Thursday, August 14, 2014

A year with the VAUDE Luke messenger bag

About a year ago, I was looking for a suitable replacement for my assortment of backpacks I had used until then to transport my laptop, folders, documents and other utensils I needed to have with me every day.
While browsing for an ergonomical solution that would allow me to carry my stuff when riding my bike in the city, I became aware of the disadvantage of backpacks I had been using for much of my high school years: heavy rain would soak them to the point where the content would sometimes get wet. This was something I wanted to avoid this time.
Soon I remembered that a friend had bought a messenger bag for uni, so I dug up some more information on them.
Of the various messenger bags I checked out, the VAUDE Luke L clearly stood out. It is made from very durable, water-proof tarpaulin, and comes with an adjustable should strap and removable pad.
The bag delivers a remarkable volume of 19 liters, which is more than enough for my daily needs.
One thing the VAUDE Luke makes superior when compared to other messenger bags, is the belt that stops the bag from moving around too much when you are riding a bike.
A padded compartment allows you to transport a laptop without having to worry about damaging it. On campus, I usually keep a laptop, a large, heavy folder, books and a Nalgene bottle all in the messenger bag.
Another unique feature is the handle that allows you to carry the Luke L instead of using the shoulder strap.
The bag can also be used for travel, can be attached to the handle bar of a trolley and, at 37 x 48 x 14 centimeters, is compact enough to be used as cabin baggage.
On occasion, I have used the VAUDE Luke L on a city trip, packing some clothes and little more than a toothbrush along with my laptop.

So far, I could not be happier with my choice of the messenger bag over a conventional backpack.