I am so looking forward to my trip to Budapest and the cruise on the Danube River, but I am a little nervous about traveling in winter. But, heck, I’m a Minnesotan for gosh sakes (you betcha). I should be able to handle it. I definitely have plenty of winter gear. The real trick for me is figuring out which things to bring.
I recently purchased a new coat for the trip that meets all of what I consider to be the necessary requirements; waterproof, warm, comfortable, has good pockets, covers my butt. All important factors. I also got a great deal on it on the sale rack at Macy’s. I also have a North Face fleece hoodie that I can add under it for even more warmth, not to mention some long undies just in case it is really cold.
I plan to style it up with some fabulous scarves, hats and gloves. But I’m also debating about a suitable bag. I like to use a cross body type bag when I travel, and it needs to be big enough to hold my digital SLR camera, maybe an extra lens, a bottle of water, definitely a collapsible umbrella, plus all of the usual suspects that go in your handbag.
I’ve narrowed it down to two choices. I thought maybe you guys could help me pick.
Option 1 is a suede Crown Vintage bag that I picked up at DSW for $119.95.
I really love the look of this bag, but the drawstring top makes it a little tricky getting the camera in and out easily. I take a lot of photos when I travel, so easy access to the camera is important to me. Plus, the color of this bag kind of leans towards the khaki green side of grey. It looks great here with my new furry infinity scarf that I bought at Carver Junk Co though.
But it doesn’t work quite as well with my aqua scarf and gloves.
Option 2 is an inexpensive Mossimo bag from Target that cost $29.99.
This bag is totally faux leather, but it has a distressed look that is almost believable. The camera comes in and out a little easier with this bag.
It also looks better with the aqua ensemble (and I do plan to bring both the aqua and the furry scarves).
And let’s not ignore the fact that it is $80 cheaper than option no. 1. However, it does look cheaper to me, and I doubt it will hold up as well as the more expensive bag. I probably won’t use this bag at home at all, it will likely only be pulled out for traveling. And only winter traveling at that, so it’s not going to get a ton of use.
There are definitely pros and cons to each bag. I haven’t take the tags off either one yet, so both are still returnable. So, tell me, which bag would you choose?
q is for quandie 
From pictures option two looks like the better bag and the first one looks cheaper. I do like the colour of number 2 with both outdoor options better annnd that is one killer infinity scarf!
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The pics might be a tad deceiving because up close I really think bag no. 2 really does look cheaper. But, I don’t necessarily think that matters too much in this case.
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I like bag #2. I don’t care for the draw strings in the first bag and it was a toss up for me on #2 or #3 and I chose #2 because the color is just slightly different, a little lighter, and I think it would be a bag a person could carry from Fall all the way through the beginning of Spring.
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Yeah, in the end I am not a fan of the drawstrings either.
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I prefer function when traveling so for that reason and I too like the aqua a bit more with the second I’d probably go with it. However for the fashion statement the first is slamming. To be honest I am in love the the infinity scarf totally awesome – has that Dr. Zhivago look to me.
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The scarf is really soft and snuggly too. It might become my new favorite.
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I like #1 better for its look and you said durability! I like the aqua with both too!
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Yep, it has the other bag beat in both of those categories.
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if you’re still debating or want a 3rd option, look at the bags from The Duluth Trading Co. The Messenger cross body is a bit pricey (159.) but is solidly built and has the option of converting to a backpack. It has zippered compartments and is large enough to carry a tablet. It also comes in 3 or 4 colors. I purchased mine about a month ago and love it. Plus there is a new store in Fridley so you can see the bags in person.
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That is a great find Mary. That would give her hands free shopping as well.
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I’m going to have to check that out.
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I love bag #1 and think it goes great with both scarves! Have an amazing trip 😊
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Thanks Monique!
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I personally would take the less expensive bag for travel. That way if it gets knocked around and worn a bit, you won’t have any concern. Have a great time! I lived in Berlin, Germany for 3 years and I don’t think you will have any issue with the cold any more than you would here at home!
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That is a really good point Cindy. It will probably take a serious beating!
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I say #2! Will look great with both, plus you’ll have an extra $80 to spend on souvenirs!!!!!!
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Always a good plan to have more spending money! I like it.
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I’d go with bag number 2. The first one is too pricey for a bag that you won’t use at home and number 2 could be set down on the ground when you are photographing and wiped clean at the end of the day..
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Good point Ginene!
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Sorry we can’t all come to a consensus. I have to say that photo #1 is absolutely the most stunning combo to me. I think the bag looks fine with aqua. If your primary concern is looking model perfect in photos, go with that. Then again, you ALWAYS look good in photos, and practicality makes bag #2 a pretty good option. But wow, that first outfit rocks!
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Ha! You are being too kind. I always think I look terrible in pics! Yikes!
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Good luck deciding – but before you do, check out Baggalini bags. I swear by them for travel. They are nylon and weigh nothing before you fill it up. That’s important to me. They are weather resistent and so well designed. You can look at them on Amazon. I just came back from a wet and rainy trip to Ireland – my Baggalini worked like a charm to protect my DSLR.
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Good luck deciding – but before you do, check out Baggalini bags. I swear by them for travel. They are nylon and weigh nothing before you fill it up. That’s important to me. They are weather resistent and so well designed. You can look at them on Amazon. I just came back from a wet and rainy trip to Ireland – my Baggalini worked like a charm to protect my DSLR.
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Sounds like the perfect bag for travel. I bet Ireland was fantastic despite the rain! Did you get lots of moody, misty photos?
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My parents took the same trip you are taking two years ago during the holidays. They loved the ship, food was wonderful, and met a lot of great people. My Mom’s comment was that it was a “wet” cold, you know that bone chill….but she had under armour gear….which was compact and warm…also lots of walking. I should send you a few pics…..but neither of my parents got the photo gene! They said Nuremberg was incredible…..any way love your stuff! Wish I lived closer….
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I’d love to hear what they liked about Nuremberg. I haven’t been able to find very much info on what to see there aside from the obvious WWII stuff of course.
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Both bags look great…and, since you will only be using the bag for winter traveling (which you don’t do much of), what are the chances that the bag will still be in style (or that you will still like it) the next time you travel in winter? This will probably be a one-time use. So I say go with the cheaper bag.
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You are absolutely right, and hit the nail on the head. I likely may only use this bag for the one trip.
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I love option #2 from the picture it looks Authentic – I think that draw string on #1 will drive you mad! plus you get your money back – more to spend on your trip!- Have a fabulous time.
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I think you are right CJ, that drawstring might drive me crazy. I am constantly pulling my camera out of my bag, so I think I might start cursing that drawstring in no time!
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LOVE look #1-scarf is amazing, winter is l o n g…..what the heck keep em all! Have a great trip!
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Winter is long, especially when it starts as ridiculously early as it seems to be this year.
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I would go with your 2nd choice. It looks great in the photo and while traveling, you may find one you realy like.
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I agree to go for the less expensive but more suitable for your camera purse. Even if you only use it for winter and/or travel, you have gotten your money’s worth! Also, it would look great with both outfits. Go for it girlfriend!
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