Name: E-sling by Case Logic
What it is: A messenger-type polyester shoulder bag designed to hold personal electronics and any other assorted but not too bulky items. The largest one has extra cargo space, making this the perfect “man purse” that doesn’t have to be referred to as such. It comes in three sizes.
How it works: The large version, which is the one I tested, works wonderfully whether carrying gear on a trip or simply going back and forth to work. It’s sized for carrying convenience, like a small messenger bag, but has two main zippered compartments with smaller storage areas within and two large pockets front and back. One large compartment is padded for a mini-laptop. I used it to hold a DVD player. The other compartment is big enough for other gadgets and then some. I variously carried a hardcover book, newspapers, magazines, an umbrella and a packable jacket in addition to an ever-present BlackBerry, MP3 player and glasses case.
The good: For guys who don’t want to schlep a briefcase on a trip but feel uncomfortable with a man purse, this is perfect because it’s ample as a “personal bag,” that sometimes ill-defined second piece that air passengers are allowed to carry on without penalty. For women, the personal bag is typically a purse.
The bad: If you overpack, which is tempting because of the many internal pouches, the flap can tend to stick out like a gut after a large meal. Also, the design precludes attaching a regular handle, but it’s not difficult to bunch up the shoulder strap and carry like a small briefcase. Adding a pad to help keep the strap from slipping off the shoulder would be a good idea.
Cost: $54.99
Available from: caselogic.com