Spot on review. I bought one of these thinking I'd be able to use it much more than I have. What keeps me from choosing it often is the access to the main compartment. There's a lot of room in it, but the access is so restricted, it really limits what you can put in there and comfortably access while on your body. Love the look, but I keep going back to my Peak Design slings because they open way up.
Hey Rich! Thanks for reaching out and sharing your experience with the community. We get what you're saying when it comes to the main compartment, as it falls short from an organization and practicality standpoint-especially for a sling this size. 😊👍 - Rebecca
Hey Rich, what kind of items would you typically carry in a sling like this? When you say the access is restricted, could you expand on that a bit more? I would typically carry (at most) an umbrella, compressed jacket, sunscreen, mosquito repellant, powerbank, cables, and earphones-mostly largeish bulky items (and maybe some small camera lenses in future). If you could share your thoughts, it would be most appreciated :)
@@MrJed_s Hi Jed. The other day I attempted to carry a point & shoot camera, large-ish power bank, nintendo switch lite and my bose over the ear headphones. I would think that's a totally reasonable set of items for this size bag. It all does fit. But I found myself working too hard to get things in and out. Again, it did fit, but the best configuration had the Switch in the front pocket (as it was the most flat). I didn't like this as it was the most delicate item and that was the outside pocket of the bag. I have tried to carry my Sony A6500 and one extra lens and could fit them and retrieve them decently, but adding more items quickly made it too difficult to take them in and out. The Peak Design bags are built to always be putting things in and taking out, so I keep going back to them for convenience. Your specific set of items I actually think will just plain not fit in this bag. Or at least it will be packed out so much, it would be an annoyance. I think this bag is ideal for wallet, keys, phone, glasses and a snack. Or a water bottle and a phone. Less than you think.
@@rlabarca interesting, thanks for the information. For the price, I'd have to be very happy with this sling, but sounds like I might not be. Might have to check out the peak design options, or just stick with the cheapo sling I've got
you’re problem won’t be there with the bellroy venture sling. i have one and highly recommended because it opens up accordion style so i can stuff a hoodie in their damn near!
The bellroy Sling has been my EDC since I got it for Christmas last year. Although I have a lot of bags, the Sling works very well for me, holding a full length wallet, hand sanitizer, pen and small notebook in the front. The back easily holds a Sony RX100 size camera, sunglasses, spare face masks, keys, and room for a bit more. At a pinch, the main compartment can hold small camera lenses. The back inside back pocket is useful for for spare camera batteries and memory cards. I think of it as an extra set of pockets rather than a bag.
@@jennenicole9014 A small compact camera like a Sony RX100 is fine. I even put a Panasonic GX85 with small prime into my bellroy sling. On the other hand, I wouldn't trust it to handle a more fragile camera like, for example, a Contax T3 film camera. If you want more protection, a small pouch for the compact will fit, but I don't think it's necessary.
Love the auto-compression feature on this, looks like it would work for just a few things that didn't fit in your pockets all the way to a day pack replacement. It's a shame they didn't add more internal organisation, especially considering how easy it would have been. Also didn't realise it was an Australian company-might help to justify buying this sling that costs almost as much as my main bag (which was also made in Australia by an Australian company, even though they are sadly no longer making bags).
We hear you, Jed! With the auto-compression feature, you can keep a low profile if you’re wearing the sling with fewer items inside. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us, we love hearing what works (and what doesn't work) for you. 😊🙌 - Rebecca
I wish they made a slightly larger version that could fit a 10/11" tablet, with more organisation (especially a key pocket - they scratch stuff!) The main zipper is too narrow.
Thanks for a nice and comprehensive review. I have just bought a Bellroy Sling 7L and I love it so much. Although I agree with you that the main pocket would benefit more if it has a divider or mini pocket inside I am of the opinion that it wants us to treat it just like an extension of our pants pocket 😊
Considering getting one of these mainly for travelling overseas and for day-to-day use. How secure is the magnetic strip? I do like the versatility but the last thing I'd want is a pick-pocket being able to easily snatch my bag off me.
Been enjoying my Bellroy Sling! I've been using it for a couple months. Would've been nice to have some sort of magnetic key clip as it can get quite awkward to undo my keys. Would've also liked a slightly larger opening for the main compartment as it can be hard putting larger items in i.e. a camera or water bottle. Still a great bag though! (doesn't look overly techy which is a plus for me)
That's awesome to hear, DjentleDjiant! We're glad you've been able to adapt this sling so that it works for you. And, we get what you're saying when it comes to the key clip, especially with the positioning, it can be difficult to access. Thanks for sharing your experience with the community! 😊🙌 - Rebecca
@@PackHacker Thanks for the reply Rebecca! Also wanted to note you can put a Heroclip (got one based off your recommendations) on the right or left of the bag's self compressing mechanism. Works well!
I sold mine, the internal pocket is horrible to reach and get your stuff, you basically need to take your sling off and then reach for your items. Good review! Cool you guys mentioned this as well.
it's good as an edc carry dont put to much in there just treat it as a slightly bigger replacement to your pants pockets, and you should have no problem, the blue bag is very versatile and can fit many outfits because of the look of the strap and the clip. But I agree it is not perfect
@@PackHacker Yes, because it is the most stylish one, others usually have large plastic clips or other such plastic components that make it hard to use in a serious environment.
I have been using the Peak Design Everyday Sling 10L and beginning to realize that it is a bit too big for my current needs. I came across this sling and the size looks perfect but it is very disappointing to see how little organization there is inside after being spoiled by the interior flexibility offered by PD's Sling.
I bought this product in 2023. the keyring is replaced with a carbiner solution made half metal. a lot better thant the plastic ring in the video. I like the main compartment ziper of the 7l version better than in the new venture 6l. the 6l does not close completely, the 7l closes completely and holds the stuff inside safely.
Hey James - thanks for sharing your thoughts with us, there's no best bag or sling for everyone, you've got to find what works for you and your travel style. 😊🙌 - Rebecca
Love this sling. Recently took it on an extended trip using planes, buses and a train, and found it was a terrific way to keep things out of my pockets but still close for easy access. I agree it can be a bit of a struggle to retrieve items or remove them; it's a choreography you have to get used to, but the small size of the sling makes this a good trade off. It feels great in the back position, nestling just about in the middle of the back. I also carry it under my left arm, allowing me to shift it forward or backward quickly. The strap is thin, perfect in size, with no loose ends to rub you. The magnetic buckle is ideal as its light, thin and reliable. The key ring location is not a problem as I pull out the key fob to the outside of the sling, snugging the zipper to it so that the remaining keys are inside the sling. Easy peasy for access, and I tuck the fob inside when away from my car. Love this nifty little sling; it's not capacious, but it's tight organization appeals. I combine it with my larger sling camera bag which I use for carry on, with the sling bag under my left arm and the carry on bag over my right shoulder.
Hey Arvin - we're glad you're digging the reviews! We currently have no plans to review the Deuter Belt II in the immediate pipeline, but we'll check it out. 😊👍 - Rebecca
Main compartment is a bit too small for an iPad Air2. Just 1/2 inch larger in one dimensions would have made this a great sling. Love the magnetic buckle. Agree about the cheap key clip and the lack of organization. They should have made it like the pouch. I ended up returning it.
Hey Seth, thanks for sharing your experience with us! We get what you're saying and it's so important to find a sling that's going to work for you. Have you been able to find a replacement yet? 😊 - Rebecca
Pack Hacker nothing has replaced my 90s Roots Canada canvas sling yet. (Yet another Detroit shout out). Love to replace it with a sling that could hold an iPad, a spare long sleeved t shirt and a few EDC items. Something more refined.
We hear you, Seth! Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us. You can also check out the Mystery Ranch Sling Thing packhacker.com/travel-gear/mystery-ranch/sling-thing/ and the Patagonia Atom Sling packhacker.com/travel-gear/patagonia/atom-sling/ 👍 - Rebecca
I'd also like to see a review of this. Looks like they added the exact two divider pockets in the front compartment like Tom suggested! Though I saw another review that noted that it doesn't carry correctly when fully loaded.
You should check out the Waterfield Sutter Tech Sling ! Super practical, super gorgeous! It’s like a little backpack with a very smart buckle system and a lot easier to access than most other slings ☺️
Hey Prasenjit! The City Pouch could be a good option if you'd rather not use a sling. You can find our review below. Thanks for the comment! - Austin packhacker.com/travel-gear/bellroy/city-pouch/
Hey 22ple Pte. Ltd. - we currently do not have the iPad Pro 11 to verify this 100%, but from comparing the dimensions of the iPad and the Bellroy Sling, it looks like it should just fit. Hope this helps! 😊 - Rebecca
The zipper to the main compartment is only just over 23 cm long, I believe. So while the iPad (248 x 178mm) theoretically fits within the overall dimensions of the sling, it could be challenging, if not impossible, to get it in and out.
The video doesn't discuss how the female tester (around 6:20) found the access to the main compartment. To my eye - and comparing with other (male) reviewers I've seen, as well as how I'd wear such a bag myself - it does look as if you are wearing the strap quite short with the bag correspondingly high on the body, which would certainly account for the T-rex arms dilemma you describe but which I've not seen anyone else complain about in reviews. The female tester seems to be wearing it a little lower/longer, and I imagine that could make a difference.
Hey Yvonne - we totally get what you're saying, if the strap length is longer it's a little easier to access the main compartment, but it still isn't convenient because the main compartment remains close to your body. That being said, when it comes to the position of the sling, you've got to do what works for you. For us, this can depend on what items we're carrying, as the weight distribution seems to even out more when securing it higher to your body, but your mileage may vary. Thanks for reaching out and sharing your thoughts with the community! 😊👍 - Rebecca
Hey Ian! We currently have no plans to review the Incase Side Camera Bag in the immediate pipeline, but we'll check it out. You can also take a look at our initial thoughts of the Incase DSLR Sling Pack packhacker.com/travel-gear/incase/dslr-sling-pack/ and the Incase Diamond Wire Reform Sling Pack packhacker.com/travel-gear/incase/diamond-wire-reform-sling-pack/ 😊👍 - Rebecca
I have the Incase Side Camera bag, and the smaller Incase Side bag. The Camera version is large enough for a small DSLR or mirrorless camera and has thin velcro dividers. The front pocket is reasonably useful, but the hidden back pocket is too small for anything but a smallish phone or folding wallet. Not big enough for a large smartphone or long wallet, if that what you carry. The shell is molded but fairly inflexible, which helps protect your gear, but sticks out like a box. The strap is wide and comfortable, but not long enough if you're a large person or are wearing thick winter clothing. The straps slide out of the buckle loops a bit easy for my liking, and there's no plastic retaining loops like on a more expensive bag like a Porter Tanker sling. I also have the incase Ari Marcopolous bag, which is much better quality and better designed. Also much more expensive.
Hey JP! We currently have no plans to review the ALPAKA Air Sling in the immediate pipeline, but it's on the list. Thanks for reaching out! 😊 - Rebecca
Hey dave hipolito - we currently do not have any plans to review a Boundary Supply Duffel Pack in the immediate pipeline, but we'll check it out! However, if you're looking for a duffel, check out the Aer Travel Duffel packhacker.com/travel-gear/aer/travel-duffel/ and the Peak Design Travel Duffel 35L packhacker.com/travel-gear/peak-design/travel-duffel-35l/ - hope this helps! - Rebecca
hi , my name is oren im enjoied your video and thought u r the guy to ask im filming with go pro no DSLR camera and my gear is selfi stick -- 20 CM tripod - 19 - CM camera - gopro camera - gopro media mod camera - gopro water case microphone - RODE videomicro light cube ND filters - 3 total batteries - 2 mount - chest floating wrist strap i saw the models and i most relate to the bellroy cause i can fit my selfie stick questions: 1. whats best sling or a fanny ? 2. whice one will be best for my equiepment ( i need room for selfie stick and tripd (im noy using DSLR) (i wish i had a bag that couls fir the gopro intact with the selfie stick :) - that requiers a bag that can fit 24 CM or so) please please please, could u help me find a solution ? thanks alot !!!!!!
Yup. Fits perfectly in the main pocket. The "Whale Shark mouth" opening will always be a detractor for me, but it can definitely fit some longer items.
@@dogtownheroes both versions? I like how small the sling mini is but I don't want to have to take the joycons off the switch itself so the larger sling might have to do
@@edwardnovick9904 just the larger one, as far as I know...the tech pouch by waterfield designs is also pretty sweet if you want easier access, and and a bit of a fancier look.
I love Bellroy wallets.. sadly the materials used on this sling bag looks and feels like the ones I see on cointerfeit stores. Not entirely high quality if you ask me. Thr strap is not what I expect from a quality brand.
Hey - we currently do not have the iPad Pro 11 to verify this 100%, but from comparing the dimensions of the iPad and the Bellroy Sling, it looks like it should just fit. However, it's important to note that due to the size of the access to the main compartment, this may be tricky to take it in and out. Hope this helps! - Rebecca
@@PackHacker maybe you could get some cardboard cutouts with the same dimensions as some typically carried products? I’m sorry if that’s demanding but lots of us want to know if certain bags can hold certain tablets or phones in their pockets.
Hey Sail 94 - from comparing the dimensions of the iPad Air 2 and the Bellroy Sling, it looks like this tablet should fit inside, but we currently do not have this tablet to verify 100%. 😊 - Rebecca
Hey! We recommend checking out the Mission Workshop Spar Sling packhacker.com/travel-gear/mission-workshop/spar-sling/ and the Mystery Ranch Sling Thing packhacker.com/travel-gear/mystery-ranch/sling-thing/ for a little extra space. 😊 - Rebecca
This is a hundred bucks, I just don't see the premium as I'd rather save the hunnit and stuff my pockets with things. I'd be a buyer for something so small for about 30 bucks honestly; I think for every person willing to buy this for 100, 10 would be into it for 30ish. Not trying to beat up Bellroy but I just don't see the premium whatsoever because even cheaply priced Chinese bags are using premium materials and great zippers.
Hey Cris! Thanks for sharing your thoughts with the community, you've got to find what works for you and your travel style. We recommend checking out our Best Sling Bag Guide packhacker.com/guide/best-sling-bag/ for more suggestions. Hope this helps! 😊 - Rebecca
Any tips on anti-thefting your non-antitheft bag as much as you possibly can? Or tips for avoiding pick-pocketers? Unsure if this concern steers away from the nature of your channel, but just curious?
Hey Evan - picking up a pack with hidden zippers or smaller compartments hidden by the back panel can give you some peace of mind. You can also pick up some luggage locks like the Desired Tools TSA Approved Locks packhacker.com/travel-gear/desired-tools/tsa-approved-luggage-locks/ so that the main compartment and laptop compartment is more secure. In addition to this, if security is an issue for you then you may want to check out something like the Pacsafe Venturesafe X40 Plus packhacker.com/travel-gear/pacsafe/venturesafe-x40-plus/ and the Pacsafe Venturesafe X Anti-Theft Sling Pack packhacker.com/travel-gear/pacsafe/venturesafe-x-anti-theft-sling-pack/ - hope this helps! - Rebecca
There's also Riut Bags, their main concept is that the zippers are up against your back so it's impossible to access without taking the bag off. Didn't end up buying it though so don't know how it holds up in the real world.
