How I Use My SLING BAG for Everything | Data Crew XPAC Snacktime Sling
Introduction
Shouts out to Data Crew for sponsoring this video. Today, we're diving deep into how I use my sling bag to store my daily essentials. In pursuit of your purpose, you'll need custom curated accessories that work specifically for you. Let's explore the gear in my bag, why I chose it, and how I store it in the all-new Data Crew XPAC Snacktime Sling. Plus, there's a secret hidden feature inside this sling that will change how you prepare your loadouts, so keep your eyes peeled.
Most Crucial Item: Key Organizer
The worst feeling ever when it comes to gear is forgetting something you need. Take these keys, for example. This is the KeySmart nylon key organizer. It lets you stack up your keys, organize them how you wish, and swivels out for easy access. I'd argue that this is the most important piece of gear in my kit. Can't leave home without it, can't go anywhere without these things.
I literally walked out the front door, closed it, and reached into my pocket only to find nothing but lint. That's why I advocate for popping these things that you could easily misplace into something like the Snacktime Sling to keep things in one place.
Sling Feature Breakdown
Before we get too deep into the sling loadout, let's take a look at the bag itself. Data Crew sent me their latest version of the Snacktime Sling, this time in dark olive XPAC. The material completely transforms the look and feel of the bag. The sling's main features remain the same, but with some notable improvements.
The spacious main compartment and the generous loop field out front for your favorite REs or modules are still there. The detachable modules called snack time trays let you dial in the custom configuration of your sling. YKK AquaGuard zippers work in tandem with the XPAC to keep your gear dry inside.
Bag Frame
The first major improvement is the bag frame. This sling now has a big booty, a donk. The original Snacktime Sling had a big compartment but a small footprint, causing it to flop over if it wasn't filled to max capacity. This version has what looks like double the footprint area, meaning it will free-stand on any surface, whether you're packing it up or working out of it.
The XPAC material complements this feature because it's more rigid than the ballistic nylon used in the V1, resulting in an overall sturdier and more useful bag.
Upgraded Exterior Loop
The exterior loop has been upgraded with a finer, higher-quality loop texture. It looks great whether you're decking it out with all your favorite REs or simply rocking it birthday suit style.
Removable Elements
Inside there are two removable elements to organize your gear. If needed, you could easily grab them and hook them on the outside of your sling for frequent and easy access to your tools. While I wouldn't recommend rocking out with your tools out all the time, it's a handy option if you need it.
Fidlock Magnetic Clasp
Now I'm starting to feel like this sling was made just for me. Yank the pull cord, and you're out. Throw the sling over your shoulder, snap it, and you're in. I've been nagging loads to add a Fidlock magnetic clasp even before the V1 came out. This magnetic clasp makes it so easy to put on and take off your sling. Once you get used to it, it's seamless and doesn't affect your workflow whatsoever. Easy in, easy out. Chef's kiss.
Updated Tags
This version of the Snacktime Sling gets updated tags with a new PVC label sewn onto the side, adding an extra dimension of aesthetic to the bag.
Missing Zipper Pulls
The only things missing from the sling for me are zipper pulls for the main compartment. While there is one built into the quick access front pocket, it's essential to my workflow to have those zipper pulls in the main compartment for easy access. So I've woven some paracord lanyards there for easy access.
Essential Gear
Every loadout needs a knife. In my hand, I've got the Civivi Vision FG. This one's sporting a black Nitro V blade and dark green micarta scales. The Vision FG incorporates the Super Lock, a spine lock designed by Snex that allows you to open and close your knife in a fun and fidgety way. This knife goes into the first elastic loop.
Smartphone and Sunglasses
The next essential items in my sling loadout are my smartphone and sunglasses. I've got the iPhone 14 Pro and the Ray-Bans LightForce Wayfarers. I've grouped these two together because they're both ideal options for the dedicated zip pocket behind the sling. Since they're both made of glass, I don't want them to get easily scratched or shattered, so I'll isolate them in that pocket.
I usually keep my smartphone in my back pocket, so the sunglasses will be in there by themselves, nice and safe.
Flashlight
For the flashlight, it's a classic one: the Olight Baton 3. It's small but powerful, with a max lumen output of 1200 lumens. It goes into the second elastic loop next to the knife.
Pen and Journal
The pen is a thing of beauty. It has an awesome bolt-action mechanism for clicking out and clicking in. The ink refill inside is the Schmidt EZflow 9000. It writes real smooth. Pair that with a journal from a reputable maker like Leuchtturm, and you've got a solid note-taking beast of a machine. The pen is stored in the large zip mesh pocket, and the Leuchtturm floats in the main compartment.
Ranger Eyes
With such a huge loop field out front, there's no way we're not taking advantage of that by throwing some of our favorite REs into the mix. What do you think? Too loud? Too subtle? Which one's your favorite?
Pocket Camera
We're content creators after all, so we're taking the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 with us. This gimbal-stabilized camera has its own protective case, so feel free to throw it in the main compartment or the zipped mesh pocket inside with the pen.
Extra Gadgets
We're always living with purpose, so if you want to take the occasional gaming break, throw in that Nintendo Switch. If you're out bright and early, you might want to throw in that Yeti 8 oz Rambler filled with your favorite espresso shot. Or maybe just throw in more camera gear so you're even more ready.
Final Thoughts
What did you think of the XPAC Snacktime Sling? How does it compare to the OG V1? One thing I noticed is that they replaced the high-vis orange 200 denier nylon on the interior with a light gray version. If you're into that bright orange, that may leave something to be desired.
Give me a thumbs up if you enjoyed this one, and I'll see you here next time. Live with Purpose. Peace.
I still can't get over that Fidlock magnetic clasp. It's too good. You can't have a sling without a magnetic clasp. That's the end of the story for me.