Beside-U Canada Backpack & Handbag Review
Beside-U backpacks and bags are your lightweight but durable nylon bags for everyday use or when travelling.
The two bags I got to try from Beside-U Canada on a recent trip to Israel you can see below. Well you can see the straps of the Westlake Backpack and the Mika crossbody. Those two bags were with me at all times during my travels through Israel. They were perfect for this trip. Read on to find out why they are fabulous travel bags and for everyday use.
Here I am with my Mika and Westlake bags at the top of Masada and that’s the Dead Sea you can see as well, in Israel. If you don’t know of the historical significance of this UNESCO site make sure to look it up, it’s fascinating.
I wouldn’t say that I have a lot of hobbies but the ones I do have I just adore. One of these hobbies includes travelling. I’m sure my readers can tell by the travel pieces that I’ve done in the past but I can’t say enough good things about some of the locations that my family and I have visited together. Travelling together really brings you closer as a family, so, I take advantage of the opportunities as often as I can. This was especially true when the opportunity to visit Israel was offered to me. I couldn’t have been more thrilled since it was the chance of a lifetime as I’ve always been fascinated by Israel.
Westlake Backpack
I knew I’d have a lot to carry around with me on my trip. Before I’d even begun packing my bags I knew this was going to be the case. This is why I was so thrilled to receive the beautiful Beside-U Canada bags just before my trip to Israel.
Let’s talk about the Westlake backpack in purple first, it’s 26cm L, 36.5cm H & 12.5cm D. As one of my favourite colours is purple, the Westlake couldn’t have been more perfectly suited to me. It has a simple design while also boasting a roomy interior so it was perfect for day time travel and I used it as a carry-on for my long plane rides. Beside-U Canada’s Westlake & Mika bags (among others) features an RFID blocking zippered pocket. They use German material that blocks the radio frequency found in our credit cards that allows us to tap when purchasing. This radio frequency can be picked up by people with $20 worth of equipment that can be purchased on Ebay/Amazon and all they have to do is stand next to you to pick up your credit card’s signal and steal your banking information.
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My Camera, water bottle and other necessities are fit perfectly inside with room to spare.
The Beside-U Westlake may look like a smaller backpack but it amazes me how much I can and did fit into this backpack. It also fit perfectly with room to spare in under the airplane seat as you can see below. Tons of room and I even had another small bag beside it and still had room for my feet. As part of my carry-on it had my snacks, camera, my tablet/laptop, antibacaterial wipes, lip balm and much more. I seriously could not believe how much I fit in to my lovely purple Westlake.
To give you an idea of how much can fit into the Beside-U Westlake backpack I’ve put together a collage of what I had in it. In the main compartment I had my tablet/laptop (it’s bigger than an iPad mini with a keyboard), Kindle Fire, DSLR camera, bag of snacks, sunglasses, and some smaller items.
Pictured below are the middle compartment and a small front zippered area. The small zippered area had my compact, essential oils, mints and more lip balm. The middle compartment has a 600ml water bottle, booklet, pens, battery charger and more as well.
Below is a quick photo I took of what was inside my Westlake while I was in Israel. The water bottle there is bigger than the 600ml water bottle I mentioned above.
The straps on the Westlake are padded and made it comfortable for the long day trips that I had in Israel. A regular day would be at least 10 hours on my feet with my DSLR camera, water, snacks, scarf and more in my Westlake and my wallet and smaller items in the cross-body Beside-U Mika handbag. This way I had easy access to money in the front of my person and heavier items in the Westlake backpack.
The Mika in zinc grey is another favourite of mine. Now I do have to tell you it’s probably not the grey colour you’re expecting I found it to be more of a dark pink grey, it’s hard to put into words. It’s a neutral colour but it’s a different grey than you might think is the best I can see. Check out the photos for yourself and decide. As mentioned I used the Mika as a cross-body bag. While in Israel we did a lot of walking and overall travel time amounted to quite a lot. So, I wanted to use the Mika to keep all of my items that I considered quick access items. Things like my wallet, my chapstick, credit cards, etc. went into it and I was able to reach them all without any hassle or having to stop and rummage through my Westlake bag. As previously mentioned the Mika also has an RFID zippered inside pocket so that’s where I always had my wallet.
Below are Beside-U Canada’s picture of the Mika. The bottom photos are the zinc grey colour.
Below is a picture of what I had inside the Mika on some days while travelling in Israel. Always my sunglass case was in there when I wanted to switch from my regular glasses to my sunglasses, especially on days when I was in the desert!
Features of the Mika
-Enhanced tear and abrasion resistance
-Lightweight and water resistance for everyday versaility
-Full RFID zippered pocket for your wallet
-Key Clip
-Adjustable drop length with strap keeper for shoulder or cross body wear (27″ – 52″)
-Zip-top closure with security click-hook
-Additional tab for dangle attachment
While I haven’t had a need for it I also like that my Mika had this security whistle attached to it for easy access in case of an emergency.
Both the Mika and the Westlake were such blessings to have while on my trip. They housed everything I needed during the duration of our travels and were so convenient to fit in everything I needed that I even used them as my carry on luggage for when we boarded the plane. While I was able to keep the Mika on my person at all times, the Westlake was easily able to be stored underneath my seat which was a great perk, in my opinion.
Here’s my Mika bag and I in the Judean Desert in Israel.
Each bag definitely had it’s upsides but one of my favourite features of both bags can be narrowed down to the RFID pockets. With information so easily stolen these days you can never be too careful with how you store your important documents and credit cards. The RFID pockets insured that no one, domestic or abroad, was able to steal my private information. The peace of mind I got from my Beside-U Canada Bags was just another added bonus when it came down to listing my favourite features about each bag.
Beside-U Canada is so much more than travel bags. They have a wonderful variety of bags that meet the needs of everyone. Their selection includes travel bags, handbags, men’s briefcases and even satchels, wallets, etc. so no matter what your needs are Beside-U Canada has them covered! I can tell you that one if not both of these bags will be with me on my next trip this summer!
Great review. I like all the compartments and the bags look comfy.
I have been looking for a lightweight backpack that would make my life easier while traveling and these have me really intrigued. Thank you for the informative review!
Great bags for travel. LOVE the detailed pictures that you have taken so that we can see every part of the bag and great write up
I love the RFID blocking zippered pocket and how spacious the bag is.
These bags look so nice and perfect, I totally want to pick one up!
These bags would be great for travelling. They would blend in, not flashy . Review was very well written
I like that they are light weight …and that you can put a lot of your stuff in them where they will be easy to access….very nice bags….
The bag does look great for traveling, light weight and great colour!
Looks like a practical line of travel bags that are functional for many uses. Thanks for showing us what kind of contents they hold and how you used them on your travels!
these bags look really great. They seem good for traveling. I like that they are light weight
This in-depth review has convinced me that a U-Canada handbag would fit all my needs and then some. I love the colours and the amazing versatility, as well as the wide range of styles. A crossbody style would suit me best as I like to have my hands free while shopping or walking.
I really could use a backpack with lots of compartments for my junk.
Great review! I liked the in depth product description that included specifics about the size and measurements. I also liked the photos that demonstrated the bags versatility and examples of how each compartment in the bag could be used for ease of storage.
I think it is great they use German material that blocks the radio frequency found in our credit cards that allows us to tap when purchasing.
Oooh, I love the sound of these bags for travelling! I love that there is an RFID zippered pocket, and a key ring. Thanks for all the great photos – it really helps to be able to see the bags in use, and have reference points for size, functionality etc.
They have something for everybody! Love the styles and designs and seriously I want a few!
I lie that there are so many zippered compartments you could carry many things in this while on the
go and the RFID is awesome too.
I loved this review for all the pictures that were included and how the bags helped on your trip.
I loved your review! Especially the fact that these have so many inside compartments! This is a must have for sure! Thank’s for sharing!
Thanks for posting the pictures and list of what you had in the bag. It’s hard to figure out what will fit in these bags especially when you purchase online and don’t get to actually see them. I love that they both come with RFID pockets and the whistle on Mika is another wonderful surprise.
I like both the colors of the bags. Purple is my favorite color too 🙂 I like that you were able to have all your necessities available in both bags. The cross body is great for when you only need a few of your belongings. It doesn’t sound like either bag was too heavy with all that was packed into them. Thank you for the review 🙂
These bags look very nice! I really need to get a nice durable backpack for our summer trips.
I love purple and enjoy a good backpack. This one looks great.
I was wishin for a crossbody before I left for my regular ( 3 flights ) trip to visit my husband. Every two to three months i fly from Sask. To Morocco. The RIFD feature sounds pretty amazing. Love the fact that this is a Canadian company. And also the fact that both crossbody and backpacks are zippered properly and can store alot. Thanks for this enlightening review and giveaway.
I love the colour and they look like they can hold so much stuff. I really like all the pockets.
Thank you for reviewing two different functioning bags, I think it’s a bit difficult to judge just how much a purse or backpack can contain. I’m glad you had a great adventure and that you could share just how great this brand is!
perfect for traveling..you have to travel light thanks
I love these bags. Having the right bag while travelling is so important! I’ll be checking these out!
I know you will love them no matter which one you select Erin, so many choices but they are awesome bags.
The back pack would be perfect to use when traveling! I like the size!
I like the grey of the Mika. Definitely not a stone grey, but very pretty. What a great idea to build in the RFID pocket.
Ooh Isreal would be amazing to visit! I love how you showed the way your items tucked so nicely into the backpack and how well it fit under the airplane seat! 🙂
AWESOME STUFF.WISH TO HAVE MORE THAN ONE
Im looking for a bag that has lots of zippered pockets, is big, and won’t break.
I learned about what the RFID is and why the bags have it. I love this safety feature, especially for traveling!
Love these bags! Look at all the compartments!
I really liked the cross body hand bag, so perfect for travelling. So many times you want to be hands free.
Stylish yet tough and I won’t go crazy thinking I have to watch every minute of the day that I will damage it.
I am looking for a backpack/diaper bag for my daughter in law. She would love a good one that she could use at the end of her diaper bag days and continue on using it for when they all go backpacking. I know she would love the pretty color.
I like the cross-body bag; it’s just the right size! The Violet color is cute.
These bags would make the perfect gift for my sister-in-law. She travels extensively for work and usually has to pack light and smart.
Great colors and RFD protection,too!
Every purse and backpack should include a RFID blocking zippered pocket for security purposes, it’s an awesome feature in the backpack you reviewed.
The RFID blocker is a huge plus these days, love all the compartments and zippers, lots of room!
I really appreciate a bag/purse that has lots of compartments.. I am 100% someone who carries a little bit of everything with me, so it;s nice to have the space! I really wasn’t too familiar with RFID but it sounds like something very valuable to have for your protection!
Wow, I never put much thought into having an RFID blocking pocket for my bank and credit cards. I have a sleeve for my passport and NEXUS card, but totally gapped on the banking info, thanks for the food for thought. On the topic of the bags themselves, they seem extremely covet-worthy. I like both the models you trialled, but I have a serious crush on the Louisa Tote. It has lots of room for all of my mom gear I have to drag around, but is way more fashionable than a diaper bag – I wouldn’t be embarrassed to use it when I’m not with the kids, lol.
ohh,I love those bags. I love all the hidden pockets and how spacious they are,,and they are super cute!!
i love the colours!
I love those bags! Not only do they look stylish, but they look very durable.
I liked all the really sharp, close up photos yu included in this review. Really helps ‘explain’ your description.
Is it just me? I like my water bottle separate so the condensation doesn’t get everything damp. I like your pictures of the inside showing how much can fit
looks like both bags are super handy and comfortable, especially on trips. I know I would have loved to have either of those bags while on my Japan trip
I love that they have so many zippered compartments you could carry many things in this while travelling
I think this is a very informative review. I particularly like that you said they were protecting your information so your bank account can’t be hacked. The colours are great. A nice selection of size because some of us prefer something smaller, I don’t carry a laptop with me.
I like that they have the RFID blocking zippered pocket makes my fel a lot safer travelling and shopping.
I like how you actually included pictures, the specific things you would wanna see and be reviewed.. awesome!
I think i may just want to get one of these bags.
I like all the security features you mentioned and the colors, style’s and unique pockets and or zippers,
What I learned from you post is all the security features that I hadn’t thought of before. We all need to do this. I love how stylish these bags are and Washable !! I am an organizer nut, so this is a perfect bag for me. I can never have to many pockets. The size is great for travel too, comfortable and fits under the seat 🙂 Thank you !!
I like how Beside-U has implemented the RFID feature into their bags for our protection. The bags are made well, high quality, & I love how many different styles there are. The organizational factors are perfect with all the various pockets & sleeves!
I didn’t know these bags have RFID blocking zippered pockets – that’s a great feature. Thanks for the review.
I like how you test drove the bags in a sense for 10 hours each and how you clearly show each one in action it makes deciding a bag to buy so much easier
I love these bags! Great review! Thanks for letting us know about the RFID protection. I love how roomy they are and loads of pockets make them such great travel bags.
I like these bag’s, they come in a variety of colors, style’s and unique pockets or zippers, their backpacks look terrific as well/
I learned that they carry bags that provide RFID protection. I love all the little compartments you showed in your review.
I like how the bags are so functional, yet quite attractive looking as well. Great colours available.
These bags look awesome. I like that you included so many pictures so we can see all the detail and pockets close up.
It’s really surprising how many things you can fit into this backpack. I have my eyes on the Indianapolis and now I think if I ever get one it would be a perfect fit for me.
Thanks for explaining about the RFID blocking zippered pockets. I had heard about them but didn’t really know why they are important. I also like that you mentioned about the backpack fitting under the airplane seat as a carry-on – it’s essential to know if something will fit when you travel.
I love the bags with the RFID coverage because you don’t have to worry about your personal stuff being stolen. I also love all the lavender and purple bags, I think they’re beautiful. The bags being made out of nylon makes them perfect for when I go to my mothers cottage because they can be wiped down if anything gets on it, like water !
I love these bags!! small but mighty, they look and sound like they will hold lots and I love the fact that they also have the RFID blocking zippered pocket, that is great, love the security whistle on the bag as well!! your pictures are great and it looks like you enjoyed yourself very much!!
I am LOVING how much room these bags actually have inside and all the difference sections and pockets. It is absolutely amazing. Just thinking about my purse and the lack of organization there is, these type of bags are perfect for me because it helps me to stay organized. I hate when things are scattered everywhere and I can’t find anything. My favorite out of the two you reviewed is the Mika and I am totally loving it in zinc grey. I do not have any type of cross over bag and running after two little ones or trips to the park, it is needed
I love that it’s fits nicely under the seat plane and leaves room for my feet. I also like that it as a security whistle attached to it for easy access in case of an emergency.
I love how well thought out these bags are for travel and they are so practical and still stylish.
I really like the Westlake Backpack. I would purchase it in Jester Red. I love the RFID blocking zippered pocket. Such a simple and smart technology that we should all be using, not just for travel. I like that it’s not an oversized lumpy backpack like you traditionally find and I agree, it must have been the perfect carry on for your flight. Sounds like you has an amazing time on your trip. I also enjoy traveling however I’ve never visited anywhere so cool!
I like this bag because it it has room for all my stuff! I like all the pockets and the different colours.
I like the colors and all the compartments in the bag! Looks great!
What I liked about this review are all the great pictures you showed of all the pockets in these bags. I also like that you said you were doing 10 hour days with it and found it quite comfortable.
I love how it is so compact, but yet you can fit so much in it. Sounds like great bags!
I like having a cross-body bag when I travel. I just feel more secure and then I’m not constantly shifting my purse back onto my shoulder. I like that the Mika has adjustable straps and that it’s water resistant. Very versatile.
Lots of different designs and colours. I support Canadian companies!
Yes, it is always handy to have a bag large enough to handle towel, sunscreen and books when on vacation!
I love how you showcased all the different pockets that this backpack has. Perfect for traveling and having a spot for everything!
I like how you took pictures to show how much can actually be put into each bag!!! great idea and the whistle I hope you never have to use!
I love cross body bags when I travel and even for running errands on weekends when I need to have both hands free. The Mika looks great and I love that it has RFID pockets. It looks quite roomy without being too bulky. Thanks for the very informative review.
I think you described the bags nicely. Good photos. They look comfy and of good quality.
These bags look like they are a great quality. I love the colors and all the compartments they have 🙂
I love the RFID zippered pockets so my credit cards are safe and secure from the bad guys. Thanks for this opportunity to win:)
Great bag!! I would love to travel and see amazing places like Isreal!
I need a good purse, but I always buy cheap and you get what you pay for so mine are always breaking, usually at the worse possible times!!
I love and always use backpacks but I especially love this one as it has so many different compartments and one of these even has RFID blocking so my credit card stays safe!
Sounds good. I would love to have one.
I like the back pack. You can get a lot in there.
I think the purple is cute too – and I love the compartments that are inside – and that it holds a lot. It looks nice and comfortable too – doesn’t look like the straps cut into you, which is mandatory for a good trip!
I really like the pictures you put up. It really helps to show the features of the items you reviewed. The pockets in the Westlake would come in handy for someone like me that carries many different small items.
Like the backpack.It has compartments,holding places,holding clips,and such.I like my bag to be organized!
I really like the number of cross body purses which they have. So important to balance the weight.
Why is it allowed that card stealing devices can be made. I guess maybe the same as making a car go 200k/h+.
It doesn’t seem like it but purple and grey are close related. One might see grey and the other purple. I have a reaaaally dark purple wall in my room and people say that it’s a nice grey wall, and i say it’s purple, they go “oh yeah. it actually is”
gertrude and mya, thanks
this company is new to me – using light, durable materials is great! thanks for bringing it t0 our attention
Thank you for the many pictures of what you fit inside the Westlake backpack, it made it much easier to picture the size and potential usefulness for me.
Such a great bag! i really like the The RFID pockets !
i like this review as it had so many great pictures to show us exactly how the bag looked like inside and outside. how much it will hold.
I like the way you show how things fit in the bag and love the colors.
So much storage and helps with organizing. I need help on that area.
These look like great bags to travel with. I also love the colours.. (Blackberry Wine)
The Mika looks like a great bag for travel. Lightweight and compact! I hate lugging around heavy bags.
That is a great bag. I like the style of it. Not too big, not too small.
Nice back packs!
That purple backpack looks so cute and comfortable!
Great selection………love the styles of messenger bags and shoulder bags!
These bags are so nice. I love the purple. These bags look very roomy. I learned something today about people picking up our credit card information just by standing next to us. How amazing. Thank you for sharing these bags and your travels. God Bless
U lived these bags,stykishb and easy to carry! Ohh and they come in purple lol
Very nice back packs.I do like the size.Looks very comfortable on the shoulders as well!