Downsizing Backpacks - Trying to decide between 2

I currently have this Alienware backpack http://www.notebookreview.com/default.asp?newsID=4421 . I have had it since September of 2006 and it has definitely held up well. I have taken it to Greece, Italy, England and it has no blemishes or problems. It was nice and large; so large that I could fit a big Canon XL2 camera in it.

Today I came to the conclusion I don't need such a large backpack and one that doesn't look so odd in a business environment and on the metro. A number of the people I work with have made comments about the size of the bag. A few weeks ago my manager commented about how massive the bag looked. Today I was riding the metro and was constantly trying to find a place for my large backpack on a crowded train.

I need a backpack that is semi-business looking and smaller than the massive Alienware bag. I travel occasionally so it would need to be durable. Recently I've had the problem of having lots of paperwork after meetings and need to stash them somewhere easily. The Alienware has the problem of having the laptop pouch in the same compartment as everything else. When I already have papers in there it is somewhat tough to slip in my new Dell D630.

Here are the two bags I'm looking at:

Targus Corporate Traveler Backpack - http://www.notebookreview.com/default.asp?newsID=4268 . It is good looking compared to my other choice below. I like the black. It doesn't look too large, although I haven't seen a picture of somebody wearing it. It has lots of business type features such as pen holders, passport and business card slots. Does anybody know much about this specific backpack? Right now it's my top choice. I can't find any other reviews about this backpack anywhere. Does anyone have this?

Wenger Swiss Gear Maxxum - http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=117666 . This bag looks to have just as good features as the above backpack. However, it appears larger and more "busy" as the review says. I don't really like the colors available. I need something professional looking as the Targus backpack. The only reason I am considering this one is that it has great features and the build quality is solid from the reviews I read here and on amazon. This backpack might be overkill for what I need though.

So, what backpack out of these two would be best?

Thanks.

 

get the targus corporate traveler backpack since it's the most business e for you and the wenger is an overkill for you

 

if you want my opinion, the best bag you can have is the jansport air habitat. I may be biased here but i love that bag. (its a messenger bag BTW) They don't make it anymore and the only place you can get 1 is doms outdoor outfitters. check it out before you make a decision.

If you want a backpack and are set on one of those two, then i also would recommend the targus. Looks more professional and will suit ur needs.

 

Thanks for the recommendations. It looks like I'll probably go with the targus. I just wish somebody who owned it would chime in. I'm surprised there aren't any customer reviews of it on amazon or newegg.

 

I'm Looking for that backpack lol

I thing it will fit my needs cause i carry lots of things when i go to LAN party's now on sumerrrr holidayyy.

I'm thinking of buying this backpack even thought i can by the smaler one but i dont know without seeing them.

 

I just ordered the Targus from Amazon. Comes on Friday, I'm definitely looking forward to carrying around something a bit smaller. For international travel though, the Alienware will still be my go to bag.

 

I know you didn't ask about this particular product I'm going to talk about but anyway.

http://targus.com/us/product_details.asp?sku=PR600

I have this backpack and the build quality and features are pretty good. It even came with a little pouch to hold a laptop power adapter.

My main complaint was that it was slightly heavy and there wasn't enough storage space for my liking. It seemed like there was more padding than storage space.

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The backpack you're considering is considerably more squared out, and can be zipped out underneath to expand internal volume.

It comes with a retractable luggage style handle too? I didn't notice any wheels on it though.

I do like Targus products. The laptop storage section is very good. The cushions do work well to protect from drops.

I think you'll be pleased with your choice.

 

Jansport is anything but overpriced.

They're main products are backpacks for school children. I used one when I was probably in elementary school and while the materials weren't the nicest, it was extremely durable and used for many years.

Overpriced to me are brands like Timbuk2 and Tom Bihn, but they're supposed to be high quality premium products.

 

So, I just got my Targus and it looks much more professional. I really like it. I cleaned out my Alienware bag and I didn't realize how much stuff I had in it. I'm sure I can fit all my stuff in the new bag. The thing is, all the stuff in the picture was mostly separated in different pockets. Now it's going to be mixed together since there are fewer pockets on the Targus. I will miss the mouse side pockets the Alienware has.

 

you carry 3 ipods everyday

 

Heh, yeah. I actually only use my older ones as storage devices. I probably don't need to carry them but I do in case I need a quick portable storage option.