Making the case for the 'Man Bag'

I recently replaced my aging Motorola RAZR with a T-mobile G1 (HTC Dream). It quickly assumed its place alongside its other pocketfilling companions: multiple sets of keys, bulging wallet (.. it's not the money ), the girlfriend's wallet and phone when she doesn't feel like carrying them ( always ), and various other knick-knacks that find their way into my pockets.

This situation is anything but ideal. From the style perspective, I'm fairly sure that "bulges in all pockets look" won't be lighting up any fashion runways any time soon. The stretched, tight, feeling that you get isn't exactly what I would call comfortable. Let's not forget loading and unloading. Any time I get into a car or anyplace I have to sit, I'm compelled to empty my pockets. Airport security? Same deal. Into the tray goes the items. Then, there's the joy of placing said items back into their respective pockets. The whole process is morphing itself into some sort of ritual.

Solutions? The obvious one is cut back. Remove those giant key chains and useless knick-knacks. Don't store movie stubs and receipts from the last 6 months in your wallet. Better yet, get one of those magic folding clasping wallets to really become minimal. These, however, only attack the symptoms and do not directly address the cause.

Enter, the Man Bag. When I have broached the subject with my friends, I get the usual guffaws and cries of "MURSE!! MURSE!!" That's understandable. The kind of bag I'm referring to is anything but a purse. It's more along the lines of what Laptop-Toters use everyday. In fact, being able to fit a Netbook or Ultraportable would be a requirement. Think messenger bag or large saddle bag.

Now all your problems are solved. Dump all your junk in the bag. Carry whatever you want with you. Be able to walk like a normal human, because you aren't being poked and pressed from all angles every time you take step.

There are still challenges and stigmas to overcome. Do you keep everything in the bag? From observations of my bag-toting friends, they usually keep the wallet in their pockets. Are you trading one set of pros and cons for another? From my perspective being able to go either route is a plus. It's always nice to have options.

~Elmer