Carrying your things on a walking commute
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Most walking commutes come down to one bag. Set it up well and you'll barely notice it.
1. Use a backpack with two straps.
Two padded straps spread the weight across both shoulders. A tote or a messenger bag pulls on one side, and you feel it by the end of a long walk. Tighten the straps so the bag sits high and close to your back; a chest strap helps on walks over 20 minutes.
2. Keep a few things at work.
A pair of office shoes, a phone charger, a spare layer and an umbrella can live at your desk. Then you can walk in comfortable sneakers and carry a lighter bag every day.
3. Protect your laptop.
A backpack with a padded laptop pocket keeps the heaviest thing close to your back, where it's easiest to carry. A rain cover or a waterproof bag keeps it dry in a downpour.
4. Leave room for layers.
In winter you'll warm up as you walk. Room in the bag for a hat, gloves or a fleece lets you shed a layer halfway there.
5. Errands on the way home.
A folding tote tucked in your bag covers a stop at the store. For a bigger shop, a rolling cart does the heavy lifting; see Walking with stuff.
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