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Post by gougeAway on Jul 22, 2004 9:14:49 GMT -5
Hi, I'm just wondering what people's thoughts are on daypacks. I purchased a continental journey which comes with a fixed daypack. I also have a MEC Carry-All: www.mec.ca/Products/product_detail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=676275&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=13635&bmUID=1090505725561 which is more of a shoulder bag. I'm wondering what you would recommend I bring with me as a daypack? Security is one of the bigger concerns. I'll just be carrying a camera, a bottle of water, and possibly a rainjacket or something like that. As well as a bit of money for the day - but I'd still prefer NOT to have this bag cut open with a razor, and have its contents taken. |
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Post by Kim on Jul 22, 2004 9:35:56 GMT -5
The small backpack that zips on to your pack is the best way to go for several reasons.
First, you won't have to pack another bag and waste space.
Second, there is way less likely of a chance that two straps on a backpack would be cut over a one strap bag.
Your money should be in a money belt on you, rather than in your bag. Although, I do have to say I kept a little bit of money for the day on me (equivilant to $20 or so) in a wallet in my bag - just lock the zipper. This wallet, if you do that, should have nothing else in it - no credit cards etc. - those should all be in your money belt. Basically, it should contain nothing that would hurt if it got stolen.
Having bags cut open does happen - but it isn't all that common so don't worry too much about it. Just avoid being in the middle of crowds and in weird places at night and you'll be fine.
Kim
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Post by gougeAway on Jul 22, 2004 9:50:06 GMT -5
Thanks,
Yes, I'll only have money for the day in the bag.
So you suggest keeping my credit card in my money belt? I thought I might use it throughout the day, so it might be easier to keep it somewhere else, so I'm not touching the moneybelt at all while I'm walking around.
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Post by Eagle on Jul 22, 2004 10:02:05 GMT -5
My preference would probably be the Continental Journey Daypack, as I also use a CJ Pack. I've found in the past that I travel better with a Backpack than with a Shoulder Bag.
If security is a major concern for you, it's not a good idea to store too many valuables in your Daypack. As Kim mentioned in the previous post, the valuables & cash should be in your Money Belt! It's certainly possible that your Pack might be "cut", but I suspect this doens't happen too often. I was recently reading a post on another travel web site, and the "experienced" travellers there only knew of a few instances where this had actually occurrred.
For occasions when you're carrying the main CJ pack as well, you can attach the Daypack in a "front carry" configuration, which makes it much easier to watch. How easy will it be to carry the Shoulder Bag at the same time as the main pack? Finally, the CJ Daypack is expandable which I've found to be a very useful feature!
Hope these few comments have been of some help. Cheers!!!
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Post by Kim on Jul 22, 2004 10:22:14 GMT -5
Definately keep your credit card in your money belt. If you need to take it out, just go to the bathroom somewhere - don't let anyone see you taking it out.
The problem with keeping it in your bag, even with the zipper locked is that your whole bag can disappear pretty quick if you put it down somewhere.
At least if it's on you, it's safe.
Kim
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Post by gougeAway on Jul 22, 2004 10:22:30 GMT -5
Yep, great help. I was kind of leaning towards the shoulder bag - but I may have to reconsider. Shoulder bag just seems more secure because it'll always be in the corner of my eye.
The only real valuable will be my camera and about 20 euros , and I'll probably even keep the bag locked.
I suppose I can always take the bag off when I'm on the metro, and hold it in front of me.
I'm probably being too paranoid, so my thoughts might change once I actually get over there.
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Marie
Senior Travel Member
Posts: 114
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Post by Marie on Jul 23, 2004 11:21:53 GMT -5
I also love my continental journey eagle creek backpack. The day pack is just the right size to fit anything you need.
At some point thought I just stopped attaching it to the main pack and would just keep it in front. Very convenient as your guidebook and things are very accessible! Besides that way I could and stuff in the pouch in the main backpack like my flip flops, my book or my wet towel! So much for staying clean!
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