Tom Bihn

Why r/BuyItForLife recommends Tom Bihn

84 mentions from real owners

• #1Dec 25, 2025

  Good sling bags for men?

  Anything from Tom Bihn or Waterfield Designs (I think both are made in the US) or Mountainsmith (designed in US, made in Vietnam.) I have a grumpy back so the mointainsmith’s ability to move weight to my hips is a huge win  when I need to bring a laptop.

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• #2Dec 25, 2025

  Good sling bags for men?

  Avoid the minimalist fashion slings with glued strap anchors first because those peel fast and fall apart before you know it. Finding a sling that won’t blow out in a year is harder than it should be... it’s messy trying to sort through all the cheap ones. And the strap hardware. Cheap bags use zinc pot metal buckles that crack if you look at them wrong so try to get something with acetal or stainless hardware with no seams because that stuff stays reliable and you won’t be fiddling with repairs all the time and it just works in daily use Stiching matters more than whatever logo they slapped on it, so look for bartacks at the strap points and bound interior seams instead of raw edges. If you want actual models that aren't trash, the Tom Bihn Side Kick and the Mystery Ranch Full Moon are solid picks.

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• #3Dec 25, 2025

  Good sling bags for men?

  I picked up a Tom Bihn Side Kick earlier this summer and I love it. All my other TB stuff is great, so I have no doubts about durability on new pieces.  TB commenters spare me with concerns about some bags being made in Vietnam. 

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• #4Dec 25, 2025

  What is the Best Backpack for Laptop to Buy?

  Tom Bihn synapse or Synik. imho, the best backpacks on the market...esp for laptops.

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• #5Dec 25, 2025

  The best men’s hand bag to buy right now?

  Westfield has some very high quality bags. I'm also a huge fan of Tom Bihn. I was anti-Coach, until my mom got me a Coach bag. It's honestly pretty nice

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• #6Dec 24, 2025

  What is the Best Backpack for Laptop to Buy?

  Tom Bihn. Never regretted my purchase. It’s an understated, reliable, amazing workhorse.

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• #7Dec 24, 2025

  What is the Best Backpack for Laptop to Buy?

  This is a MASSIVE rabbithole. There is pretty serious bag culture out there! Check out r/onebag or r/manybag. You'll get way better recs than in here since the top comment is Swiss. But I did see Tom Bihn and Aer get mentioned both are top quality bag companies.

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• #8Dec 24, 2025

  What is the Best Backpack for Laptop to Buy?

  Because you said $300 budget I would recommend any Tom Bihn bag you like but I use a Synik 22 (I think). You’d probably need the bigger size to fit a 15” Macbook though. Their bags are unbelievably high quality and the organization is out of this world.

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• #9Dec 24, 2025

  What is the Best Backpack for Laptop to Buy?

  Tom Bihn bags are amazing. I expect mine to outlive me. It appears their prices have gone up in the past 5 years but they do carry a lifetime guarantee.

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• #10Dec 4, 2025

  thinking of splurging on a luggage set, any recs that'll last for years?

  Tom Bihn and Filson.

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• #11Dec 2, 2025

  Didn’t realize how attached I was to my old backpack until it finally started falling apart

  Second Tom Bihn!

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• #12Dec 2, 2025

  Didn’t realize how attached I was to my old backpack until it finally started falling apart

  I have several bags and backpacks from Tom Bihn. Great quality stuff and made in America to boot (I think).

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• #13Dec 1, 2025

  Didn’t realize how attached I was to my old backpack until it finally started falling apart

  There are only few items that I own that I would consider posting on BIFL. Hanks leather belts and wallets and this bag. A brand that is not mass produced and has been my edc is Greenroom136. Made to order from Malaysia and many of their bags can have customizable aspects (color, molle, stash pockets, buckle types, fabrics ect) if you wish to do so. I have used mine for 7ish years. I travel 6 to 10 months a year for work and was tired of buying a new bag every 2 or 3 years. At work in nuclear power plants, my gear must go through TSA style security each day. Airlines, rental cars, and work security check points have been no match to the quality. It looks new. The model I have is not a light weight bag. It was not cheap to purchase. There is no stretchy water bottle holder that will tear in a year. No cheap zippers. I've had no frayed stitching or handle tears. Great organization. Chase Reeves reviewed a few of their products years ago on youtube. Ive been so impressed by it that I ordered a daily sling from them last year. Tom Bihn was my next choice. Website for ordering seems a little clunky, especially if you want to customize, but it was worth it. It took weeks to build and ship via DHL to the US. Admittedly, I thought I might have been scammed 😂. Worth the wait in my opinion.

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• #14Dec 1, 2025

  Didn’t realize how attached I was to my old backpack until it finally started falling apart

  I suggest a Tim Bihn. I have used mine for 15 years and it’s holding up great. Highly functional, sturdy, and practical, with a very reasonable price point.

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• #15Nov 6, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  They are such a cool company. Calling out their accessories -- The backpack insert - **The Freudian Slip** \--makes it easy to keep things organized, and to transfer essential item from bag-toobag (because no one has just 1 Tom Bihn bag).

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• #16Nov 6, 2025

  Looking for a small crossbody bag

  Tom Bihn are excellent quality built in Seattle. Very basic functionality. Appropriate for work or travel. Hill People are more rugged meant for outdoors. Hyperlite Mountain Gear super lightweight and water resistant.

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• #17Nov 5, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Tom Bihn makes really good stuff, but it's pretty pricey.

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• #18Nov 5, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Jansport used to be headquartered in my hometown, but moved to Colorado. They proudly stand by their warranty. I would recommend it 100%. Personally, I love Tom Bihn.

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• #19Nov 5, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  I got mine Tom Bihn about 4 years ago based on a Reddit recommendation, and couldn't be happier with it. It has virtually no signs of wear, and I'm pretty rough on my bags.

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• #20Nov 5, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Tom bihn, end of story. Carrying one daily for 5 years in and out of kitchens a restaurants and it looks new still.

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• #21Nov 5, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  tom bihn for style and durability

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• #22Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  I've had my Tom Bihn laptop/messenger bag since 2009. Still in great shape.

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• #23Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  This is the answer. Yes I have a Jansport in the back of the closet from 20+ years ago that is still in decent condition, but my Tom Bihn has been part of my daily carry for almost 10 years and it still looks like it did the day I bought it.

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• #24Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  That Jansport and Osprey are higher up than Tom Bihn in this thread is a travesty.

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• #25Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  The only correct answers here are Red Oxx or Tom Bihn.

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• #26Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  I second this. My Tom Bihn Brain Bag is now over 20 years old, and still looks like new. No rips or tears, all zippers work perfectly fine, etc. Well worth the month.

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• #27Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Tom Bihn, I have a 8yr old backpack that I’ve abused, doesn’t even have a stuck zipper or loose thread . Still in great condition except for some stains that were my fault  https://www.tombihn.com/

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• #28Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Look up FUL backpacks from the 2000s. The Overton was a beast. I used one daily (weekday and weekend) for 20 years and only needed to stitch the top handle once in the first 30 days. After that it was bombproof. Vintage Jansport and Crumpler as well. In fact, I hear the founder is back at Crumpler and they're making good stuff again. I have Crumpler laptop bags that I've owned for decades that look brand new. For a bit more, Tom Bihn bags are really well made and durable. You could also try stitching that strap back and seeing if the rest of the bag holds. Sometimes it will (see above).

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• #29Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  It’ll cost you an insane amount, but Tom Bihn is fantastic

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• #30Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  I love my Tom Binh brain bag. It's been all over the world with me for over a decade and still looks new.

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• #31Nov 4, 2025

  Backpack suggestions?

  Have a look at Tom Bihn, I’ve had mine for over a decade, looks brand new.

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• #32Oct 9, 2025

  Waterproof Laptop Backpack/Briefcase? Brands? Suggestions?

  Tom Bihn. Expensive but the quality is absolutely there. I have a messenger bag of theirs from 2005. It’s still going strong and not nearly 20 years worth of wear and tear. The bag has been with me on trips to 4 different continents, airplanes, road trips, you name it. They make fantastic stuff and are well worth the price.

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• #33Oct 6, 2025

  Men's backpack for work and travel

  As someone who went down the rabbit hole researching backpacks: don’t drop hundreds on one. You can get equal or better form and function from plenty of cheaper options. look for thicker fabric (ballistic nylon or canvas) and sturdy zippers so it doesn’t wear out fast. Bonus points if it’s water-resistant - that way it’ll handle rain, spills whatever, whether he’s commuting or traveling. I like [this nomatic one](https://DealzSphere.github.io/Scout/?to=mens_backpack_for_work_and). it works for both work and travel - has a laptop sleeve, a pocket for imp stuff, and enough compartments to keep things from getting messy. I also like tom bihn backpacks, but honestly they’re way too pricey.

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• #34Oct 6, 2025

  I am looking for a luxury toiletry bag that is waterproof, easy to clean the inside, and will last for life.

  I like my Tom Bihn [deluxe spiff kit](https://www.tombihn.com/products/deluxe-spiff-kit?_ab=0&_fd=0&_sc=1&srsltid=AfmBOooMlZxCQ9CyxvdcV_u1W6iWLX6oKwOVNhc_OPShk99cm2B8KJru)

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• #35Oct 2, 2025

  Filson Bag Worth It for Business Student?

  $175 for an Original Briefcase in clean shape is a solid buy that’ll look right with a suit, just expect patina and minimal organization. For the eBay deal: keep all communication and payment on-platform, and ask for close-ups of the bottom corners, strap holes, leather cracking, zipper teeth, and interior stains; confirm the “Made in USA” tag and that the zipper runs smooth with no mildew smell. Navy shows scuffs more than tan, but a damp cloth and occasional leather conditioner on the strap (sparingly) keeps it presentable. It’s water-resistant, not waterproof, so stash resumes in a poly sleeve and your laptop in a slim padded sleeve. Comfort fix: add a sheepskin or Tom Bihn Absolute shoulder pad and an organizer like a Cocoon Grid-It or Bellroy Tech Kit for chargers and AirPods. I’ve used WaterField’s Bolt for travel and a Tumi Alpha 3 on client days, but Latico Leathers is what I grab when I want softer leather and hidden pockets for daily carry. If OP wants a rugged brief that still reads professional, a well-kept Filson at $175 is worth it-just budget for an organizer and a better strap pad.

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• #36Sep 5, 2025

  Are Tom Bihn bags worth the price? They sure look cool.

  When did they sell out? I bought a bag 2 years ago and it's one of the best purchases I've ever made. I was going to get something else til I saw your comment.

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• #37Aug 5, 2025

  Specific Items that age well (leather, metals, etc)

  All the Tom Bihn items I've purchased. I have a cafe bag that I use everyday and it's 10+ years old and looks brand new. I also have one of their backpacks that I used everyday for about 5 years, and I haven't used it as much lately since I was using it for work, but it still looks brand new. Even the wallet that has a plastic face still looks great (the plastic has slightly yellowed). If I need anything else that this company makes I would definitely buy it since I know it's going to probably last the rest of my life. Cold Steel knives. I have a pocket knife and a dagger that I purchased over 10 years ago and they still operate just as when I bought them. I do take care of them, but I haven't even needed to sharpen them yet which just blows my mind.

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• #38Aug 2, 2025

  The Sidebar Series Part Sixteen. Post all your info on Buy it for Life backpacks here.

  Same, I’ve had my North Face as my daily for over 10 years and still looks brand new. Zero signs of wear. I have a Tom Bihn makers that I pair with it and love.

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• #39Jul 10, 2025

  Trying to find a good travel backpack for Hawaii and other trips. What do you guys look for to know it’s bifl

  Tom Bihn Synapse for me. Fits under the seat in front of me, but somehow the storage feels cavernous as I'm putting stuff in there.

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• #40Jul 7, 2025

  Help: Office Bag Recommendations for Men with Shoulder Strap

  Tom Bihn [Cadet](https://www.tombihn.com/collections/shoulder-bags/products/cadet?variant=14816810926143) I stopped someone on the street to ask about it the first time I saw it and immediately bought it.

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• #41Jul 6, 2025

  Ever Bought Something That Quietly Changed You?

  Dude what a great thread. Mine is a Tom Bihn backpack (Technonaut 45, stupid name). Its capacity is huge, so I can travel without a roller bag, but it fits under the seat in front of you so you have access to your stuff during a flight.

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• #42Jul 5, 2025

  Need Help Choosing a Backpack

  Tom Bihn is great (and made in Seattle). Our household has 2 Synik 30s (2 years old) and an Aeronaut 45 (10 years old).

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• #43Jul 3, 2025

  Need Help Choosing a Backpack

  I love my Techonaut from Tom Bihn

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• #44Jun 10, 2025

  Best Practical & Stylish Backpack for Teachers?

  Are you a guy or girl? What is your backpack looks : edgy (cotopaxi), conservative, etc etc Options 1. Tom Bihn Synapse 2. Fjallraven Raven 28L 3. Alpha One Niner Evade

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• #45Jun 10, 2025

  The Best Backpacks for Travel Available Now?

  I have a Tom Binh Synapse 25 that I've been using for travel and just day to day use for six or seven years now, and not only does it still look brand new, I swear I can put everything I own in there and still somehow fit it under the seat in front of me on an airplane. Something about they way they set up the pockets makes it feel like it can hold a ton while not getting super bulky. I don't think I'll ever use anything else.

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• #46Jun 10, 2025

  [Request] Cross body bag - gender neutral style, large enough to fit e-reader and small EDC stuff?

  I just bought a Tom Bihn Side Kick because I love the ever-growing stockpile of Tom Bihn stuff around my house. 

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• #47Jun 9, 2025

  Hi I’m looking for a suggestion for a messenger bag that

  Tom Bihn bags are incredible. I carry [The Pilot ](https://www.tombihn.com/collections/restock/products/pilot?variant=44784769237181) with the absolute shoulder strap.

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• #48Jun 9, 2025

  The Best Backpacks for Travel Available Now?

  So the fundamental question that matters with a backpack is what do you intend to carry (and the related question is for how long). I have had several backpacks but I finally have one (two-ish that I like). Tom Bihn, Synik 26 (middle size but holds a laptop in its own compartment). Most important features of this bag to me, it can take a hip belt and it has a luggage handle passthrough. While not the biggest, the hip belt helps with a full backpack. Also it has a boat load of pockets. Tortuga laptop backpack - bought this before Tom Bihn release the Synik 26. It is a good back but misses the hip belt and the luggage pass through was a bit skimpy. The wife uses this as her normal work bag and she seems to have warmed up to it. Patagonia Refugio 26. It works as a backpack. Not my favorite though but it works well in a hurry, especially if we don't feel like unloading our work bags. However the most important question is how much do you plan to carry. My primary use case is day use, but I bought the Synik 26 to pair with a rolling carry on for travel and also for a day hike in the mountains. The others are fine bags and all my bags hold about the same amount of stuff, change of clothing and creature comforts for a long flight (as I said, the rolling carry on does he heavy lifting). Would honestly recommend all of the above. From your list Osprey makes great bags (they were bought in 2021 by Helen of Troy which owns other brands that seem to have maintained their quality but there is definitely a push to scale) as I have several of them for hiking. My carry on is a Briggs and Riley and it is a great bag, and I know they make backpacks too, they just weren't my cup of tea, but I would expect their quality to be great (and an amazing warranty). I think Tumi is a poor allocation of resources. I looked at the Nomatic and Aer bags, and they didn't check my boxes, but people liked them.

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• #49Jun 3, 2025

  What’s one thing you bought once and it’s still going strong years later?

  Good cast iron, and carbon steel cookware. A good carbon steel wok can last a lifetime. A good kitchen knife...doesn't have to be fancy, a good 8 inch chef knife from F Dick, Dexter Russell, Mercer (about $10-20). Anything from Tom Bihn. The bags are very thoughtfully designed, and tougher than chrome/timbuk2 bags. A really good screwdriver. Grace screwdrivers and Bahco are my favorites...with Vessel from Japan being a new fave. Vitamix. Robocoupe...refuses to die. FWIW, a Breville food processor died on me after only 2 uses of intermittent use.

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• #50Jun 3, 2025

  Some of my favorite BIFL EDC items.

  Got a real Cow Tools vibe about this before I read the caption. My BIFL EDC bits are: - Victorinox Classic SD, on a Nite-Ize S-Biner used as a key ring. - Streamlight Stylus Pro torch - Zeiss MiniQuick 5x10 monocular - Koyono Slimmy wallet (2 pocket) - Casio GW-M5610 G-Shock (or a Seiko SKX013 at weekends) - Lamy Pico All carried in a Tom Bihn Cafe Bag. In summer, add Maui Jim sunnies & a Canadian made Tilley T3 hat.

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• #51Jun 3, 2025

  What are your favorite niche BIFL items that are currently available?

  I have a Synapse 25 that I bought in 2013 and carried daily for several years afterward, and still use for travel. I have carried it all over the world, more often than not overstuffed, and it still looks brand new. It seems like most of the high end backpacks out there skew a little towards the tacticool or the mountain climbing aesthetic, but Tom Bihn's stuff is clean and simple and doesn't stand out at all. And most importantly they have great organization without being covered in MOLLE webbing or being a rucksack with no internal pockets whatsoever. I've owned a lot of backpacks and if I had to pick one to keep forever it would be the Synapse.

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• #52Jun 3, 2025

  The Best Backpack Today?

  r/manybaggers

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• #53Jun 2, 2025

  What are your favorite niche BIFL items that are currently available?

  Tom Bihn backpacks. Durable and well made; mine is several years old and still looks new. And they make backpacks for people of all heights, a true rarity in the world of backpacks.

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• #54May 10, 2025

  Brands you swear by that have Buy It For Life quality products

  Tom Bihn backpacks. I travel a lot. After 12 years my brain bag looked brand new. Plus i am a sucker for their branding. Top notch.

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• #55May 10, 2025

  Everyday and Travel Backpack

  Yeah I’m surprised Tom Bihn isn’t the first mentioned.

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• #56Apr 13, 2025

  Need help finding a good wallet <$60 (minimalist or traditional)

  I like and carry the [Tom Bihn Minimalist Wallet ](https://www.tombihn.com/products/minimalist-wallets?variant=15081822421055). $35. Had it for six or seven years. Been great.

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• #57Apr 11, 2025

  Big, good laptop backpack?

  Tom Bihn and Alpaka have treated me well.

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• #58Apr 11, 2025

  Big, good laptop backpack?

  Check out Tom Bihn laptop bags. I’d recommend the Pilot but they have plenty of options.

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• #59Apr 7, 2025

  Backpack for college

  Raven is a great bag. Tom Bihn Synic or Synapse are in the sale line. The Mystery Ranch Urban Assault 24s are very fun bags. You can still find those online. The new version is the Yeti Ranchero, which while nice is almost double the cost.

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• #60Apr 5, 2025

  Best Buy It For Life Wallet – What’s Your Pick?

  I’m personally using a Tom Bihn minimalist wallet that is over 5 years old and no signs of wear. It’s made from same material as their bags that are highly rated. However, production is currently suspended on the wallet.  https://www.tombihn.com/products/minimalist-wallets?variant=15081822421055 A friend has a Colonel Littleton wallet thats 15 years old. The front pocket wallet with flap.   https://www.colonellittleton.com/section/wallets/ Popov Leather makes nice looking wallets. No personal experience with their wallets but have several watch straps, belts and other items from them.  https://www.popovleather.com/

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• #61Apr 5, 2025

  (Request) Messenger bags under $100?

  Pay for quality. I carry a Tom Bihn, worth every penny.

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• #62Apr 5, 2025

  What is a BIFL item/product you recommend?

  I have the briggs and Riley Baseline carryon, medium roller (getting the Large/XL means you will be over the 50lb domestic (US) weight limit), and a cabin 2-wheel underseat roller. Great bags, although the wife wanted Away (seem nice so far, but not my preference). Tom Bihn backpacks. Took a week long trip to the tropics and the bag is a little unorthodox but it can hold a lot of stuff. And you have a variety of fabrics to select. Bose over hear headphones - great for travel and mine have lasted for awhile. For life is somewhat limited but its an electronic item that has a little tech, its a tradeoff. Sonicare toothbrush - It is like 10 years old on the original battery. Teeth are life. Agree with the Leatherman Wave+, good tool doesn't really excel at any one thing, but useful to have. Cookware: DeBuyer carbon steel country fry pan. I prefer this over cast iron. Demeyere Atlantis Fry pan - great steel fry pan. Allclad copper core (functionally similar to the d3 but I like the appearance of the copper line that shows through and I don't worry about cleaning it). I have watches. Mechanical ones are nice but as the old joke goes if you have to pick a watch to wear for the rest of your life what would you choose and no you can't choose your g-shock. NiMH batteries - where possible get rid of alkaline even if they are cheaper. They will leak and ruin your day and maybe even the device they are in. I choose Eneloops, the normal not the pro variant. Skip the LION batteries for now as they are 3.7v and require a voltage regulator to go to 1.5v, but if you need the 1.5v instead of 1.2v for the device meaning the NiMH won't work then the normal 1.6v lithium batteries would work. High quality LED lights - CRI should be 90+. They are a long term consumable but higher quality light is better. Knipex and Klein for tools. Knipex makes my favorite generalist pliers/wrenches. Klien makes great hand tools, I prefer the MiUSA options and use their linesmans for random things. Klien also makes a bottle opener, Wera does too and they are somewhat comfortable to hold. Clothes that don't have spandex. Spandex and elastic fail. I have had Patagonia fleece for 30 years and it still works. Randolph sunglasses - I just like them. Ray Ban 4140, they have spring hinges which means I can wear my spouse's and they have had theirs for 15 years although I had to buy new aftermarket lenses. Also discovered a french brand Cartel that also uses spring hinges, but don't know enough about this brand. Miele Washer and Dryer - gets rid of the vent ducting behind and they are solid if a little quirky. They canister vacuum is great. Converted the in-laws to this brand and they just went from the upright to the canister.

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• #63Apr 5, 2025

  What is a BIFL item/product you recommend?

  I’ve got a Tom Bihn side kick bag for sale 😂 definitely bifl just don’t buy too many like me…not sure if it will be bifl but I use my aeropress daily and have for the past few years and it’s in great shape, they make a glass/metal version now and that’s probably what I will get if mine was to break. My Briggs Riley suitcase has a lifetime warranty and I have been very impressed with it so far, I have the two wheeled cabin bag and use Thule compression cubes that are very sturdy and might be as close to bifl as you can get for compression cubes.

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• #64Apr 3, 2025

  Unpopular Opinion: “Researching Before Buying” as an Excuse for Overthinking

  I needed a backpack a few years ago. I swear I left 10 tabs open on my computer for a goddamn month. At one point, I sat down at my computer and declared I was not going to stand back up until I reached a decision and closed all those tabs. I landed on a sweet Tom Bihn backpack that has been absolutely perfect and still looks nearly-new after years of rough daily use. So the research was worth it for me. I could've probably taken a few days off the process, though. 

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• #65Mar 9, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  Not sure if it’s off the table, but Tom Bihn has been the trusted bag the last 5 years

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• #66Mar 8, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  My current backpack is a Tom Bihn Synik 30. Have had it two years and it’s great. Before that I used a Deuter for about 10+ years before I retired it. It still gets used occasionally and it held up well.

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• #67Mar 7, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  I am currently using an Osprey Arcane, and really like the size for EDC for my work laptop and other bits. Osprey has lifetime warranty and repair on their products, but probably good to have a second one so you aren’t without if there are issues. Tom Bihn is nice too, doubt you will blow through any of those bags. 

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• #68Mar 7, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  You missed the [Tom Bihn Synik 30](https://www.tombihn.com/collections/best-sellers/products/synik-30?variant=42599481901245). Best backpack for daily use I have every had. If you want a little bigger with more freeform space the [Tom Bihn Big Brain](https://www.tombihn.com/collections/backpacks/products/brain-bag?variant=41750504276157) is also amazing. I have a 20+ year old Big Brain that still feels new! Great stuff that lasts!

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• #69Mar 7, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  Tom Bihn

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• #70Mar 7, 2025

  Can't decide on a backpack

  Check out Tom Bihn - https://www.tombihn.com

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• #71Feb 10, 2025

  Duffel bag and other luggage suggestions?

  Tom Bihn. Cotopaxi. Patagonia

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• #72Feb 10, 2025

  What brands do you trust to always deliver a high quality product?

  Vitamix. Robocoupe. Bosch (kitchen appliances). Lee Valley/Veritas. Lie Nielson. Herder chef knives. Mac knives. G and L guitars. Taylor guitars (I'm not a fan of their style/tone, but their QC is best in the acoustic factory guitar scene. PRS guitars (some of the best factory electric guitar QC). Toyota/Lexus. They just work. I have a Honda, which is pretty reliable...but they chitzied on plastic floorpan clips instead of metal. Bottom of my car started going "whoosh" after 54000 miles. Never had an issue on my 1997 Corolla. Spyderco. Victorinox. Leatherman. solid warranty, and decent QC, even with all the Chinese clones. Mitotuyo micrometers. Built different. Tom Bihn bags. Waterfield designs. IMHO significantly better and tougher than Chrome (wore a hole through a corner in 1 month) and Timbuck2. Excellent ergos. Excellent workmanship and materials. Patagonia.

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• #73Feb 8, 2025

  What brands do you trust to always deliver a high quality product?

  Tom Bihn bags. The company sold a few years ago, and quality of construction hasn't dropped (though prices have gone up). Pilot fountain pens. Even the less expensive ones are fantastic. My favorite is the Prera. You can find them for $20-$25.

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• #74Feb 8, 2025

  Any recommendations for a daily canvas tote bag?

  [Tom Bihn](https://www.tombihn.com/collections/tote-bags)

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• #75Feb 2, 2025

  Buy Once Cry Once items?

  Tom Bihn Brain Bag backpack has been with me for 20 years. JanSport backpacks only lasted a year before they fell apart

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• #76Feb 1, 2025

  Camera bag, Life bag, Everything bag (Literally)

  Hi everyone! I have chosen! [Tom Bihn Synik 30 ](https://www.tombihn.com/products/synik-30?variant=42850654519485&country=US&currency=USD&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_source=google&utm_content=sag_organic&utm_campaign=sag_organic&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiA4-y8BhC3ARIsAHmjC_HzAyTQQymQb_00Nizove1Nnu8n24Q8c3poSDn8HiVoPAw0XLvqa9EaAkl_EALw_wcB)

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• #77Jan 4, 2025

  After my Disneyworld with my family my old Jansport backpack just isn't cutting it anymore. Time for me to get an upgrade.

  Also ask over at r/onebag You'll get a lot of comments here for Osprey, (which i also can recommend firsthand) But also you'll get suggestions for Tom Bihn, Mystery Ranch, TimBuk2 brands. Tom Bihn probably outta budget, but the other 3 brands are all very well recommended in BIFL. 

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• #78Jan 4, 2025

  Recommendations for Designer Backpack

  Not designer - but my Tom Bihn backpack has been my favorite backpack ever. It somehow makes what I’m carrying feel lighter. Magic. (And the people who work there are so nice!)

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• #79Jan 4, 2025

  Stylish and Functional Men’s Backpack for Urban Use?

  You should also consider Tom Bihn packs.

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• #80Dec 6, 2015

  [BIFL Request] - Travel Bag For Short Work Trips - "Cute" and BIFL

  Tom bihn bags are handmade in Seattle

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• #81Dec 4, 2015

  [BIFL Request] - Travel Bag For Short Work Trips - "Cute" and BIFL

  A Tom Bihn Aeronaut 30 in Purple is probably the best advice I can give. You didn't really list very specific requirements, so I will assume 30L is enough for 2-4 days for two people if you carry a backpack as well.

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• #82Dec 3, 2015

  [BIFL Request] Cross-body pouch/clutch minimalist bag

  I had the same issue. What I really wanted was a flexible system with some kind of small organizer with I could either use on its own or chuck into a larger bag. The thing is I want a lot of secure pockets/compartments to keep essentials organized and separate, but also immediately accessible. I never did find exactly the right thing and ended up with a Timbuk2 Classic Messenger in XS size. It's perfect on its own, but is still too bulky to throw inside another bag, except maybe a large bike pannier. EDIT--I did consider the Tom Bihn Side Effect, but it a bit too small to fit my tablet and I found the Timbuk2 on sale.

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• #83Dec 3, 2015

  [BIFL Request] Cross-body pouch/clutch minimalist bag

  Also look at the Tom Bihn small cafe bag. It's probably has/costs more than you want, but still worth a look.

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• #84Dec 3, 2015

  [BIFL Request] Cross-body pouch/clutch minimalist bag

  http://www.tombihn.com/organizer-pouches/TB0921.html made in merica, lifetime guarantee.

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