The Helena pack from Overland Equipment comes in handy for almost anything– hopping on your bike to run some errands, heading out on a day hike, or boarding a plane for a weekend adventure. With enough room to fit two water bottles, your iPad, magazines, wallet, phone, sunglasses, and plenty of other personal items, the Helena will quickly become the first bag you grab every time you head out the door.
The sling design is a welcome change from the usal two strap day pack look and saves your shoulder from heavy loads when running errands or walking around a city playing tourist. The simple adjust buckle makes the Helana easy to throw over your head and cinch down close to your body when you want to head out on your bike.
Two external water bottle pockets are useful for hiking and can even hold your fold up umbrella or rain jacket when you are touring the city. A front velcro flap closure conceals a five pocket organization chamber that safely stores your phone, pens, passport, plane tickets, business cards, keys (with key clip), and any other small personal items you want to make easily accessible when wearing the day pack.
A large main compartment with zipper access is roomy enough for your wallet, sunglasses, notebook, magazines, an extra layer, and even some small shopping you might pick up during your day. An interior padded and fleece lined pocket will keep your iPad, Kindle, or small netbook safe.
If you are bike commuting to work, you can even fit a 13 inch Mac in the main compartment of the Helena. A secure pocket on the shoulder strap gives you easy access to your phone while you are riding or hiking. If you own an iPhone and use a hard case however, I found the pocket a little too tight.
Bottom Line: If you are a non-purse type and want a day pack that serves you equally well around town as well as on the bike or the trail, then the Helena is the perfect bag for you.
The Overland Equipment Helena retails for $70, comes in three colors, and is available now.