Stylish Rucksack to help RA pain?

Leather is more comfortable, I'd say. Especially if it's good leather, like this backpack: vonbaer.com/products/liberty-mens-leather-backpack
So, if anyone wants to try leather, then go for it.

Avoid Mia Tai bags....they are really heavy, even when empty........wish I hadn't wasted my money

Sorry for reviving this one. But isn't leather heavier and uncomfortable?

Was about to say the same Nannanotgrandma, about Mia Tui having a zip pouch at the back. They come in different sizes, to suit your routine/needs.
Exdancer, so sorry to hear about that accident

During the pandemic, I got into bagmaking and joined several Facebook bagmaking groups. I always told myself I would never diversify and take up another hobby (my main hobby is tatting) but I got hooked once I started to learn about bagmaking! How about a sling bag? They seem to be very popular, particularly in the USA. So far I have only made a rucksack, as a friend recently asked me to help her make one to wear to a festival at Sudeley Castle in the Cotswolds (we made it with denim from my old - but decent - jeans and silver vinyl fabric). However, I have just bought a pattern and fabric ready to make the Sandhill Sling by Noodlehead, for my 16 year old grandson for Christmas. He is into rowing, so I've bought some rowing fabric for the lining, and a friend of mine is going to machine embroider a rowing boat on the front. I am going to use an outdoor fabric from a local curtain shop, which I've used before, so it will be lighter than using faux leather. A lot of bagmakers sell their makes (I know 2 ladies who are very good - one a bag pattern designer - so could let you have their contact details if you pm me). Take a look at Etsy, there are usually lots of handmade bags and rucksacks/slings on there. Feel free to contact me for any advice, I'm sure I would be able to help. Here is a picture of a faux leather crossbody handbag I made myself recently. I, too, have arthritis, so I made the strap just the right length for me to put it easily over my shoulders.

How about a bum or belt bag? These are now popular apparently worn like a cross bag, but if you aren’t too worried about fashion worn round the waist could be the answer.

If you get a backpack make sure the straps are padded for your comfort.

Roka Bags are great, all sort of styles and colours.

I recommend the Healthy Bag company and their smallish , washproof , light and not too dear! 😊

I have had not much luck with Back packs... I had my purse taken out of my back pack on a crowed Bus in London, I'm assuming it was the chap standing by me, he managed to open it without me knowing, I had it with me when I got on as I paid my fare.
My other experience my DD at the time was about 6, she got whacked by a large backpack on the underground, knocked her flying, admittedly it was a large one attached to a Tourist, went all Tiger mum on him.
Very rarely use one now.

My friend, who found her cross body bag bothering her due to back problems, swears by her “Healthy Back Bag” (as @lilymae suggested) hers is not leather, but is very modern according to my daughter and it comes in a variety of colours. She also found the Uniqlo cross body one that is trending on mumsnet to be really comfortable and has quite a large capacity for its size.

I have RA plus an old shoulder injury which allows limited movement only. I therefore cannot shrug on a back pack. I have just bought a cheap cross-body bag for carrying essentials. I am finding it very comfortable.
www.ebay.co.uk/itm/314811288565?var=613326989847

Look at the Mia Tui website. I use their backpacks, I have four. An old one for dog walking and three of varying sizes for different occasions. They have a secure zip pocket that goes against your back. They have different sizes and colours, are reasonably priced and are lightweight. I can recommend them

Tbh I've never bought a rucksack handbag but one of my friends has one and it's very stylish. I also noticed she had a zip on the back of it, nearest her back to keep her purse, credit/bank cards etc. I thought it was a great idea as I always thought someone could unzip it in a crowded place and help themselves to whatever they want and you may not realise it.

How awful for you Exdancer - that is tragic. I would send a hug but can't work out how but I hope things do get better for you.

I seem to have abandoned handbag use since covid. I make good use of coat pockets for important things tho wish smart phones would shrink a bit instead bigger ( save for very expensive foldable ones). I second Mr Kipling and agree leather would be too heavy.

I have the same problem @Meme60. Have a look at the Radley website. I found a lovely oil cloth rucksack there - lightweight and very stylish. Solved the problem for me. The link for the one I have is below, but they have quite a good range to choose from. They’re a little pricey but excellent quality and they wear really well.

www.radley.co.uk/handbags/radley-247-leopard-medium-zip-top-backpack-h7520-ss23

If a shoulder or cross body handbag is giving you pain, then I do not think you will find a backpack any better, sad to say.

If I were you, I would look for a small one made of rainproof nylon or the like in a charity shop and try it out before buying anything more expensive.

Never, ever put money in a backpack - any competent pickpocket can get at your money there.

Buy only coats or jackets that have at least one inside pocket, preferably two and keep your money, keys and mobile phone there.

Or alternatively, have your money, visa card etc. in a pouch round your waist under your waistband, or at least under a jumper that is long enough to reach your hips. I pin my belt with a safety pin for extra security when going shopping in crowded places or travelling.

Roka back backs are good and come in different sizes.

I have RA too, agree about Kipling but check what you are carrying. Spread the load - keys in pockets etc. … if you can. I got a smaller phone because it was lighter and will go in most pockets.

I often use a small purse cross body and a rucksack for this items not needed immediately (and for shopping). I don't have a shoulder problem though.

I second (or third!) Kipling bags. I often buy from their clearance section. I have several in all different sizes and love them. I just pop them in the washing machine when they get a little grubby and they come out as good as new.

Uniqlo do a backpack. www.uniqlo.com/uk/en/product/two-way-utility-bag-459777.html?dwvar_459777_color=COL57&cgid=IDw-accessories-shoes

Kipling do very light rucksacks,backpacks etc I’ve found some bargains on Amazon as well as their www on sales …

I had rotator cuff surgery about ten years ago, and still have pain from that. I also have arthritis in my shoulders. About five years ago I bought a Zomake lightweight, fold-up rucksack - and have never looked back. They come in a multitude of colours.