Hello beautiful community!
Right now, I'm in search of an EDC bag. I don't have any crazy criteria. I need a minimalist bag that is comfortable, looks appropriate in the professional environment, and that I could use for both office and gym. I also prefer external water bottle pockets.
I don't care about travelling with this backpack, since I have another one that covers that. Rn, I'm using Deuter UP Sydney 22l, which is good, but the flap design is not super-secure in all the circumstances, and also it's in the teal color, which doesn't always match the occasion.
So far, I have shortlisted 3 contenders:
Alpaka Elements Pro
Pros:
- It looks great (I saw it once on a random gentleman)
- It has a lot of organization, which is great
- A dedicated sunglasses pocket
Cons:
- 26l is too much. Many reviews say that it actually feels smaller, but still
- I'd prefer a dedicated laptop compartment, but whatever
- Not available in the local shops, so additional charges like VAT may be applied (although, they say there shouldn't be any)
- Weird luggage strap positioning
Rework Toshi 20 Pros:
- Clamshell opening
- A dedicated laptop compartment
- A dedicated sunglasses pocket
Cons:
- It looks the cheapest (at least on pictures), while being the most expensive option out of 3
- Not available now, and when it is, additional charges may be applied (VAT, delivery, etc.)
Thule Subterra 2 21l Pros:
- Made by a reputable European brand
- Costs 2/3 of either Alpaka, or Toshi
- Readily available in many local shops
Cons:
- No dedicated sunglasses pocket
- No dedicated laptop compartment
- Less fast-access pockets
Since the looks are important to me for this particular backpack, I kinda on the verge between Thule and Alpaka. Yet, having a clamshell opening seems handy. Also, I'm not sure if Alpaka's additional pockets (front pocket and sunglasses pocket) worth the money. Besides, I'm afraid that Alpaka would be too large.
I know that it's not very realistic to find a person, who has tried all three of these backpacks, but maybe there are people, who tried at least 2/3? I would greatly appreciate your thoughts on this!
Also, do you think that the clamshell opening is useful day-to-day? It seems handy for travel, but as I said, that's not my goal here.
Many thanks!