Customer Reviews Fjällräven Totepack No. 1

I surprisingly love this bag! I nearly never use a tote bag as I am usually a crossbody and backpack person. However, when traveling things are a bit different. When traveling (internationally or just in general in crowded locations), I use a crossbody bag as it will be in front of my body and I can hold the front closed with my hand to be wary of things like pickpocketing. Backpacks are more local and close to home travel...especially when I know the area. This tote gives me the option to throw my elbow down the opening, and zipper it closed. If I feel safe enough I can use it as a backpack. I’m only 5 ft, but broad shoulders, and it was very comfortable. I even weighed the bag down (with items I would usually use for my travels and some extra for “purchases”) hours, and it was a comfortable backpack. I know when in Europe it will give me the versatility to go into museums with it as my “purse”, while others will need to check in their backpacks or (some larger) messenger bags. The material is stiff at first, but after reading MANY reviews, it does softens up. The colors are very neutral, and even (in my POV) are darker in person. I have many of these totepacks in various sizes and colors as they are SO versatile, and comfortable. The only downside is living in the Pacific Northwest, the zipper might bring in the moisture or wet from the constant rain. Even in the sudden summer downpour of Northern VA/DC Metro, might be too much...but I can take it off as a backpack, and just use my elbow to protect the top. One of the reasons I brought it down a star, the other is due to not having a dual zipper, so I have to make a contraption to make sure pickpockets have a harder time to open my main compartment. The material feels like what your typical outdoor pack would feel (think of bags like Jansport), but it’s fine for me. I heard people say it’s ruff on the shoulders, but I normally have a shirt covering, and don’t wear thin strapped tank tops. I am loving this brand as I love solid construction, great color, and functional versatility. The dark garnet is a very dark purple/burgundy, and was on sale. The other colors are cheaper elsewhere. While everyone knows this brand from their Kånken backpacks, this bag is even better.

I love the design of this bag- ingenious! I love the 3 different options if wearing this bag. Carry by the leather handles(briefcase style. Great for grab and go, especially entering or exiting the car), as a tote over the shoulder, or as a backpack to be completely hands-free! The fabric is a beautiful, durable canvas. I used the Greenland wax on it immediately to protect it from water and stains. I mainly carry purse type items and have plenty of space left over for small purchases, library books, a 3 ring binder when needed, or an iPad or Kindle. There are 2 pockets inside- a large slip pocket for laptop or iPad and a zip pocket for smaller items. There's also a very long key leash. I attached my keys and my small wallet to the key leash to locate them quickly. On the the outside is one large zip pocket. I use that for my phone, sunglasses, & lip balm. I got the Dark Garnet color. It's a beautiful neutral that goes with everything. The only downside to this bag is that it does collect lint and pet hair easily, so keep your lint brush handy! Highly recommend this purchase! If you're sitting on the fence about purchasing this bag- it's worth the price and it will last a lifetime!