Short on cash, but long on extra beer? Trade it for a new messenger, laptop or photo bag.

From June 9 - June 17, bag retailer Crumpler will accept beer as tender - instead of more the traditional methods of cash, credit or checks - at its two NYC locations.

A selection of the company's bags will be offered in exchange for specific varieties and quantities of ale, at a savings to you of over 30%. One case of Coopers and four Fosters Oil Cans can be traded for a Barney Rustle Messenger bag (retail $95). Get a Moderate Embarrassment laptop satchel (retail $80) for two cases of Asahi and a packet of ramen noodles. Don't need a bag? Trade two cases of Negro Modello, one lime, and a bottle of hot sauce for a bean bag chair from Free Holy.

Crumpler has been running the Beer for Bags sale in its native Australia for five years, where there is a long tradition of beer appreciation and friendly, informal bartering. They tried it in NYC last year, and it was enthusiastically embraced by bag-crazed New Yorkers, who exchanged over 1000 cases of beer for bags.

What happens to the ale after the sale? Participants are invited to a party afterwards to sample and enjoy the brew. Whatever is left gets donated to art, charity and sporting events.

Click over to www.crumplerbags.com/b4b and spin the wheel to see what deals they're offering, and for store locations.

You give them the beer. They give you the bag. No one gets hurt.