Commuting backpack?
I would suggest not wearing a back pack at all! It puts a lot of strain on your back while riding and can negatively affect your position on the bike. There are many types of packs that you can strap directly to the bike which will be much more stable than something on your back.
If you'll be commuting a lot look into getting a rear rack on which you get put a set of panniers and a pack if necessary.
Rack: http://www.performancebike.com/shop/profile.cfm?SKU=19330&subcategory_ID=2325
Large rear pack: http://www.performancebike.com/shop/profile.cfm?SKU=19014&subcategory_ID=2312
And if you need extra space, panniers hang down on either side of your rear wheel beneath the pack.
http://www.performancebike.com/shop/profile.cfm?SKU=23828&subcategory_ID=2312
Of course you can find different/cheaper stuff. Those are just examples.
I bought this one:
http://www.jansport.com/js_product_detail.php?cid=40&pid=TCX9
It has a laptop compartment and I am able to squeeze in a change of close, my lunch and a few other items. Jansports are great. I have actually begun to leave an extra pair of shoes at work, they seem the hardest to cram in the bag.
I too am doing the bike commute thing this year. I am a teacher and have biked 38 out of 55 school days this year (7 on the motorcycle/10 in my truck) Goal is to bike 60% or more for the entire school, year. I am trying to reduce my Carbon Footprint and get in shape. I am 7.5 miles each way.
Can't go wrong with something from Timbuk2.
Can't go wrong with something from Timbuk2.
I commuted with a back pack and also the timbuk2. LOVE the timbuk2. I have the messenger in 2 sizes medium and large. The large is slightly too big for me (I am 5'8, female) so used the medium when I was commuting to work (retired now basically). They are comfortable and have lots of pockets etc. Also waterproof which is a necessity here where I live.


Got any suggestions? I'm looking for something to be able to carry the following:
1) Laptop
2) Shoes
3) Change of clothes
It doesn't have to have a special laptop compartment - it just has to somehow fit. I don't think I need a full transition bag - as I don't need that much space. My commute isn't terribly far (min 6 miles, but I can easily make it considerably longer), but it has a number of hills, so something that's relatively secure/stable and doesn't flop around a lot would be ideal.
Suggestions?
-Ray
Tri Blog: Http://dcrainmaker.blogspot.com