While a messenger bag is functional and stylish, that doesn’t necessarily make it the best commuter bag for cyclists. Historically, its purpose was to transport mail and small packages, but the durable leather and versatile appearance morphed into a satchel used by students for carrying books. Now, it is utilitarian, manufactured in many fabrics and colours and used as a carryall to transport everything, but why is it better for bike commuting?
Messenger bags are better for bike commuting because they’re versatile and comfortable. They have a crossbody strap that doesn’t slide off the shoulders like a two-shoulder strap backpack. Since they aren’t strapped in place, there is more airflow between your back and the bag for a comfortable ride.
In addition to expanding on the comfort elements already discussed, this article will highlight how the messenger bag is ideal for short bike commutes, describe its finest features, and how it is a modern but classic choice for riders in casual or professional environments. Instructions are also included for optimally packing the messenger bag as well as some alternative choices.
They Are Comfortable
Comfort is a top priority when riding. With the superior strap situation, lower and wider weight distribution, and optimal airflow to reduce sweating, the messenger bag is a clear frontrunner.
In comparison, a backpack sits higher on the back, creating a chance to throw off the center of gravity, causing an imbalance while cycling. Also, a backpack sits tighter and heavier on the back, generating more heat and stickiness or perspiration.
They Are Easy for Trips
If you plan to get on and off your bike frequently or need easy access to the contents, a messenger bag is preferred. With the time tested design consisting of an adjustable shoulder strap that sits diagonally across the sternum, it’s convenient to shift the bag around to retrieve items from your bag effortlessly
A quick strap adjustment will enable you to raise or lower the bag to sit at just the right spot on your lower back for the best balance. The flatter rectangular shape of the bag is perfect for storing a small laptop or a tablet because there is less likelihood of bending the messenger bag.
They Are Safely Strapped
A cyclist pedaling through the city can feel confident about the safety of a messenger bag due to the diagonal shoulder strap. A backpack is a breeze to grab if it’s slung over one shoulder, and if you leave a pannier on your bike, it is easy to lift as well.
They Can Be Customised
As history has documented, modern messenger bags, as we know them today, came into existence over a century ago and were commonly used by couriers to transport mail or small packages.
For work purposes, the leather or canvas satchel is still used by the United States Post Office’s rural mail carriers who have been trained to swing the bag as a protective gesture to shield the body from a threatening animal. Royal mail carriers in the United Kingdom also currently utilize messenger bags.
As a business person, the messenger bag is the perfect companion once you hit the office. When choosing a bag, be sure to buy one with leather construction and pay attention to the shoulder strap detail, ensuring that it can be completely removed and stowed in the bag. Use the handle grip, and your messenger bag will convert into a professional-looking briefcase.
Whether your purpose for the bag is work or fashion, the customization and personalization options are endless. Bags are found in various colours and are often constructed out of heavy-gauge, water-resistant canvas or cotton material. Leather is also very popular due to its durability and timelessness.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Messenger Bags
For the purpose of making an informed decision, review the following list of the advantages and disadvantages of buying a quality leather messenger bag:
- Genuine leather is insusceptible to dust mites and mold.
- It is resistant to abrasion marks from rubbing, bending, and folding.
- With time, leather becomes more flexible and supple.
- It has resilience to spills, which can be cleaned as simple as wiping off the leather with a damp cloth.
- It is sensitive to temperature changes.
Prime Messenger Bag Features
As an example, as seen on Amazon,The Manhattan Portage is a fantastic choice for a messenger bag because it is heavy-duty, stable, roomy, and comes in black or grey.
For a more luxe-looking version, constructed with real leather and sturdy zippers and latches, try the PL 18 inch Vintage Handmade Leather Messenger Bag. The variety of messenger bags are endless. However, the choice can be narrowed down by looking for the following features:
- Ergonomic design
- Lightweight
- Water-resistant
- Grab handles on top
- Wide, padded shoulder straps that can be tucked away
- Outside pockets
- Inside compartments
- Belt for extra protection
- Sturdy seams and zippers
Do you want to see messenger bags in action? Watch this 2 ½ minute trailer for the movie Premium Rush, which highlights the bag on bike couriers rushing in and out of traffic in the city:
How to Pack Messenger Bags for Comfort and Safety
The way you pack the bag makes all of the difference when riding.
- Start packing the side that will be lying against your back.
- Place padded items, like clothing or bubble wrap first.
- Add flexible items, such as a notebook or folders.
- Fill inside pockets with phone, wallet, and power cords, and pens.
- The bike lock will go in the side pocket.
- An unbendable laptop or tablet can be stored in an outside pocket if provided. In order to avoid breakage, it’s safer to have your messenger back on top, preventing other items from cracking it.
- Be sure to zip, snap, and velcro all openings before swinging it over your shoulder.
Alternative Choices
On long trips, bicycle panniers, which are a pair of bags strapped to both sides of the bike, work well for heavy loads in particular but can be a struggle to carry.
To lift a backpack from your back and navigate it around to your front to remove cargo is clunky, especially if the backpack is completely loaded and heavy. Balancing a backpack on one shoulder is not safe for the following reasons:
- The pressure on your back and neck is a strain on back and shoulder alignment.
- A thief can grab and go with your pack.
The much smaller fanny pack is traditionally buckled around the waist with the pouch in front. However, a resurgence in popularity displays fashion icons slinging the pack across the shoulders at a diagonal, similar to a messenger bag.
If worn around the waist, it’s cumbersome for the cyclist due to the slouched riding position. Slinging it across the shoulders has the same advantages as the messenger bag, except it is extremely compact. It’s fantastic for pocketable items, such as:
- Wallet
- Smartphone
- Keys
- Charger
- Headphones
- Snack sized food
- A drink
- Small notebook and pen
Conclusion
The messenger bag is integrated with characteristics that bike commuters value. It’s an outstanding choice for a comfortable trip and for instances where it’s important to grab an item out of the bag quickly, making it more efficient for them.
The design incorporates elements of functionality such as being weather-resistant, made to last, and available in unlimited styles and fashion choices. With a longstanding history, the usefulness and casual but professional style is classic and a smart investment for all budgets.
