Bags are definitely one piece of gear that I have no shortage of, but for some reason I don’t really have a good size bag for around-towning. I either leave the house with nothing more than a musette or a large messenger-style backpack; so I’m looking around to see what’s out there..
Lightweight Travel Tote Pack Patagonia $79
This little guy from Patagonia is the only one that I’m looking at that packs into itself but I’m not really sure that’s something I need in an every day pack. Multiple ways to wear it is a plus, though I’m not sure the lightweight fabric (coupled with the unstructured design) would be good for lugging around heavier items from time to time. Also worth mentioning it’s not made in the states but the company promotes fair labor production, pretty much the M.O. of Patagonia as a whole.
Apex Day Pack Inside Line Equipment $140
Inside Line Equipment is a company out of Berkeley making back and accessory packs for cyclists and photographers. I like the apex pack for it’s simplicity- roll top closure keeps the water out and a front vertical zip allows quick access, it even takes a hydration bladder if you want to take it for a hike. Breathable and supportive back panel and shoulder straps are a huge plus. Plenty of colors and patterns to pick from between 1000D cordura, waxed cotton, and the XPAC sailcloth shown here.
Tote Pack Kletterwerks $89
This Montana-made model is as simple as they get and brilliant in its own way. The bag uses the weight of your cargo to close at the top, but is never completely closed and thus not ideal for inclement weather. A lightly padded back panel and a small zip compartment inside- I love this bag for what it is.
The Hauser 14L Acre Supply $205
On the other side of the bay Mission Workshop is making packs under their mtb-specifc line Acre Supply. I actually have the smaller 10L version of the Hauser and my only regret is not getting the higher volume version to have some extra space for every day use- my 13 Macbook Air fits without a sleeve and only just barely. As a trail/hydration pack I definitely feel like I have enough cargo space, however. Packs tons of features that would be just as useful as a city pack as they are while riding trails.
cork grips 
Love this! Thanks for including ILE!