Day pack (difficult to open, and difficult to get snatched, compact)

Posted by graham (chicago) on 07/19/08 12:46 AM

I am looking for a day pack that would be secure (difficult to open, and difficult to get snatched).

I am looking for one that is smaller than a backpack and approx. 1000 cubic inches

re: security
I would like to put my camera, etc. in it, and I don't want someone on the Metro/or some other crowded area to be able to open it from the outside - should I carry a shoulder strap and keep it in front of me, or is a backpack more secure?

I have seen Rick's bag, but I would like further recommendations perhaps for higher end, North Face, etc. Thank you in advance for ideas.

Posted by Marie

Wilmington, DE, USA

07/19/08 06:47 AM

712 posts

Shoulder straps and keep it in front of you in crowded areas. If you do a backpack I saw people with the backpack in front of them rather then on their back. If it is on you back people can reach in. I would try it on in this manner to see if you feel comfortable wearing the backpack across you chest in crowded areas.

Posted by Ellen

Centennial, CO, USA

07/19/08 06:53 AM

1895 posts

Check out the line from PacSafe

you can find their products at REI, and on line at ebags.com REI.com or on their own website. Here's the link: http://www.pacsafe.com/www/index.php

I've purchased 2 of their bags, used them both on trips overseas and have been very happy. (I bought shoulder bags, not their daypacks, but they work great for my camera, wallet, etc)

The zippers lock, the straps have metal webbing in them so they cannot be cut.

The fabric is MUCH BETTER than that you will find in RS's products.

Posted by Brandon

Ft Worth, TX, USA

07/19/08 07:32 AM

39 posts

My wife carries this one:
http://www.pacsafe.com/www/index.php?_room=3&_action=detail&id=20

I carry this one the next size up. Can't complain, great construction.

Posted by JB

Redding, CA, USA

07/19/08 07:47 AM

1568 posts

I also recommend the PacSafe packs and products.

They are snatch proof, tamper proof and slash proof. I the day pack and the fanny pack.

Posted by Travel Boss

Myrtle Beach, USA

07/19/08 03:03 PM

12315 posts

If you want security features in the bag, a Pacsafe bag is the way to go.

I go with Rick's civita bag because it's small and easy to pack in my carry on.

I deal with security by not putting anything valuable in it. I generally carry some food, a sweater or rain shell, very small first aid kit, pinky finger size led flashlight, swiss army knife, plastic fork, mini tripod (my pocket size camera is on a thin neck strap tucked inside my shirt or jacket) and a guide book.

I'd be disappointed to lose any of it but it wouldn't be a serious loss. By keeping my load to one bag and keeping track of it carefully, I haven't had any problem.

Posted by Jaclyn

San Diego, CA, USA

07/19/08 07:48 PM

36 posts

I (again) swear by my Pac-safe Metro 200. I used it on my solo trip to Europe this summer. I felt it was the perfect size. In it I carried my RS book, a compact notebook, snacks and my camera in its little bag, money and etc in the front. The side pocket DOES stretch to fit a small-medium sized water bottle. It does not look like it but it does.

The ONE THING I would change was taking my shoulder pad from my lap-top strap and putting it on my pac-safe.

I wore it on my shoulder but across my body.

It was great, wonderful and perfect and I felt so safe with it.