# Carryall > A large bag or case. Since cycling & public transportation have become my primary modes of travel, I've developed an intense interest in carryalls of all sorts. From backpacks, messenger bags, slings, totes & frame bags, I've invested a significant amount of funds & time into checking out the multitude of brands of out there. From more commonly known brands such as [Chrome](https://chromeindustries.com) & [Timbuk2](https://www.timbuk2.com) to the less mentioned of [Alpaka](https://alpakagear.com) and even unheard of brands such as [OrbitGear](https://www.orbitgear.net). Thus I'd like to share my experiences with these various brands & bags with you fellow human! Presently the reviews are a brief overview of the specific carryall and in the near future I hope to provide more in-depth information. With the goal being to move past the marketing and provide a real world opinion/perspective. In the meantime, here are a few carryalls worth discussing. ## Chrome Industries The tried & true messenger bag is synonymous with this brand for most cyclist. Even if you're not a cyclist, you're probably familiar with this brand and their reputation. They're long-lasting, durable & designed for heavy use. ### [Mini Metro Messenger Bag](https://chromeindustries.com/products/mini-metro-messenger-bag) This is a small & compact, daily use messenger for somewhat smaller loads. While it can technically fit a 15" laptop, it is **absolutely required** to use a padded laptop sleeve of some sort. When I use this configuration, I have the laptop in the rear of the bag where it will be against my back when wearing the bag. Chrome's official recommendation is 13" & having it stored towards the front of the bag. It offers a good amount of organization including a dedicated U-Lock pocket. Despite being water resistant (rather than being waterproof/weatherproof) & I haven't had anything get wet while biking in the heavy Houston rains or the constant Seattle drizzle. However to support this configuration: - Do not overload the bag! - Ensure the bag is completely closed/sealed and the compression straps are secured snugly, (not lose/danging). - Use a padded laptop sleeve. - For me this is the large [Timbuk2 Stealth Folio Organizer](https://www.timbuk2.com/collections/laptop-sleeves-tech-organization/products/1045-stealth-folio-organizer?variant=39675061731370): $55 Quick specs: - Price: $80-$125 (depending on colour) - Volume: 20.5L - Weight: 2.43 lbs - Strap length: 23" - 43" - **Officially** - Fits up to a 13" device, unpadded - **Unofficially** - Fits up to a 15" device, (reference above) If this is too small, consider checking out the larger [Citizen Messenger Bag](https://chromeindustries.com/products/citizen-messenger-bag), $150. ### Kadet Sling *Coming Soon* ## Timbuk2 Timbuk2 is offers a more modern look and aesthetic than traditional bags on the market. Most of them being water-resistant or weatherproof. These carryalls have a professional look and feel to them that doesn't stick out compared to a traditional messenger bag or backpack. ### [Parker Commuter Backpack](https://www.timbuk2.com/products/1387-parker-commuter-backpack) This is a **large** weatherproof bag for daily use. It can store a significant amount of gear including up to 15" laptop in the dedicated laptop compartment. The laptop can be accessed from the zipper pocket on the right side of the bag or the bag internally. If you have a smaller body frame, it will feel rather big. Despite this, its comfortable to wear and simply functional. Quick specs: - Price: $229 - Volume: Expandable compartment from 26L to 35L - Weight: 3.8 lb - Laptop: 15" - Water-resistant drop liner. - Zip away removable rainfly for extra weather protection during heavier downpours, (bag raincoat). ### [Especial Stash Messenger Bag](https://www.timbuk2.com/collections/all-messenger-bags/products/4620-especial-stash-messenger-bag?variant=14646229008426) A weatherproof messenger great for daily use in the rain. If packed properly it can fit a good amount of gear. Otherwise it's great for for carrying laptop and essentials. This was one I used regularly before going back to the Chrome Mini Messenger as my cycling messenger. The primary reason is due to being more familiar with Chrome's brand. This bag is still fantastic and depending on your needs a solid choice. There is a larger version available if you wanna carry even more gear. Quick specs: - Price: $179 - Volume: 17L - Weight: 2.2 lb - Laptop: 15" - Ambidextrous and adjustable crossbody strap with daisy chain, bottle opener, and quick-release buckle ### [Especial Scope Expandable Backpack](https://www.timbuk2.com/collections/water-resistant-backpacks/products/4350-especial-scope-expandable-backpack) This is another **large** backpack for rainy weather. It has a dedicated waterproof laptop compartment. It is expandable as well to fit more gear but in this configuration, it reduces the water resistance to the primary compartment, (if I recall correctly). This being that the weatherproof zippers for that compartment will no longer be engaged to allow the bag to expand. However in most instances, I didn't use the expansion configuration while riding in the rain. I discontinued using this one as the build of it is rather bulky. When riding, it didn't feel very comfortable as the height is tall for small framed humans. For example, the back of my helmet would touch the bag. Quick specs: - Price: $199 - Volume: 26L-34L - Weight: 2.6 lb - Laptop: 15" ### [Stealth Folio Organizer](https://www.boundarysupply.com/products/errant-sling) *Coming Soon* ## Alpaka Gear *Coming Soon* ### [Elements Tech Brief](https://alpakagear.com/products/elements-tech-brief-17) *Coming Soon* ## Bellroy *Coming Soon* ### Venture Sling *Coming Soon* ## Boundary Supply *Coming Soon* ### Errant Sling *Coming Soon* ## Orbit Gear *Coming Soon*