What uni bag?

sophiawatson

Any uni bag recommendations that are suitable for commuting?!

Reply 1

LJMUStudentReps

Official Rep

Original post

by sophiawatson

Any uni bag recommendations that are suitable for commuting?!

Hi @sophiawatson

I don't commute but had to walk a little to get to where my lectures were this year and I would highly recommend a rucksack if you are commuting. They are suitable to fit everything you need from laptop, books, and also any lunch/snacks you might want to take for the day! I know rucksacks aren't everyone's go to bag but they are the most practical and are very common at uni, they are also reasonably priced! My laptop also fits in my rucksack even in its laptop bag so that way you know it will be safe from falling or rain.

I hope this response has helped you, good luck for when you start uni! Let me know if you have any other questions, I am more than happy to help.

Thanks, Matt 🙂
Official LJMU Student Rep

Reply 2

CatLover1

Original post

by sophiawatson

Any uni bag recommendations that are suitable for commuting?!

I second a backpack/rucksack.

Make sure that it has supportive straps and back. Also that it isn't too flimsy, it will just fall apart at some point.

I like one with different pockets and a laptop section. Mine has 4 different sections and 2 water bottle holders (I use for water and an umbrella).

I've been using this one or something very similar for 5 years (replacing every year ish as they are used every day at school and whenever I am away). I will say that the quality has gone down in the past couple of years, so I would just use it as an idea of the type of supportive backpack I recommend. I have never used the charging bit (which you provide your own power bank for).
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Backpack-Headphone-Anti-Theft-Breathable-Resistant/dp/B07ZKX5MWW/ref=mp_s_a_1_2_sspa?crid=EXITWBBSNRXD&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Bg5_ahsmrcZld2XhhGeO4wm3brsQK2UnGBjmtfhFCPJcK7waSfDRoMziBK2RlXczbZhqmMZVxQb9voSzs1Uku1Hm3fL5lgdWP0fN-dVJlrAs65L1_tL0qFxj62A_gEwxjf5mr0myVb03j_DVb2I28U-QBJvMY9UM7AutkRRmS8EpGhWkhTuaAxJr2uR1FiAHOD5VsHZoM0zYO6I9CiGudw.8nx15iV4nk-Uic6Lj7hOXtP73gZG6SC4IWD8n2TGGDA&dib_tag=se&keywords=backpack&qid=1749289810&sprefix=backpack%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9waG9uZV9zZWFyY2hfYXRm&psc=1

Reply 3

Coventry University Student Ambassadors

Official Rep

Original post

by sophiawatson

Any uni bag recommendations that are suitable for commuting?!

Hi there,

Most bags will do, you shouldn't have to go out and buy completely new stuff for everything in university.
Personally i prefer a backpack because it's easier to carry heavy things with the weight on your back not just one shoulder like a messenger. It also keeps everything close so it doesn't smack into other people or corners on a busy commute.
My backpack didn't come with a special laptop pocket to keep it safe so if yours doesn't have one i would recommend getting a cheap protective case online for your laptop/ipad just to make sure it doesn't get too banged up whilst travelling also.

Hope this helps
Amber
Coventry University Student Ambassador

Reply 4

CardiffUni Rep 2

Official Rep

Original post

by sophiawatson

Any uni bag recommendations that are suitable for commuting?!

Hi there!

I bought a backpack (specifically one with a few compartments, including a laptop compartment) just before starting first year. I found it quite good to carry everything I needed in the day - my laptop, chargers, lunch, and any books/extracurricular stuff I needed for the day. I've been at Cardiff University for almost 4 years now, and pretty much used it everyday in my final year :smile:

~ Fatiha, Cardiff University Student Rep

Reply 5

Chester Student

Original post

by sophiawatson

Any uni bag recommendations that are suitable for commuting?!

Hi there,

Like the other replies, I'd recommend a backpack. You'll very likely get more space, more support, and it will be more secure, especially for commuting.

I don't commute, but I have traveled a lot for my degree. I'd recommend a SwissGear backpack. They can definitely be pricey, but I think it's absolutely worth it. I have so much space, supportive and padded straps, a hidden pocket, a padded back, and a little trolley/luggage sleeve for easy travel. I had a different backpack for my first year that was from Amazon, and it soaked through multiple times in the rain. I have yet to have issues with this bag, and it has withstood multiple geography field trips and a year abroad!

I can't find my exact design, but there are loads to browse through. I'm sure there are discounts or cheaper places to purchase these too. I've linked them here.

I hope this helps,

Isabella
Fourth Year Geography (With a Year Abroad)

Reply 6

artful_lounger

Universities Forum Helper

I have a shoulder/messenger bag which I hate using when commuting honestly...I actually got one of those business person rolly bags and honestly it's much more convenient for taking on the train if I have to bring my laptop and/or textbooks (I do sometimes feel a little silly with it since I'm clearly not a business person but, form follows function...).

Otherwise go for an actual backpack/rucksack with two shoulder straps (avoid the shoulder bags/messenger bag style, I've used them for years and honestly they're so terrible for your back and shoulders) and suitable amounts of pockets etc. If you are regularly going to be bringing heavy things (e.g. laptop, textbooks, etc) rather than just e.g. phone/notepad/pen(s)/maybe a tablet or something, I would seriously consider something that doesn't put the weight on your shoulders/back - it makes a big difference.

Reply 7

ExeterStudentRep

Official Rep

Original post

by sophiawatson

Any uni bag recommendations that are suitable for commuting?!

Hi sophiawatson!

I was someone that used to carry a handbag to my lectures and lemme tell you, the shoulder pain was no joke! Particularly as I had my laptop in the bag, along with a big water bottle. As other commenters have suggested, a backpack is the way to go! Not only can it be used for when you go to your lectures but they can be used for lots of other activities you may be getting up to.

Annabelle
University of Exeter Student Ambassador

Reply 8

Manchester Met - Student Rep

Official Rep

Original post

by sophiawatson

Any uni bag recommendations that are suitable for commuting?!

Hey,

I commute too, and from my own experience, I've found that comfort and capacity are key. In my foundation year and first year, I used a big handbag that fit everything, but it honestly got tiring to carry around. For my second year, I switched to a backpack, and it was a total game-changer! It's super comfy, fits my laptop, books, and all my personal bits and bobs without feeling like a burden.
Ultimately, you'll want to find a bag that's suitable for your daily essentials (laptop, books, lunch, water bottle, etc.) and is comfortable for your commute. You don't need to break the bank either; there are plenty of affordable and durable options out there.

Good luck with starting uni! 😊

Rachel - Undergraduate Multimedia Journalism

Reply 9

FairyPeriapt

Original post

by Manchester Met - Student Rep

Hey,
I commute too, and from my own experience, I've found that comfort and capacity are key. In my foundation year and first year, I used a big handbag that fit everything, but it honestly got tiring to carry around. For my second year, I switched to a backpack, and it was a total game-changer! It's super comfy, fits my laptop, books, and all my personal bits and bobs without feeling like a burden.
Ultimately, you'll want to find a bag that's suitable for your daily essentials (laptop, books, lunch, water bottle, etc.) and is comfortable for your commute. You don't need to break the bank either; there are plenty of affordable and durable options out there.
Good luck with starting uni! 😊
Rachel - Undergraduate Multimedia Journalism

Do you have any links for the bags you've used? I've been struggling to find comfort + capacity along with suitable for the weather

Reply 10

UEA Rep Grace

Original post

by sophiawatson

Any uni bag recommendations that are suitable for commuting?!

Hi,

I alternate between this Uniqlo shoulder bag and my Kanken rainbow backpack. I find both can fit my laptop, water bottle, lunch, umbrella, books... anything like that. The shoulder bag can get painful if it's heavy but I try not to do too much walking. Both are easy to clean if they've gotten wet or dirty and I know they're a little pricier but they're both is solid as a rock, even when I load it with two laptops for when I have uni + work in the same day.

Hope this helps 😊

Reply 11

Emma L - UOS

Official Rep

Original post

by sophiawatson

Any uni bag recommendations that are suitable for commuting?!

Hey there - I use the Herschel Seymour backpack. It's £90 but I really think it's worth it. It's good quality, sturdy, and it has large capacity so I've been able to use it on weekends away too. Hope this helps!

Reply 12

Kingston Eve

Official Rep

Original post

by sophiawatson

Any uni bag recommendations that are suitable for commuting?!

Hey @sophiawatson,

For my first year at university, I used my old backpack from sixth form; however, it didn't have great back support and it wasn't built to hold any tech (e.g. it didn't have a laptop sleeve). I decided to upgrade to an Osprey Comet, which was a bit expensive (£85) but perfect for me. It had a dedicated laptop sleeve, two water bottle holders, lots of back support and I could use it for both uni and travelling. I don't think my particular bag is still in production, but the company (Osprey) does produce other backpacks tailored towards university students.

However, most backpacks will do the job regardless of price point; I just decided to spend a bit more than I usually would as I wanted a backpack that I could use for other purposes and would last me a long time. If you're looking for a standard backpack/rucksack that would last a year or so, try checking out TK Maxx or Amazon - you can usually find good ones for around the £20-£30 mark.

Hope this was helpful!
Eve (Kingston Rep).

(edited 8 months ago)

Reply 13

Username123ab

Tote bag all the way, I bought a big handbag before I started uni that fits my laptop and books and everything but ended up barely using it because it’s a pain in the arse to carry around, tote bags are way easier and lighter to carry even with all the same stuff in them

Reply 14

Manchester Met - Student Rep

Official Rep

Original post

by FairyPeriapt

Do you have any links for the bags you've used? I've been struggling to find comfort + capacity along with suitable for the weather

Hey,

This is the handbag that I used before:
https://www.shein.co.uk/Large-Shoulder-Tote-Bag-Water-Resistant-Adjustable-strap-High-capacity-PU-For-Teen-Girls-Women-College-Students,White-collar-Workers-Perfect-for-School,College,Work-,Business,Commute,Back-to-School-p-15214082.html

And here's the link to the backpack that I use now:
https://www.shein.co.uk/Lightweight-Waterproof-Nylon-Fabric-Anti-Theft-Luggage-Strap-Design-Personal-Women-Backpack-School-Bags-Bookbag-Casual-Daypack-Travel-Backpack-For-Women-And-Grils-College-Students-High-School-Students,Perfect-For-Hiking-Camping-Business-Travel-Vacation-Holiday-College-Outdoor-Gift-For-Mom-Dad-Daughter-Friend,-First-Day-Of-School,-Trendy-College-Backpack-p-38850196.html

If you have any other questions about them, such as specific features or how they hold up in different types of weather, please let me know. If you need more details, I'm happy to provide them.

Hope this helps,
😊
Rachel - Undergraduate Multimedia Journalism

Reply 15

Roehampton Katie

Official Rep

Original post

by sophiawatson

Any uni bag recommendations that are suitable for commuting?!

Hi @sophiawatson

Good question, I agree with a backpack/rucksack for support and comfort, however I would say a shoulder bag is easier sometimes.

It depends on where you will be commuting to but as someone who commutes into London, having a shoulder bag is easier for me with getting my phone out to tap in and out on the tube. It's a good idea in London to keep your phone in your bag and not in your pocket and if you have to keep taking your backpack off to put your phone away, it can be annoying.

A good shoulder bag is the Rains Tote Bag Mini, although quite expensive, it is waterproof, has a zip and can be worn across the body for extra comfort. I have had mine for two years now and it is still as good as new, so worth the extra cost! Asos also has a really good selection of bags with good student discount offers and more affordable options.

Let me know what you decide to get!

Katie- Roehampton Rep

Reply 16

LancashireRep5

Official Rep

Original post

by sophiawatson

Any uni bag recommendations that are suitable for commuting?!

Hi there 👋

My name is Siobhan and I’m a third year physiotherapy student at the University of Central Lancashire. This is a great question!! I personally would recommend a sturdy backpack with good shoulder and back support, because you don’t want to put continuous strain on your body if you are commuting (The physio in me is showing 😂) 🎒

If you are bringing a laptop or iPad then ideally you should get a bag that has a separate part for this with cushioning as you don’t want to get your laptop squished! Or you can also carry a laptop case too. Make sure that your laptop has room to breathe tho and it’s cool and off before putting it in your bag as it can overheat and damage that battery (this is what happened to mine) 💻

Also I would also recommend getting one with different compartments for all your bits and bobs so you can stay organised! I like ones with outside pockets to easily get my keys/lanyard/pens etc. 🖊️🔑

There is no perfect bag, it’s whatever works for you but I would honestly stay away from tote bags because they hurt your shoulders so much and can rip easily!! 👜

Hope this helps at all and please let me know if you have any more questions!

Siobhan (Student Ambassador for the University of Central Lancashire)

Reply 17

ErasistratusV

Get something of the appropriate size for you from a place like Blacks or Mountain warehouse, the sort of thing that could be used by someone hiking over distance. Not stylish whatsoever but for people who are commuting and who have to wait for buses or walk to and from their car it's the only way. A pack that will swallow a full blown lever arch file, a sizeable text book. your laptop, your lunchbox/bag, your coat, a water bottle, flask and all the other essentials needed for a day at University is the only way. Tote bags, satchels and smart leather shoulder bags though more stylish, just won't be as comfortable to carry and they won't stick being rained on.

Buy a rucksack, mine is a 40+10L one that I have had for years. 40+10 is pretty big, possibly borderline too big but I lived with it daily at Uni. You can buy a drawstring rain cover for not a lot of money if yours doesn't come with one, no worries if you get caught in a rainstorm waiting for the bus that way as you can just pop the cover on it.

The sort of thing you see people go to secondary school with might just about suffice but they just wouldn't have been large enough for me. I'd say 20 litres might work as a minimum but that is my own view and others might disagree.

I have a lovely and well used leather satchel/shoulder bag from my previous life but didn't ever have to walk very far with it on my person. It's just about large enough for a professional who is office based to use but it wouldn't hold much more than an A4 lever box file to be honest.