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Author Topic: what kind of bag for a campus visit?  (Read 4155 times)
marginalia
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« on: January 14, 2007, 05:58:49 PM »

I am trying to figure out what is the most appropriate way to lug my stuff around during a two-day campus visit (I am bringing my laptop for the talk, the usual amount of files, snacks/water/chapstick). In real life I have a huge fit-everything bag that is on the ugly side (but it used to look nice 10 years ago). I would prefer something classy, but not pretentious or sloppy. The thought of a leather briefcase or a nylon briefcase inspires dread for some reason. Do women in MLA fields carry briefcases to campus?

Sorry if this sounds silly.
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mytiaraisaskew
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« Reply #1 on: January 14, 2007, 06:12:27 PM »

Yep, we carry 'em.  You can get nice "non-briefcase"-y looking ones at Staples.  Last year I needed areplacement for a much beloved briefcase that desperately needed retired, and I got one there that carries the laptop, books, snacks, whatever.  And it doesn't look like a briefcase and is well made.  So...many options await at your local Staples.

Good luck!

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porcupine
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« Reply #2 on: January 14, 2007, 06:30:16 PM »

Same problem - my current, much-loved bag is falling to bits and doesn't look so great! I went to Staples this afternoon and came out with a wonderful tote bag - very practical, yet it still manages to be classy. Room for my laptop and a whole stack of documents/books, and it fits on my shoulder nicely. Amazon is also selling some on sale at present.
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losemygrip
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« Reply #3 on: January 14, 2007, 06:42:21 PM »

You could get one of those flat messenger bag type things.  Or a nice computer bag.  It depends on how much junk you're lugging around. 
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roubai
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« Reply #4 on: January 14, 2007, 06:45:28 PM »

I recommend http://www.ebags.com, especially the sale section. They have a good variety, and they do a great job listing the important dimensions (re. laptops and such) and giving interior shots of the bags, etc.
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rugger1869
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« Reply #5 on: January 16, 2007, 08:04:26 AM »

Messenger bags are nice and you can get them in a variety of materials. Look at http://www.timbuk2.com/tb2/retail/catalog.htm

At Timbuk2 they are cusomizable and have a variety of colors. I have a medium and it will hold 2 days worth of clothes, a laptop, snacks, spare jacket and a book. YMMV. However, I swear by this back. Best thing I have ever bought.
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aandsdean
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« Reply #6 on: January 16, 2007, 08:23:01 AM »

I second rugger's comments about Timbuk2.  I have one and it's great--sturdy, just enough out of the ordinary, and it protects the laptop very well.  It's also got really good pockets for phone, etc.  Several people have bought them after seeing mine.

A lot of bike shops have them, as does REI.  I think they have a dealer list on their website.

Good luck with your visits whatever you carry your stuff in!
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jobhire
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« Reply #7 on: January 16, 2007, 01:49:10 PM »

Terrific info. What kind of price range are we talking about for bags at Staples? I know Timbuk2 is one of the most respected manufacturers around. Excellent functionality with a bit of a youthful/hip edge if you're into that sort of thing.
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rugger1869
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« Reply #8 on: January 16, 2007, 02:12:32 PM »

The bags that I saw at Staples last year ran from a paltry $30 (you pay for what you get) upwards to a couple of hundred dollars.

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coffeebuzz
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« Reply #9 on: January 16, 2007, 02:23:27 PM »

I am a big fan of Jandd bags.  They can be found at www.jandd.com.  I bought one when I started grad school and it is still kicking and looking great after 6 years of almost daily use.
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biologist_
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« Reply #10 on: January 16, 2007, 02:55:56 PM »

Tom Bihn makes really good bags and laptop cases.

http://www.tombihn.com
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revel_master
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« Reply #11 on: January 16, 2007, 03:12:33 PM »

Just out of curiousity, why does the thought of a briefcase inspire dread?  To me, a briefcase proclaims one's maturity, professionalism, organization and good taste.  It need not be a square, boxy 1970s type, but a sleek leather (faux or real) briefcase designed for laptops with extra storage space can serve you quite well.  I picked one up for interviews at Comp USA for $40.
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epistephiliac
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« Reply #12 on: January 16, 2007, 03:18:28 PM »

Levenger has some very nice bags if you're looking for something a little less casual than a messenger bag.

But then, I am a slave to Levenger for Circa notebooks and other goodies in general, so it's only natural I'd covet some of their bags as well.
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bibliothecula
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« Reply #13 on: January 16, 2007, 03:24:44 PM »

I have one of these: http://www.knomobags.com/. I looove it--stylish and functional, and different enough from the usual. Of course, I did save up for three years to get it....
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epistephiliac
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« Reply #14 on: January 16, 2007, 03:36:11 PM »

Wow, bibliothecula, those are lovely! I especially love the Teeli, with the quilting.

If we're talking specifically about laptop bags rather than briefcases, I lusted after the Acme Designer Slim when I bought my new computer. No way I could afford it, though, so I went with another Casauri bag. Their sleeves are beautiful and very functional. I don't think I've ever taken either of mine out without getting a compliment, often from random strangers.

Not as posh as the Acme or Knomo, but still very nice (and more affordable).
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