But at Just-a-Sec, we're a busy bunch -- so just any pretty bag won't do. It's gotta keep up with our lifestyles and look good doing it. We’re all about staying organized and we’re all-too-happy to spend our money on bags with features that keep our day-to-day needs in mind.
We took a detailed look at lots of commuter-friendly, multi-tasking bags, and as real-life New York secretaries, we heartily recommend the following four:
The Dakine Messenger Bag
There's no question it's cute and summery in the "Garden Stripe" variety. But the Dakine bag's got more than looks going for it – there’s real substance here. Let's do an accessory autopsy:
Handy outside zipper pocket (and adorable polka-dot lining).
Adjustable straps keep flap securely closed, AND they hold a yoga mat!
Durable back. Removable waist belt to keep the bag secured to your body. Comfy padded shoulder strap. Grab handle made from a deliciously soft fabric.
Just under the flap, there are THREE additional storage pockets -- two with zippers. One zipper pocket is mesh for easy visibility, and there's a key fob inside. Designated stretchy organizer pockets hold your phone, MP3 player or other electronic devices. And the zipperless pocket has compartments for three pens.
Super-roomy main compartment has a built-in cushy laptop sleeve with Velcro-type closure to keep your machine secure.
Bag is 15" x 10" x 6", and it's a bargain at $40. Other colors and patterns available. Go to Dakine.
Modern Union -- Yoga Mat Bag and Coordinating Laptop Sleeve
This messenger bag from Modern Union is made specifically with the yoga student in mind. The straps at the bottom will hold a mat (or, for that matter, an umbrella, sweater, beach blanket, etc.), and the flap hangs freely with NO closure on purpose -- so you can open the bag quietly (without the rrrrrip of Velcro) in the serenity of your yoga class.
The fabric is durable and water resistant. This particular fabric is called "Spa", but other styles are available.
A zipper pocket in the flap is handy, and inside there’s an additional smaller, open-top pocket for smaller items.
There’s also a huge pocket with plenty of room for file folders at the back of the back, with a Velcro-type closure. Just above this pocket is a convenient grab-handle.
There's a handy mesh water bottle holder on one side of the bag...
...and an easy-to-reach exterior cell phone pocket on the other, with a secure Velcro-type closure.
Just under the flap there are twin zipper pockets designed to hold CDs. There's also a substantial aluminum key ring attached just inside the bag’s main pocket – easily reachable.
Inside the main compartment, a mesh pocket spans the entire width of the bag, and is kept closed by Velcro-type closures.
The bag has an adjustable strap of generous length with a shoulder pad.
The bag measures 13" x 17".
Also, Modern Union makes one of the most protective laptop sleeves we've ever seen, in styles to match its messenger bags. The sleeve fits easily inside the messenger bag and accommodates laptops up to 15.4" in size.
Access to the sleeve is easy -- just lift the single Velcro-type closure on top.
Inside, your computer is generously padded, and the soft interior fabric prevents scratches.
Three unique rectangular pads add further protection, but they can be easily removed (they're attached with Velcro-type tapes) to make room for a larger laptop.
The sleeve measures 15" x 11" x 2".
The messenger bag is $68; the laptop sleeve is $28, or buy both together for $86. Shop at Modern Union.
God, We LOVE High Sierra
High Sierra really won us over with its "Connect" and "Pix" style bags.
Here's High Sierra's sporty and supremely useful "Connect" bag. It's made of a durable, mini-waffle weave fabric that resists harsh weather.
The flap secures itself immediately when you close it, thanks to two big patches of Velcro-like material. But if you want extra security, there are two adjustable buckles on straps. Nobody’s gettin’ in this bag but you!
There's a handy outside zipper pocket for items you need quick access to, and a generous, extra-wide adjustable carrying strap.
We love this discreet water-bottle holder on the side with expanding mesh pocket.
Just under the flap, a number of designated pockets keep you organized, with a slender pen pocket, a zippered mesh pocket, and additional smaller open-top pocket, and a large zipper pocket with a key fob tucked inside. Two gusseted pockets provide special places for your phone, PDA or MP2 player, with Velcro-type closures on the pocket flaps.
Just behind the organizer area, there’s an extra-large open-top pocket – perfect for magazines, file folders, etc.
Inside the main compartment, the bag is super-roomy, with a large compartment for files and books, and a padded laptop sleeve that fits most 17" computers. The laptop compartment is secured with a buckle and two Velcro-type closures.
Finally, the High Sierra “Connect” has a grab handle attached to the back of the bag.
The “Connect” measures 17" x 13.5" x 4". We’ve shown it here in red, but it’s also available in electric blue. Suggested retail price is $70. Learn more at High Sierra.
Here's High Sierra's "Pix" Bag.
Just as useful as "Connect", but with a slicker, more urban feel. Styled like a tote bag with two handles just long enough to throw over a shoulder. It's made of a durable, mini-waffle weave fabric that resists harsh weather. A zipper across the top keeps items safe from subway pick-pockets.
Two deep exterior “jeans”-style pockets give you quick access to things you need in a flash.
Inside, there's a removable laptop case that fits most 15" notebook computers. It has carrying handles and a Velcro-type top closure.
Inside, several designated pockets keep commonly-used items at the ready, with three slender pen pockets, two small pockets for business cards, a key fob, and two pockets specially designed for your electronic devices (phone, PDA). These pockets have magnetic closures (so they stay in place, but no fumbling with snaps or latches), and each pocket is coated with a plush material to protect the surface of your electronics.
Just behind the organizer area is a larger, open-top pocket, and inside that is a removable zipper case!
The interior of the main compartment is roomy and padded, with an additional zipper pocket.
The “Pix” bag measures 17" x 13" x 5". Suggested retail price is $70. Learn more at High Sierra.
Happy Smart Shopping!
