Sustainable Travel Bag – Ecogear Fjord
The story behind Ecogear is simple, as told by Ecogear’s founder, Jimmy Chen:
“My inspiration for creating eco-friendly bags came while I was on vacation with my family. In the summer of 2006, watched my kids play on the beach. Realizing how special these moments were and thinking about how fast my kids were growing up, I was struck by a thought. What can I do to help to ensure my children have a clean and healthy planet to enjoy?”
Jimmy not only had the environment and his kids in mind when developing products, but also the moms who travel and make the purchases. These bags come in a variety of styles and colors to suit any personality. The best part? Ecogear products are not only eco-friendly but they’re super-affordable!
The company sent me a sample from their new Earth Series so that I could test it out while on the road. I was delighted to open the box and see the color – pink. I’m always on the lookout for bags that are colorful and make a statement. The Fjord messenger-style bag looked a bit small at first glance, but I soon found out just how much this smaller bag can handle.
The Earth Series by Ecogear is a sustainable line of bags made from RPET (recycled polyethylene terephthalate) water bottles with PVC/toxic free backing. The buckles are recycled plastic and includes natural cotton webbing and details.
I tested this bag on a day trip to Houmas House Plantation and Gardens to research their Art Gumbo Days which are held on the third Saturday of each month. I was able to pack my mini-notebook in the larger back padded pocket. In the front area I placed my Canon Digital Rebel SLR, with extra lens, travel harddrive and various other travel writer supplies. In a side pocket I packed a small reporter’s notepad and my Blackberry (along with a few dollars to get a morning Mimosa at the Turtle Bar). The other side pocket was claimed by my mother, who didn’t want to carry around a purse.
The Ecogear Earth Series Fjord would make a decent diaper bag in addition to doubling as a traveling mama’s best friend. I still had room to add a few magazines and full size folders inside the back pocket. The strap expands for carrying messenger-style, but can be folded nicely and secured by the padded velcro strap to act as a handle.
This item is currently available at Ecogear’s official website for a retail price of $39.99. Other products, including the sassy kid’s line start at $17.99. The Ecozoo line would be a hit with the little kids and they retail at $29.99 and there are other styles available for the men of the family. Follow Ecogear on Twitter @Ecogear
This product impressed me with both quality and affordability, making it On the Move Approved.
I’d love to have a bag like this – as a green living consultant and freelance travel writer – perfect! Thanks for sharing!