Large rucksack weekend bag

[KumquatMay]

Hello stylish mumsnetters!
I'm off on a weekend away this weekend traipsing round a big city and need some kind of large bag (preferably a rucksack for the sake of my shoulders) to keep my overnight things in. As I'm not particularly stylish anyway (!), I'd like something that will lift me in the style stakes a bit, as well as being practical (preferably at least showerproof) and roomy. Budget-wise I'm happy to spend about £100 as I'll get alot of use out of it.
Does anyone have any suggestions of either a particular bag or where to look?
Thanks!

[louloubelle2]

I'd go for a proper technical brand, high street fashion shop versions will be style over substance and probably knacker your back. Plus you have a decent budget.

I've just bought a Patagonia rucksack for the gym, the yerba which is 24L and would be big enough for weekend stuff. Lots of other size options and colours on their website, then track it down cheaper via google.

I'd also look at eastpak, fjallraven, the north face and herschel.

Oh, and look in the mens section, I find womens departments and websites rarely offer the larger size options.

[KumquatMay]

Thanks Loulou, had no idea where to start looking so that'll get me started! This will also double as a gym bag, so great suggestions. thanks!

[louloubelle2]

no probs. As an example I usually travel to the gym in my gym clothes, so in the Patagonia yerba I carry one complete change of clothes (jeans, jersey top, jumper, underwear and shoes), a wash bag, make-up bag, travel straighteners, two thin micro-fibre towels, water bottle and purse.

I did once also fit my laptop and notebook in. Made it heavy, but it all fit!

You don't have to choose the yerba, but its 24L and most technical brands will list sizing in the same way, so it could be a guide.

[KumquatMay]

That's so helpful, thanks. I've ordered the Patagonia Arbor which is 26L as I often carry DH's stuff too, and the gym is right by the library so I always end up picking up books!

[specialsubject]

definitely no stupid fashion backpacks, badly fitted, badly made and bloody heavy.

I hope you've ordered one with a hip belt, which is where the most weight should be carried.