I prefer messenger bags, purely for the fact I can rummage through it without taking it off.

The only con is that the strap can nestle itself nicely inbetween the moobs and accentuate them =P but a binder usually solves that problem

I use a messenger bag because back-packs hurt my back and cause me to slouch.  Plus I've a pretty awesome messenger bag that has the English flag on it

I use a giant army satchel - it's actually a British WW2 bag, it has even seen action!  I think it is a very dudely bag.  Plus it fits all my sketchbooks and art stuff and whatever I need to carry to school, as well as my lunchbox which is a Lego suitcase thing. I mostly see guys using messenger bag type things.

The main reason why I have a messenger bag at times is because I can access it's contents without stopping, taking it off, unzipping this and that, rummaging, digging, finding, and drawing out, whatever I need out of it..
'course, when I'm walking 'round with it, it's notebook or sketchbook that I'm after..

Also, there's just something about walking 'round with a big (no really, really really big) backpack that makes me feel awkward. Only people 'round here that use 'em are school children and tourists.
Also, since I'm quite "chesty" the shoulder straps against the armpit area accentuate my chest more than the single strap of a messenger bag does.. even with the binder.

I have a messenger bag, I don't think it looks feminine at all.

Backpack.

Quote from: Nathan. on June 19, 2010, 09:21:41 AM
I have a messenger bag, I don't think it looks feminine at all.

Sure thing dude.
(just raging on ya)

It all depends on the bag, not all messenger bags look like purses, and even those that do don't necessarily make you less of a man.

Kiefer Sutherland isn't exactly known as a "pansy" but his bag is highly purse-like in this photo..


What I want is more like...

because it has compartments for my art-supplies...

'course... I'll just end up making one...
like my old one...
Home-Made stuff for the win..

non-feminine messenger bag
or a drawstring gym bag
these things

Quote from: Miniar on June 19, 2010, 09:18:08 AM
Also, since I'm quite "chesty" the shoulder straps against the armpit area accentuate my chest more than the single strap of a messenger bag does.. even with the binder.

That's exactly the problem I have!

@cynthialee -  I think he's just holding it girly-like. 

@Miniar - It is true, if you look super-macho it's ok to carry a slightly "purse-ish" bag. 

I use messenger bags, two of which were bought from men's stores and were designed for male use. The mid-size one can hold a laptop. I just refer to them as my 'bags' or 'man purses'. I tried using a backpack for school but my chest tumors are so big that they extend into the armpits, especially when wearing a squishing sports-bra. It was hideously uncomfortable. A strap across the chest has always been more practical for me.

I am thinking, though, that as I enter early transition I may hold off on anything that comes across as "feminizing" until I look more masculine. It'll probably help me pass easier.