Running "backpacks"

jennalink807

I am interested in starting to run to work once or twice a week during the nice weather as my way of commute (and logging some more easy miles in preparation for a fall marathon). I ran in once a couple of weeks ago and it was a nice run, but I used one of those string backpacks to carry my stuff and it was awful. It's about 7 miles one way, so I need something that will be comfortable to run with for over an hour.

Through my research, all of the running packs I found were hydration packs that had water bladders in them. I don't really need water, just a comfortable, light pack to put a change of clothes, deodorant, and purse contents in. (I figure I'll bring my lunch in the day before and leave in the fridge if I know I plan to run the next day so I'm not trying to carry food in the heat.)

Anyone else run to work? What do you use to carry your things? Can I get a hydration pack and just not use the bladder, but take it out and put other things in there?

jturnerx

Just take out the hydration bladder. If you need to carry more stuff look up fastpacking backpacks and you may find something that works for you there.

DavidMartinez2

I have ran to work using just a regular backpack with a chest strap with no problem (outside of the 10 lbs of crap I was carrying). For me the primary feature is that I be able to prevent the bag from bouncing as I run. I suggest going to REI or somewhere similar and try bags out and just run around the store until you find one you like.

SteveTries

Alternatively is it possible to take those things you'll need into the office the day before so you don't have to carry them?

jennalink807

Thanks for the suggestions, everyone! I wasn't sure if hydration packs had removable bladders but if I can do that, then one of those looks like it will do the trick. I was worried that with a regular backpack, my small items would just bounce around in there and drive me crazy, but I think stuffing them into a hydration backpack will do nicely.

redredy9

Lululemon makes ones but its Lululemon so its cute but pricey

http://shop.lululemon.com/products/clothes-accessories/women-bags/Run-From-Work-Backpack-II?cc=5375&skuId=3494235&catId=women-bags

pdworkman

Yup - check out a camping store and go for a daypack with all of the right straps - chest, waist, etc.

I have ran to work using just a regular backpack with a chest strap with no problem (outside of the 10 lbs of crap I was carrying). For me the primary feature is that I be able to prevent the bag from bouncing as I run. I suggest going to REI or somewhere similar and try bags out and just run around the store until you find one you like.

meagalayne

I opt to run home instead of running to work, and it's wonderful. I don't need to really carry anything but my keys and mobile. Everything else I can either leave at home or at work, and collect the next day.

Good luck!

miguelrunner

Yeah I agree: take your change of clothes the day before so you can run without a backpack.