Laptop.  iPod.  Headphones.  Camera.  Phone.  Wallet.  Home keys.  Car keys.  Moleskine, writing implements, Bluetooth earpiece, DS, games, maybe a spiral notebook or two, possibly even a textbook.  And this is all supposed to go into a messenger bag and arrive unharmed and somewhat organized at my destination?

Faced with this issue while packing my regular carryon for a trip last month, I realized something had to change - I needed a better receptacle for all of my junk.  After shopping other messengers, slings, totes, and various other bag designs, the best solution was the Burton Women’s Day Hiker 12L.  This bag has some serious pockets - plenty of organized space for my phone, various pens and pencils, a fleece-lined pocket for my camera, a clip for my keys, even a separate pocket for my iPod with a cutout to run the headphone cord through.  There’s a shovel pocket on the inside of the bag that houses a 13” notebook (although it’s not the most protective pocket on Earth - a sleeve might be a good idea).  Two outside board straps make schlepping your sporting board of choice a breeze.  Most importantly, the shoulder straps - which are made for women - were comfortable while carrying a heavy load. 

The Burton Women’s Day Hiker 12L is available in six colors, including basic black, and retails for $49.95.  Just in case you guys get jealous, there’s a men’s version as well.