ϳԹ

Fishpond Barcelona Street Backpack
Barcelona Street Backpack

Is a water-resistant, expandable commuter bag too much to ask for?

I'm looking for a backpack for commuting (note: I’m not interested in panniers). The ideal pack would have a ventilated back and expandable volume—some days it's just for work clothes, but some days I’ll throw in a book or my computer. Internal pockets would be good, and water resistance is a plus. I'd also like my Eagle Creek clothes organizer to fit inside. Is this too much to ask for? Dave Sierra Vista, Arizona

Published:  Updated: 
Fishpond Barcelona Street Backpack

New perk: Easily find new routes and hidden gems, upcoming running events, and more near you. Your weekly Local Running Newsletter has everything you need to lace up! .

Really, I should think that most any pack would work—just about everything out there can be expanded or cinched down, and it’s no big deal to find one that can fit one of the Eagle Creek organizers (great things; $22 for the 15″ size).

Fishpond Barcelona Street Backpack

Fishpond Barcelona Street Backpack Barcelona Street Backpack

But, certainly some packs are better than others. makes a purpose-built commuting pack called the Vertical Mass ($125). It has lots of internal pockets and organizers such as a computer sleeve, a pouch for eyeglasses or small electronics, a water bottle pocket, and more. It has shoulder straps, of course, but it also has handles, so you can carry it like a briefcase.

makes a commuting backpack as well: the Back Office (hahahaha! Who thinks up these whacky names?). Same drill: laptop sleeve, lots of internal organizers, and the nice touch of a back slip panel so you can slide it over the handles of wheeled luggage.

Lastly, while at the recent Outdoor Retailer show, I was smitten by the absurdly beautify yet utilitarian offerings of , a company that caters mainly to the hook-and-line crowd. But they make an urban backpack called the Barcelona Street Backpack ($119). It has pockets everywhere for a notebook, clothes, and more. I like it in Moss Green.

Alas, none of these packs can be thought of as much more than water-resistant. But get a small pack cover (Sea to Summit pack cover, $32), and you’ll be fine.

The 2008 Summer ϳԹ Buyer’s Guide is now online. From riding to trail-running to camping, get reviews of nearly 400 gear must-haves.

Popular on ϳԹ Online