Patagonia Atom Tote Pack 20L [Review]

The Patagonia Atom Tote Pack was designed to be as versatile as you are! Patagonia has set out to make one bag to be used as a daily laptop backpack for work or school. Or as an outdoor and hiking pack, thanks to its removable laptop sleeve.

In this backpack review, we will take a closer look at the Patagonia Atom Tote Pack and explore all of the details. Is this backpack worth the price? Let's find out.

Video Review

The Rundown

What we like

• Removable laptop sleeve is a game changer! Quickly turn from laptop backpack to hiking pack in seconds.

• Stretchy side pockets fit larger bottles

• Roomy main compartment that fits a lot despite being a small bag.

• Super comfortable shoulder straps. Very padded!

What we don’t like

• The front pocket becomes hard to use when the main compartment is overpacked.

• No trolley sleeve to attach bag to rolling luggage when traveling.

• Not convertible - cannot tuck away the shoulder straps when carrying as a tote bag.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 16” (H) x 12” (W) x 5” (D)

• Capacity: 20L

• Weight: 1 lb 7 oz

• Materials: 100% Recycled Polyester with PFC-Free DWR Finish

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 13”

Where to buy

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Size and Fit

It's important to note that the Patagonia Atom Tote Pack 20L was designed to be a smaller-fitting pack. Patagonia calls this the "Atom Fit" - which means it can accommodate those with a shorter torso length and smaller shoulders. This is welcomed news to anyone who find most backpacks to be too long on the back. It's about the same size as the old Patagonia Classic Tamangito Pack.

You can carry the Atom Tote Pack as both a backpack or a tote bag. One small design issue we have with this backpack is that it is not a true convertible backpack. The shoulder straps cannot be tucked away and you will get dangling straps when carrying it by the top handles.

Materials and Construction

The Patagonia Atom Tote Pack is made out of 100% recycled polyester with a PFC-Free DWR Finish (a technical term for water resistant coating). The polyester construction makes the Atom Tote Pack very lightweight. But this pack never feels cheap and keeps the premium Patagonia feel the brand is known for.

We found that the Atom Tote Pack can stay dry in a light rain with the weak point being the zippers, which are not water resistant. But the fabric allows water to just roll off the pack. Would we take this kayaking? No. Are we comfortable using this as daily commuter or beach backpack. Absolutely.

One of the most impressive features of the Atom Tote Pack is the back panel and shoulder straps. Patagonia does not cut corners here!

These shoulder straps are very padded and some of the most comfortable we've used in a backpack this size. The breathable back panel has two spacer mesh panels for cushioning. Again, this beefy back panel is a rare sight in smaller backpacks.

Although the Atom Tote Pack isn't a large backpack, Patagonia still includes a chest strap to help with weight distribution. This chest strap is adjustable and removable.

What fits inside the Patagonia Atom Tote Pack 20L?

With a pack volume of 20 liters, you wouldn't expect the Atom Tote Pack to fit much. But this is a roomy 20 liters! The main compartment is designed as a large open space with just a single sleeve (more on that below).

We found that we could easily fit a pair of running sneakers and a change of clothing inside the main compartment. Folders, binders and notebooks also fit inside the main compartment of the Patagonia Atom Tote Pack just fine.

The wide open main compartment gives you a lot of versatility to use the bag as a school or work backpack, gym bag and hiking backpack.

Removable Laptop Sleeve

The removable padded sleeve is easily the best feature on the Patagonia Atom Tote Pack! This feature is what allows you to quickly switch from laptop backpack to a outdoor trail bag.

Each Atom Tote Pack includes a removable padded sleeve that is held in place by a velcro loop. The sleeve itself contains a padded sleeve for a tablet or laptop up to 13-inches plus a secure zippered pocket for small items. This zippered pocket is great for keys, chargers, cords, pens, and other accessories.

When the sleeve is removed, you can then use the built-in padded sleeve to store a hydration bladder for hiking. The velcro loop now acts as a hydration hanger and Patagonia gives you pass-through access against the back panel to feed a hydration tube.

The larger sleeve that the removable laptop sleeve lives in is also padded with a false bottom to protect it against drops. This means that you can technically use it as a laptop sleeve for a bigger laptop. We were able to fit a 14" laptop just fine.

Outside Pockets

The outside of the Patagonia Atom Tote Pack 20L gives you a few extra pockets for organization.

The two side pockets are made of stretch mesh that fits larger bottles. We were able to fit a 32oz Nalgene bottle and big 30oz Yeti cofffee tumbler inside the side pockets. These pockets are also great for daily commute items like an umbrella or phone.

The front stash pocket is fairly large and covers the entire front of the backpack. Here you can fit items you need quick access to like headphones, winter gloves or small notebooks.

Our one gripe with the front stash pocket is that the main compartment can bulge into this pocket when overpacked. This makes it harder to access the items inside this pocket.

Final Thoughts

We recommend the Patagonia Atom Tote Pack 20L if you are looking for just one smaller pack that you can used for everything from daily laptop carry to outdoor adventures. It really is a great do-it-all option. This is all made possible by the removable tech storage that transforms the bag into a blank slate for different acitivies.

If you need a backpack with lots of pockets, then this backpack may not be the one for you. The Patagonia Atom Tote Pack has just enough pockets without being too overwhelming. But those who want more organization may find the number of pockets lacking.

Additionally, the shorter body of the Atom Tote Pack might too small for some people. If you are tall or have wide shoulders, you might want to take a look at other Patagonia backpack options for a better fit.

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WANDRD PRVKE [Review]

If you're looking for a backpack that can do it all, you'll be hard-pressed to find one more versatile than the WANDRD PRVKE. It's a camera bag, travel pack, and daily laptop backpack all-in-one, thanks to its modular interior that allows you to configure your carry how you want to. The rolltop design also makes it an expandable backpack, giving you more packing room when you need it. Plus, the PRVKE comes in three different sizes (21L, 31L, and 41L) so you can find the perfect size and fit.

A special feature of the WANDRD PRVKE is its dual main compartment access, which allows you to enter the backpack through the rolltop as well as through a rear zipper for full clamshell access to your gear. From the rear, you'll have access to all the smaller pockets inside the main compartment, as well as the padded laptop and tablet sleeves.

If you're a photographer, you can add a WANDRD camera cube to turn the PRVKE into a fully functional camera bag that's just as thoughtfully designed as its rivals. You'll have special pockets for photography accessories like SD cards, and a side window allows for quick-draw access to your camera.

If you're not a photographer, the PRVKE works just as well as a travel or daily backpack. The dual-access main compartment makes it super easy to pack and unpack clothing and daily carry, and the waterproof materials and weather-resistant zippers come in handy on rainy commutes to work or school. The bag also features daily carry essentials like a place to stash your keys, sunglasses, and water bottle. This bag really doesn't miss a beat!

What we like

• Modular interior that let’s you partition the inside to different packing zones

• Dual access entry to the main compartment (rolltop and clamshell zipper)

• Lots of low-key and hidden exterior pockets for quick access to essentials

• Highly water resistant design - weatherproof zippers and waterproof tarpaulin exterior

What we don’t like

• Pockets inside the main compartment are geared towards small camera accessories. We wish there were larger internal pockets there for stuff like external hard drives or large laptop power bricks.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17” x 11” x 6.5” inches

• Capacity: 21L (available in 31L & 41L)

• Weight: 2.8 lbs

• Materials: Waterproof Tarpaulin, 1680D Ballistic Nylon, weather resistant zippers

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 14” Macbook Pro

• Tablet Sleeve: Up to 12.9” iPad Pro

Where to buy

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Nutsac Rucksac

The Nutsac Rucksac is an old-school inspired backpack that marries handmade quality with functional modern design. Each Rucksac is made in the USA using water resistant waxed canvas and full-grain leather that’s sourced from a small tannery in New England.

We found that at 20 liters the Rucksac makes a great daypack but might be a bit too small for multi-day travel. Yet those looking for a reliable EDC backpack will appreciate the padded 15-inch laptop sleeve and multiple internal pockets for easy organization of daily items.

A unique feature is the side zipper that gives you access to the main compartment. Note that this zipper doesn’t allow you to access to the laptop sleeve and you will still have to go through the main opening to access your laptop. This is our only small gripe with this backpack as quick access to your laptop or tablet would have been preferable.

Construction-wise this backpack is pretty heavy duty and its weight of 3.5 pounds plants it on the heavier side for a backpack of its size. But this is just something that comes with the territory of using robust materials. The leather detailing extends to the bottom making the Rucksac a great choice for anyone looking for a real leather bottom backpack and the waxed canvas is very heavy-weight to prevent tears and rips. The Nutsac Rucksac just feels like a quality backpack when handled and this is what really sets it apart from other mass produced bags.

We recommend the Nutsac Rucksac to anyone looking for an American made backpack that can take some abuse over time. The design is timeless, the construction quality is top-notch and you really can’t go wrong with Nutsac’s lifetime guarantee.

What we like

• Rugged construction made with full grain leather and waxed canvas - two materials that only look better with age

• Great variety of smaller pockets for organization

• Timeless rucksack design

• Nutsac offers a lifetime guarantee

What we don’t like

• Side zipper opening does not give you access to laptop sleeve - have to go through the main opening to access laptop.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19″ (H) x 13″ (W) x 5″ (D)

• Capacity: Approx. 20L

• Materials: Water resistant waxed canvas, full grain leather

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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North Face Jester Backpack

One of The North Face’s most popular backpack designs, the Jester is the perfect blend of outdoor design and urban functionality. At 27 liters the North Face Jester is a great choice for anyone who wants a lightweight backpack without the bulk.

When it comes to organization the Jester keeps it pretty simple with just two compartments. The main compartment is where you’ll find the padded 15” laptop sleeve and a second compartment features plenty of pocket to keep your essentials organized.

Note: The North Face face offers the men’s Jester and women’s Jester so that you can find the perfect fit. The women’s Jester is better suited for those with slimmer shoulders and shorter torsos.

What we like

• Perfect size for daily carry with just the right amount of pockets.

• Lightweight

• Bungee is great for attaching a light jacket or hoodie without taking up space in the main compartment.

What we don’t like

• The Jester is a good value for the price but it’s still a few steps down from the Borealis in terms of quality, construction and organization.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18.13” H x 11” W x 8.25” D

• Capacity: 27L

• Material: 600D Recycled Polyester with non-PFC DWR finish

• Weight: 1lbs 10oz

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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GBY Ultralight Laptop Day Pack

GBY Ultralight claims that their Ultralight Laptop Day Pack is the lightest laptop backpack in the world… and we believe it! This backpack weighs only 12.8 ounces and still manages to squeeze in a protective high density foam sleeve for a laptop or tablet. While other backpacks may be light, very few make laptop protection a priority like the GBY Ultralight Laptop Day Pack does.

Although much of the design-inspiration comes from lightweight outdoor packs the Ultralight Laptop Day Pack is ultimately designed for urban carry and daily commuting. A single slip pocket on the inside is great for small items or documents while a weatherproof side zip pocket allows for quick access to essentials like a water bottle, passport or sunglasses. The laptop sleeve is fully padded with a false bottom so your laptop doesn’t touch the bottom of the bag when placed on the ground.

What we like

• It’s not a gimmick - this is the lightest laptop backpack we have ever come across. The difference between the GBY Ultralight and your standard laptop backpack is night and day.

• Water resistant fabric and zippers makes it great for commuting on rainy days.

• Really comfortable - the light weight + ergonomic shoulder straps feels like wearing air.

What we don’t like

• Organization is limited. You are limited to only two pockets for smaller items - one slip pocket on the inside and the side zip pocket on the outside. Could use another small pocket for organizing things like pens, keys and charging cables.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19” H x 11 W" x 6.7" D

• Weight: 12.8 oz.

• Volume: 20L

• Materials:  Japanese SS2-Ultra waterproof fabric, YKK water resistant zippers

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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North Face Borealis Backpack

The North Face Borealis is a versatile backpack that can be used for anything from school to light travel. Its medium size has made it popular with those who want a functional backpack without the bulk.

Unlike the similar North Face Jester, the Borealis offers a separate premium laptop compartment for incredible protection of your expensive tech. The front compartment includes a fleece-lined tablet pocket and tons of smaller pockets for organization. Use the front bungee system to quickly stash jackets, blankets and other larger items when you are on the move.

Note: The North Face face offers the men’s Borealis and women’s Borealis so that you can find the perfect fit. The women’s Borealis is better suited for those with slimmer shoulders and shorter torsos.

What we like

• Great laptop compartment with suspended bottom for extra protection from drops.

• Upgraded bungee systems allows for easier attachement of bulky items

• Best in class organization - lots of smaller pockets and compartment

• DWR finish adds great water resistance to fabric.

What we don’t like

• Side bungee cords are a good replacement for compression straps but can get in the way of the water bottle pockets.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.5” H x 12” W x 6.5” D

• Capacity: 28L (27L women’s)

• Material: 210D recycled nylon ripstop, 300D heathered polyester, 600D polyester, non-PFC DWR finish

• Weight: 2lbs 5oz

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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Burton Prospect Backpack

The Burton Prospect backpack is a small capacity backpack for those who need to just carry the basics. Although this won’t be your go-to book bag for busy days at school, it’s perfect for days out on the town or work commutes where you need to just carry the basics.

What we like

• We like this as a small daily carry commuter backpack for those who don’t need tons of storage room.

• Tons of color and pattern options.

• Laptop sleeve with separate tablet sleeve in main compartment.

What we don’t like

• Side pocket doesn’t stretch out as far as we would like. Can be hard to fit larger water bottles in the side pockets when the main compartment is full.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19” H x 11.5” W x 7.5” D

• Capacity: 21L

• Materials: 600D Polyester

• Weight: 1 .5 lbs

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Dakine Wonder Backpack

The Dakine Wonder is a stylish daypack that packs a lot of punch in a small package. Features such as skateboard straps, a fleece-lined sunglasses pocket and mesh water bottle pockets makes the Wonder perfect for days when you just want to explore the city with a light load.

Note: The Dakine Wonder backpacks comes in two sizes; 15 liters and a larger 22 liter version. The specs here are for the 15 liter Dakine Wonder backpack.

What we like

• Inexpensive. You can grab one under $50.

• Small capacity is perfect as a light daypack.

• Fun color and pattern options.

• External bungee allows you to cinch extra items like jackets and shopping bags to the outside of the backpack.

What we don’t like

• Lack of organizers and pockets inside the main compartment. No pocket for laptop or tablet.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” H x 12” W x 6” D

• Capacity: 15L

• Materials: 600D Polyester

• Weight: 1 lbs 2 oz

• Laptop Compartment: None

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Patagonia Refugio 26L Backpack

The Patagonia Refugio is perfect for anyone who needs a reliable backpack for daily commutes, travel or light outdoor activities like hiking or beach days. At 26 liters, the main compartment is surprisingly roomy while the front pocket is perfect for organizing smaller items for school or work. Features such as a removable sternum strap, front attachment loops and DWR water resistant coating also makes the Refugio perfect for days outdoors.

The Patagonia Refugio comes in two sizes, the women’s Refugio 26 liter backpack and the larger men’s Refugio 28 liter backpack. The women’s 26 liter version features a shorter torso and shoulder straps.

What we like

• Incredibly versatile. Roomy enough to be used for school, commuting, light travel or as an outdoor daypack.

• Women specific back panel and shoulder strap fit.

What we don’t like

• Shoulder straps are a little too close together. This could be a problem for people with broad shoulders.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17” H x 11.5” W x 8” D

• Materials: 630D Nylon

• Weight: 1 lbs 5.2 oz

• Capacity: 26L

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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Columbia Tamolitch Daypack

Columbia offers a daypack for those who need a go-to bag for all of life’s adventures. At 23.7 liters, the Tamolitch is a good size for women and people with smaller frames who don’t want a backpack that is too bulky. The main compartment is surprisingly roomy and the various pockets and organizers are perfect for daily carry. We especially like the separate tablet pocket below the laptop sleeve in the main compartment.

For the adventurous, the Columbia Tamolitch can also be used as a light hiking daypack or travel backpack thanks to its water repellent Omni Shield fabric, stretchy side water bottle pockets and front stash pockets.

What we like

• Versatile multi-use backpack for school, commuting, days outdoors and can even be used as flight carry-on.

• The price is right - If you wait for a sale, you can often purchase this backpack for under $50.

What we don’t like

• Quality of the zippers, threading and construction is not on par with brands like North Face and Patagonia. You get what you pay for.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18.3” H x 12.5” W x 8.3” D

• Materials: 600D Coated Oxford 100% Polyester

• Weight: 1.5 lbs

• Capacity: 23.7L

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Patagonia Black Hole 32L Backpack

Born out of the popular Patagonia Black Hole duffel back, Patagonia’s Black Hole backpacks are available in a few different styles and sizes:

• Patagonia 25L Backpack

• Patagonia 32L Backpack

• Patagonia 45L Convertible Backpack

The 30 liter version is the mid-size option for anyone who needs a roomy backpack for a busy day of school, work or sightseeing. The Black Hole 30 liter features a padded sleeve for a laptop, front stash pocket for smaller electronics like headphones or a power bank and a large main compartment for everything from text books to a change of clothes.

What we like

• Incredibly versatile. Large enough to be used for school, commuting, gym or light travel.

• Deep side water bottle pockets. Water bottles, umbrellas and other items won’t fall out when on the move.

What we don’t like

• Although the TPU coated fabric is advertised as water resistant, the zippers and bottom panel are not. Water can sneak into the backpack if you set your backpack down during a heavy rain downpour.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 22” H x 10.5” W x 6.75” D

• Materials: 330D Recycled Polyester Ripstop, TPU-film laminate, water repellent DWR finish

• Weight: 1 lbs 12.6 oz

• Capacity: 32L

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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Patagonia Refugio 28L Backpack

The Patagonia Refugio is perfect for anyone who needs a reliable backpack for daily commutes, travel or light outdoor activities like hiking or beach days. At 28 liters, the main compartment is surprisingly roomy while the front pocket is perfect for organizing smaller items for school or work. Features such as a removable sternum strap, front attachment loops and DWR water resistant coating also makes the Refugio perfect for days outdoors.

The Patagonia Refugio comes in two sizes, the Refugio 28 liter and the smaller women’s Refugio 26 liter backpack.

What we like

• Incredibly versatile. Roomy enough to be used for school, commuting, light travel or as an outdoor daypack.

• Main compartment is surprisingly roomy and can comfortably fit a days worth of school books, lunch or extra clothes.

What we don’t like

• Shoulder straps are a little too close together. This could be a problem for bigger people with broad shoulders.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19” H x 12” W x 8” D

• Materials: 630D Nylon

• Weight: 1 lbs 7.5 oz

• Capacity: 28L

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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North Face Router Transit Backpack

At 41 liters, the Router Transit is The North Face’s largest backpack offering. Much like the smaller North Face Surge, the Router Transit is a thoughtfully designed backpack with enough pockets, sleeves and compartments for today’s modern carry. The main compartment is massive making it perfect for busy students, commuters or multi-day travelers. A separate laptop zip compartment is padded, lined with fleece and made to withstand everyday bumps and falls while protecting the electronics inside.

What we like

• Spacious main compartment with the right amount of pockets - perfect for school, travel or busy commuters who need to carry a lot.

• Large padded and fleece-lined laptop compartment that does a good job protecting your laptop/tablet from bumps and falls.

What we don’t like

• Huge main compartment goes deeper than most other backpacks - this means things can get easily lost in the abyss, especially smaller items.

• Unless you have a larger frame, this backpack tends to sag when it starts to get heavy. Chest straps helps with this but it isn’t an ideal situation.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 21.5” H x 14” W x 10” D

• Capacity: 41L

• Material: Varies per color

• Weight: 3 lb 8 oz

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

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Patagonia Black Hole 25L Backpack

Born out of the popular Patagonia Black Hole duffel back, Patagonia’s Black Hole backpacks are available in a few different styles and sizes:

• Patagonia 25L Backpack

• Patagonia 32L Backpack

• Patagonia 45L Convertible Backpack

The 25 liter version is great for anyone who needs a smaller pack for everyday carry or light travel. One of the best features of this backpack is its versatility. It can be used as a daily commuter backpack thanks to its padded laptop compartment and organizer pockets on the inside of the main compartment. For more adventurous days, the laptop sleeve can be used as a water reservoir for hiking and the deep bucket main compartment can be used to stash extra clothes, shoes or a jacket.

What we like

• Incredibly versatile. Large enough to be used for school, commuting, gym or light travel.

• Deep side water bottle pockets. Water bottles, umbrellas and other items won’t fall out when on the move.

What we don’t like

• Although the TPU coated fabric is advertised as water resistant, the zippers are not. Water can sneak into the backpack if you are unfortunate enough to be caught outside during a heavy rain downpour.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 21” H x 11” W x 6.5” D

• Materials: Water resistant 450D Polyester Ripstop with a TPU-film laminate

• Weight: 1 lb 8 oz

• Capacity: 25L

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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