what bag for commuting - running erands?

[surgtech1956]

Maybe this should be a survey - what kind of bag does everyone use - is best for running erands - commuting? Do you use the same bag, more than one bag? For commuting I have a messenger bag or backpack - for work I will just need to carry tubes, tools, lock, lunch, raingear, pda, zune. But for running an errand(no more than a bag of groceries) is a rear trunk bag or pannier best? I think the pannier might be too big and pricey.
Thanks

[indigoiis]

I use a timbuk2 messenger bag. I like the strap that keeps it put.
I have also used a backpack made for hiking, that has stay-put straps. I guess it's the stay-put staps on any bag that I must have. I can't stand slipping, sliding bags.
I do find that the messenger bag sits low on the back and fits whether I ride the commuter or the road bike. A backpack is too cumbersome for the road bike.

[F8th637]

For just a bag of groceries I just usually take one pannier or one of those fold-out baskets that go on your rear rack. I secure it with a bungee. I am not a fan of messenger bags or backpacks but that's just a personal preference and sometimes I will use them when I have to.

[coyote]

I have 3 bags, depends on the weather:
rack trunk for winter - enough room for a shirt and lunch
grocery pannier for hot dry weather - I like to carry a nice bag into work and I like having the ablity to just drop in.
water resistant pannier for hot wet weather - need I say more?

Basically, the hotter it is the more official bike cloths I wear, and have to carry office cloths.

I've ruined my trunk bag and will be looking for a new one but I ruined my really cheapy panniers last summer so, I'm looking to replace them first.

I don't really like the grocery pannier for commuting that much. It is not aerodynmic...kind of like riding with a big square block on the side. I've been considering the kitty litter containers panniers or the duct tape panniers What the heck, if I'm going to have something boxy on the side why not almost free and boxy?

[tulip]

I just got back from the bank downtown, on my bike. Since I only had to go to the bank, I took an over-the-shoulder sling bag that I got at the Gap years ago for about $10. It's big enough to put my jacket in (I thought it would be cooler out there), but very light. I find my Timbuk2 messenger bag heavy even when it's nearly empty.

I live across the street from my primary grocery store, so I walk there with a fold-up wheeled thingy. I do go across town 5 miles every few weeks to the health-food store to get stuff I can't get at my local store. I use panniers in that case.

[GLC1968]

I wanted a basket on the front of my bike just because I thought it would be cute, but what I've discovered is how incredibly useful and handy it is!

It holds the same amount of groceries as a full paper bag (about 3 plastic bags worth?). Mine has a bar attached to the front hub as support, so weight is not a problem. When I'm riding, I don't notice it affecting my steering, but it does get a little wonky at super slow speeds (when carying a heavy item or two).

It's so convenient to have something to just toss things in and I love that it's permanently attached to my bike. Nothing I have to carry - or to worry about getting stolen...and it doesn't make me sweaty!

This is the one I have. The bar that is sticking up in the photo is only there when they ship it - it actually goes under the basket and attaches to the front hub when you install it. (mine's silver & matches my fenders) Wald and Basil both have TONS of basket styles and some of them are designed to hold quite a bit of cargo with ease.