Small Backpack for work

[trk3263]

I am looking for a backpack for work as I am getting ready to start a new detail which will last about 3 years.
I will have my own vehicle with all my equipment in it and my backpack will be just for basic items for going between offices and similar.
Mainly my backpack will have my notebook, maybe my laptop, some file folders, and some small odds and ends that don't take up much room.
I would like to keep it under $170 and I am open for suggestions.
I am thinking about pulling the trigger on my first Kifaru and get and E&E with the organizer for the front. Not sure if I really need the upgraded shoulder straps if I go this route and figure I can always add them later if I feel I need them.
Any thoughts or suggestions I haven't looks at many other companies as I like the fact I could also use the E&E with whatever future Kifaru pack I end up purchasing.

Thanks

 

[OR Archer]

what type of job is this? might be easier to make suggestions based on that.

 

[trk3263]

Don't ask don't tell stuff....

Just kidding, Law Enforcement.

 

[OR Archer]

Id opt for the Kifaru Scout personally as it will allow for future configuration for additional uses/scenarios.

 

[justin davis]

Kifaru spike camp

 

[larryschwartz]

I would measure your laptop first and check the dimensions of the pack. It may not fit in the E&E or even the Scout.

Also, having had a laptop break from just a short fall off of my desk while in a pack I would strongly suggest you get a computer backpack at Best Buy or somewhere similar that has padding in it to protect your laptop.

 

[larryschwartz]

trk,

Any progress on your pack decision?

Larry

 

[SHTF]

I use a Camelbak BMF. Found it on Craigslist for 35 bucks. Brand new. But it runs 300 for it on Amazon. Yep I got an amazing deal =-)

 

[dotman]

My laptop will fit in my E&E but if you have one of those big screen laptops no way will it fit. I also recommend the upgraded shoulder straps. This is one of these most underrated items imo.

I highly recommend it for the price and functionality of it.

 

[RosinBag]

Goruck GR1 or GR2....I also in same field and I have mine everyday at work.

 

[larryschwartz]

dotman,

That was exactly why I posted that. With exterior dimensions of only 14.5" H x 9.5" W (interior dimensions could be up to an inch less) I wasn't sure that a screen measured as 15" on the diagonal would fit in the E&E. My 17" screen definitely would not fit. I also still strongly suggest he get some sort of padding for his laptop, either in the pack or a padded sleeve, to cushion a fall where the edge hits the ground first.

Larry

 

[kuhn4]

I use a North Face Surge for work. Padded laptop sleeve, lots of options to organize contents, big zippers. It has treated me well for 2 years.

 

[trk3263]

I have also been looking at some of Camelbaks options that seem nice. I was really hoping to do the E&E so I could also use it with my hunting pack. Still not sure on what I am going to end up with. I do have a nice padded sleeve for my laptop from and old bag or maybe I could just use the E&E for everything but the laptop and just a normal laptop case. Thanks for all the good input and the other pack ideas as I am still researching them.

 

[jquarnberg]

Look at hill people gears little packs. I liked the tara.

 

[Lawnboi]

The E&E is great. I have one and if I had the money I would have another.

Mine gets used almost daily, mtn biking, running, going to the gym, school books fit in it, everything really.

The organization of it is what I really like, along with the ability to add way too many pockets if needed.

I have the normal straps and find them adequate, my average load in the thing is around 15lbs.

It will also work for a lid on the bigger Timberline series and HC packs. (and gives you unbeatable organization) Ill be running mine on top of a HC4800 this fall.

Just make sure your laptop fits.

Kifaru quality, the military line of stuff is bullet proof and the E&E is definetly a testament to that

The new zippy may be worth a look as well if you want something a hair bigger. I also have a spike camp legacy and find it a little too large for your everyday stuff as well as for biking and running.

Seeing as your in law enforcement, if by chance you use a tough book I wouldn't hesitate to throw it right in the pack.

 

[trk3263]

Still trying to figure this out. I like the E&E because I would be able to also use it with my HC. I don't really like how expensive the organizer pocket is so I and looking into a Medium Pocket which I could also use on my HC better than an organizer.

I have found a used Scout and a Used X-ray so I am at that point of purchase but trying to find the best bang for my buck.

I am not too worried about the laptop because it is a tough book and I don't really need to carry it all the time anyway.

Thanks for all the info provided

 

[Lawnboi]

The E&E is definetly a very versatile choice. I use a small pocket on the outside of mine. You might even be able to fit 2 of them. Im 95% sure a Toughbook will fit. We have them on our trucks and they look like they would.

You could probably even fit 2 small pockets on the outside if you wanted more organization. I too am pushed away by the high price of the organizer.

Also remember all their chamber pockets and some of the dock and lock pockets will attach on the inside. Both the panel and back of the pack on the inside have attachment points so it is very easy to access small items by ripping the thing open.

The E&E is without a doubt my favorite pack they make.

 

[trk3263]

I just pulled the trigger on the E&E with two Med pockets one for the E&E and one for my HC may actually use both pockets on the E&E at times.

Thanks for all the help as always great info.