I am a bag nerd. I have more backpacks, briefcases, totes, and duffels than I will ever need, or could ever use. I am extremely picky about having the appropriate bag for each job. Many of you already know that I rely on the SLNT E3 Backpack when I travel, as I reviewed in Issue 006 of UNREDACTED Magazine. While it is ideal for me as the one encapsulation of all gear and clothing for short travel, it is not a catch-all for every situation. I also need specific bags for everyday carry (EDC).
Recently, I assisted a client with some urgent last-minute needs. I had all of the gear I needed, but was not prepared for the environment I would be in. First, it was very apparent that I needed a nice tailored suit to even attempt to blend in. My client had a "suit guy", so that was solved quickly. Next, I needed some specific gear with me at all times, but showing up with a backpack draped over my new suit was not an option. I needed a discreet briefcase which was efficient, secure, and private. I embrace any excuse to buy a new bag, so I went shopping.
This post is not an endorsement for any specific brand and I was not asked to write this review. This is only intended as documentation of my considerations when choosing a bag for specific needs. I hope it sparks interest in identifying your own needs and presents new considerations for your next bag.
First, let's discuss the aesthetics of an executive briefcase. I lean on the show Rubicon to start our discussion:
I never use that specific type of bag, but I appreciate the following opinions:
Nothing eye-catching
Nothing which announces its newness, its cost, or its distinctiveness
Nothing which makes a noise when opening
Requires a proper handle (not a shoulder strap)
From my experience, stores such as Walmart, Target, and Kohls will not provide anything of value. It is all cheap junk. My first stop was Best Buy. This may surprise you, but Best Buy usually carries a decent selection of bags. The rest of the store is typically useless to me, but I can always find a last-minute bag. I went with the Samsonite 15.6 Laptop Professional Grade 2 bag which was on sale for $50 with retail of $70. It was perfect, but I want to explain why.
I carry a 14" laptop, so most bags will enclose it fine. However, I do not want things to be too loose and sliding around. I also carry a 8.5" x 11" e-reader and I do not want the two items to be too tight. On top of that, I always travel with my laptop within a SLNT Farady sleeve, so I need extra room for that. I find most 15" bags work well for me, but some are too tight. This bag held both perfectly. The following displays both items in place while open and closed.
Next, I demand the perfect amount of storage. I do not like bags which are too tight and require me to remove things to get to the item I need. I also do not want things to ever move during transit. I need pockets. The following displays my item placement. Always consider your own items when choosing an EDC bag,
The outer pocket has compartments for small items, and the bottom has an extended gap for flashlight, knife, and extra pistol magazine. The secondary zipped pocket holds my Faraday wallet (far-right) which contains all cash, cards, and passport. It is thick enough to support an Apple USB-C charging block, which I use for my Linux laptop, GrapheneOS device, e-reader, and all other USB items. Although this compartment only possesses a single zipper, it can be attached to the side clasp with a zip-tie or lock. The other compartments are dual-zipper, which also supports zip ties to prevent access to pockets in crowded areas. The back pouch is thin, but supports cables. All zippers are silent.
Finally, I insist that my phone is protected in a Faraday bag when I travel and while I am in sensitive meetings. I could toss the Faraday bag into a large briefcase pocket, but I prefer a designated area. This bag possesses the perfect slot which houses my Faraday bag, and is extremely snug when the phone is inside of it. I would not trust this setup in congested public transportation, but it was ideal for this situation, and gave me easy access to my device. The final placement appeared as part of the bag, and did not seem to welcome a pick-pocketer.
This may be overkill for most, but I enjoy the luxury of a perfect bag. Nothing moves around as I walk, the bag is presentable in an executive environment, it supports the weight of all gear without sagging or feeling stressed, and I don't feel like a child at the big-boys meeting when I walk in with my Jansport school bag slung over my shoulder.
No bag is perfect for everyone, and this bag was my only real option in a moment of desperation. However, it has turned into one of my favorites for meetings.
Disclosures: I have no association to Samsonite and I receive no kickback for any purchases. I am a long-time affiliate of SLNT.
