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Possibly not terribly stylish but I need a backpack/rucksack

18 replies

Needalittleadvice · 16/07/2014 22:12

Any recommendations? Quite like the kanken ones but not sure which variant I'd need. Anyone got one of these?
Or a hershel supply one? Kinda like the clashing patterns they do, like this:

www.urbanoutfitters.com/uk/m/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=5850415248883

Just for everyday use, parks, zoo trips etc. LO no longer needs a pushchair so back pack will be taking place of the basket underneath the buggy so loaded up with drinks, sunscreen, stickers, colouring books, pacamacs, etc etc ... TIA

OP posts:
Happy36 · 16/07/2014 22:17

I have a black ROXY one that's plain with pale pink zips (1 main compartment and a smaller one at the front) and the brand name and logo on the front about 2 inches high. It goes in the washing machine then dries out overnight hung up in the bathroom or wherever. I keep meaning to get another one as I've had it since 2008...still going strong after MUCH use!

Wolfiefan · 16/07/2014 22:18

I bought a healthy back bag for exactly this. Very comfy. I think it was an earth active one. Doesn't hurt my back. Leaves my hands free. Has lots of pockets. You can also slide it round so you can get stuff out without taking it off.

ThatBloodyWoman · 16/07/2014 22:20

I have had my karrimor day sack for about 25 years -its seem much 'rugged' use (climbing, canoeing, camping, hiking, travelling etc) and is still going strong.

Happy36 · 16/07/2014 22:23

This looks like the current version of what I have. Except mine's black - lots of different designs available (see website) but mostly quite bright. www.roxy.es/es/sugar-baby-2/erjbp03001/888256430631,es_ES,pd.html#cgid=accessories_bags&start=40&hitcount=60&cgid=accessories_bags&start=40&hitcount=60

Needalittleadvice · 16/07/2014 22:29

Tbh I wasn't expecting any replies so thanks for the suggestions so far, will take a look at those too.

OP posts:
standwellclearvehiclereversing · 16/07/2014 22:35

I've got this as was fed up of carrying a handbag on one shoulder with all the kids crap in it.

It's pretty roomy.

sonlypuppyfat · 16/07/2014 22:43

I love my Kipling ones nice and light but good and strong.

Laska42 · 16/07/2014 22:46

Please dont buy a fashion back pack if you want it to be of any use,, practical and last. Get one with good padded adustable straps for comfort and waterproof for utility .. it will do the job until your child is a teenager

karrimor Ok they may not be so pretty... but will keep going and wont date. I've had mine for years and its still looking good and working well

standwellclearvehiclereversing · 16/07/2014 22:57

My non-rucksack backpack is leather, hardwearing and comfortable OP - so don't worry too much if you're not sold on having something hideous Wink

Needalittleadvice · 16/07/2014 23:19

Haha standwellclear! Yes I do want something practical and hardwearing but with a element of fashion I suppose!

I've found a lovely leather one from whistles but at £275 it's a teeny heap over my budget. It's so nice though.
I quite like the tote bag style carry handles that some fashion back packs have- eg kanken but equally the shoulder strap Kipling ones are nice!

OP posts:
Sootgremlin · 16/07/2014 23:34

I have a Kanken, been using as a changing bag since having two, the straps are thin but not uncomfortable. Probably not great for a long hike but fine for out and about generally.

It's lightweight, waterproof and opens right up which is useful so you're not digging around for things. I find the design of it very easy to use, like the carry handles etc.

I have the classic and get changing gear for toddler and baby, snacks, drinks, jackets, muslins etc for them in it easily, but if you want to carry lunch and adult jackets you might want the bigger one.

I also have a Kipling, it has more space, organisation and padded straps, more practical really for longer days out and I do like it very much, but I kind of love my Kanken Grin

botanicbaby · 16/07/2014 23:41

I hate my Kanken. Over-priced, very poor quality. Was extremely disappointed with it. I rarely use it and don't think it would last very long if I did as it is so flimsy, stitching is not that great and the straps are utter crap.

If you are near a TK Maxx, you can pick up a good quality rucksack for half the price. I have a lovely fabric stripey one from there, cannot remember the brand but it is SO much more comfortable and roomier too.

BikeRunSki · 16/07/2014 23:48

Eastpak are comfortable and hard wearing. Not fadhiony but not too ugly!

Selks · 17/07/2014 00:22

Asos have got loads...how about this jazzy number...all you need is some roller skates Grin

Seriously though, I like this checked one, might order it myself Smile

CountBapula · 17/07/2014 04:42

I have a Kanken Classic, which I use as a nappy bag after having DS2. I don't carry it on my back because he's in a pushchair. It carries one of those Jojo Maman change mat things, change of clothes for both DSes, snacks and other preschooler crap, all very easily. Everything's easily accessible, which I love.

You can buy extra pads for the straps, and chest straps, if you're worried about comfort. I might do that when DS2 stops using the buggy. Like you, OP, I love the tote bag straps.

Saurus72 · 17/07/2014 05:00

How about this lovely minimalist one by Ally Capellino for Tate: shop.tate.org.uk/ally-capellino/greyorange-ally-capellino-rucksack/invt/15366&bklist=icat,4,shop,designedfortate,allycap

I have a few of her bags and I love them - pared down but still pretty stylish and you can usually fit a lot of stuff in. And I machine wash my Tate satchel, so it's a perfect every day bag.

TheScottishPlay · 17/07/2014 05:14

Another vote for a Healthy Back Bag. I have had mine for a couple of years now. It's very comfy and can be chucked in the washing machine when necessary.

Needalittleadvice · 17/07/2014 16:25

Sorry only just checked back in. selks that green thing is hideous!

The ally capellino bags are lovely, certainly one to consider thanks saurus72

Will check out healthy back ones now.

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