The average office worker carries thousands of pounds to and from the office every day. Not in the form of crisp bank notes, of course, but in tech. Think about it: there’s your mobile for starters, then headphones , perhaps a tablet but most likely a laptop .
There are portable power banks , folding keyboards , cameras - the list goes on. And where is this treasure trove of valuables stashed? In a tatty sports bag or backpack barely a rung or two higher than what you might have used at school. Indeed, the morning rush hour scene in the City is one of streams of people marching towards their places of work with backpacks snugly strapped on, reinforced worker ants on a mission.
While it might make you feel like an overgrown schoolchild, the appeal - particularly for back health which becomes more of a concern with age - is clear. Apart from spreading the weight evenly across your shoulders and pulling them back from a slouch, having a dedicated work backpack means your hands are free for other things, like carrying coffee, bags of groceries or reading the Standard unhindered. But a backpack alone isn't a deterrent for prying hands.
In 2013, TfL data showed a shocking rise in tube crime , with thefts, pickpocketing and robberies making up most of the offences. As a society, we’ve never carried around more tech, so protecting it is key. Could the answer be this Extreme Commuter Backpack from accessories brand Mous? I took it for a spin to find out.
I’m a crossbody and tote.