Bag It

We’re not ashamed to admit that we’re all about the latest ‘It’ bag. But we’ll also admit that we’re so not into whatever Katie, Angelina or Paris are carrying. Our interest is tied more directly to reducing waste and using fewer plastic bags (without sacrificing style, of course) so for fall, we’re building a bit of a bag wardrobe.

Bagging Groceries
For trips to the grocery store, we’re planning to accessorize with the Grocery Pod. The round shape of this reusable and washable fabric grocery bag means it fits more than two plastic bags worth of groceries inside. The long straps allow for carrying by hand or over the shoulder and the eight different patterns are all a definite fashion cut above the usual grocery store reusable bag (so we can help save the earth in style). Available at www.sacked.ca ($29.50)

Bagging Lunch
School lunches are just around the corner and the perfect lunchbox is just what we need for the season. Technically you could call the Fleurville Lunch Pak a backpack, as it can be worn that way (and kids love to) but it can also be carried by the handle or clipped onto other bags. Its heat-reflective, easy to clean lining provides great insulation and the bag is PVC-free, Teflon free and lead-free. We like the host of extra features: the insulated beverage sleeve, the hidden nametag so strangers can’t learn the owner’s name but it can be readily identified when lost and the project pocket for little works of art. Available at www.gingerbreadmonkeys.com ($32)

For something a little more old-school but equally PVC free, the insulated lunch bags from Crocodile Creek are a great buy. Savvy-tested over three years of school and summer camp, ours is still going strong. The outside pocket comes in handy for little treasures and the inside is easy to wipe clean. Available at Mastermind ($14.99)

Tested by Denise S., Toronto

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