My Ameribag Tote bag - I love it and am satisfied!

[RiaHannam]

I just wanted to post here that in April I got my Ameribag tote and have been using it ever since. I am so satisfied with this bag that I don't have a yearning for anything else! Perhaps I'm easy to please but this bag is totally "doing it" for me!

I have the ocean color. I did a review when I got it with pictures and still to this day I'm completely satisfied! Link posted below.
Just wanted to let you know! Anyone else pretty happy with a bag?

http://www.windsorpeak.com/dc/dcboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=63&topic_id=5602&mesg_id=5602&listing_type=search

[MamaKath]

I love mine too! I wish I had gotten the blue, and may order another soon. I have red. It is just a great bag. I brought it on a few trips this summer, and found that it worked especially well when we went to a theme park. It held a ton, attached easily to the stroller handle, kept everything organized and within reach (at least until dh needed his cell phone and wouldn't wait for me to get off a ride to ask. It was in a zippered pocket, lol, and he dumped all the contents and was so frustrated that he couldn't find it!!! Even then it was so easy to put things back in their "spots"). It is one of the few bags that dh or I will carry, is comfortable for either of us, and is great for keeping stuff within reach. I also love that it doesn't get "junked up" like my backpack or other bags because there are places for everything. If something doesn't have a spot, I am more likely to put it elsewhere or get rid of it (reciepts and stuff that normally get thrown to the bottom in my other bag because they don't really belong in there) or don't get brought along (extra toys by the ton, etc.). :-)

This summer, I have found that I have often started using a backpack as well. It was easier to wear and could hold the kids stuff (DS's older style LT from LE, DD Snack box), mine (wallet, cosmetic case, notebook and mag when we travel, cell phone), and also my husbands (wallets (2), book, and snacks) who was with us quite a bit traveling. However now that we are back home and with fall/winter approaching that will quickly change (it is too hard to adjust a backpack for use with coats, etc). I also have yet to find a true backpack that I like as well as the Ameribag Baby Bag or Tote in functionality so I am drawn back.

I actually have them both out to decide which to pick one to switch to, so this was a timely topic. :-) Maybe I should order the blue tote and use that. ;-)

[bubbaray]

I'm' wondering if either of you (or anyone else) can comment on the AmeriBag Tote compared to the Skip Hop, a small T2 Classic messenger, the T2 Metro Mini or the Updated LE LT? I have those other bags, but am VERY interested in the AmeriBag Tote (thanks to your great reviews!). I also have the Fleurville Mothership, but I don't need the bag to be that large. My daily bag right now is the T2 small messenger, but I also love my Skip Hop.

How would the AmeriBag Tote compare to the T2? I'm a pretty light packer, but DD is now in size 3 disposable diapers and I need more room for those, plus it is fall soon, so I need room for a jacket for her, maybe a blanket and a hat. Also, can you describe the interior of the bag a bit more -- pockets, etc??

Also, Kath, is the AmeriBag Baby Bag huge??? It looks like it is, but I can't quite picture it on a person. Could you take a photo of it on yourself???? I think the Tote might be a better size for me....

One last question, does the ocean blue get dirty easily? I like the blue (and don't need another red bag, my Skip Hop is red), but am thinking the black might be a bit more functional (tho my small T2 is black/grey/silver, so I could use some more color in a new bag).

Any thoughts?????

Melissa
Mom to Maya http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/binky.gif & Dog Mom to Bubba http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/dog.gif

http://www.babysfirstsite.org/newtickers/ticker/11089.birthday.png

[hipmaman]

I read your review and keen to get my in the same colour from a swap mom. Can't wait to get it and use with my MBUD in Ocean Cloud. Thanks for the review and pictures.

[newmomto1]

Hi,
I have the Ameribag tote, a T2 PeeWee (small classic messenger), an Updated LE LT, and used to have the Skip Hop, but sold it.
I would say, size wise that the Ameribag is MOST comparable to the T2.
I think they can hold about the same amount of stuff, IMO.
BUT, because of the "flap" closure & adjustable closure straps on the T2...I think you could actually pack more stuff into it in a pinch.
The interior of the Ameribag tote:

I have a black one & the interior is light grey.
There is one large pocket against the back interior wall of the bag..it runs the length of the bag and is about 8" tall x 15" wide. It has a velcro closure at the top in the middle. If you keep the velcro fastened...it sort of forms a separation so that you could use one side for dipes & one side for wipes, etc; OR you can leave the velcro unfastened & have one big pocket (hope that makes sense).

On the right interior side there is a pocket that is about 6" tall x 6" wide, there is no closure on this pocket.

On the left interior side there is a pocket that is almost exctly the same as the other, except on the FRONT of this pocket is a zippered compartment.

Inside the front of the bag there is a pocket that is approx 12" wide x 5" tall with a velcro closure in the middle. There is a key fob in this compartment.

On the front of this pocket are two small compartments without closures..each one is approx 4.5 tall" x 5" wide"

I am not currently using this bag, but I took a few photos that I will attach for you. (I hope they look okay!!)

It's late & I'm kind of tired...so if any of this didn't make sense, ...please fell free to ask me more questions!!

I personally prefer my T2 to the Ameribag right now, mainly becase I feel like I can pack a little more in it...but I really do like the Ameribag also!

I actually got a Lands End Do It All for the winter (anticipating the need for extra room for jackets, etc...like you mentioned)

Also, like I said, I am not currently using this bag...so I just stuck a few items in it for pic to give you an idea of what the pocket look like...if you'd like to see additional pics, let me know!!

Hope this helps!!

[bubbaray]

Your review/comments were VERY helpful!!!! The photos were great -- just what I was looking for!

I love my T2, but would like even more organization, so the Ameribag might be a good choice. I really like the interior end pockets.

I still don't find my T2 very comfortable (even though I have the strap pad). How would you compare the "wearing" comfort of the 2 bags?

Thanks again,

Melissa
Mom to Maya http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/binky.gif & Dog Mom to Bubba http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/dog.gif

http://www.babysfirstsite.org/newtickers/ticker/11089.birthday.png

[newmomto1]

Oh, I am so glad the pics helped!!

As far as wearing the bag...I have to be honest with you...I am pretty lazy about that & hang the bag on my stroller (or my DH :-)) as much as possible!.

I do not find the T2 "uncomfortable"...but sometimes maybe a bit awkward or bulky??

We recently went on a trip to NYC (without baby) & I used my Ameribag Tote instead of a purse so we could pack it with purchases, water bottle, etc.
Even when it was loaded full..I thought it was pretty comfortable! The bag is "softer"...meaning that it conforms to your body better, like if you're wearing it messenger-style (or even over one shoulder). It never seemed as bulky to me as my T2.

So, in a nutshell....I think the Ameribag is easier & more comfortable to wear than the T2.

I also think that when you're on the go...it's easier to unzip the Ameribag to grab something, than to deal with the flap on the T2 (JMO)

The main reason I prefer my T2 right now is becase I like having that front zippered compartment for DS's bottles. I like having tham enclosed in there so that if there's a leak it won't get everything else all messy!!

BTW...I am not sure if you already know that there are also external pockets on the Ameribag.

There's a large pocket on the back with velcro closure (perfect for a changing pad).

A pocket on the front with a velcro closure.

A pocket (no closure) on the right (could be used for a bottle). This pocket also has a zippered compartment on the front of it.

And a pocket on the left with a velcro flap closure.

I purchased mine from ebags.com. You can usually find coupon codes online for them...& I understand that they are great about returns if you decide you do not like the bag!

LMK if you have any other questions!!

[bubbaray]

Yes, I really like all the pockets -- just what I need. I am also looking for a more lightweight bag. Thanks for all the info.

I just ordered one from eBags -- $35.99 plus free shipping.

Melissa

[priscilla73]

Melissa,
What color did you finally decide on?

Priscilla

[bubbaray]

I ordered the black. I already have a red Skip Hop and I thought the Ocean (though very pretty) would get dirty (I'm hard on bags). Plus, the Ocean d/n really go with any of my strollers. The black will go with everything, plus it goes with my airline luggage, so the bag will have a use post-baby.

Melissa
Mom to Maya http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/binky.gif & Dog Mom to Bubba http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/dog.gif

http://www.babysfirstsite.org/newtickers/ticker/11089.birthday.png

[Kimberly H]

Just ordered the red one based on your review - I'm so excited!

[Truska]

Just an FYI...there is 20% off the bags today, so they're now $31.99. HTH!

[Truska]

Melissa, did you have them ship it to a Canadian address? They have the option, but when I went to do it, it showed that shipping was going to be $22! The bag would've ended up costing over $76! So, more than double! Isn't that nice?! *rolling my eyes*

Okay, sorry, rant over!

[priscilla73]

Jenn

If you want, I can ship it to you. I'm in CA. I've never shipped to Can so you'll have to tell me how to do it. Just email me if you're interested.

Priscilla

[bubbaray]

I think that works out to $1 more than I paid (though still a great deal) -- the free shipping offer appears to be over. Too bad -- I was going to cancel my order and get it for even less money, LOL!

The price, with shipping, works out to $36.99 today. I think this is a great deal for this bag.

HTH
Melissa
Mom to Maya http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/binky.gif & Dog Mom to Bubba http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/dog.gif

http://www.babysfirstsite.org/newtickers/ticker/11089.birthday.png

[bubbaray]

I had it shipped to my US address. I did check out the Canadian shipping option, I recall it being $20 plus duty to get it to me. Outrageous, especially when co's like Lands End will ship similar bags for $4.

Sorry, but I can't get anything other than stuff under my name shipped to me at my postal drop. Then again, because I'm on the other side of the country, the Canadian postage to get it to you would be about $10. Perhaps you can find a US mom on the East Coast to help you out????

Good luck!!!

Melissa
Mom to Maya http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/binky.gif & Dog Mom to Bubba http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/dog.gif

http://www.babysfirstsite.org/newtickers/ticker/11089.birthday.png

[Truska]

Melissa, I'm seriously considering getting some kind of US address!

Priscilla, I just might take you up on that offer...I'm trying to decide just how much I *need* it! ;-) Thank you!

[priscilla73]

Okay Jenn. Just let me know. I ordered the black one last night for $35.99 + free shipping. If you do, I'll see if they can just add another one onto my order.

Priscilla

priscilla73 @ yahoo . com

[marnay]

Are you ordering from ebags.com? When I checked it today it was $39.99 plus free shipping. Am I doing something wrong? Or is there some special code?

Naydene

[priscilla73]

Naydene

I just checked the ebag web site. It's $31.99 but you would have to pay the shipping charges.

Priscilla

[MamaKath]

Hi Melissa,
Obviously, you lucked out and got some great interior shots to see the features. My camera is broken (actually the computer I think, but I can't upload any photos :-() so it would have been awhile. I do have a friend who has both the small T2 and the Ameribag tote. She seems to prefer the Ameribag for a diaper bag, the T2 as "her bag" iykwim.

It is funny though when I think of the Tote (a messenger bag) to the Baby Bag (a sling shoulder backpack). They are both great bags when it comes to organization. They both hold more than you think they ever could. I find that the Baby Bag is great when I know I will need a bunch of stuff as well as the kids, plus a bunch of snacks. It has a great section on the front that holds a ton of my stuff, extra pockets for snack stuff. Then it has the rest of the bag for the kids stuff. I like the baby bag for long days out when I want everything easily accessible to me, and only want to carry one bag; also if I will need to carry extra toys and such (church, doctors office, etc). I can pack lightly in it and it works well also, but it can be really packed up! More than 1 cup or bottle can be slightly tricky with this bag though, just figuring out where to put them. The Baby bag has a teardrop shape that can be difficult to negotiate, especially for me as a large woman. The baby bag (I have the older version, I think they changed this) has a red interior and a softer but what seems more durable outer material. I prefer the red lining.

The tote is a more midsize bag. Certainly not as big as my older Lands End Do it all or the striped Diaper Tote, but bigger than the older Little Tripper or the latest model. It is great when you need lots, but not everything. It is also great because you can have cups or bottles readily accessible. The Tote is a bit more managable shapewise too. The tote works significantly better on a stroller, especially if you can attach carabiners (for Peg Perego's like the Milano, Venezia, or Pliko P3 this is absolutely an AWESOME feature!!!) to the spots where the handle attaches.

Both are still excellent quality, but I can see why (materials) the cost difference (95$ msrp on the older baby bag, 40$ on the tote). For the cost of the tote, it is absolutely EXCELLENT quality! The organization is fab on both, and if you are the one shouldered backpack type the Baby Bag is super. The whole concept of their bags is great with organization, and because they don't have everything just thrown in and sitting at the bottom, they really are comfortable and feel lighter overall.

Hope that helps! Please let me know if I missed something or you have more questions. I also apologize if it is a kind of hodgepodge response, I wrote it and then tried to seperate the comments so the were about each bag seperately to help it easier to figure out which one, lol. Gulp, taking a breath, my mind goes faster than I type, wonder if this is how I talk? ;-)~

[marnay]

Wierd.... I switched browers and now see the 20% off. I even emptied my cach and the other browser didn't update.

Anyway I ordered one in Ocean!

Naydene

[priscilla73]

Oh, I'm jealous! I couldn't decide between Ocean, Red or Black. So I played it safe and got the black. I should've got them all since they have free returns but my dh would've flipped. (I probably would have kept them all!)

Priscilla

[bubbaray]

Me too -- I did really like that Ocean color, but think the black will be more functional/practical for me. I see this bag having a future as a carry on bag for travel and potentially as a bag for the gym, so the Ocean would probably get really beat up and dirty. Very pretty though!

Melissa
Mom to Maya http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/binky.gif & Dog Mom to Bubba http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/dog.gif

http://www.babysfirstsite.org/newtickers/ticker/11089.birthday.png