
by Mae Kiggins
Ever wonder what happens to the thousands of post-consumer-recycled plastic bottles?
In the case of ChicoBag, the company is putting to good use this detrius through construction of fashionable and versatile bags. So serious about their mission are ChicoBag’s long-lasting and environmentally-friendly products, they have trademarked the term “rePETe” to identify all of the company’s bags made from recycled plastic, and they label each product with the amount of recycled materials used.
I tested the Hobo rePETe?and found it refreshing to purchase from a company invested in products with an environmentally-friendly process.
THE BASICS
This updated hobo-style bag is fun and stylish. Expandable sides make it adjustable for unexpected purchases and the tie-together strap adds a feminine touch. Perhaps the best feature, though, is the self-folding, inner zipper compartment that makes for easy storage anywhere you may be.

FEATURES
– Adjustable sides allow the size of the bag to be expanded according to need.
– Inner zippered compartment and front magnetized, slip pocket for easy organization.
– Entire bag folds into the inner zippered compartment for convenient storage and transportation.
– Adjustable shoulder strap.
– Bag can be wiped down with soap and water, or thrown in the washer.

FAVORITE USES
– As a purse when traveling because of size when not being used. The adjustable sides are especially useful when traveling with kids as the amount of stuff needing to be carried often varies.
– The Hobo’s size makes it perfect for storing in a car as an extra bag.
– Ideal as an extra bag when traveling as it folds down and is much smaller than most purses or travel bags.
– It is just the right size to use for seasonal accessories that are easily misplaced (i.e. gloves, scarfs etc.). It was our gear bag this past winter.
Drawbacks:
The tie-together adjustable strap looks nice and is very convenient but the material is slippery, so it has to be re-tied from time to time when carrying heavy items. Additionally, the strap is not extremely comfortable and the bag has no structure. If it is set on the ground it falls over.
Visit www.chicobag.com for more information on their other products and their mission to put an end to single-use bags.
Note: OFM contributor Mae Kiggins received a Chico Bag in return for her review.
Mae Kiggins blogs about her family?s outdoor escapades at Outdoors Mom. As an urban outdoor mom, Mae occupies a niche within the outdoor blogger community, offering ideas and encouragement to city dwellers to connect them with the outdoors. In addition to her experience as a park ranger, Mae possesses advanced degrees in Forest Resources and Conservation, with concentrations in forest management and outdoor education.
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