As most of you already know, OTC is always on the hunt for a good bag. For a great deal on the bag pictured to the left, scroll down to the bottom.

Today, men are carrying more stuff than ever and we need a place to put everything.  Smart phone, wallet, iPad, pen and handy notebook, keys and about a dozen other things – more than our pockets will ever hold.

We need a bag.  But a good bag is not a one-shot deal.  Just like anything else in life, we need different bags for different needs and different occasions.  I have a great tobacco brown Hudson leather briefcase from Coach that makes for an outstanding office bag.  Perfect for the Metro, it’s often mistaken for a Tod’s bag and looks great with a suit.

When I need to go more casual I grab my Filson briefcase.  If needs turn to a general holdall of a rugged nature, out comes the custom OTC Timbuk2 messenger bag.  These standbys, along with a closet full of other bags, constitute a rotating inventory that says as much about me as my ties or suits or watches.

One classic bag that stands the test of time is the tote.  In fact, totes are enjoying a particular resurgence at the moment, with makers from Gucci to LL Bean seeing increased demand for these workhorses.

While fancy leather versions are a clever twist on a classic form, the true tote bag was meant to be used and abused.  They get the job done and speak of function trumping form.  Their utility is what makes them so universal.

Seaside totes, like the classic-of-classics, LL Bean’s Boat-and-Tote, are the real deal.  It’s been observed that any respectable New England family should have a dozen or so lying around the house.  That said, I also like the very nautical zip-top totes from True Wind.  A much younger company to be sure (by about eight decades or so), but grounded in the same fixation on quality and utility.

OTC has previously written about True Wind and highlighted their rugged yet light sailcloth bags.  Where some opt for vintage recycled sailcloth, True Wind went straight to Hood Sailmakers, the same company that produces sails for world class racing yachts.  We love their bags’ functional in-your-face nauticalness and Made in America standards.

True Wind is offering OTC readers a special back to school, end of summer, call it what you will, special deal. 

You can get 50% off a large or small Regatta Tote if you place an order before September 9, 2011.  Just use the code HALFTOTE at checkout. This is a great deal on a great, stylish, functional and darn sturdy bag – while supplies last.  And yes, they monogram.

Check out the Regatta Tote on True Wind’s site.