Need a new bag (messenger or backpack) for school

[Awesome Sauceome]

I have had a swiss gear backpack for the past 7 years that is starting to get pretty funky and has some pretty noticeable tears in it (along with my dismal repairs showing haha). So I figure with me starting school in the fall, it seems like a decent time that I should probably get a new bag and retire this bad boy. I was thinking of just buying another backpack but I figured it was worth asking if there was any benefit to maybe getting a messenger bag instead? I have never really entertained the messenger bag thing before, but I realize that is mostly because the people who used them at my undergrad were tools. But now that I look at them, they seem pretty professional and stuff which seems cool. Also, I figure most stuff is going electronic nowadays so does one even need a monster sized backpack for med school (like my current one)? Anybody have some preferences or suggestions that you would be willing to spare on the situation?

***I figure I should add, take it easy on me folks. Looking at some of the old threads, people seem to like chew up people asking this question. I am simply looking to replace my current trashed up backpack. Just thought I should preface with that lol, ok carry on with the thread.

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[BearAttack]

I love my Timbuk2 messenger bags. I've had several over the years and my spouse has had like 5. They last forever, are mostly waterproof and very durable. They come in a bunch of sizes and a variety of fabrics, depending on how professional you want the look to be. They have like a waxed canvas or felt, which can look nice in the office. Or if you want something more rugged, they have sportier synthetic fabrics as well.

 

[Doctor Bob]

I think the messenger bag vs backpack is more of a comfort/style thing. I've had messenger bags with as much carrying capacity as backpacks.
There's not much benefit to having a large amount of carrying capacity during med school or residency. The reference books are big enough that you aren't going to want to carry them back and forth to school.

As long as you have enough space for a laptop, maybe a tablet, pens, paper, perhaps a smaller review book, snacks/lunch.... that's usually enough.

I have a Lands End sidebag; plenty of space.

 

[Awesome Sauceome]

Gotcha... I was thinking of maybe getting an Osprey bag (if I can dig hard enough to find one on sale). Their lifetime warranties are solid and I know they make great stuff. They seem to have a good mix of regular backpacks and messenger bags - if I can just find one for under $60 haha.

I guess a second question: do people use bags much for 3rd and 4th year (and I suppose also for residency?). I work at a med school and it seems like a healthy mix of messenger vs regular backpack; but then again, I am only ever really in contact with pre-clinical students. I am more of the kind of person who buys something for it to last 5-10 years (with repairs and such). I prefer to not have to buy stuff/update stuff later. So without looking too far ahead, I just want to make sure that what I would be buying is also appropriate for the later part of school and maybe residency (not so important now since thats so far away, but I am still curious about it).

 

[BearAttack]

Most of what you're using 3rd and 4th year is what will fit in your white coat, but you'll still need a bag to carry any study materials, your lunch, occasionally a laptop, etc. Some women just carry a big purse, but most people bring an actual bag. I've found that a slim messenger bag is a much better shape to cram into those LCME-required lockers than a big ole backpack. Also, I think they look more professional than backpacks. I don't like to see adults wearing backpacks - it looks kinda sad.

I also have a beautiful leather messenger bag/soft briefcase I found at a flea market that I use for residency interviews and actual "professional" situations.

 

[Awesome Sauceome]

Most of what you're using 3rd and 4th year is what will fit in your white coat, but you'll still need a bag to carry any study materials, your lunch, occasionally a laptop, etc. Some women just carry a big purse, but most people bring an actual bag. I've found that a slim messenger bag is a much better shape to cram into those LCME-required lockers than a big ole backpack. Also, I think they look more professional than backpacks. I don't like to see adults wearing backpacks - it looks kinda sad.

I also have a beautiful leather messenger bag/soft briefcase I found at a flea market that I use for residency interviews and actual "professional" situations.

Yea i mean I didnt know how to word it, but even at my work here, when I see someone in a short white coat with a backpack, I guess it feels weird to me? Its hard to explain... which is one of the reasons I am maybe leaning towards messenger bag. I guess it is just interesting to see this transition for myself when for so long I was not even remotely into messenger bags. Even a regular messenger bag seems more professional to me for whatever reason, not that I am some kind of stiff.

 

[Thangbill]

I love this post. I'm in the same situation and wonder the same thing. I'm a backpack guy though and love carrying reference books around. Any recommendations for a sturdy, enduring, and spacious backpack to buy?

 

[Awesome Sauceome]

BUT, I will add, I guess without experience in med school, I am hesitant to not get a regular backpack. My current swiss gear is like 30L and I can carry everything and anything in it. I remember some days in undergrad it was probably holding like 30lbs of books in it. But then again, I figure I will be using less big textbooks while I am at school?

 

[xeryus]

I'm a few years out from undergrad but starting in the fall like you. In my "professional" job I had a nice leather messenger bag with a big capacity. It looked great but killed my shoulder/back. I'll still have it around if I have less stuff to carry and need to look professional, but otherwise I'm switching back to a backpack. I decided on the Timbuk2 Command in the twill finish as it looks less like school pack. It's a bit pricey, but I got it on sale. Timbuk2's stuff is also usually pretty durable.

 

[Bokeh]

Patagonia makes great backpacks.

Edit: It looks like you can watch a video demonstration of each of them from their website.

 

[Awesome Sauceome]

Patagonia makes great backpacks.

See I was hesitant about it. I was eyeing the Refugio 28L bag but then I went and actually handled it at a local REI and it felt cheap to me. But generally speaking I really trust Patagonia gear so that sort of came at a shock to me.

 

[Bokeh]

See I was hesitant about it. I was eyeing the Refugio 28L bag but then I went and actually handled it at a local REI and it felt cheap to me. But generally speaking I really trust Patagonia gear so that sort of came at a shock to me.

I've tried on jackets from them that feel like paper and others that can't be beat. Maybe check another model out, but I'm also looking at Osprey now that you've mentioned them. I haven't seen them in stores around here. Looks solid.

 

[Awesome Sauceome]

I've tried on jackets from them that feel like paper and others that can't be beat. Maybe check another model out, but I'm also looking at Osprey now that you've mentioned them. I haven't seen them in stores around here. Looks solid.

Yea it could be... The next one up though its like $130 so thats about double my range.

Yea Osprey is rock solid. Even though their bags are awesome and sturdy, they still have a lifetime warranty. You legit just send the bag to them, they repair it or replace it, no questions asked. Not to commercialize here, but I am actually selling a brand new Osprey backpack on ebay (its a long story haha). Hit me up if you want a look at it.

 

[PL198]

I love my Timbuk2 messenger bags. I've had several over the years and my spouse has had like 5. They last forever, are mostly waterproof and very durable. They come in a bunch of sizes and a variety of fabrics, depending on how professional you want the look to be. They have like a waxed canvas or felt, which can look nice in the office. Or if you want something more rugged, they have sportier synthetic fabrics as well.

if they last forever, why has she had 5.

 

[KillaKitteh]

Totally in the same boat at the moment, seriously considering a leather messenger back of sorts that could be both professional and practical.

 

[Bokeh]

Yea it could be... The next one up though its like $130 so thats about double my range.

Yea Osprey is rock solid. Even though their bags are awesome and sturdy, they still have a lifetime warranty. You legit just send the bag to them, they repair it or replace it, no questions asked. Not to commercialize here, but I am actually selling a brand new Osprey backpack on ebay (its a long story haha). Hit me up if you want a look at it.

Yeah, that gets a bit steep for a bag at that point. I'm interested to know why you don't use that one, but my old USMC bag is going strong.

 

[Awesome Sauceome]

Yeah, that gets a bit steep for a bag at that point. I'm interested to know why you don't use that one, but my old USMC bag is going strong.

Haha so I have been thinking on this business for a week or so. I have been looking around at stuff and found an osprey bag on Amazon for $45, for a bag that is normally (literally EVERYWHERE else) $80. So I bought it, hoping to flip it and maybe be able to get another bag. I would for sure keep this one except that it is a pretty bright orange which is really just not my style. I hate to be petty about it, but yea I just don't think I could do that color heh. So it's currently on eBay lol

 

[22031 Alum]

I got a Timbuk2 bag in college, and continued to use it through med school, residency, and for a little while as an attending. I only got a new one because I wasn't as diligent about cleaning it as I could have been, so it looked a little dingy. The strap of the new one feels just a little thinner/cheaper, but overall I'm very happy with it.

 

[BearAttack]

if they last forever, why has she had 5.

One of mine was irreparably ruined when our apartment flooded and it got moldy (ew). My spouse has multiple bags in rotation because they're all different sizes, but they've all taken heavy use and still stand up.

Why would you automatically assume my spouse is a woman? (Or a man for that matter; I don't use pronouns on SDN).

 

[Awesome Sauceome]

I got a Timbuk2 bag in college, and continued to use it through med school, residency, and for a little while as an attending. I only got a new one because I wasn't as diligent about cleaning it as I could have been, so it looked a little dingy. The strap of the new one feels just a little thinner/cheaper, but overall I'm very happy with it.

Wait their messenger bag or a backpack?

 

[22031 Alum]

Wait their messenger bag or a backpack?

Classic messenger. I use the medium size.

 

[Ismet]

I love this post. I'm in the same situation and wonder the same thing. I'm a backpack guy though and love carrying reference books around. Any recommendations for a sturdy, enduring, and spacious backpack to buy?

I've had the same LL Bean backpack since 9th grade (11 years) and the only thing wrong with it is the pockets on the side (for water bottles, etc) have lost some elasticity. And I use it daily. Very spacious and sturdy.

 

[username456789]

One of mine was irreparably ruined when our apartment flooded and it got moldy (ew). My spouse has multiple bags in rotation because they're all different sizes, but they've all taken heavy use and still stand up.

Why would you automatically assume my spouse is a woman? (Or a man for that matter; I don't use pronouns on SDN).

Because there are no women on the internet, everyone is male. And most males are heterosexual.

 

[PL198]

Because there are no women on the internet, everyone is male. And most males are heterosexual.

false, true

 

[Awesome Sauceome]

Guy and PL: is there a thread on here that you haven't tried to run astray? Seriously, add to the thread or for Gods sake do something useful with your time. Every thread I see yall in it goes like this.

Bear has given good advice specific to my original question. If the topic does not interest you or if you have nothing positive to add to it, then seriously, why are you here? Just for the Lolz?

 

[tylus]

I have had a swiss gear backpack for the past 7 years that is starting to get pretty funky and has some pretty noticeable tears in it (along with my dismal repairs showing haha). So I figure with me starting school in the fall, it seems like a decent time that I should probably get a new bag and retire this bad boy. I was thinking of just buying another backpack but I figured it was worth asking if there was any benefit to maybe getting a messenger bag instead? I have never really entertained the messenger bag thing before, but I realize that is mostly because the people who used them at my undergrad were tools. But now that I look at them, they seem pretty professional and stuff which seems cool. Also, I figure most stuff is going electronic nowadays so does one even need a monster sized backpack for med school (like my current one)? Anybody have some preferences or suggestions that you would be willing to spare on the situation?

***I figure I should add, take it easy on me folks. Looking at some of the old threads, people seem to like chew up people asking this question. I am simply looking to replace my current trashed up backpack. Just thought I should preface with that lol, ok carry on with the thread.

Didn't read the rest of the comments. But firstly, OP I'm assuming you're a 1st year? If you don't have clinicals you should go with backpacks. Osprey's are the way to go. I had a Momentum 34 and a Syncro 20. Both are good in their own ways. Personally a backpack is more comfortable than a messenger.

That said, coming into clinical years is a different story. A backpack is too cumbersome. Now i'm using an A4 sized sling bag that fits the steth, tendon tappers, white coat, some files, an iPad. It's portable and light enough to be carried everywhere quickly and doesn't get in anyone's way.

The surest way would probably be to identify what you need - a little difficult considering you're just starting out. I would hold out till I'm clear on what I need before getting a bag (gym clothes, books vs tablet, etc). REI has the free returns policy so you can take advantage of that.

 

[Awesome Sauceome]

So something I am thinking about is maybe there is a time and place for both a messenger and a regular backpack? Seems like several people on here use/have both.

 

[PL198]

if we're going to be all medically and such, aren't messenger bags pretty bad for your spine? like I get this isn't undergrad where you're carrying 25 lbs of books, but its still relevant.

I agree its more of a professional look but there are some bookbags that don't look too shabby either. you don't have to get the under armor bag marketed at 13 year olds

 

[username456789]

Guy and PL: is there a thread on here that you haven't tried to run astray? Seriously, add to the thread or for Gods sake do something useful with your time. Every thread I see yall in it goes like this.

I answered a question someone asked on here. If you don't like it, don't read my posts. One of the most common memes of the internet is that women don't exist on the internet. The default assumption tends to be that everyone is male, whether you like it or not.

Don't get all uppity with me.

 

[fancymylotus]

Pink and Prada. I cant believe this hasnt been said yet.

 

[starstarie]

Please don't be that 35 year old still wearing a backpack

 

[Winged Scapula]

Please don't be that 35 year old still wearing a backpack

Seriously. It reminds me of the man-child my cousin married who still sits on his heels at the dining room table and has to be reminded to not wipe his snot on his sleeve.

He uses a backpack and he's 50.

 

[Bokeh]

It is foolish to say there is an age limit to wearing a backpack. Check this one out if you want more of a professional look.

 

[PL198]

Seriously. It reminds me of the man-child my cousin married who still sits on his heels at the dining room table and has to be reminded to not wipe his snot on his sleeve.

He uses a backpack and he's 50.

that sounds like a mental illness...

 

[SpartanWolverine]

Pretty much depends on you. I started out this year with a messenger bag, which would have been fine if I took all my notes on a laptop/iPad/tablet. However, I've reverted to a backpack because I prefer to take notes on my coursepacks (which are pre-printed for us though also available as .pdf). With three or four courses per day, I'm often carrying up to a thousand pages of coursepack.

So, again, just depends on you and the way your school distributes course material! I expect for preclinical years, as a generality, a backpack is more useful. I'm personally a fan of North Face backpacks -- I know they're a bit cliche, but mine most recent one has lasted me over a decade and is still going strong.

 

[Winged Scapula]

that sounds like a mental illness...

I've always thought him to have a spectrum disorder.

 

[PL198]

I've always thought him to have a spectrum disorder.

probably nothing to cut, who cares

 

[Winged Scapula]

probably nothing to cut, who cares

<shrug>

She's the one married to him, not me.

But I still say a backpack looks unprofessional and juvenile.

 

[PL198]

<shrug>

She's the one married to him, not me.

But I still say a backpack looks unprofessional and juvenile.

sarcasm...

 

[CardiacLion]

I hate to be that person to recommend the stereotypical North Face backpack (I have the Jester), but I too was skeptical at first until I tried it.

Having had the bag for over a year, I literally love it. It's a simple bag, that holds a lot, and retains a slim profile that is actually comfortable for your back.

It's perfect for school IMO, and it looks legit. Washing it is also so easy, I don't have to worry about anything.

 

[alpinism]

ITT: backpacks are only for homeless or autistic men

 

[Awesome Sauceome]

So yea, I couldn't decide lol. So I got lucky and found a $90 osprey messenger on eBay for $36 (literally won it with 2 seconds left). And then my bro wanted to buy me something for my birthday so he offered to get me a backpack lol. So I figure I will swap out between the two depending on my needs. If I am having to wear more professional stuff I will rock the messenger, if it's just a heavy study day with tons of books I will rock the backpack. Either way I will probably get at least 10 years out of them since they are both osprey.

 

[AlteredScale]

Northface has a deal on backbacks: dropping the price from 10000 to 1000.

 

[22031 Alum]

So yea, I couldn't decide lol. So I got lucky and found a $90 osprey messenger on eBay for $36 (literally won it with 2 seconds left). And then my bro wanted to buy me something for my birthday so he offered to get me a backpack lol. So I figure I will swap out between the two depending on my needs. If I am having to wear more professional stuff I will rock the messenger, if it's just a heavy study day with tons of books I will rock the backpack. Either way I will probably get at least 10 years out of them since they are both osprey.

Good deal. Don't worry too much about looking professional in the book-learnin' years.

 

[tylus]

So yea, I couldn't decide lol. So I got lucky and found a $90 osprey messenger on eBay for $36 (literally won it with 2 seconds left). And then my bro wanted to buy me something for my birthday so he offered to get me a backpack lol. So I figure I will swap out between the two depending on my needs. If I am having to wear more professional stuff I will rock the messenger, if it's just a heavy study day with tons of books I will rock the backpack. Either way I will probably get at least 10 years out of them since they are both osprey.

Mind sharing which packs you got?

 

[tiedyeddog]

I would not recommend a messenger back if you end up buying any physical copies of textbooks. It is super painful to carry heavy books around in a timbuk2.

I have a Kelly backpack I've used for 5 years. I had an ll bean before. The Kelty is great but the ll beans are bring made with low quality fabrics if you ask me. They don't last like keltys do. North faces are just garbage. Overpriced absolute garbage.

 

[tiedyeddog]

Oh and I still carried my dirty black backpack on clinicals. I wasnt paying for an expensive Leather messenger or anything like that. It's whatever, IDGAF.

 

[PL198]

ITT: backpacks are only for homeless or autistic men

ITT messenger bags are for hipsters and people older than typical med student level.

brb medical profession recommending bags that are terrible for your body

 

[22031 Alum]

ITT messenger bags are for hipsters and people older than typical med student level.

brb medical profession recommending bags that are terrible for your body

I'll admit I'm no expert on the physiology of backpacks. It certainly doesn't feel like I killed my back wearing a messenger bag for a max of twenty minutes a day for 8 years. (Generous estimate, I never had more than a 6-8 minute walk to/from the hospital.) I certainly can't see how it was worse for my back than being paired with a 5'2" attending during day-long onc cases.

 

[PL198]

I'll admit I'm no expert on the physiology of backpacks. It certainly doesn't feel like I killed my back wearing a messenger bag for a max of twenty minutes a day for 8 years. (Generous estimate, I never had more than a 6-8 minute walk to/from the hospital.) I certainly can't see how it was worse for my back than being paired with a 5'2" attending during day-long onc cases.

load the spine equally with backpack ( assuming weight is distributed evenly) vs a messenger bag that basically twists the spine in one direction.

probably not a concern for people that carry 5 lbs in their bag, but throw robbins and a couple other books, a laptop and other misc crap and I think it could matter.