Tuesday, September 9, 2014
Disney Mickey Mouse - Funny Things Collection 15" Large Size School Backpack
Friday, July 18, 2014
Angry Birds Girls She Bird Backpack Full Size with Bow
Saturday, June 21, 2014
Cool Beans Mustache Back Pack - School Bag Bag - Laptop Bag -Book Bag - Unisex - Ideal Gift for all
Friday, June 20, 2014
Acme Made Clutch in with Designer Coated-Canvas Exterior Notebook Shoulder Bag, Brown
Buy Acme Made Clutch in with Designer Coated-Canvas Exterior Notebook Shoulder Bag, Brown Now
Saturday, June 7, 2014
Totoro Full Size School Backpack (Bonus Plush)- 16"
- Brand New Item
- full size school backpack 16"x5"x11"
- Adjustable Padded Shoulder Strap + Carrying Handle
- Come with Bonus Plush Doll
Buy Totoro Full Size School Backpack (Bonus Plush)- 16" Now
I have had this bag for 2 DAYS and I am not joking I only put a folder and a pencil bag and it is already falling apart. The backpack strap ripped off :/ but it is a cute backpack but I do NOT recommend wasting your money on this productRead Best Reviews of Totoro Full Size School Backpack (Bonus Plush)- 16" Here
For the price, I thought we were getting a great quality product but the backpack handle ripped within the first month of use. My daughter is in 2nd grade so they don't even carry any books let alone heavy items in their backpacks. All she usually has is a homework folder and her sweater, and sometimes a lunch bag in her backpack. Oh, well. She loves Totoro so much but I wouldn't purchase this item again. Waste of money for bad quality!Want Totoro Full Size School Backpack (Bonus Plush)- 16" Discount?
I ordered this for my friend's birthday and it arrived literally 2 days after ordering it. It looks great in person and is really cute. She loved it. Only downside is that it's not designed for everyday use at school because it doesn't support much weight for a long time as many other backpacks do. It's still a great backpack to go adventuring with!This backpack is the cutest. I bought it for my daughter All her school friends love I is of nice size One of the best purchases I have make at amazon! Super quality and arrived on time! thank youSaturday, May 17, 2014
beatrix Big Kid Pack Papar Owl Backpack
Buy beatrix Big Kid Pack Papar Owl Backpack Now
my daughter loves this owl backpack! i've since given this to a few friends and i highly recommend this backpack. the lunch boxes are also very cute, i bought one for her as a christmas gift.Read Best Reviews of beatrix Big Kid Pack Papar Owl Backpack Here
Thursday, May 15, 2014
Eagle Creek No Matter What Duffel Bag
This is a fairly basic duffel, but it does have a few nice features. The shoulder strap, which was quite comfortable, is easily removable and packable, which is good for a checked bag. The carry handles seem good and strong, and there are a couple of cinch straps that are great for tightening down the contents. There is a small zip pocket on the outside that can carry some incidentals, though nothing too large. The main zipper is good and heavy, and is designed to fit a travel lock.
The bag itself comes packed in a very small stuff sack. It would be fairly easy to pack one of these in another piece of luggage without taking up much space. Speaking of space, I was shocked at just how much stuff I could fit in this bag. Ten days of clothes and supplies still left plenty of room. It's possible I could have gotten the medium and still fit everything.
The only thing I would have liked would have been a small pocket on the inside to stow a few things while the main zipper was locked. It took a while to find some small items in such a large bag. Also, since this is a packable, soft, bag, there is no rigidity in the bottom, which can make it slightly awkward to carry if not entirely full. We got around this problem by putting a sheet of cardboard in the bottom. It's not advertised as a solid bottomed bag though, so this isn't a mark against the product.
In any case, this is an excellent bag, and I'm tempted to get one of the smaller ones to use as a carry on in the future.I've been living out of the Large duffel bag for the better part of two years. On average I've loaded it with 20 kg / 45 lbs. of personal items and gear. The Medium bag was too small for this load and this Large bag could accommodate more.
I've owned and used both the small and large size versions of this bag. They are made of exactly the same materials. I used to load the small bag with 10 kg / 20 lbs. on average. After living out of it for some years it showed remarkably little wear. The large bag is showing more wear. Several holes have worn through the bottom material and one seam in the upper material has begun to separate.
With the small bag, I always used the shoulder strap when walking. With the large bag, I find it very awkward to use the shoulder strap when walking. As a result I have given up on the shoulder strap and it is now the reserve strap for my small bag. With the large bag I have resorted to putting my arm through the top handles and carrying the bag over my shoulder. Walking with a 20 kg load slung over your shoulder becomes uncomfortable pretty quickly, but it is possible to walk at a normal pace.
With the small bag I never used the cinch straps, but with the large bag they compress the load and make the bag less awkward to carry.
The lockable main zipper makes it more difficult for thieves to access the contents of the bag. If the situation warrants it, one can lock the bag to an immovable object with a choke chain. (Choke chain and lock not included.) The outside pocket is not lockable.
Carrying any big load is going to be difficult. For maximum comfort a backpack is probably the answer. Is some wear and tear after many months of use to be expected? Is it acceptable? You decide. Can you find a better duffel bag on the market? I don't know. Can you find a similar bag at a lower price? I don't know.
Buy Eagle Creek No Matter What Duffel Bag Now
I wish this bag had the pass through to hook over the telescope handle of rolling luggage, but this large size does not.Its a nice large size and well constructed.
I don't think I can fold it up again to get back inside its stuff sack.
Great sturdy bag. No problems after checking it in as luggage for 6 flights.
Read Best Reviews of Eagle Creek No Matter What Duffel Bag Here
This is a tough, nice looking duffle bag that fits so much in it.We bought two of these bags for use on holidays as checked luggage, they are so light they don't eat into your luggage weight allowance, whereas wheeled bags are often 4kg or more.
The cinch straps across the top let you cinch it down if it isn't full, making its dimensions smaller if you are having trouble with checked in luggage restrictions. We never had a problem with this as a checked bag on several airlines. The base is reinforced and strong. It folds down very small. The bag it comes in can be used as a packing cell while you're travelling, to put miscellaneous items, socks, undies or whatever in it, to keep them separate from other items a packing cell that size would normally cost $15 or so at least, and this one is free with the bag.
The only thing not good about this bag is that you can fit so much into it and it can be so heavy, that we missed not having wheels. They do have a shoulder strap, but if you're lugging 23kg around, they're still very heavy to carry by the shoulder straps or the carry handles. Easier to find a trolley at the airport for the bag. If there's two people with two of these bags, the carry straps on either end mean you can each grab one end of each bag and walk in convoy with them.
I highly recommend this bag for African safaris, where you have to travel with collapsible bags, or where you want to utilise your checked luggage allowance on your contents rather than wasting it on the bag's weight.i started stuffing my gear in and it never filled up. Room for three light boes, some miscellaneous gear and all of my pocket wizzards.
Friday, May 9, 2014
Superman 3-d Molded Chest Backpack
Monday, May 5, 2014
Case Logic NOXB-114 Corvus 14 to 15-Inch Laptop Backpack (Black)
The material used for the center part of the top flap is a little cheap feeling (would have preferred the ballistic nylon stuff the rest of the backpack is made from, or leather or something) and the actual straps are of below average quality, but functional.
The velcro strap used to attach it to my carry-on luggage is very convenient, and the zipper-expansion feature allows me to use this instead of a larger laptop bag on planes where I have more than the usual number of things to carry.
I have never written a product review before in my life, but I spent a month looking for one of these things and maybe I can save someone else some time. The Corvus 114 is an attractive and sleek backpack for techies. It is designed for some of today's hottest electronic items, specifically the Apple MacBook Pro, the iPad, iPhone and Amazon Kindle products. The outer material is made of durable, weather resistant black nylon with stretchable accents on the bottom and sides. The shoulder straps loop through a reinforced plastic casing which ensures durability for extended use and heavy loads. There is also a Velcro strap laying flat on the back which allows you to attach the pack to a roller-board/carry-on luggage. The back is also padded for comfort and additional protection for inside electronic items. Other notable exterior features include: an extendable outer shell for larger loads (via a zipper which runs around the perimeter of the pack) and a Velcro clip which allows you to cinch the extraneous strap fabric which typically dangles at the bottom of the shoulder straps.
The interior features make this backpack really stand out for technology users. First, there is an inside slip pouch which fits a 13" or 15" MacBook Pro perfectly (the standard MacBook, MacBook Air, or any 13-14" widescreen laptop will fit as well). Behind this there is a separate pouch which is designed to hold the Apple iPad (or iPad 2, or Amazon Kindle version 1, 2 or 3). It is important to note that if you keep your iPad permanently stored in any kind of bulky casing, this pouch will be too snug to fit the iPad + case. However, the inside of the pouch is lined in an extremely soft microfiber which will keep your iPad screen perfectly safe from scratches and debris. The main interior pouch will easily store a journal, notebook, textbook or your iPad in its case. This portion is extendable by opening the exterior zipper. There are a few small, deep mesh pouches which are intended for your power adapters/cables for your various devices. Finally, there are two pouches which can be accessed without opening the top cover of the backpack which can store your phone, iPod, wallet, pens, keys, lunch or whatever else. There are two pouches which wrap around the sides of the pack which can be used for storing a bottled water or additional cords.
Overall, this is a very well designed and attractively built technology backpack. It would be an outstanding choice for frequent subway, bus or airplane commuters and/or individuals who find themselves taking their entire entourage of electronic devices out on a regular basis. Unlike standard backpacks, the compartments in this pack are designed specifically for your iPad/Kindle/MacBook therefore they fit like a glove and don't "float around" loosely inside your backpack. Furthermore, the interior is detailed with high quality materials and soft microfiber to keep your electronics clean and safe from damage.
For the price, I would consider this a worthy investment and a quality built product. Case Logic has done well to develop a pack which caters to high-end electronics users. I will be using this stylish backpack to transport my iPad + MacBook + iPhone + Kindle to work every single day. Very pleased with the product, highly recommended! A+
Buy Case Logic NOXB-114 Corvus 14 to 15-Inch Laptop Backpack (Black) Now
Finally a stylish backpack made to safely protect your laptop, iPad, iPod, cell phone and various other electronic devices. The padded shoulder straps add extra comfort when carrying around a full load. Don't feel like carrying it? A velcro belt allows this backpack to be attached securely to your roll on luggage. This is a backpack that has a place for everything to be stored to give optimal protection to your electronic devices. I love the padded, "velvet"-lined pocket for my iPad to keep the screen safe from scratches. The only downside to it was having to remove my Otterbox case to get the iPad to fit properly in it's pocket. With the iPod, iPhone, netbook, laptop, and iPad/tablet all safely tucked away in their various compartments, I still had room (and pockets) to spare for my books, writing utensils, flash drive, wires & accessories, CDs, etc. without making the backpack feel over crowded. The light teal inner lining adds sophistication to this perfect little backpack. It is not bulky when filled and is very comfortable to wear. I took numerous pictures and some video to show the inside of the backpack which I hope to upload later. If you have the chance to view this backpack in a store, I highly suggest it! You will not be disappointed in it's versatility. There is one small mesh pocket in the flap of the backpack I used it for wires. The small velvet-lined pocket is perfect for your iPad or tablet. Two padded pockets leave space for your netbook and a larger laptop. (My thicker macbook almost proved to be a little too large for the backpack with everything else in it. A thinner laptop 15" and under would have no problem fitting.) The deep center pocket (perfect for a binder, textbook and/or portfolio) has two mesh smaller pockets that I used for some CDs. (Note: the center pocket can be made larger with a zipper located on the outside of the backpackthat gives 1" more storage on the inside). The center pocket also has a zippered compartment that I used for a paperback novel and a calculator. Outside the backpack, your wallet, cell phone and iPod will be safely protected in a zippered pocket with two writing utensil holders to keep your pens and/or pencils in handy reach. Another stretchy pocket lies outside of the zippered pocket. Finally, there are two side pockets that I used to hold a small water bottle in one and a granola bar in the other.All in all, I was really pleased with this laptop backpack and quickly replaced my numerous other carry cases with it. I would have loved this in college!
Read Best Reviews of Case Logic NOXB-114 Corvus 14 to 15-Inch Laptop Backpack (Black) Here
The Case Logic Corvus Backpack has multiple compartments specifically intended to hold a 15" notebook computer plus a tablet or e-reader (or all three) plus cell phones and other small electronics. There are a lot of pockets including three zipper pouches--one inside, one inside the flap and one on the outside under the flap.The overall design is attractive with touches of stretchy fabric and padded shoulder straps and back panel. There is a wide horizontal strap on the back to hook it to the handle of a rolling suitcase plus a grab strap at the top. It is lightweight and comfortable to carry as a backpack but much less so when carried in other ways and it is not comfortable when overloaded.
It has an expansion zipper on three sides that adds about 2 inches. I am not generally fond of expansion zippers on bags as they seem wish-washy but it is handled as well as possible.
The detailing is quite nice such as the zipper pulls and the little zipper garage for the expansion zipper pull. The lining fabric is an interesting color that I would call mint green although there is a plush black fabric where needed to prevent scratches.
Other than the expansion zipper, my only complaint about this backpack is that the edges of the main compartment are not very well padded. The edges of a notebook computer are more easily damaged than the top and bottom of the case and with greater consequences, such as hinge, port, or switch damage.
Case Logic is obviously aware of this problem because a removable length of foam triangular in section and covered with the mint lining material is included at the bottom of the notebook compartment. It is inadequate, inconvenient, and should be replaced by built-in padding. Since this is a backpack designed for electronics, I have to knock off two stars for this basic functional issue which the manufacturer did not properly address.
Want Case Logic NOXB-114 Corvus 14 to 15-Inch Laptop Backpack (Black) Discount?
This is a nice quality laptop backpack.What I like about it:
-It's nicely padded
-The interior is light green (instead of black) which makes it easier to see the contents of the bag.
-Many compartments and zippered pockets.
-There's a velcro security strap on the back that you can use to attach the backpack to the handle of a rolling suitcase. (I really like this feature)
-It's expandable. You can add ~3.5 inches to the width of the bag when you unzip it.
Monday, February 17, 2014
Batman Medium Backpack 14" with Joker
Monday, November 4, 2013
Meffort Inc 15 15.6 inch Neoprene Laptop Sleeve Bag Carrying Case with Hidden Handle and Adjustable
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Disney's Mickey Mouse Back 2 School Set with Rolling Backpack , Umbrella, and Lunch Bag
Buy Disney's Mickey Mouse Back 2 School Set with Rolling Backpack , Umbrella, and Lunch Bag Now
Monday, October 28, 2013
Codi Apex Travel/Luggage Case (Backpack) for 17 Notebook - Black - Dobby Nylon
The one gripe is that the Adjustable Sternum Strap was not included from this vendor. I have since contacted the company listed on the invoice to see if this was intentional or a mistake.
The Adjustable Sternum Strap would be a solid part of the case as it would allow for easy attachment to a rolling case handle similar to how the briefcase versions have a built-in back-slit that allows roller handles to slip through.
I'll update this review if I hear back from the distributor, but I have to knock off a few stars since one of the parts listed on the CODi page isn't included (or I just haven't found where it's hidden in the box).
Friday, September 27, 2013
Everest Large Khaki Cotton Canvas Backpack
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Zebra Hot Pink Trim Backpack 16.5
Buy Zebra Hot Pink Trim Backpack 16.5 Now
I bought this for my 5 year old daughter. She loves it and it is perfect to carry her folders for kindergarten. Perfect size and is very sturdy.my daughter loves her new bag. it's very roomy and the front pocket is a great size. she loves it and i am gladI purchased this backpack for my granddaughter to start to school with this year. She was thrilled when she opened the box and is thoroughly enjoying it.Saturday, September 14, 2013
Outdoor Products Stargazer Backpack
Friday, September 6, 2013
Maxpedition Mongo Versipack
Most of the pieces that made the Maxpedition Jumbo Versipack such an excellent messenger/CCW bag are present and accounted for with the Mongo, but in greater size and in some cases, with notable improvements. Moreover, there have been some additions that have greatly enhanced on the earlier designs and allow Maxpedition to market this design as truly a legit all-purpose carryall. Whereas the Jumbo would be hard pressed to be able to handle any computing device larger than a Texas Instruments TI-89 calculator, the Mongo can easily swallow a netbook or iPad, and can even handle a smaller-form laptop with room to spare. Dimensionally the one direction that the Mongo clearly gains from that of the Jumbo is in its length; eyeballing the bag, it's probably 33% longer than the older design. The Mongo is taller also, gaining about an inch and a half or so in height. And overall thickness has increased as well, perhaps by as much as two inches, though don't hold me or my eyeballs to that; it really does seem to depend upon how the bag is geared up.
The Mongo I received reverts back to the heavier nylon fabric used on earlier Jumbo Versipacks rather than the thinner more pliable fabric that some of later Jumbos were manufactured with. The fabric is treated with Teflon, which should add even more durability and lifespan. The construction quality is as good as it's ever been, with apparent stout stitching and heavy webbing. I say 'apparent' because I've only had my Mongo for a few days and so far don't really have enough real world use (and wear) to form a concrete opinion with. But given the perceived quality of the various parts and bits, I'd say that its a safe bet to say that the Mongo will be just as durable as any prior Versipack product. As with other Maxped products all zipper pulls are made up of durable, silent paracord.
The Mongo greatly expands the size of the Jumbo's various compartments to form the basis of the new design. Starting from what is probably considered the most important compartment, the CCW pocket is greatly enlarged from the Jumbo and is now roomy enough that it should easily handle any full-sized sidearm. Access is via a double-pull zipper, and the resultant improvement in functionality can't be understated. Now you can set up the pulls so that you can use both hands to draw a gun in an emergency, whereas you couldn't do that with the Jumbo's single pull CCW compartment unless you carried the bag reverse-handed. In terms of room, my Smith & Wesson M&P 9 Pro fits comfortably within its confines, even with its pistol scope mounted over its slide. In fact the compartment is now big enough that I can actually carry two pistols in tandem, particularly handy when using the Mongo as a range bag. Another big improvement in this compartment is with the more generous use of loop lining on both sides of the pocket to better accommodate Maxped's lineup of hook-equipped accessories, such as their universal holster and spare magazine holder.
On the exterior, the compartment adjacent to the CCW pocket is the classic Jumbo zippered top storage bin, only now almost twice the capacity of the original and with double pull access. Inside elastic webbing is provided on one side to keep miscellaneous stuff such as small tools like hex wrenches or supplies in place. On the opposite side is a zippered mesh pouch that provides for a separated storage capability. On the outside Maxpedition provides a generously large loop field so that additional items can be 'velcroed' to this pouch on top. Beyond this pouch and down the Mongo's main compartment's protective flap is another strip of loop material to velcro items to, and just underneath that is another zippered pouch, configured similarly to that of the Jumbo but again much larger. This compartment works well for flat objects or paperwork, such as travel documents or perhaps maps and charts.
Underneath the main protective flap are other additions as well as carryovers from the Jumbo. Next to the CCW pocket is the main storage compartment, now sized such that it that can be used for larger flat objects such as the previously mentioned netbook computer, smaller laptop or tablet device like the iPad that the Jumbo never had a hope of carrying. For other uses it can handle a digital SLR camera, although it would be best if the lens was detached during storage. The main compartment in the Mongo width-wise surprisingly at first glance doesn't seem that much thicker than it is in the Jumbo despite the overall increase in the bag's thickness. But looks can be deceiving, since the compartment can swallow all sorts of larger gear like full-sized binoculars, and still provide enough room for other necessary items for use on a day hike. Try doing that with the Jumbo. The increase in size now means that the Mongo can even serve as a legitimate range bag, since there's now adequate space for accommodating eye gear and over-ears hearing protection as well as room for extra ammunition and other accessories like cleaning gear, something that the smaller Jumbo would be hard pressed if not impossible to handle. Like on the Jumbo a side pocket is retained within the main compartment, and for sealing things up the main compartment is closed by paracord sewn into a soft nylon fabric top rim with a locking slider cinch made of plastic.
Next over is a new zippered pouch that didn't exist on the Jumbo. It's best suited for flatter items much like the one built into the protective flap of the bag, but there's a bit more depth to the width of this pocket so someone isn't limited to just using it for carrying flat items. It does seem to be a good spot for more valuable documents that you might not want quite so exposed as they might be when using the pouch on the protective flap. Or for one of these...and within its own case (works and fits great). Beyond that is an open pocket for additional flat or minimal width items; one side of which is lined with more Velcro-type loop material for secure fastening. This could be an ideal location for storing hand tools for quick access, if one doesn't mind adhering a bit of sticky-back hook strips to them. On the outside of this pocket, Maxped sews on a strip of 3/4" webbing, presumably to allow for additional items to be hooked on and still have some protection from the elements since they'd be somewhat covered by the bag's main flap. The main flap itself is fastened in place by a generously sized plastic slide buckle much like it is on the Jumbo.
Underneath the Mongo's main compartment--and the bag's underbelly, as it were--is sewn on another length of 3/4" webbing. You could hang additional items like a tripod, telescoping rifle legs or an added gear bag to it or just use it as a gatherer for a tightly folded tarp or other sheetlike material. To the front of the main body of the Mongo is a slit pocket and double pull zippered storage pouch just like the configuration on the Jumbo, only larger...personally my favorite spot to park my preferred flashlight. PALS/Molle webbing is sewn onto the exterior ballistic nylon of the pouch. To the rear of the main body is the water pouch, just like the one on the Jumbo. To the side of that is vertical slit pocket, to be used as storage for the buckled waist 'belt' if the bag's owner decides not to use the strap.
On the shoulder strap is another addition (and deletion); at the front leg of the strap Maxpedition has deleted the PALS webbing of the Jumbo and added a padded, elastic-sided pouch as a stow point for portable electronics, such as an MP3 player or cellphone. My Zune HD fits perfectly, and I suspect that more than one of the iPhone designs will do just as well. Even my rather thick and porky T-Mobile G1 in its rubberized snap-on case fits. A sewn on buckle on webbing can be used to keep such valuables firmly in place. The rest of the shoulder strap is pretty much standard Versipack fare; the comfortable, adjustable position shoulder strap along with PALS/Molle webbing on the slip pocket of the rear strap anchor point with the rather silly and unnecessary (in my mind) HK-style snap hook all carry over from the Jumbo.
Nitpicks: one deletion from the Jumbo that I will miss is the carry handle that was sewn on between the shoulder strap anchor points on later Jumbo Versipak variations. It was only a 3/4" wide strip of webbing, but it WAS a nice feature that came in handy (no pun intended) for carrying the bag by hand, as opposed to doing it via the shoulder strap. Also the zippered pouch at the front of the Mongo suffers in usability from the stiff ballistic nylon in place. The double zipper pulls--especially the one closest to my person--are a BEAR to operate when the pouch is even partially empty, simply because the hard fabric creases and folds into itself rather than keeping the pouch's full shape and this adversely impacts the zipper's ability to run the pulls smoothly.
Flaws: THE one key design flaw I see with the Mongo is the design of the bottom of the main compartment; there's really not enough padding to provide adequate protection for sensitive equipment and gear; set this bag down carelessly on a hard floor or surface and an instant grimace will come to your face at the loud THUNK that just occurred. Considering the size gains that the Mongo brings to the table that makes this Versipack work for many other uses beyond just concealed carry, this seems like a major oversight on Maxpedition's part. It's certainly NOT good if your planning on using the Mongo for carrying around electronics. For me I've used a stopgap layer of foam padding to provide better cushioning and protection for my netbook or laptop, as well as for my camera gear when and if I decide to use the Mongo for that purpose. Even if you decide to use the Mongo just as a gun tote, you'd probably benefit from having added padding on the floor of that main storage compartment to keep your gear from banging around. Initially all I had on hand was some leftover 2" thick upholstery foam, which when inserted pretty much negates any height gains of the Mongo over the Jumbo. It'll do for the short term, but a trip to the upholstery store is needed to find some thinner material to recapture some of that lost clearance.
The other gripe I have about the Mongo is with its price; at the time of this review it's over 50% more to step up to the Mongo from the usual RETAIL price of the Jumbo Versipack. And considering that older-style Jumbos have been discounted of late, particularly online (there are new versions of the Jumbo line coming, if not already on the market now), the price of entry really seems awfully steep. I bought a black Mongo anyways, simply because I like the Versipack concept as a whole and I really did want the ability to carry a laptop in one. But it was still a purchase that I didn't do lightly, and as other nylon colors become more widely available I seriously doubt that an OD Green version will go into my inventory of gear bags (like I did with the Jumbo).
From a functional standpoint it's a bag that I heartily recommend, even though it's lacking in a couple of areas. The greater capacity opens up the Mongo to a multitude of uses that the smaller Jumbo and Fatboy just couldn't handle. All that being said, you'll have to decide if the price premium is worth the value it gives. I can say (a guarded) yes for myself, but I certainly wouldn't be bold enough to declare the same for anyone else.
(UPDATE: I've noticed that there's at least one retailer here on Amazon who's dropped the price of the Mongo, to the point that makes it much more palatable on the wallet...and me a bit angry--as usual--at having been an early adopter.)Let me start out by saying that this is a really great bag, best bag that I have found so far in its size class. I would like to see maxpedition make a couple of mods to the bag that could make it even better; maybe they will take my advice, maybe they won't.
First thing that I would tell people that is not apparent from the picture is that the pocket on the front of the flap extends all the way up to where the flap starts which while it seems would give you more space, means that every time that you pull the flap up to access the underside compartments all of the stuff in that pocket falls to the bottom. Then when you go to close the pocket you kinda have to shake everything back into position to spread it out so you can close the bag. It would work much better if the pocket was divided about an inch above the zipper allowing for small flat items (charging cables, pack of gum, etc.) to be stored in the thin part of the flap, and then have another zipper access on the other side of the top pocket to get to the rest of the compartment where thicker items can be stored.
This leads to the next gripe that I have, I wish that the large closure strap for the main flap could be about an inch or two longer. My pack has room for more storage in the pockets but the limiting factor has been the length of the strap that holds the flap down. You can always shorten it using the provided pull ring, but stretching a nylon strap has proven to be a futile task :)
Also, I wish that this bag had provisions for a detachable handle! One of the very first things that I did to my bag when I got it was go on a 5 day road trip through several airports and lots of miles in a rental car... and what I learned from that was that a soft briefcase style handle can be a very useful option when getting through an airport. When I got back from my trip, I made another trip down to the craft store and bought a grommet tool. I found that there was enough height on the nylon fabric area between the two straps to locate a couple of grommets about 5-6" apart. Then I got some little small carabiners and wove a soft handle from paracord that can be detached when not needed and stored in the flap compartment. This is great when running through an airport and having to sling bags into an overhead, etc.
Also I put a grommet on both of the attachment points where the strap is sewn to the bag to allow be to attach a cheap 250lb biner so I can merge the bag with my pelican laptop case that had its own shoulder strap attachment points. The pelican strap sucked and hurt my shoulder, but the maxpedition strap is wider and better padded with the sliding pad than most straps of this type; the biners allow lots of flexibility in joining to another bag, and the TSA counts it as one bag since its all attached as one piece. More free carry-on space for me...
Couple of other small tidbits: The "cellphone" pocket fits a full size 6th Gen IPod wonderfully, so it should fit an IPhone just fine if that's your speed. Also, the pocket in the back strap actually opens into the back pocket (which I'm not to keyed up on) because the item I like to keep in there loves to fall into that pocket when I'm carrying the bag, so I may sew up the bottom of that pocket, or install a snap in the bottom. Also, their is a wonderful secret pocket on the back for a small umbrella (or a defensive baton if that's more your speed) but unfortunately it also eats up space in the rear compartment (which is where I store my kindle e-reader and my notebook...neither of which I want to get wet so I never really use that pocket. I wish it had a nylon sleeve for that pocket that would keep that pocket physically separated within the back compartment, because while their is plenty of space in the back, I don't like the idea of blindly ramming an umbrella or baton down in that area without making sure its not going to smash my e-reader or wet down my journal.
Also, while the back compartment will accommodate letter size documents in a manilla envelope or standard folder the opening is not wide enough for them to easily be taken in and out. You have to kinda flex them a bit to get them through the opening then they flatten back out in the pocket. Probably not a briefcase replacement if you have to carry around a lot of documents. They do make a maxpedition briefcase if that is what you want.
One other idea I have but have not implemented yet, is to attach either a soft nylon tube or a pair of sew-on Velcro straps on the bottom for my small umbrella so if its wet it won't get my stuff wet.(Are you listening maxpedition?)
Hope to see some of my ideas on Rev2 of this bag :)
Overall I love it, I just like to customize my stuff and try to better everything for my purposes. I hope to have a YouTube review up soon and when I do, I'll come and link to it here.
RMG
Buy Maxpedition Mongo Versipack Now
Great bag! If you know Maxpedition products, this is more of the same. SOLID. Functional. Well considered. Pricey, but you truly do get what you pay for. The first review posted went into quite a bit of detail, so I won't re-iterate (except to agree a grab handle would have been nice). I would add two thoughts: 1) I've longed for a more carry-able version of the Jumbo/Fatboy to carry to and from a work setting. This bag fills that niche. It LOOKS like a messenger bag and is big enough to carry a legal pad or three-ring binder. Even with this main compartment filled, the bag still has a ton of EDC potential. 2) If you focus on JUST the long top pocket on the bag. There is an elastic strap across one side of that compartment-I use the slots in the elastic to hold down a small flashlight, knife, multi-tool, lighter, whistle. On the other side of the compartment is a zippered mesh pocket -perfect for Handi-wipes and a small first-aid kit. This, of course, leaves space for free floating gear in between the elastic straps and the mesh pocket. This is just one pocket -and there are TONS more -but it illustrates the type of organizational design that makes Maxpedition bags so super-functional. Strong recommend.Read Best Reviews of Maxpedition Mongo Versipack Here
I own two of these Mongo bags (one "regular" and the other a left-hand "S-Type") in addition to also owning a smaller Jumbo Versipack. I won't get into the details of what makes this a great "man-purse" go bag (many reviewers here have already covered that aspect) but I wanted to point out the following for those interested in buying this product:WHAT ARE YOU USING IT FOR?
If you're wanting to pack about as much stuff (especially volume-wise) as a standard college backpack, this is probably NOT the bag for you for two primary reasons: 1) It can't hold a bunch of stuff volume-wise compared to a normal backpack and 2) Even if you are carrying low-volume but heavy items, you will dislike carrying that much weight imbalanced on one side of your body. For these two reasons, you might want to stick with a backpack (which carries more volume and handles weight much better than any Maxpedition Versipack-series bag such as the Mongo).
What this bag excels at is a short-haul, low-to-mid volume, low-to-mid weight scenario. For example, it makes an outstanding 1-2 person range bag (for handguns). It can easily pack (8) 50-round 9mm/.40 S&W ammo containers and two pairs of hearing protection muffs in the main compartment as well as side and external pockets for additional items (such as: earplugs, iPod Shuffle MP3 player, (2) 16.9 oz regular water bottles, multi-tool, handgun toolkit, lighter, various sized-sticker targets, Uplula magazine loader, etc.). It can also hold up to (4) Maxpedition dual-magazine holders for a total of (8) spare double-stack magazines using the given hook-and-loop padding in two of the many pockets (both accessible upon releasing the main buckle strap). Furthermore, the CCW compartment (located in the rear of the bag, closest to your hip) can accommodate a full-size pistol (particularly useful with the Maxpedition CCW universal holster, sold separately) and yet another Maxpedition dual-mag holder (5th one). In fact, you could probably place two full-size pistols in the CCW compartment (if you forego taking any spare mags in the CCW compartment). Obviously, this would be very heavy but I've done this on several occasions and prefer this bag than either a conventional, boxy range bag (very unwieldy in comparison) or a backpack (very impractical to access ammo, spare mags, etc. in comparison). I consider the Maxpedition Mongo the ultimate 1-2 person handgun range bag and because it's built like a tank, I'm fairly sure it'll last quite a long, long time.
What this bag also excels at is a quick-go bag when I'm carrying low-volume, low-to-mid weight items (like a 15" laptop, iPad, single textbook or a couple of notebooks---not all at once, just to be clear) on short-haul trips (e.g. to a friend's house or running errands in my car). Anything more and I'd much rather carry a backpack. Also, it really sucks as a gym bag because while it's much larger than either a Fatboy or Jumbo, it still isn't large enough to easily pack away a full set of spare clothes (shorts, belt, T-shirt, underwear, socks and a HAND towel---not a BODY towel...no way would that fit in this bag with anything else). It CAN carry all of that but you are literally cramming everything inside very tightly to the point that the main buckle will barely close. And if you expect to fish around for those items in a specific order (e.g. looking for your underwear first), forget about it. You'll have to pretty much dump everything out first. Again, a backpack is still superior for use as a gym bag than the Mongo.
Also, under no circumstances is this a hiking or backpacking bag. Unless you're strictly carrying pillows (or anything else super-light), the Mongo serves this purpose very poorly (mainly because it's weight is all on one side of your hips). I've seen some Youtube videos of guys carrying this in the wilderness and it's laughable at best.
ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT
Let's be honest. This bag is expensive. Some would say it's very expensive for its limited capabilities. I have to agree BUT I have some simple suggestions that Maxpedition could incorporate into the existing design of this bag that would improve its limitations:
1) Maxpedition put ten-kabillion pockets on this thing but forgot to allow the main buckle strap to increase its length (technically, it does lengthen a couple inches but that's all...virtually worthless, IMO). If they did this, it would allow us to carry more volume and fill out more of those internal pockets. The main buckle strap, by far, is the biggest reason why this bag cannot pack more volume (and if it was lengthened like it should be, the rest of the bag would definitely be able to carry much more volume-wise). An alternative improvement would be to get rid of some of those extra compartments to increase room in the main compartment, too (though I'd much rather that Maxpedition just lengthen the main buckle strap because having those extra pockets is very nice). Either "fix" would be better than the current build. Lose 1 star.
2) The Fatboy and the Jumbo (both older and smaller versions of the Mongo) have carry straps but...no carry strap on the Mongo?!? What a MASSIVE FAIL here. Maxpedition should have included a reinforced carry handle/strap to make slinging this bag on/off easier as well as moving it around (e.g. from the backseat of the car to the trunk) without the need to lift it over your head. There is absolutely no reason why this was omitted and Maxpedition should modify the existing design ASAP in this regard. You may not notice the carry handle until you try one out (on a Fatboy or Jumbo)---and then you'll definitely miss having one on the Mongo. Lose a 2nd star.
RECAP
This can be a great bag or a horrible bag depending entirely on what you use it for. Make sure you consider this aspect before purchasing.This bag is great for use as a "manly" diaper bag. The water bottle compartment can hold two baby bottles (side by side). It's comfortable to wear over your shoulder. Inside has enough room for a change of clothes, diapers, wipe case, snacks, etc. We use the concealed carry pouch for baby books. The cell phone pouch fits my iPhone perfectly. Love how functional it is. Great buy!
Saturday, August 17, 2013
Blue Swirl Design Laptop Sleeve with Hidden Handle and D Ring Hook Eyelets for Shoulder Strap Bag C
Monday, July 29, 2013
Fjallraven Kanken Backpack
Unfortunately these packs are now a fashion item, so Fjallraven can double the prices, send the manufacturing to the cheapest factories, and people will still buy them. Note that this $75 schoolchildren's backpack is made in Vietnam, not Sweden.I used to use messenger and tote bags before buying my Kanken, and it is probably the most resilient, well-designed, and downright greatest bag for carrying around my university campus.
It's original and practical. Most backpacks have rounded tops, which I never found useful for anything, but the rectangular design on this is just right for books. Inside, there is a tall pocket in the back which is useful for little essentials like eyedrops, altoids, and toiletries you'd rather not have out in the open every time you open the bag. Retrieving items from inside is made exceptionally easy, partly due to the rectangular shape and the easy with which the front can be folded down. There's room for about three 1.5'' binders or two 1.5'' binders and one 14'' laptop. Outside, the front pocket offers enough room for a phone, wallet, and keys. The two pockets on the sides I often use for a small umbrella and a disposable water bottle. My favorite part is that the zippers are quality YKK zips and don't have or need the dangling tassels many backpacks have, which often fray or fall off anyway.
The only real con is that the straps are not padded and easily chafe bare skin (but in terms of design, the thinness is nice and is less bulky than, say, Jansport Straps)...if you're in Europe, there are a lot of stores that sell padded straps as an accessory, though they're harder to find in the US. Also, if you're looking to carry more than one huge, heavy textbook, I don't recommend this since it's not especially large. It's not waterproof, only slightly water-resistant, and I would recommend buying wax to coat it on days with heavy rain; it can easily get soaked BUT it dries up relatively quickly, doesn't warp, and isn't prone to stains--from either wet or dry elements. I have never had to clean it and it's only slightly dirty on the bottom (my own fault) and have not yet needed to sew anything up for any reason.
In terms of durability, the quality is really impeccable. I've owned mine for more than a year now, taken it to university, through crowded NYC public transportation, and on numerous vacations and the zippers and most of the seams are very much the same as when I bought it.
All in all, I love this backpack and I've spent a lot of time looking at new backpacks for school only to end up wanting to get another Kanken in a different color.
Buy Fjallraven Kanken Backpack Now
My son wanted this special Swedish backpack and fortunately I was able to find it here. He loves it and will use it for many years.It looks worn when I got it. Quality is not what I expected. But it can store a lot of my things. Great for school and a short trip.I love it! I am using it today! Great bag to throw things in for an overnight trip. It's stylish and unique. Yeah it's a bit pricey but its cheaper than a Kipling!Sunday, July 28, 2013
Kenneth Cole Reaction R-Tech EZ-Scan Laptop Notebook Computer Briefcase - Black
It is not a huge bag though, so if you're looking for something that can handle your omputer, several files, and lots of extras this wouldn't work for you. I find that I fill as much space as I have and this bag makes me drag less around, which tuns out to be fine. I usually carry a 13" lap top, power pack, charger for my phone, Note Pad/folder, Kindle fire, head phones, and business cards and pens etc.
My only complaint is that I wish it had one extra pocket to hold a folder. I usually carry around my note pad/folder in the compartment that has the laptop and power pack in it (it's the only place to put it)and when I go through TSA I either have to take it out or stick it in the front of my carry on luggage. It's not a huge deal, just a minor inconvenience.
I would recommend this bag.

