Wednesday, November 30, 2011

A Perfect Shoulder Bag for Travel

On my recent trip to Madrid, I decided to check out a new bag: the AmeriBag. I was looking for a smallish bag that I could wear all around town, without fear of getting attracting pickpockets (as happens in Madrid). But I also had a lot of other criteria that the bag had to fulfill. It had to have a lot of interior as well as exterior pockets to organize sunglasses, notebooks, Spanish-English dictionary, pens, digital recorder, camera, iPod, map, makeup, and plenty more items should I buy something during the day. It also had to feel comfortable all day long as I walked 3+ miles each day checking out new hotels, restaurants, parks and art galleries. (In other words, no strain on my neck, back or shoulders -- body parts that often take the brunt of carrying a lot of gear on one shoulder.) I also hoped that the bag could be easily worn if I decided to go bicycling in the city or, if there was the opportunity to go hiking.

After wearing the bag for four full days, my verdict is that the AmeriBag definitely performs admirably. It looks sporty and chic; it didn't fall off my shoulder; and it was perfectly comfortable whether walking or cycling (I biked 10 miles). Plus, no shoulder, neck or backaches after 7+ hours of brisk walking each day. (The price can't be beat either.)

(It can be worn like a messenger bag or as a regular shoulder bag.) But, I decided to wear it slung in front so that I could easily protect it from thieves.

And, saving the best for last: Even my Samsung notebook fit in this bag, along with everything else. Perfect. I'll be taking it on many more trips.

16 comments:

Charu said...

I like the color too. Recently on my trip to Montreal they gave us a backpack that was tiny (not like the typical oversized backpack) and perfect for your essentials: notebook, camera, tissues, purse). It's nice when you find a chic and stylish accessory great for travel. I'll check this one out--thanks J!

J The Travel Authority said...

Hi Charu, I love the color, too. That's what first attracted me. But functionality is way more important. Sounds like a nice little backpack they gave you, too.

Jenny London said...

This bag is really very stylish and pretty and the same time it looks so comfortable, I find it a pretty good choise!

J The Travel Authority said...

Hi Jenny, It's always hard to find a bag that looks good, performs well and is comfortable. Glad this works on all levels.

Gloria Man said...

It looks very nice, I think all the important things you can put in there, I am just wondering if it is okay to wear it on the back if someone would not attack your bag, what do you think?

J The Travel Authority said...

Hi Gloria Man, That's very hard to say. I like to see the zippers and pockets on my bag so that's why I wear it in front. Any time you have a bag on your back, it makes it more difficult to know what's going on when you are in a crowded place. I feel more secure wearing it in front.

Alisa Bowman said...

I love the color, too. It makes it easier to find. I'm always losing my black purse because it blends against everything.

Sheryl said...

This is just what I need for my poor sore neck. And given the fact that I like to carry everything with me makes it that much worse. Thank you so much for your recommendation - this is a must- have for me!

jcreaturetravel said...

Hi Alisa, I'm always all about black. This is actually my first non-black purse. And I find it a welcome change. Also, as you said, harder to lose.

jcreaturetravel said...

Hi Sheryl, So glad this purse might work for you. I always get neck issues with so many of the bags I've tried. So it was a welcome surprise to not suffer with this one.

MyKidsEatSquid said...

Cool bag. You said it's affordable--how much was it? Great gift for a frequent traveler, wouldn't you say?

J The Travel Authority said...

Hi MyKidsEatSquid, It's only $50, which is a pretty good price for a bag that allows me to carry everything I need for a day running around town. And, definitely a perfect holiday gift for a frequent traveler.

Living Large said...

What a pretty bag. I would love to have one!

J The Travel Authority said...

Hi Living Large, I just found out that the company is selling a mini bag that looks identical to this one. How cute.

Jane Boursaw said...

I LOVE AmeriBag! I've got a couple of their bags, including the one in your post. I think they're just great for around town errands.

J The Travel Authority said...

Hi Jane, I had never heard of AmeriBag before purchasing this bag. And, now I'd like to check out other products. They all look so cute and practical.