ChicoBag DayPack 20 rePETe™ : THE Answer to Traveling Light

I have found the perfect bag, and I'm in love.

You may have noticed that I've said this about other bags or items reviewed on this site. It's not that I'm fickle; when I love I stay in love. Maybe it's just that when it comes to fancy green gear I'm a bit poly amorous. I can love many items equally. Ardently.

ChicoBag's DayPack makes me giddy because it solves two of my most common travel and transportation issues.

First, I like to travel light-- just a small wheeled carry-on bag and my computer backpack. The only problem with this on-the-go-avoid-baggage-claim-and-never-lose-my-bags approach is that I want a backpack for daily use once I arrive at my destination. My computer bag is too heavy, too padded, and too bulky. It already has a specific purpose.

What I want and need is a small, ultra lightweight daypack I can wear out and about. Something that will hold my keys, wallet, and maybe a few cosmetic items. If it's hot, I'd also like to be able to carry a stainless steel water bottle or two. I also need this daypack to fit into either my wheeled bag or my computer pack. That's where ChicoBag's DayPack rocks...and solves my number one travel problem.

The pack folds into a zippered pouch about the size of a package of makeup remover wipes or, for you male readers, a couple of pairs of socks. Easy. I just pack wool socks (which can be worn again and again w/o washing or smelling) so I don't have to pack many socks. The pouch goes in my carry-on.

Out of pouch, the DayPack is simple, streamlined, and I think, deserving of a design award. The top of the pack is open, but when I'm wearing it, the bag cinches closed. So, less weight, no zippers. The pouch becomes the top secured pocket at the top of the inside of the pack -- so I can stash my credit cards and lip balm in there for easy access.

Each side of the pack has super stretchy pockets for carrying water bottles. Each pocket has two compartments. I use one for my water bottle and the narrow one for pens and keys. The pack also has a sturdy handle if I want to carry it, a small key loop, and nylon bar across the bottom of the bag if I need go attach things with carabineers. The bottom of the pack is made out of a tougher fabric than the rest of the pack.

This pack is also available in a smaller size and in other colors.

Eco Creds: "Fabric 100% Recycled PET, Webbing 100% Recycled PET, Airmesh 100% Recycled Polypropylene, Carabiner 97% Recycled Aluminum, Strap Liner 100% Recycled Polypropylene, Hardware 100% Recycled Polyurethane." [FYI: "The term rePETe™ refers to recycled PET. PET (polyethylene terephthalate) is the dominant material used in plastic drinking bottle production and can be recycled into a variety of useful materials." Source: www.chicobag.com.]

Colors: Black, Brown, Grey, Orange.

Bottom Line :  Crazy about this bag. It weighs less than half a pound, yet it's strong enough to carry what I need for a day out. --E.D. (April '10)

BUY ONLINE : $19.99

Manufacturer's Site: www.chicobag.com

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