This is a wonderful site, I'm addicted! I will be travelling to Paris for a week and would appreciate any suggestions on finding a substitute for a purse. I only need a small backpack, but can only find really expensive leather types on the internet. No matter how light I pack my purse my shoulder still suffers. I live in an isolated area so must rely on the internet for shopping. <BR>Thank you.

Next time you are in or near Wal-Mart, look in the sporting goods section. They usually have a selection of low-cost back packs in many sizes. We bought one years ago and have applied fabric patches from all over the world. Makes an interesting conversation piece and icebreaker with strangers abroad. Sure, it's not Louis Vuitton -- but who cares!

Try www.ebags.com

Thank you!

Anne, <BR>I Hope you have a great time! Paris is a wonderful city. You might want to try sportsauthority.com. You should see a link for camping. I ordered a bag and received it within 72 hours. Prompt and courteous service.

Thank you too helpful. I will check out these sites now.

Check the children's department of stores like Marshall's or Target or Macy's. They have backpacks designed for teeny weenies, just perfect for a substitute purse (I found a cute tapestry bag, only about 10" high, which works great for a purse, at TJMaxx or some such store).

Anne, <BR> <BR>Eagle Creek makes small backpacks such as the Latitude Daytour (they have a website at www.eaglecreek.com). So does Kipling (in fact my normal everyday "purse" is a child's Kipling backpack, called child 2123; also check out the slightly lager Big Kid 2142--you can see them both at http://www.galaxyfl.com/backpacks.html). <BR> <BR>Liz

Also try luggageonline.com we got a great Kipling Daypack and small over the shoulder bag from them.

Thank you everyone. I found a small backpack by Kipling at luggageonline. In fact the description was "...a substitute for a purse"! Actually, luggageonline has lots of stuff and even packing lists for those who need them.