I had no idea about the usefulness of sling bags, until I purchased my first sling bag and have wondered how I ever managed without one!
What is a Sling Bag and how is it different from other bags?
A sling bag is a popular type of shoulder bag that is designed to be worn across the body. Sling bags typically feature one long adjustable strap for wearing diagonally across the body enabling the sling bag to be easily moved between your back and your chest, and often includes several pockets or compartments for storing small items.
Unlike handbags, satchels and other types of bags, sling bags are designed to be worn on the body and can move with the user as they go about their day. This makes them ideal for carrying small items like cell phones, wallets, keys, and other necessities while keeping hands free.
Sling bags are also often considered a great way to accessorise an outfit while providing convenience and comfort at the same time.
What is this “Top Rated Sling Bag”?
After hours of online research I decided upon the tomtoc 4.5 litre / 8 inch Explorer Sling Bag. This tomtoc sling bag has been my everyday carry crossbody bag since day one.
Its multiple pockets and compartments make it extremely practical and is constructed with durable CORDURA ballistic nylon and YKK zippers ensuring it will last.
As for the price, well you will likely be pleasantly surprised! ;0)
Who are tomtoc?
tomtoc were founded in 2016 and have a worldwide reputation for designing fashionable and durable bags, laptop sleeves and back packs to help protect our tech gear during everyday life. They offer a 1 year warranty (extendable up to 2 years) on all their products and have been recognised by such names as Wirecutter, Nintendolife, iMore, Cnet and 9to5Mac.
tomtoc 8 inch Explorer Sling Bag Features
The tomtoc 8 inch Explorer boasts a host of features, for such a minimalist design:
Storage
For quick access there is:
A Large main compartment - with one large open pocket for a small tablet or phone, two smaller mesh interior pockets for charging cables or a power bank and still plenty of remaining room for other long items.
A Practical front pocket - Full length, with two additional pockets and key keeper, so you don’t lose your keys.
An Anti-theft hidden pocket - Full length, which sits flush against your body. Ideal for passports, wallets etc.
Dimensions
31 cm x 15 cm x 7.5 cm, Volume: 4.5 L.
Build Quality
The build quality of the tomtoc 8 inch Explorer is excellent for the price.
Outer material is made from water resistant CORDURA 1260 denier double strand ballistic nylon, with YKK zippers, strap adjuster and Duraflex quick release buckle.
Colour Options
The tomtoc 8 inch Explorer is available in multiple colours to suit multiple styles. Colours include Black, White, Olive Green, Blue and Charcoal Grey.
Style
The tomtoc 8 inch Explorer bag is comfortable for all day wear, looks great on your back yet can be quickly rotated to your front for improved security and easy access to its many pockets. Although I went for the black option myself, many owners have multiple colours to match their particular style of the day.
Security
The Duraflex quick release buckle on the adjustable strap not only enables you to quickly release the bag while sitting, the buckle also enables you to secure the bag with your belongings around table legs, chair backs and chair legs preventing theft.
How I use my tomtoc 8 inch Explorer sling bag
Life can be fast paced at times making it easy to forget items. The tomtoc 8 inch Explorer sling bag is always near the front door, containing everything I need for upto 24hrs away from home, including:
Snacks
Car keys
Medical Supplies
When it’s time to leave, I simply throw in my water bottle, phone and go! Despite its compact size there’s still room for other smaller items.
When travelling long distance, my tomtoc sling bag becomes my Personal Travel Amenity Kit. Which in addition to the above it also holds the following, ensuring restful journeys:
Conclusion
I’ve been using the tomtoc 8 inch Explorer sling bag on a daily basis the past 6 months and is still looking as new with no issues. It has exceeded all my expectations, making daily life simpler and more organised.
With an upto 2 year warranty, 4.8 out of 5 Amazon star rating and competitive price, I highly recommend the tomtoc 8 inch Explorer sling bag!
Frequently Asked Questions
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A good sling bag should be lightweight, stylish design with a strap that is both secure and easy to adjust. A long manufacturers warranty also helps to back up longevity.
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Unlike backpacks, a good sling bag can be worn in many different ways:
Over the shoulder
Across your back
Across your chest
Around your waist -
Unlike backpacks, a sling bag can be quickly rotated from your back to your chest for added security.
Sling bags with quick release buckles can also easily be securely attached to table / chair legs or most other less moveable objects.
