this post was submitted on 18 Feb 2026
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Buy it for Life

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Work/commuting backpack, ideally not a US company (lemmy.ca)
submitted 3 days ago by swordgeek@lemmy.ca to c/buyitforlife@slrpnk.net
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My cheap no-name Chinese backpack is finally falling apart, after over 20 years of absolutely solid service.

I want something that will last at least another 20 years, will hold a modern 16" laptop (e.g. Macbook), and will also let me toss a pair of jeans and light jacket in, when I ride home from work in the spring and fall afternoons.

I'd like to avoid American brands if possible.

Looked online at the SwissGear 5698 and Endure, but don't know how well they're built, or if they'll hold my junk.

Any recommendations?

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[–] tyrant@lemmy.world 2 points 3 days ago* (last edited 3 days ago)

I've got a millican backpack that seems like it's going to last to the end of time. I'm pretty sure it'll hold all your stuff and then some. I've been using it daily for maybe 10 years and it has no signs of wear beyond looking dirty.

https://homeofmillican.com/products/smith-the-original-roll-pack-25l

Another pack I have for bike commuting is a ortlieb commuter. It's waterproof, light, and probably an even better bag but for me it's drawback is no outside water bottle pocket. It's also tough as nails. I accidentally ran it over with my wife's car once and it didn't hurt it at all.

https://us.ortlieb.com/products/commuter-daypack?variant=45082296287410

Millican is heavier and has smaller dedicated padded laptop pocket but more organization overall. Ortlieb for lighter potentially wet situations and has organizational insert with laptop pocket. Both comfy to wear.