Ok, so this may not be a “Review” of my hometown, but still a subject close to my heart – protecting my investments. I am obsessed with gadgets and invest a lot of money into supporting my habit, but a downside to carrying so many gadgets is trying to find a way to securely and comfortably remain mobile. To carry everything I intended to use for the day I found myself having to carry a purse and a tote at minimum almost daily. So out of necessity I began searching for any and every type of bag that would fulfill my needs, organize my “baggage” and show my gadgets some TLC in the process. I was prepared to purchase 2 completely different bags – one for my suit and stiletto days and another for jeans and hoodies weekends. When the awesome people over at Ogio sent me one of their Brooklyn bags, did my search end? Let’s see…
First Thoughts
When I first opened the box I noticed it was a bright and vibrant red almost freakishly true to color. The site says the bag is made with TC 900D Poly, which feels like canvas to me. It also appeared to be a bit small for what I needed. The bag itself is 11.75” H x 11.25”W x 4” D, with the interior tablet sleeve not being much smaller at 8 ½ H x 11 ¾ W. With that being said my first thoughts were #1 – Canvas? Ok, I can only wear to run errands and #2 this bag is way too small. The bag has two main larger compartments on either side of the fully padded zippered “tablet/e-reader” pocket. There’s an organizational panel inside one of the compartments with 3 pen/pencil/stylus slots in between a camera and phone pocket on either side. In the other compartment is a large interior zip to close pocket to hold change; etc. Outside the bag there’s a hidden zippered pocket under the front flap which is secured with a single button. The base of the bag is also padded ensuring extra protection for all the contents of the bag.
Small Wonder
At first glance you probably wouldn’t think the Ogio Brooklyn bag can double as a daily purse and a gadget bag. You also wouldn’t think if you put your iPad/tablet inside you would have room for much else. When it comes to the Brooklyn bag looks are definitely deceiving which is a definite plus and added security feature when you consider it doesn’t at all appear to be a “tech” bag or even remotely resemble something you would carry an iPad in.
As you can imagine I carry a lot – A LOT of gadgets daily and at no time did the Brooklyn bag bulk up, bulge or feel weighted down. Even though the straps are not adjustable I found wearing it cross body or otherwise worked for me and I’m 5′ 2 ¼”. I also found that opening and closing the front flap isn’t ideal, however I placed my wallet and keys in this pocket and found it easy for me to slide my hand in and out without having to actually unbutton the flap.
OCD Paradise
Admittedly, I am a tad over the top when it comes to organization. It was easy to customize the Brooklyn almost to perfection. The best part is I’m able to organize it so one side is a “purse” and the other side is a gadget bag.
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Gadget Side:
- 4 Smartphones
- 2 pairs of Earbuds
- Logitech Keyboard with case
- Notebook
- iPod
- Mini Calculator
- 3 Styluses
- 2 External Phone Chargers
- Post It Notes
- Pack of gum (minty)
- Wallet
Purse Side:
- Travel Perfume
- Baby Wipes
- Reusable tote bag
- Spare Glasses
- Change purse
- 3 sets of keys
- Hand Lotion
- Hand Sanitizer
- Cherry Chapstick
- Tinted Lip Gloss
- Lemon Cuticle Creme
- Manicure Set (clippers, tweezers, scissor, etc)
- Pack of gum (fruity)
Maybe a little TMI but I wanted you to fully grasp how awesome this bag truly is.
Is the Search Over?
For now, Yes. The Brooklyn bag suits all my needs and flawlessly works with any style I choose to wear. These bags are currently being sold for $40 each which is affordable enough to buy it in every color if you’re like me and your accessories MUST match your ensemble. I was able to solely carry this bag for 2 full weeks without the need for extras (aside from a lunch tote), I’m glad I did because this little bag is amazing – just like my hometown ;)
Check out the brief video below from the Ogio site giving you a “tour”. In the video the bag shows the internal compartments as plain white-in my review bag it was a very cute polka dot design throughout which was an added fashion plus since the liner has high visibility.
