Outfitted: Bagged and ready

A good bag has to do more than just hold stuff. It has to pull double — or even triple — duty: groceries one day, backcountry gear the next, and maybe a stealthy wine haul to a picnic in between. Over the past few months, I have tested a range of bags across all the things that make up mountain life — trail days, market runs, road trips, and office schleps — and found that having the right bag, or six, makes all the difference.

1. Stio Cacher Tote Pack 15L

This tote-pack hybrid has become my go-to for quick town runs. Its minimalist design hides just enough mountain grit to handle dirt roads and light rain. The 15-liter capacity is perfect for the farmers market — it fits a loaf of bread, a bouquet of flowers, and a dozen Palisade peaches without squishing them. I especially love that it transitions from tote to backpack in seconds, which is handy when biking or when my hands are full walking the dog. The back panel includes breathable mesh to minimize sweat. There’s no padded laptop sleeve, so I wouldn’t use it for travel with my computer, but for short jaunts, it works just fine. $99, stio.com.

2. Cotopaxi Elqui 24L Daypack

When you need special features without paying the weight penalty, the Elqui delivers. I have taken it on short day hikes around the valley and appreciate a bag that offers the features of a heftier pack without adding the bulk. The 24-liter capacity swallows my layers, snacks, and a two-liter water bladder without feeling overstuffed. An extra-long zipper on one side makes it easy to reach items at the bottom. Other features include an adjustable sternum strap, trekking pole loops, dual water bottle pockets, a removable waist belt, and quick-access strap pockets. Cotopaxi’s recycled materials and Fair Trade approach are icing on the cake. Available in three colors. $100, cotopaxi.com.

3. Yeti 14L Insulated Tote Bag

Yeti’s cooler tote hybrid recently came with me on a paddleboarding afternoon at Chapman Reservoir. It kept my sandwiches cold all day, and even with the sun blasting off the water, my seltzers were frosty whenever I cracked one open. It’s a bit heavy for its size, but that’s the price of serious insulation. I also use it for music nights at the tent and Thursday concerts. It doesn’t have the long-term cooling power of Yeti’s main-line coolers, but that’s not its job. Its MagSnap closure makes for quick access while sealing in the cold. For size reference, the 14-liter fits 20 12-ounce cans or up to three wine bottles. Available in several colors. $135, yeti.com.

4. Amundsen Okavanga Duffel Bag 65L

This duffel looks like it could have been strapped on Lawrence’s camel in Arabia. Durable and dependable for long journeys, its heavy-duty cotton canvas and leather detailing scream “heritage piece,” and I’m convinced it will age beautifully. Features include two stow pockets, a removable shoulder strap, a lined interior, and two safari patches that make you want to toss it in the back of a dusty Land Rover and head for the savanna. Available in three colors. $349, amundsensports.com.

5. Gregory Maven 48L (or Paragon 50L)

For ambitious hikes like the Four Pass Loop or an overnight to Conundrum Hot Springs, I highly recommend the Maven (the Paragon is the men’s version). Gregory’s suspension system keeps weight off the shoulders, and the hip belt doesn’t pinch, even when fully loaded. The front stretch pocket is perfect for quick grab items like a rain shell, and the hydration bladder compatibility is a big plus. This is a true backpacking pack, featuring an AirCushion mesh back panel, FreeFloat hip belt, full-length side loading access, perforated dual-density shoulder harness, trekking pole attachment loops, a mesh strap compartment for a phone or GPS device, and a zippered bottom sleeping bag compartment. It’s a beast without feeling like you’re hauling one. $270, gregory.com.

6. Fjällräven Greenland Shoulder Bag

Think messenger bag meets heritage outdoor gear. I use this mostly for workdays when I want something casual but not sporty. It fits my laptop (up to 15 inches), a notebook, a small water bottle, and an extra layer. Fjällräven’s famous G-1000 fabric feels tough enough to withstand daily use. The waxed fabric resists water, but I wouldn’t test it in a downpour. A stabilizing strap keeps it in place while biking, and a discreet zippered pocket against the back holds valuables. This would also make a great travel companion for a European trip or a scenic Amtrak ride through the Rockies. $135, fjallraven.com.

Meg Simon is an Aspen-based freelance writer, graphic designer and founder of Simon Finch Creative. She can be reached at meg@simonfinchcreative.com.

Meg Simon is an Aspen-based freelance writer, graphic designer, and founder of Simon Finch Creative. She can be reached at meg@simonfinchcreative.com.