backpack in parks

[minnie4me]

I am thinking we should take a back pack to the parks (and I could skip a purse) to put things in, like a water bottle, maybe a small snack or two and to haul around any small purchases. DS will turn 5 while on vacation, so too big for a stroller, plus don't want to lug it. We use the back pack so DH & I can take turns carrying it. Now, should I go crazy and purchase a Disney style one, or just stick w/ DS's Spiderman one from school?

 

[minnie4me]

bump...

 

[CastleCreations]

I guess it would depend on the size you need. I bought a drawstring back pack at Disney, last year, and I use it every time I go. It's lightweight, and just big enough for our room keys, money, pair of flip flops, autographbook, that sort of thing. I wouldn't spend the extra money if you had a backpack that you could use, I would save the money for Disney souvineers!!

 

[My2Cinderellas]

Baggalini. I got mine in Khaki so DH could carry it too. turns out that it worked great, and I wore it all the time. I loved how there was no strain on my shoulders/back. 2 slight issues with it - the first is that the strap adjuster moves when you take the bag off and frequently needs to be readjusted, 2nd if you have a larger chest the diagonal strap can give you that "cross your heart" look. I wore it anyway for the convenience!


http://www.ebags.com/baggallini/mes..._nylon/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=47360

do NOT pay full price for this if you decide to get one. There are often posts about finding these on sale and with discount codes.

 

[mom2aredhead]

We use the back pack so DH & I can take turns carrying it. Now, should I go crazy and purchase a Disney style one, or just stick w/ DS's Spiderman one from school?

If you want your husband to take a turn carrying it, I'd avoid anything too cute and character-ey. We have a no-name one that we got at Target which holds everything we need.

Of course, everyone here is going to recommend the baggalini (it's like a uniform here - baggalini, Mac stroller and crocs). For us it was a little small (last trip my son was just turning 3 and we still needed extra clothes/pull ups) - but it may work well for you though since your son is a bit older and you'll probably have less stuff.

 

[sah95]

I recommend taking a backpack After our 1st trip, I bought a clear backpack at Wal-Mart and have used it ever since. This gets me through security a heck of a lot faster. The bag searcher picks it up, turns it around and looks in the back side and gives it back to me. Once a security guard asked me where I was from and held up my backpack and yelled "This is how they do it is Southeast Missouri!" It is also much easier to find my wipes, hand sanitizer, glow bracelets, etc... when not looking down into a dark bag.

 

[wrighter]

Oooh! I really like the clear backback idea. I must try to find one. Although do you ever get concerned that EVERYONE can see in your bag? Wallets, goodies, etc?

 

[Princess Roo]

I would choose a comfortable regular-size backpack, personally. You don't need to fill it up completely, but then it leaves room to put snacks in going to the park and souvenirs headed out.
I also bought a Bagallini after reading recs here and while I like the bag, I think it's way too small...especially if you want to bring more than 1 bottle of water.

 

[autumnbaby9]

Oooh! I really like the clear backback idea. I must try to find one. Although do you ever get concerned that EVERYONE can see in your bag? Wallets, goodies, etc?

If you go to http://clearbackpacks.com/ they have different sizes and styles.

 

[LisaFB]

Since we'll have Seth with us, we're taking the stroller, and therefor can carry more with us, but I agree with taking a backpack of some sort.

 

[Aliceacc]

I have a very strong suspicion that a certain jolly old elf has hit www.beltoutlet.com and gotten each of us a fanny pack for next summer's trip. I also wouldn't be surprised if mom and dad each found a water bottle carrier (from the same purchase) under the tree.

The prices are great, and they delivered right away. I must admit I haven't opened the package yet, as it's at a neighbor's for safe keeping.

 

[2poohbears]

FYI---I bought a nice clear backpack bag at Office depot for $9.99.

 

[badblackpug]

We always carry a backpack. I have a nice medium-sized one made by Dakine that I got from www.ebags.com I don't care for the baggalini. I find it uncomfortable to carry, as it crosses across your chest, and I am "busty."

 

[jenlynn0808]

disney shopping has their backpacks on clearence right now. i ordered a Ckubhouse Mickey one on Thursday for $8.

 

[sah95]

Oooh! I really like the clear backback idea. I must try to find one. Although do you ever get concerned that EVERYONE can see in your bag? Wallets, goodies, etc?

I did think about this, but it didn't outway the positives of having a clear backpack. I put my little wallet touching the back side of the pack and other stuff in front of it (what people behind me would be able to see) After a little while, park maps and gift shop bags cover up all the other stuff