Another vote for Tibuk2. DD went through college with one and believe me, she had it stuffed to the brim every single day. It's been to Costa Rica for two different semesters. It's been on numerous vacations. They really stand up to the punishment. DH has one too but he doesn't really abuse his. It will last forever.
But also take a look at ebags own brand of bags. I don't know if they've got a messenger, but they've got everything else so I'd think they have messengers. We've got a set of their luggage and it's incredible. We'll be replacing two more sets with ebags brand before November. And as another poster mentioned, ebags is having a sale right now. If they do make a messenger bag, you'll most likely be able to find a duffel to match. And suitcases. And packing cubes. And pouches. And purses. And lunch bags. And you get my drift.
They even have a backpack styled carry-on suitcase, which DD loved for back-and-forth college travel. She has one suitcase on rollers and the other one, a true suitcase, has backpack straps so she could get two bags and the dirty laundry hamper all out of the dorm at once.
LLBean is also good. Haven't looked at them in awhile but DD got their best backpack, which cost me $50 when she was in 5th grade. She used that thing from 5th all the way through college, every day (yes, she did carry both a backpack and a messenger bag in college). The only thing that failed on that backpack was the little 'gripper' thing that's tied on to the zipper pull came off. Not only that, the bag doesn't look bad. Used, definitely, but it still looks good.
Anyway, Timbuk2, ebags, or LLBean are sure to fit the bill. Timbuk2 and ebags will be more fun, having much cooler colors and patterns. ebags could become a theme for future holidays and gift-giving occasions.
Ok, I'll shut up now, LOL!
debg
