A question for students! :)

[Moesha]

Have you tried LLBean or LandsEnd? I saw some reports before school started where they tested different school supplies and their backbacks scored very well. They are pricey though. But to carry around the things that you mentioned, you'll need to pay for a durable one. They have them online if you want to browse through the different designs.

ETA: It looks like it must be LLBean. Go to their website and click on the luggage link to get the options for campus supplies.

[Lady's Human]

US Cavalry, or any mil surplus dealer, look for a medium sized ruck.

[Casper]

Definitely a backpack.

I have been using Dakine backpacks for years. They are extremely durable and one of the most comfortable backpacks I have owned. My friends claim that my backpack is invincible. ;D I went with Dakine because of the sole purpose of them having packs made to carry boards, which is a necessity for me. Most of their packs might be far too much than what you would need, but if I am not mistaken they have basic models that would be great for school.

Messenger bags put too much pressure on one shoulder instead of evening out the weight on both shoulders. A lot of people I know have ended up with neck problems when hauling around heavy things in a messenger. Just a thought to consider. :-)

Good luck!


Edit/ Forgot to add that most models have fleece-lined pockets made especially for cameras. That might come in handy with some of your photography stuff.

[Sevaede]

Definitely a backpack.

I have been using Dakine backpacks for years. They are extremely durable and one of the most comfortable backpacks I have owned. My friends claim that my backpack is invincible. ;D I went with Dakine because of the sole purpose of them having packs made to carry boards, which is a necessity for me. Most of their packs might be far too much than what you would need, but if I am not mistaken they have basic models that would be great for school.

Messenger bags put too much pressure on one shoulder instead of evening out the weight on both shoulders. A lot of people I know have ended up with neck problems when hauling around heavy things in a messenger. Just a thought to consider. :-)

Good luck!


Edit/ Forgot to add that most models have fleece-lined pockets made especially for cameras. That might come in handy with some of your photography stuff.

Invincible, eh? Is there a particular bag that you would recommend? It makes sense, about the messenger bags, I mostly just like the way they look, heh. The fleece pockets would be SUPER handy for my cameras and gear.

[kitten645]

Have you considered a donkey?? That's alot of stuff to lug around. I'd bet a backpack. Better weight distribution for your back. I get mine at a thrift store near me.

[Lady's Human]

The reason I mentioned the ruck is simple......troops carry around a lot of weight, and they are specifically designed for use over long periods of time. I'd rather have my back intact than make a fashion statement, though some of the newer rucks don't look bad, either.

[finn's mom]

I prefer the messenger type bags. The shape of them usually seems more conducive to carrying books. That's what I take to school. I'm only taking two classes right now, so I only carry one book and the chapters I need for the other (it's not a typical book, it's loose leaf and you put it in a binder).

In your case, I'd carry a backpack with part of the books and a shoulder type bag for the others. I'd hate to try and put that much in any single bag.

[Sevaede]

The reason I mentioned the ruck is simple......troops carry around a lot of weight, and they are specifically designed for use over long periods of time. I'd rather have my back intact than make a fashion statement, though some of the newer rucks don't look bad, either.

Indeed, I'd much rather have my backpack as well. And that bag you mentioned does look very durable and very functional. That way, I wouldn't have to buy several over the course of my college days. The only reason I mentioned the looks thing is (not for a fashion statement) but I don't get to treat myself to anything really nice. I just was hoping that maybe (although it doesn't have to be, it's not a requirement or anything) that I could get something with a nice little design or something.

[Sevaede]

Have you considered a donkey?? That's alot of stuff to lug around. I'd bet a backpack. Better weight distribution for your back. I get mine at a thrift store near me.

A donkey! There's an idea! I am not sure how much the faculty would enjoy it.

[Sevaede]

US Cavalry, or any mil surplus dealer, look for a medium sized ruck.

Wow! Those are some pretty nifty bags! Definitely something to consider! (Yes, I am also looking in a different tab for this site as well! )

[Sevaede]

Have you tried LLBean or LandsEnd? I saw some reports before school started where they tested different school supplies and their backbacks scored very well. They are pricey though. But to carry around the things that you mentioned, you'll need to pay for a durable one. They have them online if you want to browse through the different designs.

ETA: It looks like it must be LLBean. Go to their website and click on the luggage link to get the options for campus supplies.

Awesome! I am checking them out right now (different tab ). I think that I will probably end up paying a higher price just so I don't have to sacrifice quality.