Brain Bag VS. Smart Alec?

[backpack]

I don't have a Smart Alec but I have 3 Brain Bags.

The best backpack I've ever owned, hands down.

I have been using urban backpacks (as in non camping) ever since they were first put in the market. I have used many brands and many size of backpacks hence my screen name.

Like others, I strongly suggest that you order a Freudian Slip (or two).

The Brain Bag has two main compartments, it should be ideal for the items you plan to transport.

Do measure your widest item to make sure it fits in the width of the compartments, there is no need to worry about a quarter, half or inch because the divider is flexible.

I am sure owners of both the Smart Alex and the Brain Bag will chime in.


In the meantime, check the picture thread on this forum and on Tom Bihn Flicker page Flickr: tom bihn bags

[jeffmac]

The Freudian Slip is great for organization and will help you cart some papers around. You do want to use file folders in it because the Slip is not totally stiff and if you put papers straight in it they will wrinkle...

[gmanedit]

Sounds like you're asking for agreement that you should buy the Brain Bag. So here it is: BUY THE BRAIN BAG. And definitely buy the Freudian Slip.

Seriously, is the Smart Alec overstuffed? If so, it's time to move up—so long as you don't mind carrying everything and the kitchen sink. And with a handle like leviathan, I'm guessing you're up to it.

[leviathan]

I've been rocking a Smart Alec for just over two years now. I love the bag and utilize it to its maximum potential. Which makes me think I need to upgrade to a larger bag. Anyone have any insight?

Here's what I need:

I currently use my Smart Alec to carry a mixed office when I travel for work. My bag usually contains a plethora of small items like keys, pens, IDs/passport, change, and the like. My main focus is on my 13" Macbook Pro + Vertical Brain Cell, a backup external hard drive, a Canon Rebel XT + Sigma 17-70 lens + Canon 50mm lens, a Snake Charmer packed to the gills (snakes don't have gills), plus I sometimes carry an accordion folder for papers, invoices, etc (maybe a Freudian Slip could help with this?). I'll also be adding an iPad into the mix in the near future. The camera and lenses I normally wrap inside of a hoodie. But I'm looking into grabbing an insert (like this one) to sit in the bottom of the bag, as I see no release date for Tom's camera insert in the near future.

Would a Brain Bag be an upgrade for me? Or should I stick with the Smart Alec?