lightweight travel tote patagonia

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I Tried the Backpack That's Been Hailed As the 'Perfect Travel Bag' — and Now I Use It Instead of My Purse

It also has a reputation for being the best "just-in-case" bag for travelers, so I put it to the test.

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Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington

A good tote bag is worth its weight in gold — especially one that works no matter where you are going or what you are doing. Recently, I took the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack on a trip to Mexico City because I wanted something other than my purse to use while out and about exploring the town. Much to my surprise, I'd enlisted the help of one of the most versatile travel bags I've ever encountered — it is three bags in one, after all. 

This tote was convenient to pack because it folds down to the size of a paperback book and I could add it to my laptop case when not in use. But, if you were to carry it on the plane, it fits under an airplane seat without being too bulky. It is the perfect cross between a duffle bag, a backpack, and a purse. From running errands around town, hiking, shopping, sightseeing, or even going on an adventure, it carries your essentials effortlessly. 

To buy: rei.com , $99

As previously mentioned, the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack boasts impressive versatility, and users can easily customize its multitasking design with its three different carrying options — by hand, over your shoulder, or even on your back like a traditional backpack. I was carrying it on my shoulder as I was shopping around the streets of Mexico City’s La Condesa neighborhood to keep my wallet handy while shopping, but seamlessly turned it into a backpack as soon as we walked into the National Museum of Anthropology because I wanted to be hands-free and careful around all the beautiful artifacts. 

Travel + Leisure / Emily Belfiore

I also found the pack to be quite strong and durable. Like many of Patagonia’s products, this one is made of 100 percent recycled nylon and is weather resistant with its durable and waterproof silicone and polyurethane coatings, which is good news if your trip forecast will be plagued with inclement weather. 

Beyond its multipurpose exterior, the Black Hole Tote Pack is also stocked with thoughtful features to delight any traveler. The internal compression straps and the bungee cord are game changers because you can really stuff the convertible backpack to the brim, and still have room to close it with the large zipper at the top. 

There's also an internal zippered pocket, which acts as prime storage to keep essentials like your wallet, keys, and smartphone secure, whereas the external zippered pocket will prove to be more useful to stow away less valuable (but still highly precious) travel items like sunglasses, lip balm, or sunscreen — a.k.a. things that you might need in a pinch and don't want to dig through inside your bag for. I also appreciated the two stretch-mesh water-bottle pockets on the outside; I could store away both my reusable bottles as I walked around the city and did not worry about running out of water. 

Pockets aside, one thing that really surprised me was how comfortable the bag was to carry. I am always cautious of how traditional backpack harnesses will fit my somewhat shorter frame. But, the ones on the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack are adjustable and made from highly breathable mesh, so not only does it fit like a glove, but it also doesn’t get too sweaty or uncomfortable with extended use. They also neatly tuck away when using the pack over your shoulder or holding it in your hand — another unexpectedly thoughtful design feature.  

With a 27-liter capacity and a 15.5-inch by 10.3-inch by 8-inch frame, this pack can fit a lot of stuff, and I found it so helpful that I got rid of my hefty travel purse and put everything I needed in this bag for most of my trip. When not in use, it weighs 13 ounces and can be stuffed into its pocket for easy packing, which is why it's been dubbed as the best “just-in-case” bag by REI shoppers. One reviewer wrote, “I purchased this packable tote bag just in case my daypack was too small for the conference I was going to. This bag was a lifesaver and went above and beyond for an entire week."

Another customer called it a “perfect travel bag” because of its versatility, which is what I appreciated as well during my travels: “I love the bag because of how functional it is. The top straps are long enough to carry it under your arm (a common problem with these bags). It's perfect for conferences, groceries, walking around town, bike commutes, and trips to the dog park." 

I hate to admit it, but I got the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack with the intent of shoving it in my suitcase and using it only if needed while traveling. But after it proved to be so useful in Mexico City, I find myself reaching for it regularly. Outside of traveling, it is the perfect size to carry groceries, my gym gear, or anything I need for a day out and about. So, if you are looking for a great multi-purposeful bag (and a backup for extra storage when you're traveling), this is the one for you. 

I know I will be bringing the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack along for all my travels this year and beyond. So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and get one for yourself at REI. If its almost-$100 price tag is a bit of a deterrent, don't fret; keep scrolling to shop some of the best (and affordable) convertible backpacks that can also be used as tote bags, everyday purses, and more. 

More Affordable Convertible Backpacks:

Zocilor convertible leather backpack .

To buy: amazon.com , $31 (originally $36) 

Cluci Convertible Leather Backpack Purse 

To buy: amazon.com , $43 with on-site coupon (originally $60) 

Sakroots Olympic Convertible Backpack

To buy: amazon.com , $47 

Baggallini Naples Convertible Backpack

To buy: amazon.com , $47 (originally $110) 

Vera Bradley Cotton Convertible Backpack Shoulder Bag

To buy: amazon.com , $63 (originally $95) 

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Why We Like The Ultralight Black Hole 27L Tote Pack

If we're looking for a bag that can join us on easy-going day hikes just as easily as it can peruse the local farmer's market, look no further than the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole 27L Tote Pack. It has a classic tote design that we can haul around easily when we're hunting for fresh veggies or heading to the beach, but features a stowable set of straps that let us carry it like a backpack when our daily travels take us on more adventurous terrain. The backpack straps are both adjustable and highly breathable, so we can bring this lightweight pack along on even the hottest days without being uncomfortable. On drizzly days we can rest easy knowing that the durable and water-repellent ripstop fabric is keeping our belongings dry, and when we're heading off for longer trips we can stuff our tote into its own pocket and stash it in our luggage to ensure that our favorite bag goes wherever we go.

• Lightweight and versatile tote bag for all of your daily activities
• Comfy and breathable backpack straps let us carry it hands-free
• Spacious zippered compartment offers storage for gym and beach gear
• Durable and water-resistant fabric keeps your stuff protected
• Stretch side pockets store a water bottle and coffee thermos
• Zippered front pocket doubles as a stuff sack for easy packing
• Item #PAT02ZS

Overall Rating

5 based on 5 ratings

Review Summary

Fits true to size.

What do you think about this product?

March 23, 2023

Love this pack!

I picked one up so that I could have a light weight rope bag & essentials carry bag, that top loaded for a windy multi pitch climb I hadn't prepared for. Ran to an REI and this seemed light weight and the price was right. I thought it wouldn't be that durable and that it was more of an emergency, one time use option. Boy was I wrong!! It's super light weight (almost weightless), can fit a harness, shoes & quickdraws when carrying a rope separate (and is strong enough). It square & holds a good shape even when not filled all the way (much better than a flash pack of any sorts!). I found myself using it all the time for good weather, quick single pitch days when I didn't want to carry much. What's nice is that it completely rolls up when empty :) Not the most comfortable for longer days with lots of hiking (I'd grab another bag for that) but soooo glad I picked it up!

March 14, 2023

Reliable daily bag for 7 years now

I’ve used and beaten up this bag nearly every day for the past 7 years and it has never let me down. I wish it was a little more water proof but other than that, it’s nearly perfect.

October 15, 2022

Very versatile carry tote/backpack

This ultralight Tote/backpack is made of recycled plastic and is super versatile. It packs very nicely into it's inside pocket. It greatly exceeded my expectations. Buy it!!!!

January 4, 2021

Love this tote!

Fantastic tote! Great size for running errands or if you just don't want to carry a bunch of things loose in your hands. Great pockets, love that it can be a backpack and a tote back. Strongly recommend this pack!

June 5, 2020

NYC backpack

Perfect backpack for where I live in nyc. I’m always commuting and need my hands free so a backpack works better than a purse for me. I got the black color and it’s the most awesome shade of deep jet black — really living up to its name! (Black hole) I love the material. The lightweight Nylon is great and doesn’t add any extra weight. I use it for picking up some groceries and whatever else. Thanks backcountry!!

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September 10, 2020

.css-1e30eku{font-family:var(--chakra-fonts-base);font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-lg);font-weight:var(--chakra-fontWeights-bold);margin-right:var(--chakra-space-2);} Q: How long are the backpack straps when they are fully extended?

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Ultralight Black Hole® Tote Pack 27L

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This versatile, 27-liter 100% recycled nylon tote is lightweight, durable and can be carried by hand, over the shoulder or as a backpack. Made in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory.

One Size Fits All

What customers are saying: View all reviews

For more information visit our Size Guide

Specs & Features

Lightweight yet strong 100% recycled fabric.

Lightweight recycled nylon ripstop is weather-resistant and highly packable

Multiple Pockets for Gear Organization

Main compartment has a large zippered opening for easy access and a handy internal zip pocket (with a key keeper) for valuables; an external zippered organizer holds everything you need close at hand

Stretch Water-Bottle Pockets

Double stretch-mesh water-bottle pockets

Comfortable Mesh Harness

Adjustable, highly breathable mesh harness neatly tucks away when not in use

Two Carrying Options

Can be carried as a tote or a backpack; volume is 27 liters

Lightweight and Stuffable

Stuffs into its own pocket

Supporting the People Who Made This Product

Made in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory, which means the people who made this product earned a premium for their labor

Country of Origin

Made in Vietnam.

370 g (13.05 oz)

Last Season Color Offered at Full Price

2.4-oz 70-denier 100% postconsumer recycled nylon ripstop with a silicone face coating and a PU back coating

3-oz 200-denier 100% recycled polyester with a PU coating

Body fabric is certified as bluesign® approved

Made in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory

Care Instructions

Hand Wash, Do Not Bleach, Drip Dry, Do Not Iron

Gear Capacity: 27 L (1,648 cu in) Dimensions: 15.5" x 10.25" x 8" Weight: 13.1 oz(370 g)

Size & Fit

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Black Hole® Tote 25L

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This light and packable 25-liter tote swallows all the gear in your van but also lives for last-minute adventures in town. Built from 100% postconsumer recycled polyester body fabric and 100% recycled nylon webbing. Made in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory.

One Size Fits All

What customers are saying: View all reviews

For more information visit our Size Guide

Specs & Features

Extremely durable, weather-resistant, 100% recycled fabric.

Lightweight, durable recycled polyester ripstop is weather-resistant and highly packable

Small Interior Pocket

Large main compartment with simple hook closure; small interior stash pocket

Comfortable Grab Handles

Folded webbing handles for a comfortable carry

Tote Volume

Tote volume is 25 liters

Supporting the People Who Made This Product

Made in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory, which means the people who made this product earned a premium for their labor

Country of Origin

Made in Vietnam.

360 g (13 oz)

Last Season Color Offered at Full Price

8.7-oz 300-denier 100% postconsumer recycled polyester ripstop with a TPU-film laminate

Fabric is certified as bluesign® approved

Made in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory

Care Instructions

Hand Wash, Do Not Bleach, Drip Dry, Do Not Iron

Gear Capacity: 25 L (2,526 cu in) Dimensions: 11" x 15.75" x 8" Weight: 12.7 oz(360 g)

Size & Fit

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We accept both current season and sale items for return or exchange. We do not set a time limit on returns, though we ask that returns for fit or color be made in a timely manner and that items be kept in new condition with tags attached.

We Guarantee Everything We Make

If you are not satisfied with one of our products at the time you receive it, or if one of our products does not perform to your satisfaction, our Ironclad Guarantee allows you to return it for a replacement or refund at no charge. Damage due to wear and tear will be repaired at a reasonable charge.

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• Patagonia Lightweight Travel Tote

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Product No Longer Available

Unfortunately Patagonia Lightweight Travel Tote is no longer carried by CampSaver.

Product Info for Patagonia Lightweight Travel Tote

Features of patagonia lightweight travel tote:.

• Lightweight, tear- and weather-resistant nylon ripstop
• Zippered main compartment provides easy access; large zippered stash pocket; stretch-mesh water-bottle pockets
• Air Flow-mesh shoulder strap is adjustable for carrying comfort
• Side compression secures various loads
• Stuffs into its own pocket

Package Contents:

Great bag i use it, diaper and/or travel bag, great travel bag.

There is not a sternum strap.

The dimensions of the product are 16.5" x 10" x 6", so it might work, but with a little bit of stretching, it would be a close fit if so!

How to Pack Light When You're Only Traveling With a Carry-On

By Karthika Gupta

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Packing for a trip always feels like a dance between art and science—and attempting to pack light complicates things even further. As a travel journalist, I often find myself on the road several times a month—sometimes for weeks at a time navigating various modes of transportation. This means being self-sufficient with my luggage is key. I also don’t want to be concerned about lost luggage when I travel, so I opt to bring only a carry-on whenever I can. My mantra while packing for any trip, whether it's a domestic weekend getaway or a weeklong international adventure, is that every piece of gear has to be multi-functional to maximize space. Below, my tried-and-true tips for packing light with only a carry-on.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Our best tips for packing light:

Choose the right luggage, don't skip the packing cubes.

• Opt for multi-functional fabrics

Pick versatile pairs of shoes

• Adjust your body care routine

Travel hacks are a game-changer

A key consideration for any trip is choosing the right luggage to fit all your essentials without weighing you down. If you're traveling with just a carry-on-sized bag, you want it to be lightweight yet roomy—expandable options are always helpful. My go-to is the Monos Carry-On Plus, a 7.8-pound hard-shell suitcase sized to fit in overhead bins. The wheels have a 360-spin, making it a breeze to maneuver in tight spaces, and the side handle makes it easy to lift into the overhead bin and in a rental car. The padded front compartment fits my 15-inch laptop, a scarf, and a book in there easily. The suitcase comes with an antimicrobial laundry bag and two shoe bags that further help with packing and organization.

Another smart carry-on option is the Cotopaxi Allpa Roller Bag. The hybrid look of a hardcover back and adjustable softcover front brings the right amount of support and expandability of a traditional carry-on suitcase. It only has two wheels but when I saw how easily the bag moved on different surfaces, I was hooked. Cotopaxi’s fun and vibrant colors also make these suitcases easily identifiable among a sea of like-looking bags at the airport.

Next up: choosing a functional personal item . I paired my suitcase with the Chelsea Backpack from Antler. As a professional photographer, I always travel with my gear and I find the Chelsea is spacious enough to pack my camera, an extra lens, and in-flight essentials: snacks, my Otterbox 3-in-1 MagSafe charging station that helped cut down on extra cords, and my insulated Camelbak water bottle . It even has a zipped, padded laptop area with a separate slip pocket for a tablet. The backpack’s trolley sleeve is a lifesaver, slipping onto my rolling suitcase and allowing me to keep one hand free. And I always pack my Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole tote as an extra bag (for souvenirs or as a daypack for a quick hike). It folds down into a small pouch, making it both packable and functional.

Anyone who struggles with optimizing space when traveling knows that packing cubes are the ultimate solution. Not only are they perfect for organization, but compression ones like these from Monos and Béis save space in your bag. I routinely use about three to five cubes and organize my essentials by category. The bigger cube is for bulky items like jeans, pants, and sweatshirts, the medium is for shirts, and the smaller one is for undergarments and socks. The clear-view window on the Monos packing cubes allows me to see what's inside at a glance, making it easier to get ready. I also carry an extra one to separate dirty laundry on my return trip home.

Opt for lightweight, multi-functional fabrics

I will admit that choosing the right clothes for a multi-week trip is the most challenging part of packing, especially when dealing with different climates. My Duer jeans are my favorite denim. With the right amount of stretch, softness, comfort, and a water-repellent fabric, I wear them on planes, around town, and even hiking. My top picks are these fleece-lined relaxed Girlfriend fit for flights, and the mid-rise performance slim straight for backup. Another new favorite is the Freeflex Roll-Up pants from Kühl. The roll-up feature quickly converts it into a capri, increasing the usability. Plus, they are quick-drying, moisture-managing, and water-resistant.

For daily wear, I pack a few classic, mix-and-match pieces from Prana in neutral colors. Foundation rib tanks and simple short-sleeve tees are versatile, comfortable, and perfect for layering. I recently discovered hemp fabric, a natural fiber that is breathable, antibacterial, and seems to get softer with every wash. Adding Jungmaven tees to my travel wardrobe was a no-brainer because it wicks moisture away from the skin keeping clothes odor free longer so you can get more wear from your tees. A few moisture-wicking UPF 50+ bras that double as sports bras, merino wool breathable natural briefs from Ibex , and Comrad compression socks complete my essentials.

As a runner from the Midwest, I can never pass up the opportunity to tackle trails wherever I go. My Hoka short-sleeved performance tee and multi-pocket jogger tights from Oiselle are ideal because of their quick-drying fabric, which means I don’t need sweatshirts to keep me warm while running outside.

Keeping up with the theme of packing multi-purpose clothing, I chose between two outerwear pieces depending on the season—the Stretchdown light vest from Mountain Hardwear or a Silent Down Jacket from Patagonia. The vest is a lightweight layering piece that packs down to a pouch for convenience. The jacket, which I wear on the plane (another tip: don't pack your bulkiest pieces; wear them in transit), is incredibly soft, warm enough for 30 to 40-degree Fahrenheit weather, thanks to the down insulation, and not too technical—the perfect outerwear for a nice dinner.

Deciding on what shoes to bring on any trip is always a bit tricky, but generally, you want to go classic and neutral. Because of space restrictions, I opted for a white walking shoe that would go with any outfit (worn on the plane) and packed my lightweight gym shoes as a backup. Clae’s white vegan leather sneakers have traveled with me across continents and continues to hold form even after hours of walking everywhere. For my running and training routines, I lean on my Agility Peak 5 running shoe from Merrell. It performs flawlessly on gravel and concrete and after getting caught unprepared in a sudden downpour one too many times, I always choose the Gore-Tex waterproof style. A cute pair of lightweight Tevas sandals that are also waterproof and breathable round out my footwear choices.

Don’t sacrifice your body care routine—just adjust it

After a lot of trial and error over years of extensive travel, I finally curated just the right selection of products for my Dopp kit . The key is to trim down your routine (and packing list) with multi-purpose products that still get the job done and leave you feeling refreshed. Everist plant-based waterless shower travel essentials are a game changer and the travel-size tins save a lot of space. I also recently switched to waterless moisturizers and lotion bars for travel after having to ditch many creams and bottles at security because of liquid restrictions. My go-tos are Glow Face Stone solid face moisturizer and Forest Sone lotion bar from Kate McLeod. And all this packs away in my carry-on-friendly Monos Metro toiletry case.

After traveling thousands of miles with just a carry-on, there are a few hacks I always rely on that make a huge difference to my overall outlook on traveling as lightly as possible. I always clip a few carabiners to my backpack or suitcase (if possible). In a pinch, these hold nicknacks like an extra jacket, a water bottle, or my sandals if I am running out of space. A buff is a must and an easy way to protect your face, neck, and head from the elements. It also acts as a neck warmer and mask on planes. And my Sea to Summit inflatable two-ounce camping pillow has been a lifesaver during many unscheduled airport overnights thanks to cancellations and delays—I never leave home without it.

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It’s My Work-Diapers Backpack-Tote

Most diaper bags are just tote bags or backpacks made of waterproof materials, with extra pockets to hold bottles, pacifiers, and baby snacks. (Some of the more elaborate ones have insulated storage and removable changing pads.) They are often bulky, and, in my experience, life as a parent is easier without one. I prefer a more streamlined multipurpose bag that I can use for work or travel or just everyday errand-running, in addition to baby outings. And the best one I’ve found so far is the surprisingly spacious and nice-looking LeSportsac Double Trouble backpack.

My ideal diaper bag is lightweight and easy to carry, wipes clean and doesn’t show stains, looks good with everything I might wear, and is just as handy for carrying a laptop, water bottle , or wallet as it is for carrying baby stuff. The Double Trouble checks all of these boxes — plus, it can be used as a backpack or a tote. It has two tall pockets on the sides that work just as well for an adult water bottle as they do for a baby bottle. Inside, there are four elastic-trimmed mesh pockets that I use for everything from a computer charger to extra tampons and infant Motrin. There’s also a sneaky outer zipper pocket on the back and two smaller pockets (one zip, one not) on the front.

Despite its French-sounding name, LeSportsac is an American company that was founded in 1974, was taken over (and given new life) by the son of the original founders in the early 1990s, and is now in the middle of another revival along with other popular brands of the ’90s and 2000s. This resurgence and the backpack’s trapezoidal shape make it feel subtly trendy — even Prada -adjacent — especially in the all-black nylon that I have (though it also comes in an ever-changing array of bright colors and playful prints). It has a ’90s mini-backpack vibe without being actually mini or overtly vintage-looking. I first became familiar with the brand in college when I worked part-time in a kids’-clothing store that carried some of the Hello Kitty and Tokidoki collaboration bags . Then, last year, LeSportsac sent me a few items to try in celebration of its upcoming 50th anniversary, and the Double Trouble was the sleeper hit.

Before the Double Trouble became my “diaper bag” of choice, I tried three other contenders: a leopard-print Colugo diaper tote , an all-black Caraa baby bag , and a Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole backpack , also in all black. All three are well-designed bags with practical details like removable looped straps for hanging on a stroller and insulated pockets for snacks or milk, and all three had great potential. But, ultimately, none of them fit my criteria for everyday (or even occasional) non-baby-related use and ended up in the back of my closet.

I put the Patagonia backpack — which is also popular among artists and art handlers — on my baby registry , thinking it would work well style-wise for both me and my husband. It’s lightweight and packable and can be hosed off in the event of a spill. But since it lacks structure, the lightness of the backpack and the depth of the main compartment are more frustrating than they are practical. No matter how thoughtfully I packed it, everything would disappear as if into a … black hole. I always had to use two hands and a hard surface to find anything — not great if you’re also holding a wriggly or fussy baby with a dirty diaper.

The Caraa baby bag is the opposite, designed so you can find exactly what you need quickly. It’s all black on the outside, but the lining is cream-colored, so all your stuff is easy to see. It has three insulated outer pockets, two non-insulated magnetic sleeve pockets, a back zipper pocket that can fit a tablet or an iPad but not my MacBook Air, and a hidden zipper pocket for tucking away the optional shoulder straps. Inside, there are also four clear plastic slots and one elastic rimmed divider for organizing diapers . But the bag is bulky in a way that outs it as a diaper bag, and it can’t really double as a work bag since it can just barely hold my 13-inch laptop in the main compartment (and even then, the computer fits only without a protective sleeve ). The wealth of pockets, while useful, annoyingly causes me to carry more than I need.

The Colugo diaper tote is roomy and very attractive, with a handful of useful inner pockets and two small zipper pockets on the outside. It also has a removable cross-body shoulder strap. But I’ve found I like it better as a weekend bag, because it’s too big and heavy to use on a daily basis in New York City.

Where the Double Trouble beats them all is in its simple and ergonomic design. It’s comfortable to wear as a backpack despite a lack of extra padding or tactical-looking straps — the wide, woven nylon straps hug my shoulders gently as they evenly distribute the weight of whatever I am carrying. I can even wear it comfortably while carrying my son in a baby carrier , and the placement of the outer pockets makes it easy to reach around and grab my phone or a straw cup one-handed. When the subway car is crowded, it’s easy to switch to carrying it by the top handles as a tote. It fits in the storage bin of my compact Yoyo Stroller or in the basket of a Citibike. Best of all, it always makes my outfits look more sleek and put together, so much so that I chose to bring it with me instead of a purse on a recent trip to Japan and even got compliments on it from the salesperson at the Beams store in Kanazawa. It’s more than just a work bag, or a diaper bag, or an alternative to a purse for sightseeing, and I plan on carrying it long after my son is out of diapers and carrying his own backpack .

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30-denier triple-ripstop silicone nylon. Bottom: 210-denier doubleweave ShiftLayer nylon with DWR finish

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