It may be a simple hook attached to a bag, but its clever design has impressed many users. The San Francisco-based company, Peak Design, has dubbed it the BagLev, highlighting its functionality in keeping their City Line bags elevated off dirty surfaces.
How often do we casually drop our bags on kitchen counters or tables, despite the grime they may have collected from streets, public transport, or other public areas? The BagLev hook is designed to mitigate that issue, allowing users to hang their bags from various surfaces, preserving their cleanliness while navigating urban landscapes.
I had the chance to test Peak Design’s ingenious hook with two of their bags while traveling through France in a van. Over a few weeks, I found myself reaching for the 12-liter City Crescent crossbody bag for casual outings, while the 15L City Backpack was ideal for workdays when I needed my laptop. The BagLev hook effectively kept my bags clean over different terrains, and any dirt accumulated on its light “Moon” fabric easily wiped off with a cloth.
As trivial as it sounds, the inclusion of the BagLev hook has transformed my expectations for everyday bags. Other bags without a hook now seem inadequate and dirtier by comparison.
Throughout my travels, the 12-liter City Crescent bag proved incredibly versatile. The design features a range of thoughtful details, including a quick-access pocket with a magnetic closure, making it aesthetically pleasing and functional. The hook offers practical benefits, though the bag itself lacks dedicated protection for electronic devices.
Meanwhile, the 15-liter City Backpack offers better laptop protection with well-padded compartments. Despite its useful features like padded shoulder straps and spacious zippered pockets, it does miss some design enhancements seen in its crossbody counterpart, such as a rotating hook, which limits hanging options.
Peak Design positions its City Line bags as approachable options for urban users rather than solely camera enthusiasts. With lightweight, water-resistant materials, these bags seamlessly fit in both chic cafes and casual work settings. Unique elements, such as easy-grip zipper pulls, integrated key tethers, and pockets for trackers, accentuate their design without overshadowing the primary allure—the BagLev hook itself.
When out and about, switching between the City Crescent crossbody and the City Backpack revealed how each bag caters to different needs. The Crescent’s design allows easy access to frequently used items via its various compartments. In comparison, the more structured design of the City Backpack provides a better organization for gadgets, though it is less straightforward for casual carry.
At the end of the day, Peak Design’s City Line effectively balances lightweight design and durability. Although they’re priced at $119.95 for the City Crescent and $179.95 for the City Backpack, they cater to a wide audience seeking convenient and stylish everyday carry options.
For those not wanting to spend much yet looking for a similar functionality, various affordable tabletop bag hooks are on the market, granting easy access without the hassle of resting bags on dirty surfaces. After testing the City Line, I’ve become a convert—I now prefer using a hook to avoid putting my bag on unsanitary ground or my lap.
