Tl:dr: I’m looking for a well-packaged, 2.5l-ish bag with excellent space utilization, a comfortable strap, some consideration for weather, and smart design like a fully-usable
Front pocket and internal dividers/pockets for small items. It should be available in brighter colors and not look too techy or tactical. I don’t require a back pocket or major security features, or loops for an umbrella (in fact, they would be a dealbreaker).
Carry pictures are: usual carry, minimal carry, “I’m getting on a plane” carry
Okay, on to the show: I’ve had this Halfday Roamer Sling for a bit over a year now. It’s my first sling and so while it’s set the standard for what I like, it’s also exposed some things I want even more in my next bag. It’s still a keeper and anything like my “heavy” carry would require it, but it’s too much for daily use and is lacking some features I’d like.
5 things I like:
• It’s basically a rectangle, so the space it has is used well; it even stands on its own
• The zipper on the front pocket is at the very top, so I can use the whole thing
• It has its key leash and dividers in all the right places
• Old-school backpack styling, not techy or tactical, in a bright color
• Sits well on the chest (when medium-to-completely filled)
5 things I don’t like:
• Zero weather protection
• Too big for usual carry
• No-name zippers
• Strap attaches at the middle of the bag, which makes it lean out when not super full (or unless very cinched)
• Super-chunky strap and buckle
Ideally, I’d like to maintain the things I like and eliminate most of the things I don’t, in a slightly smaller package.
I have a Fjallraven High Coast Hip Pack which is pretty good—I love the looks, the back padding is nice, and I like where the strap attaches on the bag—but the front pocket sucks and the strap digs into my neck once it’s got a little weight in it.
I also have a Bellroy Lite Sling Mini which I got on a bit of impulse after a wet trip to Ireland had me rethinking the need for weatherproofing … but it’s basically a cavernous mini messenger bag with no front pocket and little organization that doesn’t cinch up enough to be used as a belt bag if needed—not a requirement for my daily but I was hoping this one could be so I could use it cycling.
I’ve tried:
• Bellroy Venture Ready 2.5. I found it too small despite being only .5l down from the Halfday. I also didn’t love wet-leather look of the aqua guard zipper, or the divider in the front pocket (I like to put my pen there). I liked the look overall and the 2-way main zipper.
• Aer City Sling 3. Too large, too stiff, poorly-placed front and back pocket zippers. Hated the top handle.
• Quince Nylon Hip Pack. A bit too snug, shiny material, giant strap and buckle. No front pocket. But, it does have excellent interior organization. I’ve also gotten used to the ambidextrous zipper of the Fjallraven I have.
The only thing I can find that’s close is the Allet Daily Mini Sling, but I’ve never heard of the company and it’s got kind of a funky front pocket situation. (ETA: it also seems too tall, too—it’s 2” less wide, but 1.5” taller than the Halfday.) The styling is more Bellroy than Jansport but I like It all right.
Thanks for slogging through this, and for your recommendations.
