[450]

I know $40 isn't much for a backpack but I'm quite cheap when it comes to these things.

Needs...
Need a separate laptop compartment (about 10" screen)
under $40 (will go about that if really needed though)
padded straps

Wants...
It would be nice if it could be a regular backpack and a messenger pack

I was thinking of getting this one.
http://www.ebags.com/ebags/envoy_con...?modelid=74677

Is the eBags brand good? I've purchased things from their store but I don't remember if I got their brand or not.

 

[manhattanproj]

40 for a backpack is not much especially considering what you wants and needs. you are asking a lot for just 40. i would recommend northface, wait til they go on sale or something.

if you are really strict about the 40 budget then just get the ebag one. has everything that you want, but just not stylish.

 

[450]

Alright then...

Is $70-75 a good limit?

 

[fatcat28037]

Check this site.

http://www.ebags.com/backpacks/depar...FQligwodFW_kLA

 

[450]

I linked to that site in my original post.

But do you have any recommendations on a backpack/messenger pack?

 

[roastpuff]

On a backpack, I recommend a MEC Bookbag. Good Canadian company, with solid gear at cheap/reasonable price. The Bookbag will meet all your needs except for the combo part. If you want to upgrade to more pockets and a bigger capacity, there's the Deluxe version.

And it's 32CAD, which translates to 30USD or thereabouts.

Link Here.

EDIT: US Shipping gets a bit expensive at 20CAD for Xpresspost, but I'm willing to help you out.

 

[Samgotit]

Quote:

Is $70-75 a good limit?

It's perfect.

This is the whole laptop line at Campmor. They are a great etailer and usually cheaper than most others:
http://www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/st...ategory_rn=242


Specifically:

Small

http://www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/st...berId=12500226

Large

http://www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/st...berId=12500226
Check it out further at ebags but buy it from Campmor above:
http://www.ebags.com/jansport/lap_st...?modelid=81971

http://www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/st...berId=12500226
Same with this one. It's at ebags, too:
http://www.ebags.com/jansport/biodie...?modelid=88459

Jansport makes great bags IME. Unfortunately, none of the above have messenger capability.

 

[fatcat28037]

Quote:

Originally Posted by 450 /img/forum/go_quote.gif I linked to that site in my original post. But do you have any recommendations on a backpack/messenger pack?

damn!.......that's about the third dumb this I've done today. I'd better go to bed.

 

[ducatisteve]

I have this one and it's one of the best backpacks I've owned. I can ride on my motocycle for hours across the state with my computer and 3-4 days of clothes and whatnot and it stays very comfortable.

http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Wenge...oductDetail.do

 

[Oddball]

I like North Face backpacks. All (or most?) have a pouch that's usually used for a hydration bag that can be used for a laptop. They also have awesome straps and are the most comfortable backpacks I've ever used. I have the Borealis.

 

[appophylite]

The Wenger Swiss Army backpacks that are becoming more common in recent months come to mind as a rather decent bag that meets the criteria you have at the price you've asked for.

 

[450]

Thanks for your advice everyone!

Quote:

Originally Posted by ducatisteve /img/forum/go_quote.gif I have this one and it's one of the best backpacks I've owned. I can ride on my motocycle for hours across the state with my computer and 3-4 days of clothes and whatnot and it stays very comfortable. http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Wenge...oductDetail.do

I ended up buying that! Except in blue from ANTOnline for $50 shipped ($10 off Google Checkout).

Will let you guys know what its like.

 

[jbloudg20]

I have 2 northface bags, a eureka, and a kata. they are all of superb quality.

 

[SilverTrumpet999]

Just to chime in - and since the OP already purchased, the price requirement is no longer so much of a concern - but I heartily recommend the Osprey line.

I spent a month in Ecuador in the rainforest & the Galapagos, and my Atmos pack was probably the best decision I made. It has displaced my school backpack too, because it has enough room for books but makes carrying them feel feather-light. The whole thing is ridiculously light and comfortable, and even with a flexible internal frame it weighs less than 2 pounds unloaded. I tried on literally everything I could find - North Face, Kelty, Gregory, Arc'teryx, and nothing even came close to the comfort of the Osprey line.

It usually retails for around $150, but I got it on sale for $99. Osprey makes a Stratos series too which is much the same thing, but a bit cheaper. If you have a small frame, this site has my Atmos on sale for even cheaper than I bought mine for.

 

[mtkversion]

i use a savier skate bag from a few years back.

holds a 15" laptop, accessories, books, whatever i need for a day. tons of "hidden" zippers/pockets for stuff. well padded comfortable shoulders/insides, everything feels safe in it. nifty velcro positions for additional lens bags when i take it shooting.

it's tough, been thrown around and its still going strong, i love it.

$40.00, only regret i didn't buy two for when this one wears out.