We write a lot about the tech we use, including phones, laptops, and earbuds, but we’re also realistic. All of that gear needs a home when we head out the door. Whether you’re commuting with a laptop, grabbing your tablet for a coffee shop session, or packing chargers, batteries, and cables for a weekend trip, a good bag is part of the setup. And let’s be honest: most of us carry more than we realize, from tech essentials to water bottles, snacks, sunglasses, and whatever else we might need between morning and night.
That’s where Aer comes in. This San Francisco-based brand has built its reputation on smart, minimal gear for people who move through cities, airports, and daily routines with purpose. Whether you need a lightweight tote for everyday carry, a pouch for keeping things organized, or a well-structured backpack for heavier hauls, Aer’s lineup is designed to keep everything in check, without overcomplicating things.
Level Up is where we explore the gear that actually makes a difference, whether that’s in how you live, work, or unwind. Each edition brings together standout products, whether tied by brand or by theme, that turn the everyday into something a little more exceptional.
Below, we take a closer look at three recent additions to their catalog: the Simple Tote, Simple Pouch, and City Pack 2. Each offers a different approach to carry, but all are built with durable materials, clean design, and real-life functionality in mind.
Aer Simple Tote: Sleek, Light, and Ready for the Day
The Simple Tote is built for people who want one bag to handle everything from office hours to quick errands. Priced at $139 and available in black or white, this 14-liter tote weighs just half a pound but doesn’t skimp on durability or function.
Made with Ultra400X exterior fabric from Challenge Sailcloth, it holds up well in daily use and unexpected weather. Waterproof YKK zippers help keep contents dry, while the adjustable strap with Fidlock V-BUCKLE makes it easy to sling over a shoulder or wear crossbody. Two exterior pockets offer quick access to essentials, and a hidden rear pocket keeps a passport or wallet secure.
Who it’s for: Anyone who commutes, walks the city, or just wants a lightweight tote that doesn’t look or feel like an afterthought. It’s designed for people who move quickly but still want to look pulled together.
Aer strikes a rare balance: bags that look sharp, feel durable, and actually make it easier to carry the tech and daily gear most of us rely on.
Aer Simple Pouch: Small Bag, Big Function
At just 0.2 lbs and $69, the Simple Pouch offers surprising flexibility. It can be worn as a compact crossbody, used as a sling, or tossed into a larger bag to organize small items. Like the tote, it’s crafted with the Ultra400X exterior and waterproof YKK zippers for added resilience.
Its slim 0.6-liter design includes a back slip pocket that keeps your phone or wallet handy, and a removable quick-adjust strap gives you multiple ways to carry it. Whether you’re grabbing coffee, running a quick errand, or traveling light, it’s a smart way to keep essentials close without carrying a full-size bag.
Who it’s for: Minimalists, travelers, or anyone tired of stuffing pockets. It’s built for short trips and everyday use where simplicity and organization matter.
Aer City Pack 2: The Everyday Backpack with Smart Details
Built with 1680D CORDURA ballistic nylon, the City Pack 2 is the go-to option for daily commuting, school, or travel. At 16 liters and $149, it has the durability to handle wear and tear, along with plenty of thoughtful features that make life easier.
It includes a padded, suspended laptop sleeve (fits up to 16″), quick-access top pocket, exterior water bottle holder, and a hidden smart tracker pocket. An ergonomic harness system adds comfort for long hauls, and a luggage pass-through keeps it travel-ready. It comes in Black, Navy, and Olive.
Who it’s for: Commuters, professionals, and students who need a durable, well-organized backpack that looks sharp in any setting.
Why People Keep Choosing Aer
Every piece in Aer’s collection is designed to do more with less: fewer zippers, fewer bells and whistles, and more usable, high-quality design. Whether you’re looking for a simple pouch to keep your gear in check, a tote to carry your day, or a backpack to get you through the week, these bags are designed to keep up without getting in the way. And if you’re looking to get away even longer, Aer has something for that, too.
Each item reflects a focus on portability, durability, and ease of use—qualities that matter whether you’re catching a train or walking to class. If your gear works as hard as you do, Aer is worth your attention.
