WOW! Talk about on-point, well thought out responses. I'm impressed and challenged . First, yes a backpack is OK. I'm presently using a North Face Surge as my work bag. Its even preferable given my chronic lower back problems. Although I blacked out the logo and reflective areas , I do get the occasional snide "going camping" comment. The G1 looks like it may fill the work bag role, but I can't find the perimeter dimensions and depth? Did I miss them on the website? The price is a bit shocking, but I'd pay it if convinced the size was right.

The shoulder bag suggestion was also well taken concerning the office bag. I'm going to look again at the largest Manhattan Portage Europa. The only drawback is that a heavy shoulder bag is not as easy on my back as even the Surge, carried on one shoulder. Something about the backpack hanging straight down but more centered on the back makes it feel better.

I thought I was well versed in backpacks, but the Tom Binh Synapse was new to me. It looks like areal contender for the weekend EDC bag. As luck has it, I just ordered the Dakine Apex to audition it as the weekend bag. I liked the bottle pockets and the bottom attachment straps. I will delete the hydration set-up, except for special occasions. If it proves to be too big, I'm going to return it and order the Synapse.

Thanx again to all. Please feel free to comment and give further suggestions.

I frequently use an Eagle Creek briefcase tht fetures tuck away backpack straps. I lug it as a backpack or as a briefcase,depending upon the situation and my preference. Their current version looks quite nice.

Does anybody use a fanny pack? I often use one when I go on vacation to a tropical location where I'll be walking around with my shirt off. I use a cheap one from Walmart. It works well though for holding keys, wallet, flashlight, passport and whistle. Knife is clipped to shorts usually.

Whenever I see someone with a fanny pack I think, "Gun." In training classes we call them "shoot-me-first bags."

I don't consider it a fanny pack but I have Mountainsmith Lumbar Day Pack. Amazing piece of equipment as long as the strappettes are used to carry it like a pack.

Some might consider it nerdy or such, but when I am outside of my house you can almost guarantee I have a ruck on my back, anything from my goruck GR1 to a REI Flash. I went into a Safeway today in workout shorts and slung a mesh drawstring pack I got at a race expo for free.

I think if your comfortable and confident, you can pull anything off, even a fanny pack.

That's funny. As I read this thread, I started thinking about how a shifting fanny pack with a belt around your waist might affect your draw from an IWB holster.

Something bigger and more conventional works for me, because I always end up carrying more than EDC: some extra books, camera, my shopping, etc. I do like little backpacks or shoulder bags. Yes, you can find little backpacks without Hello Kitty on them.

I have the slightly smaller Mountainsmith Tour with strappettes. They're built rock solid and have thoughtful design - great organization, contrast lining, sunglasses pocket, nice zipper pulls. I actually use it as a go bag but I've hiked with it too. I've been happy with every one of Mounainsmith's products.

The REI Flash 18 is the backpack my son uses. It's basically a stuff sack with straps and that's the beauty of it. It's incredibly light and compacts down to nothing.

I went well over a year considering the purchase of a Synapse before I finally bought it. I've probably been through 20 backpacks over the years (various Eastpaks, Jansports, Keltys, Mountainsmiths, LL Bean, Eddie Bauer, Duluth Pack, etc.) but the Synapse is by far my favorite. The pictures and the description on the Tom Bihn website don't really do it justice. I really had to load it up with my stuff to appreciate the design.

I'm another Mountainsmith fan. I have three Day, one Tour and 12 Vibe II's (long story...). The Strappettes really make the larger packs!

In street thug classes they call them "don't mess with that m*f* cuz he got a gat" bags.

It cuts both ways. Predators recognize other predators. Does that incite engagement or avoidance? You take your chances.