Messenger vs Traditional Backpack for edc?

T

Tengu Joker

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Dec 6, 2005
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I need a new backpack for edc. I'm starting to lean towards a messenger ( thick single strap) over a more traditional backpack ( there's always one strap I end up almost ripping out due to picking it up by that strap). What are the pros and cons of a messenger bag and can you give me some to look for ? Or should I just stick with traditional dual straps?
 
Backpacks are best for hauling heavier loads that you don't need to get to constantly. They are ideal for carrying in camping gear on a long hike.

Messenger bags are best for lighter loads with equipment you access frequently. For example, the field bag would hold binoculars, note pad, water bottle. With the bag off one shoulder, it's easy to lift the flap and reach in.

I have a County Comm XL BOB that's loaded with gear in outside pockets and still has room inside for a jacket, or picking up a couple of bags of groceries on the way home.

I recently got a true messenger bag, a medium Timbuk2, which I've been using a lot. Not only can it go on one shoulder, or across the chest, but on the way back from a long walk today, I attached the stabilizer strap, and it carried across my back as comfortably as a backpack.
 
I also have an old Eagle Creek Convertibrief, a briefcase that converts to a backpack or carries by a shoulder strap. I don't think Eagle Creek still makes them, but Jandd has the same kind of bag, their Talmid Convertible Briefcase. Jandd makes high quality gear.
 
I think it depends on what you intend to haul for EDC. As already stated if you travel light a messenger bag will suffice. I prefer backpacks though because they spread the load evenly and can be worn comfortable all day.

I travel a great deal for work so I have to carry my office with me for the most part. I prefer a backpack(North Face Surge) for my bag because I can easily carry all I need (laptop, paperwork, travel documents, medicine, office supplies and a small amount of BOB stuff). I think this would overload most messenger style bags or make you walk lop-sided.
 
Another consideration is what you do during the day. I'm no longer a student, and a messenger bag is a better match for business casual than a backpack.
 
Not sure what you're looking to carry but I've been very happy with my Scout bag from Eagle Creek. I just spent 3 weeks in Europe and carried it every day. It holds MUCH more than it looks like and gives multiple carry options including a nicely padded waistbelt that hides away (I haven't used that yet as I was carrying way too much- I used the shoulder strap). I carried all kinds of my preparedness "junk" (lights, sewing kit, compass, knives, foodbars, mints, gum, etc., etc.,) plus a magazine (for waiting) plus maps, guidebooks and a translator, a fairly large camera (Canon XS10is) and had room for more- in an amazingly compact and easy to use package. It also has 2 mesh pockets for water bottles which was the reason I bought it. It has turned out to be much more useful than I had expected.

Warning- it's not going to look that big in the store, you're going to have to play with it a bit to get an idea of what it will hold.
 
I use a Maxpedition Kodiak Gearslinger. I wear it every day on my motorcycle to and from work. It holds my laptop and all of my other gear. I can't recommend it enough!
 
I think Esav's post is pretty much spot-on.

I think its a question of greater load-carrying/weight-distribution (back packs) vs. "right-sized" carry and accessibility (messenger bags).

Personally, there's a weight limit I put on single shoulder-carry bags because it doesn't take long for the load to make the strap/sling dig into your shoulder. Yet when it comes to ease of access to your gear, messengers are best.

I think it all boils down taking a look at your gear and doing a realistic assessment of your carry needs.
 
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