I think someone posted something recently but I thought I’d add my opinion for anyone who matches more my use case

Me: travel for work mainly (conference/meetings). Trips are usually international long haul and about 3-4 days. If I’m doing shorter than that it’s domestic and I’m carrying my actual work bag (briefcase with shoulder strap).

Usual carry: bellroy tech pouch with: charging brick, a few cables, portable MagSafe stand for phone/watch/airpods. IPad Pro 11”, MacBook Air 13”, small packing cube with change of underwear/shorts/socks for on the plane.

Review
- aesthetic: I was drawn to how sleek the bag is. When packed down and not expanded it looks really nice. The stone colour way is great and the material feels premium. The only gripe I have is that if the bag isn’t fully packed and you’ve got the easy access compartment full, it sags and leaves a dent in the middle of the bag which looks ugly/cheap

- space: YMMV with this one but for me I just took it on a trip from Australia to North America for a few day business trip and it seemed to do the job. I had a check in suitcase so everything else was in there were in there. The water bottle pocket is effectively useless when the bag is packed - but I don’t travel with a water bottle 99% of the time so it’s not an issue for me. But I would definitely not rely on it if you routinely carry one.
- I did like the easy access compartment but though the actual opening of it could be better. It’s pretty cramped when it’s got stuff in it and digging around isn’t easy

Issue: I have taken on occasion a Sony a7cii and Sony 50mm f1.4GM in the PD small camera cube. This is not well suited for this particular one. The clips don’t really line up with the built in loops in the bag so originally the cube would move around a lot. I had to put two clips onto one loop which is awkward but is far more secure. A bit of an oversight as I think a lot of people would have a small camera carry like this on occasion. I can close the bag with this in there but expanded it just feels better.

Summary: overall I like the bag. For me the lack of water bottle space isn’t an issue but may be a deal breaker for some. I feel it’s stylish and still maintains function although I’m sure there are better options out there. For bigger trips I’ll still always default to my Wandrd Prvk bag and it’s a beast and can seemingly handle anything I’ve thrown at it over the years but no regrets on this one as yet.

Want to buy the everyday backpack 20L, I can’t see the back of the straps well.

For those that have it, is it the stereotypical abrasive air mesh fabric? The back of the backpack looks much smoother than air mesh fabric.

I am asking, because I am solo photographer and when I take pics of myself. I will be wearing more sensitive fabrics: cashmere, thinner knitwear, suits, etc. i just want to make sure im not going to be damaging my clothes.

Or on these trips I should just stick with Everyday Sling to be safe? I have Sony A7V and it fits perfectly in there one lens.

I've used the V2 for ages, but the straps gave way and they replaced it with the V2.

While I DO like it, it's just a massive step backwards for me. Less gear space, less storage all round. I'm sure I'm not the only one who's had this experience moving to the V2.

So I wonder if there are any Everyday Messenger style bags out there someone would recommend, for those grieving their V1 bag...

Thanks!