Does my soul-backpack exist?

April 9, 2019 6:26 PM

I'm looking for a commuter laptop backpack that MUST have a waistband with pockets. I have looked at so much of the internet (and previous backpack threads), and I am beginning to think that it doesn't exist. Help!

I commute with the Osprey Mira 26. It has a lot of features that I like, but I am growing increasingly dissatisfied - the usable space feels too small, and I'm now carrying a laptop back and forth, which it is not made for.

I'd like to find my next commuter bag. But I can't....

Must have features:
-Laptop sleeve for 15" laptop
-Around 25-30L capacity
-Sleek professional styling
-NOT top loading - must at least fan out if not clamshell all the way (though this is a softer criteria)
-Water bottle pocket
-Not too much organization or pockets- I want to be able to throw a Mr. Bento and a full change of clothes in there.
- Prefer women's sizing and a cross-chest strap, since I have narrow shoulders.

I can find many bags that fit that criteria until I add my absolutely must have deal breaker which is that I need a waistband pocket, preferably two, for my metro card, keys, and phone. The Mira has this, and it has made my life better. Unfortunately, it doesn't seem to exist on more commuter style bags.

You have helped so many before me. I trust you all.

posted by oryelle to Shopping (6 answers total)

Best answer: Tortuga Setout Divide?
posted by praemunire at 6:37 PM on April 9, 2019 [7 favorites]

I don’t know what the laptop system is with this bag but maybe ecbc Lance?
posted by cabingirl at 8:38 PM on April 9, 2019

A lot of camera bags have a laptop pocket and straps like this, like the Lowe Pro Protactic series. Just take the camera dividers out of the main part if you don't want them. Downside: camera bags are crazy overpriced.
posted by fshgrl at 9:54 PM on April 9, 2019 [1 favorite]

The previous Tortuga V2 would probably be a good fit for you if it isn't too large. (The link goes to a woman's review of the bag which clearly shows the cross-chest strap and waistband pocket in use.) It's at the high end of capacity for your requirements.
posted by blob at 10:15 PM on April 9, 2019

Not a direct answer, just a thought. I run in a (Patagonia) very low capacity hydration pack with a chest strap and no waist belt—but the shoulder straps have pockets on them that fit phone, ear buds, cards/cash, lip stuff, etc. So I wonder if you were to widen your search to consider variations like storage in the shoulder straps, and possibly a water bladder instead of bottle, you might find something?
posted by AnOrigamiLife at 10:27 PM on April 9, 2019

Best answer: Not exactly an answer, but it might be possible to take a bag that meets your other criteria and add some kind of belt pouch, or even more than one, to the waistband.
posted by box at 5:21 AM on April 10, 2019 [3 favorites]