Backpacks vs. Messenger bags?

Question

I was wondering wether my old backpack or a messenger bag would be more functional, and which would be better for my back and shoulders. School is starting soon, so I will probably have to carry several books at a time.
backpacks usually have less room (I think?).
a backpack distributes more weight evenly, however I only carry my backpack with one strap because otherwise, my hair gets caught in between the straps.
On a messenger, that wouldn't happen, but messengers also have a reputation of being uncomftorable and unstable. There is a type of messenger bag with a waist strap that secures it from swinging around, but i havent been able to find any of these yet .
Which would work better?

sidenote: style doesn't really matter, I only need the bag to function well.

Answer 1

A backpack is better for you, as long as you wear it on both shoulders.
That it catches on your hair is not true, I have had my hear long, shoulder length and now short, and at non of the lengths backpacks were a problem.
You just have to clear it from under the straps when you put your back on.
Backpacks come in many different sizes, from just big enough to hold one pack of cigarettes and a lighter to big enough to take all you need for a world trip, camping and bringing food.
So go to a good shop and have a look.
Messenger bags are more restricted in size, but they also have a range.

I find messenger backs much harder to carry for a longer trip, but I can carry twice as much for a much longer time in a proper backpack.

And your hair will be caught more often if you carry a bag on just one shoulder, with less ease to get it out.

Answer 2

Definitely go for a backpack while you're in school. Shoulder bags are really cool - but only if you're carrying, say a small textbook, notebook, pens and pencils and a water bottle. They don't distribute the weight across your shoulders like a backpack will. You can also look for a backpack with a waist strap which will anchor the weight on your hips and pelvis - maybe not needed for during the school day, but good for walking to/from school/bus, etc.

If you get a backpack, use both straps unless you're only carrying it for a few minutes - your back and neck will thank you in the long run! That, and there's less chance of it banging into people in the hall! :)

Hope this helps - have a wonderful school year!!!

Answer 3

Depends really on your style. Messenger bags are in and you can carry a lot in it. But, if you're bags are too heavy then you'll need a backpack. But, you can also use your messenger bag and carry a book in your hand if you need to. Go for the messenger and then if it really sucks at least you will know. They're awesome though.

Answer 4

If you're going to carry a backpack on one shoulder, then both bags will hurt your back. You'll have to look at the pockets and volume of the two bags to decide which one you'll use more. For example, do you need to carry around a calculator, pens and pencils, wallet, cell phone, meds, sunglasses, umbrella, food, or anything else that would go into small front pockets? Are you sure your classes will only require you to bring a few books at a time? Will you be able to (or want to) stop between classes to get different books?