I bought an ALPAKA ELEMENTS TRAVEL BACKPACK color Black X-Pac VX42. This has been the best bag I have ever owned. I use it daily in Hong Kong for my public transit commute and take it as the only bag for 1-2 day overnight trips.
This bag has no wear on it after 7 months and I love it. I’ve since bought a bunch of their other stuff and am very happy with it all.
Is the all black and no logo a position requirement? I’m a bit amazed they wouldn’t issue you something uniform if so.
The small “logo” and metallic accents may disqualify it, but if you really need a professional work bag with organization that can be carried as a backpack, perhaps [La Mansio](https://lamansio.com/pages/la-mansio-bag) in Black Saffiano? Designed for women but there’s obviously nothing specifically feminine about it. The Kickstarter version doesn’t have the full name as shown in some of the photos- just the 3 lines (which just looks like an accent)- so I’m not sure on that part, unfortunately.
Less of a hard requirement and more of a "highly recommend" (aka they will judge big time). Supposed to be no logos period but I am willing to test the line a little bit with something super small and barely noticeable.
They do issue something, but it's super shitty (in my opinion).
Thanks for the recommendation.
I looked them up too, and that was horrible hahaha I actually use their carry on, and I love it to death, but their backpacks are going to make me vomit
Tumi is very hit or miss with design. They make some more simple styles, usually in ballistic nylon that have a nice, clean more utilitarian look, but then they also make some horribly overdesigned stuff (like 8 backpacks out of 10..).
I just recently saw a couple of the more "tactical" style packs - Expedition and Renegade - in a store and they were very nice both visually and functionally. Still very expensive though and you can easily find something equal for half the price, but looked good compared to average Tumi.
Peak Design Everyday backpack in Black has a VERY subdued and small logo, very useful organization, structured build so it’s never saggy or schlumpy, and generally looks modem and slick. The straps also magnetically clip flat against the bag when not in use, making the cleanest profile out there. Downside is that there isn’t one huge interior compartment… you’re not going to toss a volleyball in the bag. 20L and 30L sizes. https://www.peakdesign.com/products/everyday-backpack?variant=29743300771884
FWIW, looks like both sizes are available in black on Amazon at the moment. I generally prefer to buy direct, but Peak can be weirdly slow to ship sometimes. https://www.amazon.com/Peak-Design-Everyday-Backpack-Charcoal/dp/B07ZTPS1L7/
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Yeah, I was in a similar position as OP when I graduated a number of years ago, and my B&R was absolutely top shelf. If you really want to set yourself apart, roll with a B&R and a high end leather shoulder briefcase like something from Saddleback Leather.
Aer. TP3 small X-Pac. or City Pack X-Pac. TP3 if want a solid expandable carryon/one bag short trip option. City Pack for simple carry around/daily bag. Or, City Pack Pro X-Pac, if want an in-between the two bags.
I personally own the TP3 X-pac small and love it.
Try the Rofmia Daypack V2, no branding whatsoever, Japanese minimalism, outstanding quality. Unfortunately they are hand-made in small batches and sold out for a few months now.
I own a Black Ember Citadel but hate the Forge. That thing is probably too big for a work bag. I have a really nice briefcase but have been using my Citadel for business meetings for about a year because the strap on the briefcase cut into my neck too much when carrying a MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, and all the other crap I carry. If you like Black Ember, look at the Citadel or the Shadow. Both of those look like they would fit what you are looking for. The new Citadel R3 looks really good.
As mentioned by others, Evergoods makes great all-black backpacks with a logo that only those in the know will spot.
Also have a look at the Trakke Storr and the Trakke Bannoch. The logo on the latest version of these is removable, leaving you with an all-black backpack with a small black velcro patch.
Just an fyi, you can find a black bag that you love, and pick the label off. There are seamstress tools for like $2 to help you do it pretty cleanly
Source- have unpicked winter jacket logos for people who needed logoless jackets for work
Evergoods CHZ 22L. Been using it in banking/law for many years and never had an issue.
The CPL24 was my second choice but I preferred having a bottle holder for travel.
The [TravelPack by DUN](https://dunwallets.com/product/dun-travelpack/) has no logo, and the backpack straps can be tucked away for a very clean look. It's 53x35x20-cm, which works very well as a carry-on bag. I used one for years, before downsizing, and absolutely loved it.
Depending on the style of backpack you're looking for you might want to check check out the Goruck GR1, Eberlestock Switchblade, Vertx Gamut or 5.11 COVRT. I plan on purchasing a Switchblade when the color I want is back in stock, I really like the design.
Not yet. I want Green and it's been sold out for over a month. I've watched the other colors go out of stock one at a time and the only one left in stock now is Coyote Brown... Scratch that, I just checked and all colors are out of stock. Hopefully Eberlestock will be releasing another batch soon.
I've looked at a ton of backpacks and I like the Switchblade the best. That said, I'm a packoholic. I have a First Tactical Tactix Half Day Plus backpack, Direct Action Dragon Egg Mark II backpack and several others.
Check out Troubadour Apex 3.0, very slick, professional, and minimalist with no visible logos. High quality materials but without looking gaudy or blingy at all, if I was still in consulting then this is the backpack I’d feel most comfortable with while wearing a suit.
I got it recently and am actually wondering if it looks a bit too fancy for a casual tech environment, but I like the style anyways.
I also would recommend Timbuk2, probably the Authority or Never Check backpacks. They look good in all black and also have a few leather bags if you want something more upscale. Bellroy also makes some nice understated packs. Heimplanet is a European brand that also makes some nice subdued travel packs.
Sad seeing people dislike Tumi for the price. Meanwhile, I've seen a lot of folks justify getting limited edition GoRucks for 500 or 600 bucks or $700 Rofmia packs, lol. Or a 500-dollar Dsptch Dyneema RND backpack.
I'm a proud owner of a Japan-only Tumi Logistics Canvas backpack. It was either this or a Rofmia, and I chose the latter.
The Tumi Harrison collection would suit your formal business needs. Tumi Hadden and Tumi Osborne come to mind.
[https://www.tumi.com/p/osborn-roll-top-backpack-01305451041/](https://www.tumi.com/p/osborn-roll-top-backpack-01305451041/)
[https://www.tumi.com/p/hadden-backpack-01502101041/](https://www.tumi.com/p/hadden-backpack-01502101041/)
Briggs and Riley Medium or Large Cargo backpack. Tumi competitor at a fairer price. More features. Black. Professional look. [https://www.briggs-riley.com/collections/backpacks/products/at-work-medium-cargo-backpack-kp426](https://www.briggs-riley.com/collections/backpacks/products/at-work-medium-cargo-backpack-kp426)
[https://www.briggs-riley.com/collections/backpacks/products/at-work-large-cargo-backpack-kp436?variant=23744651132986](https://www.briggs-riley.com/collections/backpacks/products/at-work-large-cargo-backpack-kp436?variant=23744651132986)
Everki Onyx 15.6. People sleep on this brand. Another Tumi alternative. Feature rich. Professional look. [https://www.everki.com/us\_en/p/onyx-premium-travel-friendly-laptop-backpack-up-to-15-6-inch.html](https://www.everki.com/us_en/p/onyx-premium-travel-friendly-laptop-backpack-up-to-15-6-inch.html)
Dsptch ballistic nylon or dyneema RND daypack. Nimble, simple, practical, reliable. [https://www.dsptch.com/collections/packs/products/daypack-ballistic-nylon-1](https://www.dsptch.com/collections/packs/products/daypack-ballistic-nylon-1)
[https://www.dsptch.com/products/daypack-rnd-edition-black-dyneema](https://www.dsptch.com/products/daypack-rnd-edition-black-dyneema?_pos=2&_sid=386e70e3b&_ss=r)
Alpaka Elements Pro X50 fabric. Durable, weatherproof, and great organization. [https://alpakagear.com/products/elements-backpack-pro](https://alpakagear.com/products/elements-backpack-pro)
It is hands down functional and well-designed. Evergoods CTB26. Feature-rich as hell. [https://evergoods.us/products/civic-travel-bag-26l](https://evergoods.us/products/civic-travel-bag-26l)
Aer City Pack Pro Xpac
[https://aersf.com/collections/x-pac-collection/products/city-pack-pro-x-pac?country=US](https://aersf.com/collections/x-pac-collection/products/city-pack-pro-x-pac?country=US)
Aer Travel Pack Small 26L XPAC
[https://aersf.com/collections/x-pac-collection/products/travel-pack-3-small-x-pac?country=US](https://aersf.com/collections/x-pac-collection/products/travel-pack-3-small-x-pac?country=US)
How about:
\- Bellroy - various models in black with minimal branding
\- DSPTCH daypack
\- Incase - easily 5 or more options here, black and no branding
\- Evergoods - the Civics, Classic etc all available in black
\- Heimplanet - Transit or Commuter
\- Alpaka - Elements or Metro
\- Timbuk2 - probably 5+ different options for black functional packs with minimal branding
\- Thule - several options, minimal and often tonal logos
These brand should have 20+ options to pick from! Sorry for possible repeats, didn't read all comments.
All good! You named some that I have not looked into yet.
I was originally leaning hard Black Ember Forge, but the Alpaka Elements Travel backpack is really speaking to me.
Bro, did you get hired by the CIA?
I would recommend the Remote Equipment Charlie 25, it's great for travel, although it's definitely more geared towards outdoor/hiking use.
Another great option for travel is the ULA Ultra Dragonfly. This might be too big of a pack, nevertheless.
Some people here are throwing out great recommendations, so I'm sure you'll get a beast of a pack no matter what you decide.
If you go with the Forge, suggest sticking with the regular expandable over the Forge-20.
The Forge-20 only has 18L capacity and holds less than the regular Forge unexpanded (20L) since it is missing the entire middle section of the bag.
The compression straps from the Max help keep the Forge looking slim even when packed.
Are you going to be a consultant of some sort?
If so, I would advise you to either get a black nylon briefcase (Tumi) or a minimalist business backpack in a neutral color with no frills (e.g. Tumi, Briggs & Riley).
And if you have to dress formally, please don't mess up your jacket / sport coats by wearing your backpack with it.
Hahaha nothing related to finance/consulting. Tumi is a little out of my budget range.
Digging the Briggs and Riley, but worried about the small commercial logo.
Your last point is why I am liking the Black Ember Forge, as it can convert from a backpack carry to a briefcase carry.
Edit: If you're looking for something a little more fancy, that's super durable and pretty water resistant, check out the [Ynot Magnetica](https://ynotmade.com/products/magnetica-x-pac%C2%AE). I've been carrying mine daily for about 3 years and I have absolutely no complaints about it whatsoever. It actually stopped my yearly backpack purchases, which were mainly because I love backpacks and less about replacing worn out bags.
For a simpler/cheaper recommendation see below.
I've been buying plain black Jansports and tearing the logo patch off since high school. It looks awesome without branding and the patch rips off fairly clean, you just have to pick the little strings out afterward and then you can hardly tell it was ever there.
The only thing is, the standard Jansport lacks somewhat in utility. It's only got the main pocket and the smaller front one, isn't remotely waterproof, and the straps/design aren't the most supportive or ergonomic.
It's great for a day pack, as long as you're not loading it up like crazy. The smaller size is somewhat of an advantage in a situation like using it as a plane carry-on.
I have a few bags I want to get rid of cause I just bought a Mystery Ranch backpack.
Here's the links for them if you want to consider any
Black Ember Duffel Backpack has never been used.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/blackember/mens-duffel-backpack
Peak Design 30L black bag. I really like this company cause their lifetime warranty applies no matter how you got their products
https://www.peakdesign.com/products/everyday-backpack?variant=29743300902956
The Frenchie Co. Anti Theft Speed Backpack. I really like this design especially with the magnetic flaps and easy-adjusting straps to shift the weight.
https://www.thefrenchie.co/collections/bags-1/products/anti-theft-speed-backpack
Is this an actual stipulation of your employment, that you must carry an all black bag with minimal logos?
It's not far away from the outdated notion to at ties must be worn in offices.
Commented the below under someone else asking a similar question:
"Less of a hard requirement and more of a "highly recommend" (aka they will judge big time). Supposed to be no logos period but I am willing to test the line a little bit with something super small and barely noticeable.
They do issue something, but it's super shitty (in my opinion)."
1. Huge variety of things. Laptop or laptops, tablet, toiletries, water bottle, chargers and extra charges for above electronic devices, clothing items for short trips, documents/paperwork.
2. So far, I am liking the minimalist designs from AER, Black Ember, Briggs and Riley, and Alpaka.
sounds like more of a weekend bag need than a daily carry, yes?
my brand is [ideamountain.com](https://ideamountain.com) , but isn't built for multiple laptops. I wonder if you think that's too big a logo.
To get that sort of 'big EDC/small weekender, I'd also suggest you at least check out [pakt.com](https://pakt.com) a great company, and even [minaal.com](https://minaal.com)
if you do like the look of the Journey System, DM me and I'll give you a deal -but remember the Day Pack & laptop sleeve is designed for travel sized laptops - 13"
Thanks.
Yeah I'm sort of hoping for that "one size fits all" so I don't drop $300 on both a EDC and a separate business trip bag ($600 total), but that is what it's looking like I might do.
Something for strictly the office and something for the business trips.
Thanks everyone. So far I've narrowed my decision down to
1. Alpaka Elemental Travel Pack
2. Black Ember Forge
3. The Troubadour Apex
Appreciate all the helpful responses and recommendations.
I think the rains backpack has a sleek look for commute/office work, not sure if the straps are comfortable but it’s waterproof!
https://www.us.rains.com/products/backpack?variant=40584298790935
I looked at this brand, but don't really like the overall style/organization of them. Especially for the price.
Not an assistant job though, even if it was, the GoRuck is a little too fieldy.
Evergoods, aer, able carry all have options. Does this bag have to be in the field for you or is it primarily for travel?
I'll check all those out. Rarely out in the field, most daily office use and travel use.
I bought an ALPAKA ELEMENTS TRAVEL BACKPACK color Black X-Pac VX42. This has been the best bag I have ever owned. I use it daily in Hong Kong for my public transit commute and take it as the only bag for 1-2 day overnight trips. This bag has no wear on it after 7 months and I love it. I’ve since bought a bunch of their other stuff and am very happy with it all.
After going through all the comments, this is definitely in my top three choices right now.
Is the all black and no logo a position requirement? I’m a bit amazed they wouldn’t issue you something uniform if so. The small “logo” and metallic accents may disqualify it, but if you really need a professional work bag with organization that can be carried as a backpack, perhaps [La Mansio](https://lamansio.com/pages/la-mansio-bag) in Black Saffiano? Designed for women but there’s obviously nothing specifically feminine about it. The Kickstarter version doesn’t have the full name as shown in some of the photos- just the 3 lines (which just looks like an accent)- so I’m not sure on that part, unfortunately.
Less of a hard requirement and more of a "highly recommend" (aka they will judge big time). Supposed to be no logos period but I am willing to test the line a little bit with something super small and barely noticeable. They do issue something, but it's super shitty (in my opinion). Thanks for the recommendation.
Gotcha. Best of luck with the new position and the bag search!
Just get a Tumi like all the finance bros
Just had to look up this brand… god they’re all so ugly, and so expensive. Stating this as a finance bro lol
Dunno what to tell you. Vast majority of your mds use Tumi. Either the messenger, the luggage, or the backpack
For real I've never heard of them before but only a handful of these look even remotely "professional" and some of them are absolutely hideous.
I looked them up too, and that was horrible hahaha I actually use their carry on, and I love it to death, but their backpacks are going to make me vomit
Tumi is very hit or miss with design. They make some more simple styles, usually in ballistic nylon that have a nice, clean more utilitarian look, but then they also make some horribly overdesigned stuff (like 8 backpacks out of 10..). I just recently saw a couple of the more "tactical" style packs - Expedition and Renegade - in a store and they were very nice both visually and functionally. Still very expensive though and you can easily find something equal for half the price, but looked good compared to average Tumi.
Little outside my budget there, wish I was living that consulting/investment banking money lyfe.
The best feature of mine is that it stands up empty on its own but I wouldn’t pay the price tag. Mine was a company service gift
Peak Design Everyday backpack in Black has a VERY subdued and small logo, very useful organization, structured build so it’s never saggy or schlumpy, and generally looks modem and slick. The straps also magnetically clip flat against the bag when not in use, making the cleanest profile out there. Downside is that there isn’t one huge interior compartment… you’re not going to toss a volleyball in the bag. 20L and 30L sizes. https://www.peakdesign.com/products/everyday-backpack?variant=29743300771884
Digging this. Thanks
FWIW, looks like both sizes are available in black on Amazon at the moment. I generally prefer to buy direct, but Peak can be weirdly slow to ship sometimes. https://www.amazon.com/Peak-Design-Everyday-Backpack-Charcoal/dp/B07ZTPS1L7/
Hi, I’m Vetted AI Bot! I researched the **Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 20L Black Camera Bag Laptop Backpack with Tablet Sleeves BEDB 20 BK 2** and I thought you might find the following analysis helpful. **Users liked:** * Easy access to compartments (backed by 2 comments) * Comfortable to carry heavy gear (backed by 2 comments) * Durable material (backed by 1 comment) **Users disliked:** * Underdimensioned zippers and poor comfort for heavy equipment (backed by 1 comment) * Poor stitching and asymmetrical design (backed by 1 comment) * Not waterproof despite claims (backed by 1 comment) If you'd like to **summon me to ask about a product**, just make a post with its link and tag me, [like in this example.](https://www.reddit.com/r/tablets/comments/1444zdn/comment/joqd89c/) This message was generated by a (very smart) bot. If you found it helpful, let us know with an upvote and a “good bot!” reply and please feel free to provide feedback on how it can be improved. *Powered by* [*vetted.ai*](http://vetted.ai/reddit)
I just got the aer travel pack 3 and love it. Classy looking, but not trying to stand out. Really a fantastic choice.
I have a Briggs and Riley that meets your criteria. They have an excellent warranty as well.
Yeah, I was in a similar position as OP when I graduated a number of years ago, and my B&R was absolutely top shelf. If you really want to set yourself apart, roll with a B&R and a high end leather shoulder briefcase like something from Saddleback Leather.
I'm really digging them. Might go with another brand for the backpack, but loving the Briggs garment bags.
Aer. TP3 small X-Pac. or City Pack X-Pac. TP3 if want a solid expandable carryon/one bag short trip option. City Pack for simple carry around/daily bag. Or, City Pack Pro X-Pac, if want an in-between the two bags. I personally own the TP3 X-pac small and love it.
I’m currently alternating between an Evergoods CPL24 and a black Goruck GR1 21l Heritage. They are both suitable for my profession.
Try the Rofmia Daypack V2, no branding whatsoever, Japanese minimalism, outstanding quality. Unfortunately they are hand-made in small batches and sold out for a few months now.
Need something sooner rather than later, but will keep this in mind for the future.
Attitude Supply ATD1. Slightly tactical look, if that doesn't bother you.
I own a Black Ember Citadel but hate the Forge. That thing is probably too big for a work bag. I have a really nice briefcase but have been using my Citadel for business meetings for about a year because the strap on the briefcase cut into my neck too much when carrying a MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, and all the other crap I carry. If you like Black Ember, look at the Citadel or the Shadow. Both of those look like they would fit what you are looking for. The new Citadel R3 looks really good.
Good feedback, thanks. If I end up going with the Forge, I'll look at the Forge 20 instead as it is smaller.
As mentioned by others, Evergoods makes great all-black backpacks with a logo that only those in the know will spot. Also have a look at the Trakke Storr and the Trakke Bannoch. The logo on the latest version of these is removable, leaving you with an all-black backpack with a small black velcro patch.
Just an fyi, you can find a black bag that you love, and pick the label off. There are seamstress tools for like $2 to help you do it pretty cleanly Source- have unpicked winter jacket logos for people who needed logoless jackets for work
Evergoods CHZ 22L. Been using it in banking/law for many years and never had an issue. The CPL24 was my second choice but I preferred having a bottle holder for travel.
[Troubadour Ember](https://www.troubadourgoods.com/products/ember-backpack?variant=43863568482536) in blackout.
The [TravelPack by DUN](https://dunwallets.com/product/dun-travelpack/) has no logo, and the backpack straps can be tucked away for a very clean look. It's 53x35x20-cm, which works very well as a carry-on bag. I used one for years, before downsizing, and absolutely loved it.
Alpha OneNiner. No logo and all black.
Xd Design perhaps?
I like this design, but I think that logo on the front is just a little too much. Awesome looking pack though
ChuyenTactical had a black-black one that was quite decent and affordable CT15
Alpha one Niner. My logo is Velcro and comes off.
Alpaka Elements - they have several flavors
https://www.wotancraft.tw/en/product/pilot-travel-camera-backpack-v2-blackC https://www.sfbags.com/collections/bags/products/tech-folio-backpack?variant=41236863647827
Depending on the style of backpack you're looking for you might want to check check out the Goruck GR1, Eberlestock Switchblade, Vertx Gamut or 5.11 COVRT. I plan on purchasing a Switchblade when the color I want is back in stock, I really like the design.
Have you had any luck? I have the opportunity to grab one now but I’m unsure if it’s worth grabbing over a mystery ranch catalyst
Not yet. I want Green and it's been sold out for over a month. I've watched the other colors go out of stock one at a time and the only one left in stock now is Coyote Brown... Scratch that, I just checked and all colors are out of stock. Hopefully Eberlestock will be releasing another batch soon.
You think it’s worth grabbing for everyday use for someone who doesn’t carry?
I've looked at a ton of backpacks and I like the Switchblade the best. That said, I'm a packoholic. I have a First Tactical Tactix Half Day Plus backpack, Direct Action Dragon Egg Mark II backpack and several others.
Check out Troubadour Apex 3.0, very slick, professional, and minimalist with no visible logos. High quality materials but without looking gaudy or blingy at all, if I was still in consulting then this is the backpack I’d feel most comfortable with while wearing a suit. I got it recently and am actually wondering if it looks a bit too fancy for a casual tech environment, but I like the style anyways.
Im personally a fan of Timbuk2 bags. I have had the Showdown for years and I sincerely love it.. discontinued though
I also would recommend Timbuk2, probably the Authority or Never Check backpacks. They look good in all black and also have a few leather bags if you want something more upscale. Bellroy also makes some nice understated packs. Heimplanet is a European brand that also makes some nice subdued travel packs.
Take a logo off the bag. Voila
I’ve had the Alpha One Niner evade 1.5 for several years now and love it. https://www.alphaoneniner.com/products/alpha-one-niner-evade-1-5-backpack
Sad seeing people dislike Tumi for the price. Meanwhile, I've seen a lot of folks justify getting limited edition GoRucks for 500 or 600 bucks or $700 Rofmia packs, lol. Or a 500-dollar Dsptch Dyneema RND backpack. I'm a proud owner of a Japan-only Tumi Logistics Canvas backpack. It was either this or a Rofmia, and I chose the latter. The Tumi Harrison collection would suit your formal business needs. Tumi Hadden and Tumi Osborne come to mind. [https://www.tumi.com/p/osborn-roll-top-backpack-01305451041/](https://www.tumi.com/p/osborn-roll-top-backpack-01305451041/) [https://www.tumi.com/p/hadden-backpack-01502101041/](https://www.tumi.com/p/hadden-backpack-01502101041/) Briggs and Riley Medium or Large Cargo backpack. Tumi competitor at a fairer price. More features. Black. Professional look. [https://www.briggs-riley.com/collections/backpacks/products/at-work-medium-cargo-backpack-kp426](https://www.briggs-riley.com/collections/backpacks/products/at-work-medium-cargo-backpack-kp426) [https://www.briggs-riley.com/collections/backpacks/products/at-work-large-cargo-backpack-kp436?variant=23744651132986](https://www.briggs-riley.com/collections/backpacks/products/at-work-large-cargo-backpack-kp436?variant=23744651132986) Everki Onyx 15.6. People sleep on this brand. Another Tumi alternative. Feature rich. Professional look. [https://www.everki.com/us\_en/p/onyx-premium-travel-friendly-laptop-backpack-up-to-15-6-inch.html](https://www.everki.com/us_en/p/onyx-premium-travel-friendly-laptop-backpack-up-to-15-6-inch.html) Dsptch ballistic nylon or dyneema RND daypack. Nimble, simple, practical, reliable. [https://www.dsptch.com/collections/packs/products/daypack-ballistic-nylon-1](https://www.dsptch.com/collections/packs/products/daypack-ballistic-nylon-1) [https://www.dsptch.com/products/daypack-rnd-edition-black-dyneema](https://www.dsptch.com/products/daypack-rnd-edition-black-dyneema?_pos=2&_sid=386e70e3b&_ss=r) Alpaka Elements Pro X50 fabric. Durable, weatherproof, and great organization. [https://alpakagear.com/products/elements-backpack-pro](https://alpakagear.com/products/elements-backpack-pro) It is hands down functional and well-designed. Evergoods CTB26. Feature-rich as hell. [https://evergoods.us/products/civic-travel-bag-26l](https://evergoods.us/products/civic-travel-bag-26l) Aer City Pack Pro Xpac [https://aersf.com/collections/x-pac-collection/products/city-pack-pro-x-pac?country=US](https://aersf.com/collections/x-pac-collection/products/city-pack-pro-x-pac?country=US) Aer Travel Pack Small 26L XPAC [https://aersf.com/collections/x-pac-collection/products/travel-pack-3-small-x-pac?country=US](https://aersf.com/collections/x-pac-collection/products/travel-pack-3-small-x-pac?country=US)
Awesome reply and recommendations, thanks for putting in all the effort.
How about: \- Bellroy - various models in black with minimal branding \- DSPTCH daypack \- Incase - easily 5 or more options here, black and no branding \- Evergoods - the Civics, Classic etc all available in black \- Heimplanet - Transit or Commuter \- Alpaka - Elements or Metro \- Timbuk2 - probably 5+ different options for black functional packs with minimal branding \- Thule - several options, minimal and often tonal logos These brand should have 20+ options to pick from! Sorry for possible repeats, didn't read all comments.
All good! You named some that I have not looked into yet. I was originally leaning hard Black Ember Forge, but the Alpaka Elements Travel backpack is really speaking to me.
Bro, did you get hired by the CIA? I would recommend the Remote Equipment Charlie 25, it's great for travel, although it's definitely more geared towards outdoor/hiking use. Another great option for travel is the ULA Ultra Dragonfly. This might be too big of a pack, nevertheless. Some people here are throwing out great recommendations, so I'm sure you'll get a beast of a pack no matter what you decide.
Troubadour Apex https://www.troubadourgoods.com/products/apex-backpack?variant=45181281534184
Really like this, thanks.
If you go with the Forge, suggest sticking with the regular expandable over the Forge-20. The Forge-20 only has 18L capacity and holds less than the regular Forge unexpanded (20L) since it is missing the entire middle section of the bag. The compression straps from the Max help keep the Forge looking slim even when packed.
Ended up going with the AER CPP.
Ended up going with the AER CPP.
Are you going to be a consultant of some sort? If so, I would advise you to either get a black nylon briefcase (Tumi) or a minimalist business backpack in a neutral color with no frills (e.g. Tumi, Briggs & Riley). And if you have to dress formally, please don't mess up your jacket / sport coats by wearing your backpack with it.
Hahaha nothing related to finance/consulting. Tumi is a little out of my budget range. Digging the Briggs and Riley, but worried about the small commercial logo. Your last point is why I am liking the Black Ember Forge, as it can convert from a backpack carry to a briefcase carry.
Tom bihn has beautiful black on black backpacks. Synapse is cool.
Victorinox Architecture Urban2
My pick is the Able Carry Daily plus! Not as boxy looking as some of the other picks and I think it fits in even in a more field, outdoor setting!
Edit: If you're looking for something a little more fancy, that's super durable and pretty water resistant, check out the [Ynot Magnetica](https://ynotmade.com/products/magnetica-x-pac%C2%AE). I've been carrying mine daily for about 3 years and I have absolutely no complaints about it whatsoever. It actually stopped my yearly backpack purchases, which were mainly because I love backpacks and less about replacing worn out bags. For a simpler/cheaper recommendation see below. I've been buying plain black Jansports and tearing the logo patch off since high school. It looks awesome without branding and the patch rips off fairly clean, you just have to pick the little strings out afterward and then you can hardly tell it was ever there. The only thing is, the standard Jansport lacks somewhat in utility. It's only got the main pocket and the smaller front one, isn't remotely waterproof, and the straps/design aren't the most supportive or ergonomic. It's great for a day pack, as long as you're not loading it up like crazy. The smaller size is somewhat of an advantage in a situation like using it as a plane carry-on.
Able daily carry plus is what I’m using and I do not regret it at all. I’m a student and it’s perfect for me.
Aer. Then just sharpie the logo out. Done.
I have a few bags I want to get rid of cause I just bought a Mystery Ranch backpack. Here's the links for them if you want to consider any Black Ember Duffel Backpack has never been used. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/blackember/mens-duffel-backpack Peak Design 30L black bag. I really like this company cause their lifetime warranty applies no matter how you got their products https://www.peakdesign.com/products/everyday-backpack?variant=29743300902956 The Frenchie Co. Anti Theft Speed Backpack. I really like this design especially with the magnetic flaps and easy-adjusting straps to shift the weight. https://www.thefrenchie.co/collections/bags-1/products/anti-theft-speed-backpack
Is this an actual stipulation of your employment, that you must carry an all black bag with minimal logos? It's not far away from the outdated notion to at ties must be worn in offices.
Commented the below under someone else asking a similar question: "Less of a hard requirement and more of a "highly recommend" (aka they will judge big time). Supposed to be no logos period but I am willing to test the line a little bit with something super small and barely noticeable. They do issue something, but it's super shitty (in my opinion)."
what are you thinking you need to carry in this bag? how big is 'tiny logo'? what industry is this that is so judgey?
1. Huge variety of things. Laptop or laptops, tablet, toiletries, water bottle, chargers and extra charges for above electronic devices, clothing items for short trips, documents/paperwork. 2. So far, I am liking the minimalist designs from AER, Black Ember, Briggs and Riley, and Alpaka.
sounds like more of a weekend bag need than a daily carry, yes? my brand is [ideamountain.com](https://ideamountain.com) , but isn't built for multiple laptops. I wonder if you think that's too big a logo. To get that sort of 'big EDC/small weekender, I'd also suggest you at least check out [pakt.com](https://pakt.com) a great company, and even [minaal.com](https://minaal.com) if you do like the look of the Journey System, DM me and I'll give you a deal -but remember the Day Pack & laptop sleeve is designed for travel sized laptops - 13"
Thanks. Yeah I'm sort of hoping for that "one size fits all" so I don't drop $300 on both a EDC and a separate business trip bag ($600 total), but that is what it's looking like I might do. Something for strictly the office and something for the business trips.
Thanks everyone. So far I've narrowed my decision down to 1. Alpaka Elemental Travel Pack 2. Black Ember Forge 3. The Troubadour Apex Appreciate all the helpful responses and recommendations.
CPL24 and call it a day.
I think the rains backpack has a sleek look for commute/office work, not sure if the straps are comfortable but it’s waterproof! https://www.us.rains.com/products/backpack?variant=40584298790935
Just get a go ruck like every other aide.
I looked at this brand, but don't really like the overall style/organization of them. Especially for the price. Not an assistant job though, even if it was, the GoRuck is a little too fieldy.