Outfitted: It’s in the bag

I’ll admit it: I have a bit of a bag obsession. It’s gotten to the point where I have bags full of bags. Whether it’s for travel, hiking, or just organizing my daily essentials, I’m always on the lookout for the perfect bag to make life easier. Over the years, I’ve tested dozens of packs, totes, and organizers, each promising to be the ultimate solution. Some have lived up to the hype, while others, not so much. Recently, I put several to the test, using them in real-world situations, from trips to Mexico to mountain hikes and everyday errands.

Here are five that have risen to the top of the pile:

For Travel: Cotopaxi Viaje 35L Weekender Bag

Cotopaxi has built a reputation for colorful, functional gear, and the Viaje 35L Weekender Bag is no exception. It’s designed to be the perfect carry-on, and I found it to be just that on a recent trip to Denver. The spacious 35L capacity easily fit my clothes, toiletries, and a pair of shoes, while the durable recycled polyester held up against the hustle and bustle. I loved the wide-mouth opening, which made packing a breeze, and the multiple internal compartments helped me stay organized. The only downside? The backpack straps, while a nice touch, weren’t as comfortable for long hauls. Still, if you want a stylish and functional duffel with a sustainability focus, the Viaje is a fantastic choice. Available in multiple colors. $130, Cotopaxi.com

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For Hiking: Mystery Ranch Scree 33

With our recent temperature spikes, you might be thinking of hitting the trails. My recent go-to of the Mystery Ranch Scree 33 is a powerhouse of a daypack. Mystery Ranch is known for its rugged, tactical designs, and this pack balances durability with comfort. The tri-zip access is a standout feature; it lets you open the pack fully or access items from the top without rummaging around. I took this bag on a 12-mile hike last fall, and the adjustable yoke system ensured a snug, comfortable fit. The hydration reservoir compatibility was a huge plus, as I could easily sip water without breaking stride. My only gripe is the price; at $229, it’s a bit of an investment, but the build quality and thoughtful design make it well worth it. Available in women’s and men’s sizing and colors. $275, MysteryRanch.com

For Tech Organization: Peak Design Tech Pouch

With well-thought-out organization in its wheelhouse, Peak Design is a no-brainer. The Tech Pouch is a game-changer for anyone constantly dealing with tangled cords and misplaced accessories. I used to toss all my chargers and earbuds into a random pouch — until I picked up this sleek organizer a couple years ago. With accordion-style pockets, everything stays visible and accessible. The weatherproof recycled nylon provides solid protection and the external zip pocket is perfect for quick-grab items like my phone. The sheer convenience makes it a must-have for tech-savvy travelers. I’ve even given a few of these as gifts because I love it so much. Available in multiple colors. $60, PeakDesign.com

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For Heavy-Duty Carrying: Gregory Alpaca Utility Tote 50

I’ve tested and loved a handful of items in Gregory’s Alpaca line, and the Utility Tote 50 is another hit out of the park. For sheer capacity and durability, it is an absolute workhorse. I’ve used it for everything — from hauling camping gear to using it on a Costco haul — and it holds up like a champ. With 50 liters of space, this bag swallows everything I throw at it, and the weather-resistant fabric is perfect for unpredictable conditions. The padded straps are comfortable even when carrying heavy loads. The only downside? It’s bulky when not in use, but if you need a go-anywhere, do-anything tote, this is it. Available in two color options. $100, Gregory.com

For Everyday Versatility: Sherpani Soleil Multi-Wear Pack

From Boulder-based company Sherpani (named after the Nepalese word for a female sherpa,) the Soleil Multi-Wear Bag is a hybrid between a tote, backpack, and crossbody, making it one of the most versatile bags I’ve tried. I’ve taken it to coffee shops, used it as a carry-on, and even taken it on light hikes. The anti-theft features (locking zippers and RFID protection) are reassuring when traveling, and the water-resistant fabric keeps my essentials dry. The padded laptop sleeve is great for when you venture from the office, though the bag itself isn’t the roomiest if you carry a lot of extras. Available in multiple colorways. $135, Sherpani.com

Meg Simon is an Aspen-based freelance writer, graphic designer, and founder of Simon Finch Creative. She can be reached at meg@simonfinchcreative.com.

Meg Simon is an Aspen-based freelance writer, graphic designer, and founder of Simon Finch Creative. She can be reached at meg@simonfinchcreative.com.