Occasionally, a customer will ask why we don’t include a shoulder strap with the Brain Cell, Aeronaut, Western Flyer, Zephyr, Checkpoint Flyer, or Empire Builder bags. Here’s why:
Why a shoulder strap isn’t included with some of our bags
Flickr photo set: My Tom Bihn problem…
“The Ego just arrived today, so I barely have anything in it yet, but it’s the perfect replacement for my much-loved, but too-big-for-current-needs Brain Bag. The Small Cafe bag has been perfect for everyday use (and thanks to the Tom Bihn folks for replacing the buckle on it a few months ago!) and the Swift contains my yarn and doodads like no other bag can.”
Gear Diary Review: The Checkpoint Flyer

“What amazes me most is not the originality of thought that went into designing this bag (although a tremendous amount of originality of thought went into designing this bag!!) but the attention to detail on every aspect of this case. The zippers are splash proof. The material is tough as nails. The seams are all double stitched. And every single piece of the bag fits together perfectly — which is saying a lot when you consider how complicated the bag actually is. It’s now clear to me why Tom Bihn has earned the reputation they have.”
Read the entire review over at Gear Diary – complete with pictures. Or, see the Checkpoint Flyer.
Bundle packing with the Aeronaut
“I use the bundle method with my Aeronaut. However, I bundle into a large packing cube and then put this into the Aeronaut. Works like a charm. It might take a few practice runs first to get the bundle sized correctly, but once you get it down, its quite easy.” – posted by mruseless
“I also use the bundle method with my Aeronaut and packing cubes. In order to get the bundle sized correctly for the cubes I use the Tom Bihn Padded Organizer Pouches for the core of my bundles. I have found that the SuperDrive pouch is the perfect size for a large Aeronaut cube and the Medium pouch is just right for the Aeronaut small and end cubes. If you keep your bundle tight to the edge of the core pouch, the end result is the proper shape to fit into the packing cube.” – posted by RedBeard
Customer Feedback
“My Checkpoint Flyer arrived yesterday. You have truly outdone yourself with this product. Fit and finish are perfect. This is my new favorite bag. Thanks for continually upgrading your line and making such magnificent bags available.” – B.H.
“I gave my 82 yr old father your vertical messenger bag as a present that he uses every day. The clasp broke and I know he called you all for many weeks until a replacement clasp was sent. He was so happy. He could not bear to part with the bag to have you fix it. My father comes from an old fashioned tradition of customer service in conjunction with self reliance. Thanks so much for allowing for both.” – S.B.
“Tom..just wanted to thank you for all of your help , suggestions, and patience with my calls and questions.I have owned all kinds of bags in the past and i must say this is the most well thought out system yet. Quality is impeccable, strap is awesome, looks great, and the entire bag is laid out in a cogent fashion…you will have my business and referrals in the future..thank you again, i am extremely pleased with my purchase and your quality…” – A.M.








