Review: Crumpler Part and Parcel

Crumpler was started in 1995 by two ex-bicycle messengers and a courier. Their goal was to produce stylish bags that could withstand a beating. They have managed to do just that and their Part and Parcel laptop messenger bag is no exception. According to Crumpler, the Part and Parcel is right for you if “you are seeking the ultimate messenger style laptop satchel, with ‘kitchen sink’ features.”

How does it hold up? Hit the jump for my in-depth review.

The Part and Parcel has a water resistant 1000D shell with a 300D ripstop lining. These two materials are extremely durable and will definitely last through years of heavy use. Inside the main pocket there is a padded laptop compartment (which holds up to a 15.4″ laptop - my 15″ MacBook Pro fit like a glove) and 3 velcro pockets. There is also a gusseted zip pocket with a 6 pocket organizer. The main strap has Crumpler’s trademarked “Quick Flick” buckle and has an adjustable, removable shoulder pad with a “Third Leg” stability strap. Now what does all this jargon mean? After using the bag for a week, I can tell you exactly how well the bag works out and if it lives up to its hype (meaning it will replace my current bag).

As a college student, I have to carry around tons of books every day. I must say that the Part and Parcel does indeed hold what I usually take to class each day (my 15″ MacBook Pro, a large textbook, three notebooks, and some pens). In addition to holding all my stuff, it actually protects my computer. Most laptop bags I have tried either provide not enough padding for my computer but have enough space, or they have enough space, but don’t offer enough protection for my computer. The Part and Parcel offers the best of both worlds. Another problem I have had in the past have shown signs of stress on the seams after just a few days of use. The seams on the Part and Parcel still look exactly as they looked when the bag was brand new.

The bag also has three velcro pockets in the main compartment as well as a gusseted zip pocket with pockets inside for things such as pens, pencils, etc. along with enough room for a few folders or magazines.

The top flap of the bag is held down by two huge pieces of velcro as well as well as two buckles. The inside of the flap has a large, mesh zippered pocket for small, thin items. Although this is a handy pocket to have (as there are no pockets on the outsize), it seems to me that the zipper is on the wrong side of the pocket. If you open the pocket while wearing the bag, all of the contents of the pocket would fall out.

Last but not least, the strap on the bag is made of a seatbelt-like material and it actually seems more sturdy than the seatbelts in my car. The strap is extra long, but the Quick Flick buckle allows you to easily adjust the length. The bag also comes with an excellent removable shoulder pad which includes what Crumpler calls the Third Leg stability strap. This strap connects under your arm to a buckle on the side of the bag to keep the bag from swinging around. Surprisingly, it really does work! No more holding my bag while I rush to class.

After using the Crumpler Part and Parcel for a week, it definitely is becoming my main bag. I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a great laptop bag with a lot of space. I’m sure all of Crumpler’s products are just as good, however I can not speak from experience as this is the first Crumpler product I have used.

Pros: Great construction (metal zippers and pulls are a nice touch). Plenty of pockets to keep things organized. Easy to adjust strap. Laptop compartment is padded very well.
Cons: Nothing really, just a few little things: If you are in a quiet place such as a library or meeting, the velcro on the flap makes too much noise. The zipper on the mesh flap pocket is on the wrong side (in my opinion). Could use a pocket for a bottle on the outside.

Crumpler Part and Parcel is available for $160 and is available both online and in Crumpler’s retail stores.