HELP! I need to decide on a big bag!

[kfcboston]

As you all can see from my siggie, I'm gonna be hauling around quite a bit of gear next spring. :) Since Christmas is coming, money is basically no object. I'm looking for a bag big and user-friendly enough for my future needs, and I want it to be nice but durable and cleanable. I was really thinking the Mothership, but I'm slightly worried about these reports of vinyl failure.

Help, anyone?? Thanks!!!!

[tricialudao]

Have you seen this message thread on the kalencom bags? They are like the mothership but much cheaper! I just bought mine for $37 shipped (from babycatalog with membership discount).

http://www.windsorpeak.com/dc/dcboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=63&topic_id=8640&mode=full

[kensjen]

Wow, congrats! Twins will be so fun, I am excited for you!

I think the Mothership is a great place to start. It is a wonderful bag, love the organization, and even though it is big, I use it all the time. You will need something around this size anyway. I did exchange my bag for a new one after reading about problems on this board. I checked the bottom corners of my bag, and there were a few small holes forming. I have learned that I just need to be a bit more careful with it, especially where I place it. I did have a habit of putting in on the floor in restaurants and all, and I think avoiding that will help. And their CS was excellent, sent me a new bag very quickly.

I also love the large tailored tote from Land's end:

http://www.landsend.com/cd/fp/prod/0,,1_2_52357_53689_100006_78453_5:view=-1,00.html?CM_MERCH=PAGE_53034&sid=6976021599915143580

It expands and becomes VERY big, if you need the space. I have a black microfiber bag, and it looks nice and not too diaper bag-ish. It isn't as fun or stylish as some of the other bags out there, but it certainly doesn't look bad. And you can't beat the price. There is a new medium sized bag that I want to try.

The timbuk 2 messengers are nice, you may like the big one, but not as great in the organization dept. You could add your own little organization with escape pod-like bags, or even ziplocks. :)

Hope you have fun shopping! You deserve SEVERAL cute new bags with twins on the way!!

[masetane]

I had a mothership but sold it. If I needed a big bag again, I would probably go with a 2 Red Hens Whole Roost. No organization though but that doesn't bother me in the least!
Caroline
http://fool.exler.ru/sm/ma.gif
Isabelle 10/1/00
Nicholas 2/27/03

[marnay]

The Timi and Leslie large Bebe bag is slightly smaller than the Mothership but still a nice sized bag. It is also vinyl nut the bottom is a tough nylon so it won't crack like the Mothership can. I have owned both and they are great bags.

Right now Timi and Leslie is clearing out their current stock so stuff is on clearance! Normally $125 some bags are $55!

http://home.earthlink.net/~nooden/id4.html


Naydene

[kfcboston]

Great suggestions!! I really like the look of the Kalencom. Wish I could see some of these IRL. But the Kalencom might be the winner!

[josiebruin]

Is the clearance through the T&L website directly??

[Chelsey333]

Still love my Mothership. It is the best bag for needing a lot of stuff. Mine is still in good shape. I can see how the holes can form bec the corners are pointy on the pockets. But even if my bag ripped in the corners, I love this bag - very easy to clean, lt weight, lots of pockets, comfy to carry, hangs on my stroller nicely. Good luck!