[Crouching Hamster]

After moving to New York, I was forced to go on the "perfect bag" search, since I carry a bag with me at all times (wallet, cellphone, iPod, book, magazine, calendar, notebook, hand lotion). I second most, if not all of the opinions above. Time permitting, if you're a snob like me and want something original and stylish, go to:

http://www.hollyaiken.com/products.php

You can actually design your own bag. And if you call or e-mail, I bet they could get it finished within 2 days. Service is personal and exceptional. The bags are completely weatherproof, and the straps are made of seatbelts! Yet, they are not too heavy or expensive, and they look tres cool (i.e., lots of compliments, if you can handle it).

There is also Posh Bags by Tori:

http://www.poshbytori.com/aboutposh1.html

Again, you can choose your own fabric, etc. She's changed her fabrics, but I own a "Drama Queen" shoulder bag, and an "Audrey" large tote (polka dot material no longer available). Service is prompt and personal, and the large city tote would be perfect for what you want. It works for me!

[Crouching Hamster]

(I'm anal too ...)
You can still get the "Audrey" (as in Hepburn) large city tote (Posh by Tori):

http://www.goodtobeyou.com/atoordibabyp.html

[Christie79]

I read here quite a bit, but this is the first time I've commented. Just thought you might want to check out www.booq.com in case you're interested in carrying your laptop and everything else in one bag. They're a little pricey, but their bags are made of ballistic nylon - which makes me feel safer carrying a laptop and my camera around. (Ballistic nylon can't be cut through like other fabrics.)

Good luck!