Sherpani Soleil Anti-Theft [Review]

This Sherpani Soleil review was put together after 2 months of testing, and after extensive use, we can’t help but name it the most impressive small backpack of its size. At only 14-liters, it is the perfect compact backpack for daily carry of essentials. The convertible design allows you to choose between different looks; backpack, tote bag, and crossbody bag. But the real magic begins when you delve into its anti-theft features. Here is where the Soleil really shines as the perfect travel companion at busy airports and crowded sightseeing destination.

Let’s delve in!

Video Review

The Rundown

What we like

• Great anti-theft features makes it the perfect travel daypack or airplane personal item

• Easy to convert to a tote bag or crossbody bag

• Protective padded laptop sleeve

• Lots of pockets to keep things organized

What we don’t like

• The bag tilts forward when worn as a backpack

• Poor water resistant protection because of gaps in top zipper (see photos below)

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 15” (H) x 11” (W) x 4.5” (D)

• Weight: 1 lb 10 oz

• Capacity: 14L

• Materials: Recycled Mélange, Ballistic Nylon

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 15”

• Tablet Sleeve: None

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

Sherpani Soleil Backpack - Model Height 5’6” (167cm)

Convertible Design and Bag Fit

The small footprint of the Sherpani Soleil makes it an ideal personal item backpack for flights. With dimensions of 15” (H) x 11” (W) x 4.5” (D), it is small enough to fit underneath most airplane seats. Its compact size also makes it an ideal backpack for petite women or anyone who finds most backpacks too bulky. 

Sherpani Soleil convertible backpack - crossbody bag and tote bag mode

The Sherpani Soleil is a convertible backpack that can be worn in three ways; backpack, tote bag and crossbody bag. Switching between modes takes seconds thanks to the clips on the shoulder straps. Simply tuck the shoulder straps away into the back panel and you are ready to go! To switch to crossbody bag mode, Sherpani includes a single long shoulder strap that can be clipped to the top of the Soleil for an easy switch. 

As for backpack comfort, the shoulder straps on the Soleil are very comfortable. These shoulder straps are made with a dense foam that do a great job under weight. Unlike other thinner shoulder straps, you won’t have to worry about these cutting into your shoulders.

Shoulder straps on the Sherpani Soleil backpack

The area where the Soleil could improve is with its back panel. When worn as a backpack, the Soleil wants to tilt forward, creating an awkward angle on your back. This doesn’t make the backpack uncomfortable until the bag gets heavy, in which case you will have a pressure point on your lower back. Despite multiple adjustments of shoulder strap length, we could not get the Soleil to not tilt forward when worn as a backpack.

Construction & Water Resistance

The Sherpani Soleil is a well-made pack that feels as good as it looks. In addition to its ballistic nylon exterior, Sherpani also adorns the bag with vegan leather trim for an upscale look. The zippers are also as smooth as butter and have never snagged during use.

Sherpani Soleil Backpack - Gaps in top zipper

Our main concern is the overall water-resistance of the Sherpani Soleil. Although it is made with water-resistant fabric, the design of the top zipper undermines any meaningful protection. Two noticeable gaps on either side of the zipper allow rain to easily penetrate the main compartment during a storm. Unfortunately, if you are looking for a waterproof backpack, you might want to explore other options.

Pockets and Compartments

Sherpani offers an impressive array of pockets on the Soleil AT, and the great organization is one of our favorite design elements about this bag.

On the outside of the bag, you have two side pockets for water bottles or an umbrella. These side pockets are large enough to accommodate larger 32oz and 40oz water bottles, although they are a tight fit and dig into the main compartment. We found ourselves sticking to slimmer 20oz and 24oz bottles for easier access.

Sherpani Soleil Backpack - Exterior pockets

Three front pockets give you easy access to smaller items. However, one small gripe is that these pockets all share space with each other, meaning that if the top and bottom zipper pockets are full, the middle slip pocket becomes unusable. This is just something to keep in mind.

On the inside of the main compartment, there are even more pockets for organization. Here you will find an organization panel for small items like pens, keys, and a phone. Sherpani even adds an additional slip pocket for a water bottle or umbrella inside the main compartment as a bonus.

Sherpani Soleil Backpack - Interior organizer pockets and side water bottle pocket

The other side of the main compartment is where you’ll find the 15-inch laptop sleeve. Honestly, Sherpani has done a great job here. This sleeve is generously padded with great protection all around. We were glad to see that Sherpani took the time to design a protective laptop sleeve!

Sherpani Soleil Backpack - Internal 15-inch laptop sleeve

Overall, these pockets offer a good mix of usefull pockets for both everyday carry and travel. As you’ll see later in this review, the ability to lock the zippers and compartments make them great safe spots for items like passports and wallets while still having easy access.

What Fits Inside the Sherpani Soleil?

The inside of the main compartment is filled with lots of pockets for everything from a laptop to sunglasses. Although 13-liters is a great size for daily essentials, we found was that once these inside pockets were packed it didn’t leave much open packing space for other items. Below are some examples of what we were able to pack inside.

Travel PackING

• iPad (inside laptop sleeve)

• Tech Pouch 

• Baseball Cap

• 24oz Water Bottle

• Compressible Travel Jacket

School or Work Packing

• Folder

• Large 3-Subject Notebook

• Composition Notebook

• 1-inch Binder

• Laptop (inside laptop sleeve)

From our testing, it’s easy to see that the Sherpani Soleil is great for essentials only! Think of just a few notebooks and folders for work or school or in-flight travel must-haves like a tablet and compressible jacket. Larger items such as a lunch box or fleece jackets took up almost all of the inside space, leaving little room for much else. If you need more space than we definitely recommend looking at Sherpani’s other larger backpack options.

Anti-Theft Features Explained

If you haven’t already noticed, the “AT” in Sherpani Soleil AT stands for anti-theft. And wow, is this backpack packed with some great safety features!

The most notable are the lockable zippers. There is a small red clip next to the main compartment zipper that allows you to lock the zipper shut to prevent theft. The front zippered pockets are also lockable; you can secure the zipper pull by passing it through a small loop, offering a simple way to outsmart pickpockets.

Sherpani Soleil Backpack - main compartment zipper locking clip

Other great features include RFID-block fabric on the front panel of the bag to prevent digital identity theft, slash-proof fabric on the bottom of the bag and a stainless steel wire and loop that allows you to lock the bag to a table or chair leg in public spaces. Talk about innovative!

Sherpani Soleil Backpack - Included ReturnMe lost and found tag

Our favorite anti-theft feature has to be the ReturnMe lost and found tag. This little tag has information on it to allow a good samaritan to report a found bag from anywhere in the world, and ReturnMe will then contact you for a safe return. This ReturnMe service is free and comes with every Sherpani Soleil purchase.

Final Thoughts

Overall, we are very impressed by what the Sherpani Soleil has to offer. This is easily one of the most feature-packed bags we have ever reviewed. Not only is it convertible, but the anti-theft features alone are enough to make it one of our favorite small backpacks for travel. 

The biggest con is the lack of reliable water resistance. Unfortunately, the gaps in the main compartment zipper leaves the inside of the bag vulnerable to moisture if you were ever to be caught out in the rain. Aside from this design quirk, we found the overall quality of the bag to be excellent and do recommend the Soleil to anyone who wants a stylish yet practical bag that feels as good as it looks. 

If you are still searching for a small backpack with good water resistance, we recommend checking out our reviews for the Patagonia Atom Tote or the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag. Other great hybrid tote bag/backpack options can be found in our backpacks like Fjallraven buying guide.

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Able Carry Thirteen Daybag [Review]

Let's start by saying that we had the privilege of testing the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag for almost four years before writing this review. After only a few weeks of use, the Thirteen Daybag quickly became our go-to small backpack for everyday carry and occasional travel. What stood out the most was its great quality - after all these years, the only wear we could find was some slight fraying on the back panel's stitching from rubbing. This wear was so minor that we questioned even mentioning it.

Just in time for 2024, Able Carry released updated versions of the Thirteen Daybag that add about 0.5 liters of packing space, along with some very minor changes. Think of this update more as the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag "version 1.5" rather than "version 2.0". A couple of extra pockets, a removable key leash, and upgrades to the internal lining material - but it looks and feels like the same bag. In this Thirteen Daybag review, we take a look at the updated version but with the advantage of a few years of use to really dive into the pros and cons.

Video Review

The Rundown

What we like

• Amazing quality: water-resistant X-Pac exterior, tough ripstop nylon lining and some of the most comfortable padded shoulder straps we have tested in a bag this small

• Light colored ripstop lining makes it easy to quickly find items inside the bag

• Protective "floating" laptop sleeve

• Lots of pockets to keep things organized

What we don’t like

• No trolley sleeve to attach the bag to rolling luggage while traveling

• Laptop sleeve can be a little difficult to access

• X-Pac is noisy - we wouldn't want to open this backpack inside a library

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17.7” (H) x 10.6” (W) x 6.7” (D)

• Weight: 2.2lb

• Capacity: 13L

• Materials: X-Pac with DWR water-resistant coating, ripstop nylon lining

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 14”

• Tablet Sleeve: Up to 11"

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag - Model Height 5’6” (167cm)

Who is this backpack for?

For Daily Carry: Laptop, chargers, water bottle, keys, and wallet — if these are the essentials you never leave home without then the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag may be the backpack for you. The water resistant and tough-as-nails construction makes this backpack easy to recommend to work commuters and urban explorers alike.

For Travelers: The compact size of the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag makes it an ideal personal item backpack for flights. It's small enough to fit underneath the airplane seat of just about any airline, plus its pockets makes it easy to organize in-flight essentials. The Thirteen Daybag also makes a great travel daybag thanks to it's water-resistant construction and hidden pockets.

It might not be suitable for Students: With only 13-liters of packing space, the most we could fit inside the main compartment was a single 1-inch binder and a large notebook. Students looking for a roomy backpack for school might not have enough room for essentials like multiple folders, books and pencil cases. However, the limited capacity might work for students who only need to carry a laptop and a few other items. If you need more room but want a similar style, we recommend upgrading to the Able Carry Daily Plus.

Size and Fit

The Thirteen Daybag is the smallest offering in the Able Carry lineup of backpacks. Although it is a unisex backpack that can be worn by anyone, those with a shorter torso can really take advantage of its compact size.

• Exterior Dimensions: 17.7” (H) x 10.6” (W) x 6.7” (D)

To really drive the point home of how small it is, check out the 13L Thirteen Daybag next to the 21L Daily Plus for a size comparison. As you can see it's quit the jump up in size!

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag vs Daily Plus size differences

The shoulder straps are some of the most comfortable we have seen in a backpack this small. Usually, small backpacks love to skimp on shoulder strap padding but the Able Carry equips the Thirteen Daybag with plush close-cell foam padding and an ergonomic s-curve shape for max comfort.

The back panel is less impressive - it uses a the same close-cell foam padding as the shoulder straps but is just a flat piece of foam with small stitching channels for airflow. Overall, it's a very comfortable backpack and given its small size, we never felt that the back panel needed any additional padding.

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag - S-curve shoulder straps and magnetic chest strap

A new addition is the magnetic chest strap that is not only height-adjustable but removable all together. In our honest opinion, the Thirteen Daybag is so compact that a chest strap is rarely needed, but it was great for Able Carry to the add the option for extra support.

Construction & Quality

If we are being honest, the construction quality Thirteen Daybag is probably the best part about this backpack. The exterior is made with durable X-Pac material with a DWR water-resistant finish. X-Pac is not only lightweight but very high-strength and we have never had any punctures or tears in our years of using the old Thirteen Daybag.

Quality check: Our 4-year old Thirteen Daybag vs our new 1-month old Thirteen Daybag

The inside of the backpack is lined with ripstop nylon lining, another high-strength fabric that is known for its tear-resistance. Every pocket and compartment on the Thirteen Daybag is lined with light-colored ripstop for quick spotting of small items.

The external zippers on the Thirteen are YKK zippers with a DWR coating for water-resistant. At first we were disappointed that Able Carry switched from the old coated zipper style to fabric zippers, but after testing the new zippers, we found that the fabric zippers do hold up well to moisture thanks to the DWR coating.

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag - X-Pac fabric does a great job at repelling water

Is the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag waterproof? No, it's not waterproof but it is very water-resistant.

In our testing, we really had to really drench the backpack to start seeing moisture seeping in through the seams. The verdict is that you should be fine with the Thirteen Daybag on a commute home on a rainy day, in fact we never had a problem wearing this backpack in light rain. The X-Pac fabric really has given us peace of mind with outdoor wear, especially when carrying expensive tech.

Outside Pockets and Compartments

What makes Able Carry special is their creative approach to pockets and compartments. The exterior pockets on the Thirteen Daybag are a prime example of what the brand has to offer.

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag - Front pocket fits a 24oz water bottle or umbrella

On the front of the bag, there's a slip pocket designed for a water bottle or umbrella. It's important to note that although a 24oz water bottle technically fits, once you pack the main compartment, it bulges into this front pocket. As a result, a water bottle will no longer fit once the bag is packed full so its not much of a dependable storage spot. But it is worth mentioning that we never had an issue fitting an umbrella.

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag - Removable key leash inside front zipper pocket

There is also another large front zipper pocket that spans the entire front of the bag. This is where you'll find a removable key leash attached to a small loop. The idea is that you have the option to detach this key leash and place it in a pocket inside the main compartment for better security.

This large front zipper pocket is roomy enough to fit bulkier items, like a large pair of over-ear headphones or a pouch. However, it has a similar issue to the front water bottle pocket—if you overpack the main compartment, it will bulge into this pocket and leaves you with less packing space.

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag - Hidden pockets behind back panel and inside shoulder straps

On the back of the Thirteen, there are a few hidden pockets for added security. Our favorite is the concealed pocket behind the back panel padding that can fit a cell phone and passport. Then, there are the hidden shoulder strap pockets, which are just large enough for items like a credit card or a metro card (we found they could just about fit a 3rd Gen AirPods case). You do have to be careful what you place inside these shoulder strap pockets because they are not secured with zippers.

Exterior Lash Points

For extra storage, the Thirteen Daybag gives you multiple lash points. There are two on the top of the bag for heavier items and a string of smaller daisy chains that are hidden at the bottom of the bag.

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag - Exterior lash points and daisy chains for extra storage

Finally, there is a lash point by the zippers that not only allows you to secure the zippers down when you are on the move, but allows you to use a lock to lockdown the main compartment completely.

14” Laptop Sleeve

Inside the Thirteen Daybag you'll find a padded laptop sleeve for a laptop up to 14-inches. What makes this laptop sleeve great is that is has a centered design that allows your laptop to "float" in the middle of the main compartment. As a result. you have a generous false bottom at the bottom and great spacing all around the laptop sleeve for protection from bumps and drops. The sleeve itself features soft-lining on the inside to protect your device from scratches.

In front of the laptop sleeve is a second sleeve that can fit up to an 11-inch tablet. This sleeve isn't as padded but does provide the same "floating" design so that your tablet device is protected.

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag - Shown with 14-inch laptop and 11-inch tablet inside

Our only gripe about the laptop sleeve is with accessibility. The top of the Thirteen Daybag hangs over the laptop sleeve, making it hard to access the laptop. In order to get full-access to the laptop sleeve, we found ourselves having to pull back the back panel to get the top X-Pac material out of the way.

What Fits Inside the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag?

The inside of the main compartment is filled with lots of pockets for everything from a laptop to sunglasses. Although 13-liters is a great size for daily essentials, we found was that once these inside pockets were packed it didn’t leave much open packing space for other items. Below are some examples of what we were able to pack inside.

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag - Inside pockets are packed with everyday essentials

Everyday Carry Packout

• 14” Laptop

• Small Notebook (or 11” tablet)

• Pen

• 24oz water bottle (inside side pocket)

• Sunglasses case (inside side pocket)

• Laptop charger and tech accessories (inside zip pocket)

A light jacket can squeeze into the main compartment when the water bottle and sunglasses case in the side pockets are removed.

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag - Remove items from the side pockets and you can fill a notebook and a binder

School or Work Packout

• 14” Laptop

• Small Notebook (or 11” tablet)

• Pen

• Large 3-subject notebook

• 1-inch binder

• Laptop charger and tech accessories (inside zip pocket)

Larger items such as a lunch box, camera cube or shoes took up almost all of the inside space, making it impossible to pack the pockets. Our conclusion is this: the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag is a great backpack is you need to carry smaller essentials. Emphasis on the word 'smaller'!

Final Thoughts

After countless uses, we wholeheartedly recommend the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag to anyone seeking a high-quality daily backpack. This little backpack is built like a tank! The proof really is in our three-year-old Thirteen Daybag that still looks and feels like fresh after repeated use. The X-Pac material is durable, and we appreciate that Able Carry upgraded the internal lining to ripstop nylon. The shoulder straps are also among the most comfortable we've ever used on a backpack of this size, so it's safe to say that comfort has never been an issue.

The most important takeaway is that the internal packing space is pretty limited. While 13 liters is enough room for those looking to carry smaller essentials, once those internal pockets are filled, there isn't much room left over. Need an upgrade from a sling bag but don't want to carry a bulky backpack? The Able Carry Thirteen Daybag will be perfect. However, if you need something to carry bulky daily items like a lunch or a change of clothes and shoes, this bag might be too small for you. As long as you understand this backpack's limitations, it will serve as a reliable everyday backpack for years to come.

If you on the hunt for a small backpack with a similar footprint but with a little bit more packing room, we recommend taking a look at the Patagonia Atom Tote Pack, the Fjallraven Raven 20 or checking our buying guide of small backpacks for men.

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King Kong EDT Backpack [Review]

Introducing the Everyday Tactical (EDT) Backpack, King Kong's first-ever daily laptop backpack.

King Kong is best known for their rugged gym bags but they have really surprised us when they announced a smaller laptop backpack for everyday carry. This pack is a fusion of a high-end laptop backpack and a rugged tactical bag. From full grain leather accents to MOLLE webbing for attachments, it’s a nice blend of style and function.

In this King Kong EDT backpack review, we will dive into all of the details and explore if it’s worth the hype.

Video Review

The Rundown

What we like

• Side pockets are great for multi-use: water bottles, pens, phone, etc

• Light colored ripstop lining makes it easy to quickly find items inside the bag

• Real leather accents really elevate the look and feel

• Comfortable padded shoulder straps and breathable back panel

What we don’t like

• Laptop sleeve doesn’t have a false bottom to protect against drops

• Plastic buckles on the front. We wish King Kong had used metal for durability.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.7” (H) x 11.8” (W) x 5.1” (D)

• Capacity: 18L

• Materials: Full Grain American Leather, Nylon, Ripstop Nylon

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 16”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

Size and Fit

The King Kong EDT Backpack offers a 18 liters of packing room, making it great for lugging around daily essentials. Despite its modest 18-liter capacity, this backpack falls on the larger side with a pretty big footprint on the back when worn.

The shoulder straps a nicely padded with breathable mesh, which are approximately 3.5 inches apart and wider than most at 3 inches. This design provides great comfort and support for large men and women with broad shoulders, however those with narrow shoulders and a smaller frame may find the straps a bit too wide.

We really love the back panel on the EDT. It’s cushioned and very breathable, featuring cutouts for airflow. The back panel is stiff to give the bag some structure but it isn’t too stiff and will still conform to your back for a personalized fit. For extra support, the backpack also features an adjustable sternum strap.

Materials and Construction

The King Kong EDT Backpack features a combination of high-quality materials and thoughtful construction. The bag uses full grain American leather trim on the front top panel, front bottom panel, top handle, and various touch points. The leather really adds sophistication to the bag that we only really see in luxury laptop backpacks.

Inside the backpack, King Kong uses light-colored ripstop nylon, providing excellent visibility to easily locate your items. Additionally, the backpack incorporates MOLLE webbing on the side pockets and front, offering versatile attachment options for extra gear.

While the bag includes convenient straps on the front for attaching items like a jacket, we found that the quality of the buckles on the straps is a bit disappointing, as they are made with plastic. Time will tell how these plastic buckles hold up, and we wished that King Kong had opted for sturdier metal buckles instead.

One appealing aspect of the EDT Backpack is the minimal branding. The only visible branding is a removable leather patch on the front, allowing you to personalize the bag with your own morale patch. This touch of customization adds to the backpack's overall appeal and versatility.

What fits inside the King Kong EDT Backpack?

The King Kong EDT Backpack offers 18 liters of packing space, providing enough room for your daily essentials. Inside the main compartment, you'll find a smart organization system with five different pockets, ensuring your belongings stay neat and easily accessible.

Inside the main compartment you’ll be greeted with a padded sleeve, perfect for securely stashing documents or an iPad. There are also slip pockets that can easily fit a laptop charger or sunglasses case. For further organization, two zippered pockets are available for smaller items, making it easy to keep stuff like pens and cables within reach.  Our favorite pocket has to be the hidden pocket underneath the King Kong label that can perfectly fit an Apple Airtag or Tile tracker.

In our tests, we found that the main compartment comfortably accommodated a few binders, notebooks, and folders, making it a practical choice for students and professionals alike.

Furthermore, the EDT Backpack can easily fit a change of clothing and shoes, making it suitable for quick gym visits or overnight trips. For work carry, the main compartment can also fit a lunch box and jacket inside the main compartment.

One thing to note is that the opening of the main compartment isn’t very wide. This is great for stacking your items on top of each other but can be trouble for large bulky items. Stuff like a camera cube and large lunch box had trouble fitting through the opening.

16” Laptop Compartment

The laptop compartment of the King Kong EDT Backpack is designed to accommodate up to a 16" laptop. And when King Kong says 16” laptop, they mean a 16” laptop and not just a Macbook Pro. We found that we could comfortably fit a big clunky 15.6” PC Laptop inside this compartment with some room to spare.

This laptop compartment is generously padded on all sides, offering reliable protection for your laptop. However, our main concern with the laptop compartment is missing a false bottom. Without a false bottom, the laptop compartment extends all the way to the bottom of the bag, potentially leaving the laptop vulnerable to drops and bumps. We would love if King Kong incorporated a false bottom into the design in future versions of this bag, as this small feature adds an extra layer of protection for valuable devices.

Outside Pockets

The King Kong EDT Backpack comes equipped with three quick-access exterior pockets.

The first is a small front pocket secured with a water-resistant zipper. This nifty pocket is perfect for safeguarding your phone, wallet, or sunglasses, ensuring they stay protected even during rain.

The standout feature of this backpack is the multi-use side pockets found on either side. These pockets cleverly zip shut when not in use, keeping them neatly out of the way and maintaining the bag's sleek appearance.

They serve as fantastic water bottle pockets, accommodating bottles of all sizes. We successfully fit a massive 40oz Hydroflask inside these side pockets with ease. Additionally, these pockets prove ideal for storing quick-access items like your phone, pen, or any other essentials you need on the go.

Final Thoughts

The EDT’s high-quality construction and thoughtful design choices truly impressed us, demonstrating King Kong's dedication to delivering top-notch products.

We have noticed that the quality of each King Kong bag keeps getting better and better with each new release. The Everyday Tactical is without a doubt their best release so far. The leather trim, the MOLLE webbing and cool urban backpack design has us excited about what King Kong will come up with next. It really is a mix of a high end backpack and rugged tactical bag. Best of both worlds.

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Doughnut Macaroon [Review]

Are you looking for a small backpack that's perfect for school and carrying your laptop every day? You might want to take a closer look at the Doughnut Macaroon backpack.

In this hands-on Doughnut Macaroon review we will explore whether this backpack is a good buy. Here are thoughts on this popular, and dare we say, cute backpack.

The Rundown

What we like

• Comfortable padded shoulder straps

• Lots of pockets on the inside for organizing small items

• Real leather accents and metal buckles give it a high quality look

• Can be used for school - fits folders, binders and notebooks

What we don’t like

• Shoulder straps stick out a little even when tucked in. Shoulder straps bulge when using the Macaroon as a tote bag.

• Internal bottle pockets take up packing space. You will not be able to fit large binders and notebooks if you use the water bottle pocket on the inside.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 15” (H) x 10.6” (W) x 5.11” (D)

• Capacity: 16L

• Materials: Water repellent 420D Crinkle Nylon Twill fabric

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 14”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

Size and Fit

Let’s begin this review by saying that this brand is spelled Doughnut and not Donut. Although, Donut Macaroon looks pretty cool now that we spell it out. 

We have the standard 16-liter Macaroon for this review. This is a small backpack that is similar to the Fjallraven Kanken in size. With that said, if you are a small or shorter person than you should be fine with the standard 16L Macaroon. Those with broader shoulders may want to upgrade to the Doughnut Macaroon Large size.

The Macaroon is a convertible backpack. This means that you can tuck away the shoulder straps to get them out of the way when using it as a tote bag. In concept, we love the idea. But in reality we found that the padding of the shoulder straps made the straps stick out a little more than we liked.

Materials and Construction

The Doughnut Macaroon is made out of a water repellent nylon fabric that will keep your stuff protected in a light rain. The fabric itself feels strong yet lightweight. And water does roll off the fabric when wet. Keep in mind that this isn’t a completely waterproof backpack, so if you need a bag that will protect against heavy downpours, the Macaroon might not cut it.

The most impressive materials are the leather and metal. Doughnut uses real leather on their handles and small accents. The leather really upgrades the look and feel of the bag. Doughnut also doesn’t use any plastic for their hardware, instead you’ll find metal throughout the bag. This includes metal buckles on the shoulder straps and metal snaps in the front pocket.

What fits inside the Doughnut Macaroon Backpack 16L?

With a packing capacity of only 16 liters, we were surprised that the Macaroon would make a good backpack for school. We were able to fit folders, binders and notebooks inside the main compartment just fine.

There are pockets on each side of the main compartment that can fit a water bottle. We found that it can fit a slim 24oz bottle. One gripe we have about these pockets is that they can take up room when used, making it harder to fit bigger items like books and notebooks. Keep this in mind if you carry a water bottle to work or school.

Against the back panel is where you’ll find the 14-inch laptop sleeve. It is well padded but it does not have a false bottom. This means that the laptop sleeve touches the bottom of the bag with only a strip of padding protecting your laptop from the ground. If we could change one thing about the Macaroon it would be to add a little bit more protection at the bottom of the backpack sleeve.

Inside you’ll also find an organizer panel filled with pockets. Here you can store pens, chargers and other small items. There is also a pocket for a phone and we found that it can fit a regular iPhone 13. This means larger iPhones or larger Android phones will not fit inside this pocket.

Outside Pockets

On the outside of the Doughnut Macaroon you’ll find two side pockets that can fit an umbrella. It can also fit a slim water bottle but we found that bottles dig into the bag.

Lastly, there is a large front pocket. What’s interesting about this pocket is that you enter it with two metal snaps. The leather straps are just there as decoration and you do not need to unbuckle them to enter the pocket.

Final Thoughts

The Doughnut Macaroon is great if you need a small laptop backpack for work, school or running errands. But it may be too small for some people, including students who need to carry lots of big books and notebooks. 

We recommend the Macaroon to those who know what to expect with its compact size. It makes a great daily carry bag for essentials like a laptop, water bottle and personal items. It’s also great for students who just need to bring a few books and a laptop. Those looking for a bigger bag might want to check out the Macaroon Large.

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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

Similar Backpacks

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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tomtoc Navigator-A82 [Review]

The tomtoc Navigator-A82 is a 40L travel laptop backpack for those who need a reliable travel companion without the high price tag. Minimliast, stylish and budget-friend, the Navigator-A82 punches above it's weight class in terms of features. In fact, having spent a few weeks testing it, we are sure that the tomtoc Navigator-A82 is one of the best value travel backpacks available right now.

In this backpack review, we will take a closer look at the tomtoc travel laptop 40L backpack and explore all of the details.

Video Review

The Rundown

What we like

• Dual access to the packing compartment (main opening and through laptop compartment)

• Minimalist design with just enough pockets for organization

• Protective laptop and tablet sleeves

• Affordable price

What we don’t like

• Water bottle pockets can only fit slimmer bottles (does not fit 32oz Nalgene bottle)

• No hip belt for extra support under heavy load. Missed opportunity for tomtoc to offer an add-on hip belt option for those who want one.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 20.5” (H) x 13” (W) x 8.66” (D)

• Capacity: 40L

• Materials: Recycled PET, YKK Woven-In Tough Zippers

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 17”

• Tablet Sleeve: Up to 14”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

Materials and Construction

tomtoc has left us impressed with the overall construction quality of the Navigator-A82. Despite being considered a budget backpack, it doesn't feel cheap. The bag uses a recycled textile made from PET plastic bottles and we were surprised to find that it's equipped with YKK Woven-In Tough zippers that have been as smooth as butter.

Where a lot of budget travel backpacks cut quality is with the internal lining and the shoulder straps. This isn’t the case with the tomtoc Navigator-A82. The internal lining fabric is feels on par with more more expensive travel bags and the shoulder straps are generously padded for comfortable carry under heavier weight.

What fits inside the tomtoc Navigator-A82 40L?

The tomtoc Navigator A82 can be dividing into two major compartments: the main packing compartment and the rear laptop compartment.

The main compartment opens much like a duffel bag for easy packing. Although the tomtoc Navigator A82 has a pretty large capacity, it isn't as roomy as some of the other 40L travel backpacks we have reviewed. With this in mind we still found that the main packing compartment can easily fit 5 days of clothes. Of course your mileage may vary depending on how light of a packer you are (we tend to overpack). Light packers can easily fit up to a week of clothes and toiletries with the right rolling technique.

The Laptop Compartment

The laptop compartment of the A82 has a convenient TSA-friendly lay-flat opening, making it easier to go through airport security checkpoints. Inside, you'll find a spacious padded laptop sleeve that can accommodate a 17-inch laptop, as well as a second tablet sleeve that can also fit a device of up to 14 inches. Can the A82 serve as a dual laptop backpack? Absolutely.

On the opposite side of the laptop sleeves, you'll find a single mesh pocket for accessories. This pocket can comfortably fit chargers, external hard drives, and other smaller tech accessories.

Our favorite feature of this backpack is the ability to access the main compartment from inside of the laptop compartment. This grants you quick access to liquids and other items needed for airport security scanning. It's a unique feature that truly sets the tomtoc A82 apart from other travel packs.

It's important to note that only the laptop compartment has lockable zippers (bring your own TSA lock). Unfortunately, the main compartment zipper lacks this security feature.

Outside Pockets

The tomtoc Navigator-A82 gives you a total 4 outside pockets for easy access to your stuff.

There are two side pockets for water bottles and we found that they could easily fit slim bottles like a 24oz Hydroflask and a 1 liter plastic bottle. However, these pockets were too narrow to fit a larger 32oz Nalgene bottle. The water bottle pockets are held in place by an elastic band to keep the pockets flat when not in use.

Other pockets include a small pocket on the top of the bag that can fit a passport, wallet and sunglasses. This top pocket is semi-hidden to give you a little bit of extra security when traveling. Lastly, we have the front pocket. This is a flat pocket that's a good spot for general small tech storage, mini notebooks and other items you need quick access to.

Size and Comfort (Back Panel and Shoulder Straps)

• tomtoc Navigator A-82 dimensions: 20.5" x 13" x 8.66"

The dimensions of this pack puts it square in carry-on backpack territory. Meaning, it would have to be placed in the overhead compartment on most airplanes. Could you use this backpack as an underseat personal item backpack? Maybe. But at its dimensions of 20.5" x 13" x 8.66" when fully packed, you will go over most airline personal size limits.

This is a soft pack, so it can be compressed as needed. tomtoc has included a flap inside the main compartment that allows you to give the bag some structure. When the flap is down, you can use the side compression straps to adjust the backpack's depth. This size control is a handy feature, especially for shorter trips.

As for comfort, tomtoc has done a great job with their shoulder straps. They are thick, very well-padded, and comfortable even when carrying a heavy load. The back panel is decent enough, with tomtoc providing four cushioned mesh panels for both comfort and breathability. However, it's worth noting that there is a quality difference between the back panel of the Navigator-A82 and more expensive travel packs.

For additional support, tomtoc has included an adjustable chest strap but unfortunately there is no hip belt. If there is one major con about this backpack, it's the lack of a hip belt.

Final Thoughts

Buy on Amazon

The tomtoc 40L travel backpack strikes a nice balance between good quality and affordability, making it one of the best minimalist backpacks available at this price range. Not only is it constructed with durable materials but the spacious compartments for clothing and tech gives you everything you need for shorter leisure and business trips without the overwhleming array of pockets and compartments that plague other travel packs.

The TSA-friendly laptop compartment is the star of the show. This lay-flat compartment will make aiport security a breeze thanks to its two padded sleeves and easy access to the main packing compartment. This feature alone puts the tomtoc Navigator-A82 above its competition.

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Under Armour Hustle Sport [Review]

The Under Armour Hustle Sport Backpack is a budget-friendly backpack that’s purpose-built for school, sports and gym sessions.

But is it worth buying? In this backpack review we will take an honest look at the pros, cons as well as explore how water resistant UA Storm Technology really is.

Video Review

The Rundown

What we like

• Roomy 26L capacity is large enough store a change of clothes and a basketball or school notebooks and binders.

• Available in lots of colors for a personalized look

• Ultra lightweight construction

• Affordable price

What we don’t like

• Laptop compartment is not padded

• Back panel is just one big piece of padded polyester with no breathability. Not great in hot weather.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18.5” (H) x 12.6” (W) x 7.4” (D)

• Capacity: 26L

• Materials: 100% Polyester

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 15”

• Tablet Sleeve: None

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

Who is this backpack for?

• School: The roomy 26-liter main compartment is perfect for storing large notebooks, binders and books. Affordable pricing is great for those looking school backpack on a budget.

• Sports and Gym: Lightweight construction makes this a great backpack for sports and gym sessions. The bungee gives you additional storage for stuff like shoes, a towel or jacket. 

What fits inside the Hustle Sport?

Unlike the larger UA Hustle 5.0 backpack, the Hustle Sport which features 3 major compartments, the Hustle Sport only has one - the main compartment. Inside is where you’ll find the 15” laptop sleeve as well as a couple of extra slip pockets for smaller items.

The 26-liter main compartment is the perfect for daily packing. If you plan on using the UA Hustle Sport as a school backpack, you’ll be able to fit a generous amount of large binders and notebooks in addition to a laptop. For athletes, the main compartment is also large enough to fit a full sized (size 7) basketball in addition to a change of clothes.

Although the 15” laptop sleeve has a generous false bottom to protect your device from drops, it leaves a lot to be desired when it comes to overall laptop protection. The laptop sleeve on the Hustle Sport is just a thin polyester sleeve with no padding outside of the padding it shares with the back panel. It also does not include any fleece lining to protect your laptop from scratches.

Two additional slip pockets can be found inside the main compartment for smaller items. These slip pockets can fit items like a sunglasses case, small pencil case or laptop charger.

Exterior Pockets and Bungee Storage

On the outside of the UA Hustle Sport, you'll find a pretty large fleece-lined valuables pocket for items like sunglasses, a phone, and other tech. We found it to be just large enough to fit a pair of over-ear headphones.

Two additional mesh water bottle pockets can be found on each side of the backpack. These pockets are large enough to fit 32oz and 1-liter bottles perfectly fine.

Unlike other Under Armour backpacks, the Hustle Sport doesn't include additional MOLLE webbing or daisy chain loops for exterior attachments. Instead, the Hustle Sport provides you with a bungee cord for attaching bulkier items.

We found the bungee was able to fit a light jacket or workout shoes (up to a Mens US 12) but the bungee is also too small to fit a full-sized basketball.

Materials and Comfort

The Under Armour Hustle Sport is made of polyester material, which makes it incredibly lightweight. There isn't anything special with the construction; it has simple stitching throughout, and the material itself is pretty thin. The zippers on the Hustle Sport are as smooth as butter and the metal zipper pulls are nice touch.

Regarding comfort, the padded shoulder straps are the star of the show and provide excellent weight distribution and ample comfort even when the backpack gets heavy. Under Armour always does a great job with their shoulder straps and the Hustle Sport is no exception.

However, the back panel is where the Hustle Sport starts to suffer. Although padded, it's thin, and this causes oddly-shaped items to poke through when wearing the backpack, making for an uncomfortable situation. Moreover, the back panel isn’t nearly as breathable as we would expect a backpack designed for athletes to be. It's essentially one large piece of polyester with two tiny air channels - this spells trouble in hot weather.

Is the UA Hustle Waterproof? UA Storm Technology Tested

UA Storm Technology is essentially a water-repellent coating on the polyester that allows water to bead up and roll off the fabric when wet. The fleece-lined valuables pocket in the front of the bag is also equipped with a water-resistant zipper that does a good job of keeping moisture out.

Although UA Storm Technology offers some water-resistant protection, the Hustle Sport is far from waterproof. Unfortunately, the seams and main compartment zipper are not water-resistant, and this creates weak points for water to sneak in after repeated exposure. 

During our testing, we found that repeated exposure allowed water to leak into the main compartment through the top stitching of the backpack.

What does this mean for you? The UA Hustle Sport should be okay during a walk home in a light rain, but you will have significantly less protection walking home during a rainstorm or surviving heavy splash (think of being on the unfortunate pedestrian end of a car driving through a puddle on a rainy day).

Final Thoughts

Buy on Amazon

At the end of the day, the Under Armour Hustle Sport is a budget backpack for those who want a good value-to-price ratio and the Hustle Sport really is a great value when you tally up the specs.

You’ll get a water-resistant construction, a big roomy main compartment that's great for sports and school, plus a super useful bungee that expands your storage by quite a bit.

If you want a major step up in quality, we recommend you take a look at The North Face Jester or Borealis. These two bungee backpacks have much better laptop sleeves, more pockets for organization, and much more breathable back panels. However, these backpacks are not as budget-friendly as the Hustle Sport and we think this is where the Hustle Sport really shines.

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Able Carry Daily Plus [Review]

Able Carry has taken their popular Daily Backpack and made it even better with the Daily Plus. What does the "Plus" stand for? More pockets, improved organization, and a more water-resistant design, thanks to its X-Pac and water-resistant zipper combination. Is this the right backpack for you? Check out this review to find out.

Video Review

The Rundown

What we like

• Amazing organization for everyday carry items

• Very protective laptop and tablet sleeves that float to prevent damage from bumps and drops

• Hidden pocket for secret stashes

• Comfortable and breathable shoulder straps and back panel

What we don’t like

• X-Pac is a high-strength and highly water-resistant fabric, but it has a downside: it makes a crinkly, plastic-like noise when the pack is opened, which can be distracting. Are we nitpicking too much here? We had to list something.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.3” x 11.3” x 7.8” inches

• Capacity: 21L

• Weight: 2.6 lbs

• Materials: X-Pac

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 16”

• Tablet Sleeve: Up to 11” (does not fit 12.9” iPad Pro)

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

Who is this backpack for?

Work Commuters: We love this backpack as a daily driver for work and commuting. The organization panel in the main compartment acts as a mobile office giving you spots for a laptop, pens and tech essentials. The hidden water bottle pocket and back security pocket also provide protection during crowded commutes.

Students who need great organization: The main compartment of the Daily Plus can fit multiple large notebooks, books and binders and has all of the tech organization you need for a busy day campus. We also like the Daily Plus as a waterproof college backpack for rainy days.

"I need a good laptop backpack that won't fall apart": With its high-quality, water-resistant construction and protective "floating" laptop and tablet sleeves, the Able Carry Daily Plus backpack will keep your tech protected from bumps, drops, and the elements. Able Carry did NOT skimp on quality with this pack.

Who it might not be for:

Travelers - The Daily Plus was designed as a daybag first and foremost so it’s missing common travel backpack features. You won’t be getting a trolley sleeve for attaching the Daily Plus to rolling luggage and it’s a little oversized to fit the size requirements as a personal item bag on flights (although it is small enough to fit under airplane seats on many larger planes).

Materials and Construction

Able Carry scores a win with the high-quality construction of the Daily Plus. Its X-Pac exterior and water-resistant zippers provide a weatherproof design that can be relied on to keep your gear protected on rainy days.

We cannot stress enough how every aspect of the Able Carry Daily Plus exudes quality. The zippers are smooth, the interior ripstop lining is sturdy, and even the material used for the stretch pockets feels high-quality—nothing seems like an afterthought.

One thing to note is that when compared to a fabric like nylon, X-Pac is a much stiffer material and feels more like plastic than fabric. As a result, handling the backpack results in a loud, "crunchy" sound. Although X-Pac is incredibly strong and water-resistant, we understand that it may not be everyone's preference for daily use.

The Daily Plus also features Able Carry's "A-Frame" webbing design on the underside of the bag, which adds extra strength to the backpack when carrying heavy loads. This design is a substantial improvement in terms of strength compared to regular backpack stitching alone.

Pockets and Compartments

What sets the Daily Plus apart from its predecessor, the Daily Backpack, is the addition of numerous pockets for organization.

Inside the main compartment, you'll find the bulk of your storage, including a tech panel with a 16-inch laptop sleeve and a separate tablet sleeve for a device up to 11-inches (sorry, iPad Pro users, a 12.9” tablet won’t fit).

The great thing about the laptop and tablet sleeves is that they float in the middle of the backpack, providing ample protection from all sides. Additionally, the laptop sleeve has a generous false bottom to prevent damage from drops, which is a feature that many other backpack brands overlook.

On the exterior of the backpack, you'll find a hidden water bottle pocket that can fit bottles up to 1 liter, as well as a spacious front compartment with smaller pockets for easy access.

In terms of security pockets, the Able Carry Daily Plus offers two. The first is a hidden pocket above the shoulder straps against the back panel, which is large enough to hold multiple flat items such as a cell phone, passport, and wallet. When the backpack is worn, this pocket is completely out of reach from pickpockets. The second pocket is a small, well-concealed secret pocket located above the laptop sleeve, which is a little larger than a credit card.

Comfort (Back Panel and Shoulder Straps)

Able Carry is known for designing comfortable backpacks, and the Daily Plus is a testament to their expertise. The backpack features a closed-cell foam back panel that provides cushioning for comfortable weight distribution, even when carrying heavy loads. The back panel is includes with generous air channels, making it breathable enough to wear in warm weather. Additionally, the Daily Plus has a removable frame sheet for added stiffness that can be accessed via a zipper behind the laptop sleeve inside the main compartment.

The shoulder straps of the Daily Plus are padded with dense foam and provide ample support without being excessively bulky. The backpack also comes with an adjustable and removable chest strap with a magnetic buckle, making it easy to put on and take off.

Final Thoughts

This is a really nice backpack for everyday carry. We love the upgrades that Able Carry has made from the original Daily Backpack and are excited that they released this new iteration. If you are choosing between the two packs, we believe the Daily Plus is the clear winner. The separate laptop and tablet sleeves and dedicated water bottle compartment are significant upgrades.

The real victory is in the overall construction. We appreciate the water-resistant design and are glad they included water-resistant zippers in the main compartment instead of regular ones. This protection from the elements provides peace of mind when commuting in inclement weather and really boosts our confidence when choosing which backpack to wear on long days out.

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North Face Recon Backpack [Review]

One of The North Face’s best selling backpacks, the Recon features a roomy 30 liter main compartment and separate padded laptop compartment to keep your expensive tech safe while on the move.

The Recon is best suited for both school and daily tech carry thanks to its organizer panel pocket that can fit everything from pens and calculators to external hard drives and a tablet.

Note: The North Face offers both a Men’s Recon and Women’s Recon. The main difference is in the size and shape of the shoulder straps and back panel but all of the pockets and compartments are the same between the two versions. In this review we are showcasing the women’s Recon which is the one you want to go with if you have smaller shoulders and a shorter torso.

See our North Face Recon vs Borealis comparison for more in-depth info.

Video Review

The Rundown

What we like

• Lots of pockets and compartments for everyday carry.

• Multifunctional: 30 liter main compartment is large enough for a full day of school/work or a weekend trip.

• Men’s and women’s versions means a proper fit regardless of body type.

What we don’t like

• Side compression straps run across the water bottle pockets. It takes a moment to adjust the straps to accommodate different size bottles.

• Tablet sleeve is small. Anything larger than a 10.2” tablet will be too large for this pocket.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.3” H x 11.6” W x 7.5” D (women’s)

• Capacity: 30L

• Material: Mix of recycled and non-recycled materials (210D recycled nylon ripstop, 300D heathered polyester ripstop, 600D polyester, DWR finish)

• Weight: 2lbs 9oz

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

Who is this backpack for?

For Students: The North Face Recon is perfect for carrying school items. We recommend it to students who need a lot of organization for smaller school items and also have ample space for larger items like folders, binders, and lunch.

For Work Commuters: The North Face Recon, with its sleek urban design and internal tech organization, is an excellent choice for commuters who need a dependable backpack for their daily commute.

It might not be suitable for Travelers: Although the backpack has a spacious 30-liter main compartment that is ideal for travel packing, it lacks some standard travel features such as lockable zippers, security pockets for items like passports and wallets, and a trolley sleeve to attach the backpack to rolling luggage.

Materials and Construction

The North Face Recon is mostly made of 210D recycled ripstop nylon with a DWR water-repellent finish. What does this mean? The backpack is water-resistant to some extent. Water will roll off of the ripstop nylon but unfortunately the zippers are not water resistant and are an entry point for moisture to sneak in.

Is The North Face Recon waterproof? No.

Will it be okay in the rain? The Recon will be find in a light rain but we wouldn’t trust it walking home during a downpour.

Overall, The North Face Recon feels incredibly solid. This is not a cheap-feeling backpack! The ripstop construction is strong yet lightweight and the YKK zippers are as smooth as butter.

Pockets and Compartments

The North Face Recon backpack consists of three main compartments: the front organizer compartment, the main compartment, and the rear laptop compartment.

The front organizer compartment is where you can find quick access to smaller items like pens, tech chargers, and other essentials. There is also a fleece-lined tablet sleeve in this pocket, but it is on the smaller side. The largest tablet that fits in this pocket is a 10.2-inch iPad, which barely fits without a case (sorry, iPad Pro users).

The main compartment is a large, open space where you can fit 2-3 days of travel packing or a considerable amount of binders, notebooks, and folders - enough for a full day of classes. If you are a student and need to carry more than that, you might need to have a talk with your teachers.

The rear laptop compartment can accommodate a laptop up to 15 inches (the largest we tested was a 15.6-inch laptop, so we cannot confirm if larger laptops will fit). What we like about this compartment is that it offers excellent protection. Not only are the walls padded, but The North Face has also added a false bottom so that the bottom of the laptop is suspended above the bottom of the bag, providing extra protection against bumps and drops.

Another feature of the laptop compartment that isn’t talked about enough is the ability to it for storing a hydration bladder. This small feature allows you to turn The North Face Recon into a full-fledged hiking backpack.

On the front of the backpack there is the iconic front stash pocket. This pocket is stretchy, but not as spacious as you might expect. It is too small to fit a pair of shoes, although sandals might fit. It is also not large enough to store a bicycle helmet (sorry, commuters). However, you can store a lightweight, compressible puffy jacket and smaller items like a baseball cap and over-ear headphones in this pocket.

Other pockets include two side water bottle pockets and a hidden fleece-lined pocket in the front for storing tech and sunglasses.

Final Thoughts

Ok we will say it, we think this is the best North Face backpack design. It’s not as sporty as the Borealis but keeps its best features. It’s also not as unruly as the Surge and keeps the pockets and compartment to the point and easy to find. Think of the Recon as the goldilocks of North Face backpacks. It’s an urban backpack, an outdoor daybag and secure laptop backpack all in one.

Is it worth the price? Absolutely. 

The only real gripe we have with it is that The North Face makes the Recon seem more water resistant than it really is. But as long as you understand where it’s limits are we can’t recommend this backpack enough.

If you are looking for water resistant backpacks with better protection, check out the backpacks below.

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The Ridge Commuter Weatherproof [Review]

The Ridge updated the Commuter Weatherproof Backpack in late 2022, making a few tweaks to the design. In a world where tech is moving away from USB-A, the Ridge has decided to eliminate the built-in USB charging port and instead provide a dedicated internal power bank pocket to charge your devices regardless of your connection. This review is of the updated version without the USB port.

Who is The Ridge Commuter Backpack for?

• Work/Commuting: The Ridge Commuter is a great daily laptop backpack, with the most pockets we have seen in a bag of this size. If daily organization is important to you, this is the bag for you.

• Student: If you are a student who carries a laptop or tablet instead of books, we recommend this backpack for its great tech organization. Its weatherproof design also makes it a reliable option for carrying your important items during rainy days on campus.

• Travel by air: The compact size of the Ridge Commuter makes it a great personal item backpack for flights and a capable daypack for when you arrive at your destination. It has pockets for travel essentials like a your tech, snacks, headphones and a secret pocket for a passport.

Video Review

The Rundown

What we like

• Lots and lots of pockets for organization

• Slim, compact design is perfect for a daily laptop backpack

• Highly water resistant construction

• Hidden RFID-blocking compartment is perfect for keeping valuables secure

What we don’t like

• Water bottle pocket is on the smaller side and is limited to slim bottles

• No false bottom in laptop compartment

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” x 12” x 6” inches

• Capacity: 20L

• Materials: 900D Nylon Shell, YKK Aquagaurd Zippers

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 16”

• Tablet Sleeve: None

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

Materials and Construction

The Ridge Commuter Backpack is called "weatherproof" - which just a fancy way of saying that the bag very water-resistant thanks to its water resistant nylon construction and YKK Aquaguard zippers.

Although the materials are highly water-resistant, this backpack is not truly waterproof. The Ridge uses regular stitching instead of taped or welded waterproof seams, so there is still a chance for water to sneak in if the bag were ever caught in a torrential downpour. It also goes without saying that The Ridge Commuter cannot be submerged in water.

The back panel and shoulder straps are great for a 20 liter bag. The shoulder straps are padded and include an adjustable (but not removable) chest strap for weight distribution when the backpack gets heavy. The back panel is made with one solid piece of padded foam and does a good job at adding structure to the backpack while being comfortable when the bag is full.

Overall, the construction of The Ridge Commuter is solid. The zippers are smooth, and nothing feels cheap. The weatherproof construction is a huge plus for a daily commuting backpack. In fact, the overall construction quality and the pocket variety (which we will get to in a second) are the Commuter's biggest strengths.

Pockets and Compartments

What sets The Ridge Commuter apart from other laptop backpacks is its "dual access" to the main compartment. This means that you can enter the main compartment from a zipper that opens like a regular backpack as well as from a secondary zipper that allows you full lay-flat access to the inside, so you can access all of its pockets.

Using The Ridge Commuter as a clamshell backpack allows you to access all of the pockets that line the main compartment as well as gives you an easy way to pack and unpack clothing while traveling. For everyday carry, going through the primary zipper will be the quickest way to access most items. We appreciate that The Ridge gave us a choice.

The inside of the main compartment is filled with a variety of pockets for all of your daily carry. It includes mesh zippered pockets for larger items, a special power bank pocket, and even a few slip pockets for pens.

On the outside of the backpack, you'll find a fleece-lined sunglasses pocket with a flap lid and a single water bottle pocket. It's important to note that this water bottle pocket is on the smaller side and just barely fits a 32 oz bottle (so you know). On the front of the backpack there are two additional large semi-hidden zippered pockets on the front panel.

Finally, we have the 16-inch laptop compartment that features special shock-resistant quilted padding for protection. We love the padding, but where is the false bottom to protect the laptop from floor drops? Unfortunately, this is a small detail that The Ridge has missed.

The Secret Compartments

The Ridge Commuter has a couple of secret compartments that are security-oriented. The first is the back panel pocket that spans across the width of the back panel. What makes this pocket special is that it is lined with RFID-blocking material for an added layer of protection against digital theft. It's the perfect place to stash important items like a passport, credit cards, and cash.

The second secret compartment is located against the wall of the main compartment, and it's a tiny little velcro pocket to fit a GPS tracking device like an Apple Airtag or Tile device. This pocket blends into the wall of the backpack nicely, and most people won't even notice it's there unless they look very, very closely.

Pssst: Are you looking for a backpack with hidden pockets? Check out our Best Backpacks with Secret Compartments buying guide.

What Fits Inside?

Although the Ridge Commuter gives you 20 liters of packing room, once all the internal pockets are packed it starts to feel like a small 20 liters. You can fit bulkier items inside the main compartment like a few large notebooks, binders, and books. Or, you can pack a change of clothing for an overnight stay, but you won’t be able to pack clothing and the notebooks all at once.

Final Thoughts

Where the Ridge Commuter shines is with its amazing array of pockets for organization and robust water-resistant construction that will give you some serious peace of mind on rainy days.

Is the Ridge Commuter worth it? Yes, if you value organization and a compact design over wide open packing space.

This is a slim 20L backpack that prioritizes packing smaller daily or travel items over big, bulky items. If you need to pack a change of clothes, lunch, camera gear, and a jacket just in case you get cold later, then look elsewhere.

But, if you are a tech-focused student (i.e. have ditched the textbooks for PDFs), travel light, or need a way to carry your laptop and important work items, then this backpack is for you.

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King Kong Heritage Leather [Review]

Let's start by saying that a 'Buy It For Life' gym bag seems like a contradiction. Unraveling seams, fraying fabrics, and brittle plastic clasps that snap are the sorry fate of a well-loved yet heavily-abused gym bag. You tried so hard and got so far, but in the end it was a bag made out of polyester and plastic.

King Kong strives to offer something better with their Heritage Leather Backpack. In fact, we believe this falls squarely in the BFIL gym bag category. In this King Kong Heritage Leather Backpack review we give you the details so you can decide if this is the gym backpack for you.

Video Review

The Rundown

What we like

• Gorgeous full grain leather construction that looks amazing in person

• External shoe compartment

• 26L main compartment that’s roomy enough for most gym sessions

• Comfortable padded shoulder straps

What we don’t like

• Every piece of hardware is made out of metal except for the shoe compartment buckle which is unfortunately made of plastic.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 20” x 12” x 7” inches

• Capacity: 26L

• Weight: 5.9 lbs

• Materials: Full Grain American Leather, 100% Cotton Twill lining, metal zippers

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 16”

• Tablet Sleeve: None

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

Materials and Construction

Let’s start with the construction. The Heritage Leather Backpack is made with full-grain leather, a material that only improves in appearance as it ages. Over time, full-grain leather develops a rich patina, giving the Heritage Leather Backpack a unique look.

The interior of the backpack is lined with 100% cotton twill and features leather trim throughout. The zippers and hardware are made of metal, so there is no worry of cheap plastic snapping or cracking. The one exception is the buckle found in the exterior shoe compartment, which unfortunately is made out of plastic.

There is an elephant in the room when we talk about construction - and that's the bag's weight. The King Kong Heritage Leather Backpack is heavy, weighing in at a whopping 5.9lbs empty because of all the leather used in its construction. We're not putting a judgement on this weight, as it's the price to pay for an all-leather bag. Only you can decide if this is in the range of acceptability for how you plan on using it.

Pockets and Compartments

The compartments on the King Kong Heritage Leather Backpack are pretty straightforward, keeping in tune with King Kong's mission of designing a gym bag that rivals those made before the time of mass-produced, cheap bags that we see in most gyms today.

The King Kong Heritage Leather Backpack offers 26 liters of packing space, plus an external shoe compartment. We tested the shoe compartment and can confirm that it can fit a size 12 men's running shoes with room to spare for larger sizes.

Overall, the Heritage Leather Backpack offers a pretty 'back to basics' design. You won't find pockets for specific items like a phone, sunglasses, or pens. But it does offer a zippered pocket on the inside of the main compartment and a front pocket on the outside that can fit multiple items like a phone and wallet or smaller workout items like lifting gloves and a jump rope.

The 'back to basics' design also applies to the 16-inch laptop sleeve inside the main compartment, a lightly padded sleeve with no false bottom. If you are expecting a fancy laptop sleeve like you would find in many urban laptop backpacks - don't. Will this laptop sleeve get the job done? Yes. Is it the best we've ever seen? No.

Finally, we have the two side water bottle pockets. These pockets are deep and we can confirm that a 32oz Nalgene bottle fits comfortably inside. The water bottle pockets also zip shut for a cleaner look when not in use.

What Fits Inside?

We managed to fit a change of clothing (pants, t-shirt and sweatshirt), 12 oz boxing gloves and a toiletries bag inside the 26 litter main compartment. The exterior gives us some more storage thanks to the exterior shoe compartment and dual water bottle pockets. The front pocket is surprisingly roomy and we could easily fit a phone, wallet and a pair of weight lifting gloves.

Need more packing room? Check out the King Kong Heritage Leather Duffel that gives you 46 liters with an additional 5 pockets for organization.

Final Thoughts

This backpack rocks. There is no other way to say it. The supple leather and straightforward design makes it feel like an heirloom item. Can a gym backpack be an heirloom item? Well, we think so, thanks to King Kong. We can’t express enough how nice this backpack feels.

However, the $499 price tag isn’t for everyone. This is why we believe if you like the look of the Heritage Leather Backpack but can't justify the commitment, you should go with King Kong PLUS26, which shares a lot of the same design but at a more affordable price. But for anyone ready to make the leap into a premium gym bag design constructed to last decades, then the King Kong Heritage Backpack is the bag to get.

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Nomatic Backpack [Review]

The Nomatic Backpack is easily one of our favorite backpacks for work and daily laptop carry, thanks to its incredible organization. It manages to pack pockets into just about every square inch of its interior compartments, giving you maximum organization for your daily essentials while maintaining a sleek, professional exterior.

In this Nomatic Backpack review, we explore what makes this backpack stand out from its competition so you can decide if it is the ultra-sleek, water-resistant, more-pockets-than-you'll-know-what-to-do-with backpack that you've been looking for.

Video Review

The Rundown

What we like

• Insane amount of pockets. Some of the best organization we have seen yet.

• Expanding main compartment when you need more room (20-24L)

• Protective laptop and tablet sleeves thanks to generous false bottom

• Great water resistant protection thanks to tarpaulin material and water resistant YKK zippers.

What we don’t like

• Because of the pockets, the main compartment doesn’t leave a lot of wide open space for packing bulkier items. Will have to expand backpack to pack something like a lunch or a change of clothes.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19” x 13” x 5.75” inches

• Capacity: 20L (24L expanded)

• Weight: 4 lbs

• Materials: Tarpaulin, YKK zippers

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 16”

• Tablet Sleeve: Up to 13”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

Materials and Construction

The Nomatic Backpack really shines with its choice of construction materials. The exterior is made with highly water-resistant tarpaulin, and the exterior compartments are equipped with water-resistant YKK zippers for peace of mind during rainy-day commutes. Inside you are met with a robust liner fabric and quality mesh for the pockets. Everything about this backpack just feels like great quality.

The back panel and shoulder straps are also thoughtfully constructed and Nomatic seems to have done everything right in terms of comfort. The back panel consists of two separate foam panels with a generous air channel in between for ventilation. The shoulder straps are padded, but not too thick and bulky, giving you a sleeker appearance when worn.

Pockets and Compartments

The Nomatic Backpack can be divided into two major compartments: the front organizer compartment and the main compartment. The front organizer compartment is home to a bunch of smaller mesh pockets, pockets for pens, and a variety of zippered pockets, including a fairly large RFID-blocking pocket with a lockable zipper.

The main compartment is where the bulk of your storage will live, and it is home to what we call a “tech station” that includes a 16-inch laptop sleeve, a separate tablet sleeve, and slip pockets designed specifically for a keyboard, mouse, and other tech accessories. We found that the tablet sleeve can fit any device up to 13 inches, allowing you to use the Nomatic as a two-laptop backpack if needed.

Another great feature is that the laptop and tablet sleeves ‘float’ on the inside of the main compartment, giving you a generous false bottom to protect your devices from bumps and drops. The main compartment also has some cool features, such as a hardcase pocket for your sunglasses and a pocket that hides away a retractable leash for your keys.

On the exterior of the Nomatic Backpack, you’ll find two magnetic water bottle pockets that collapse against the bag for a cleaner look when not in use. These water bottle pockets are nice and stretchy and can accommodate wider 32 oz bottles just fine.

Nomatic also manages to include a secret compartment behind the back panel in the rear of the backpack. This pocket is just large enough to fit a passport and stays completely hidden when the bag is worn.

Expandable and Convertible

The Nomatic Backpack is both expandable and convertible. The shoulder straps can be tucked into the back panel, allowing you to carry the Nomatic Backpack like a briefcase when needed and a the expandable main compartment goes from 20 liters to 24 liters in seconds thanks to a wrap-around zipper.

We found that when compressed, the amount of wide-open packing space is limited, especially when the internal pockets are packed. We could fit 3-4 notebooks, binders, and books before running out of packing room. When expanded to 24 liters, we could fit an additional jacket inside.

It's safe to say that the Nomatic Backpack prioritizes organization of items over wide-open packing space. So, if you need to carry lots of bulky gear like camera equipment, shoes, or a lunchbox, then you may find the Nomatic a bit limiting, especially when compared to other expanding backpacks that expand north of 10 liters of packing room compared to the Nomatic's 4 liters. Although we wouldn't choose the Nomatic Backpack specifically for its expandability, it is a nice feature to have.

Final Thoughts

The Nomatic Backpack is best suited for professionals looking for a sleek backpack for work that can function as a 'mobile office' on work trips. In addition to being a great travel sidekick on flights, it really thrives as a daily driver where organization is key.

Overall, there's not much we don't like about this backpack. The pockets are plenty, the style is sleek, and the water-resistant materials are solid. However, there may not be much leftover space inside the bag once you fill up all the pockets. With that said, if you tend to carry bulkier items like shoes, a lunch box, and books and notebooks, you may find the the Nomatic to be lacking in open packing room. But if you're looking for a sleek way to keep yourself organized during the workweek, the Nomatic Backpack is the perfect choice. It shines as a backpack for professionals who need a reliable work bag for their essentials.

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Matein Travel Laptop Backpack [Review]

Rated as one of the most popular backpacks available on Amazon, the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack (15.6 inch version) is an affordable option for everyone from students and commuters to travelers alike.

This backpack can be divided into three major compartments: the main compartment, the front organizer compartment, and the rear laptop compartment. The main compartment is where you will find the bulk of your storage, and we found that you can easily pack bulkier notebooks, binders, and textbooks into this compartment or a couple of days' worth of clothing and toiletries.

The second major compartment is the front organizer compartment, which features smaller pockets for items like pens, a phone, and small notebooks. There is even a detachable leash for your keys. In the rear is where you'll find the laptop compartment, which features a padded sleeve for a laptop up to 15.6 inches, plus an additional non-padded sleeve for a tablet. This rear compartment is also roomy enough to pack additional notebooks or for a second laptop inside a laptop case.

The quality of the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack is surprisingly good for the price, with a mid-weight polyester exterior and metal zippers. Not to mention features like an exterior USB charging port and great pocket variety that punches above its price point.

However, it doesn't come close to the quality of a more expensive backpack, and you will start to see that in the small details. For example, the water bottle pockets are made of cheap mesh and are a little too shallow to securely hold tall bottles, and the interior lining is on the thinner side, which questions its durability after heavy use.

Despite its flaws, for $30 you really can't go wrong with this backpack, and we definitely recommend it for students, commuters, and travelers looking for a reliable laptop backpack on a budget.

What we like

• Affordable price makes it perfect for students and travelers on a budget

• Three compartments so you can organize your carry into different packing zones

• Integrated USB charging (bring your own power bank)

• Lots and lots of pockets for organization

What we don’t like

• Lining and stitching on the inside is pretty flimsy and we question it’s longevity. However, the overall quality is about on par with bags in this price point.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” x 12” x 7.8” inches

• Capacity: Unspecified (we would guess around 25L)

• Weight: 1.56 lbs

• Materials: Polyester

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 15.6”

• Tablet Sleeve: Up to 12.9” iPad Pro

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

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Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft [Review]

One of the biggest strengths of the Pacsafe Go is that it's an anti-theft backpack that doesn't look like your typical anti-theft backpack. While many brands offer futuristic, ultra-minimalist designs that look more like props from a sci-fi movie, the Pacsafe Go offers a more "gray man" option that's designed to blend in and not draw much attention. 

But despite its no-frills appearance, the Pacsafe Go is built from the ground up with anti-theft technology. The fabric itself is made with Pacsafe's eXomesh slashguard, a built-in wire mesh that prevents theft through cuts and slashes. Each exterior zipper also includes built-in locks to prevent pickpockets. You can also lock the entire bag to a table or chair leg using the lockable shoulder strap. These features make such a simple bag anything but ordinary.

The Pacsafe Go is a great all-around backpack that can be used as a daily pack or a dedicated travel backpack. At 25 liters, it's the perfect size for packing for an overnight stay or as a personal item backpack on airplanes. Students and commuters will also benefit from the extra anti-theft protection on busy campuses and crowded public transportation, and the water-resistant shell gives you extra protection on rainy days.

The pockets and compartments on the Pacsafe Go are straightforward: you have a laptop sleeve and an anti-RFID pocket inside the main compartment, and a large front pocket gives you extra storage room. Two side pockets provide a spot for water bottles and umbrellas. If you are looking for a backpack with lots of pockets for organizing smaller items then the Pacsafe Go might not be the best option - but what it does do well is offer a straightforward design for those who value simplicity in a lightweight package. 

All in all, Pacsafe offers a solid choice for daily carry and travel alike. The Pacsafe Go is lightweight, water-resistant, and has plenty of storage for most tasks at hand – school, daily carry, and travel - leaving us with little to be desired.

What we like

• Built in anti-theft features for maximum protection against pickpockets and theft

• 25L is the perfect size for school or as a travel daypack

• Low-key “gray man” design that blends in with other backpacks

• Water repellent fabric

What we don’t like

• Side water bottle pockets have no stretch to them so fitting larger bottles can be a hassle.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18.1” x 12.2” x 5.5” inches

• Capacity: 25L

• Weight: 1.6 lbs

• Materials: water resistant recycled polyester

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 15”

• Tablet Sleeve: None

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

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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

Similar Backpacks

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Knack Convertible Duffel [Review]

Convertible. Expandable. Great organization. This is the Knack Convertible Duffel in a nutshell.

Inside the main compartment of the Knack Convertible Duffel you are greeted with lots of pockets to organize your tech and travel items. A fleece lined zippered pocket protects glasses and tech from scratches while another fleece lined slip pocket gives you a safe spot for a tablet. One of the more interesting design choices are the small elastic bands that allow you to attach pens, charging cables and smaller accessories. Unlike traditional pockets, these elastic bands take up little room when not in use.

Knack goes above and beyond with designing their travel bags around airline size requirements so that you can stay compliant no matter how you decide to carry the the bag. The packing area of the Convertible Duffel starts compressed at 24 liters which is enough room to pack for a weekend while keeping the bag small enough to store under most airplane seats. 

The expanded 40 liters allows you to pack for around of week of travel while still falling under most airline carry on size requirements. To put the Convertible Duffel’s size into context, 40 liters is around the same capacity of many carry-on rolling luggage.

Switching between duffel and backpack on the Knack Convertible Duffel is one of the simplest mechanisms we’ve seen in a convertible backpack yet. Knack uses a combination metal D-rings and a simple clip mechanism on their shoulder straps. There is no fidgeting with complicated locks or special straps like with other convertibles. The shoulder straps can be tucked into a special zippered pocket on the back panel when it’s time for duffel carry and the entire process takes seconds and can be done easily on the fly.

Despite its unassuming appearance there are a few sneaky pockets on the exterior of the Convertible Duffel that aren’t obvious at first glance. The first is an internal water bottle pocket that safeguards your drinking bottle from contaminants while providing a cleaner profile. 

Against the back panel is where you’ll find an external 15-inch laptop compartment. Our one gripe with the Knack Convertible Duffle is that although the main compartment includes a zipper that be locked with a TSA lock, the laptop compartment does not. In an ideal world we would be able to lock down both compartments.

After all is said and done the Knack Convertible Duffel is a beast of a travel bag with some great features that just aren’t found in other travel backpacks. It’s versatile enough that it really might be the only travel bag you’ll need. We recommend it for frequent flyers or business travelers who need a bag they can count on for short and long trips alike.

What we like

• Clean minimalist design with tons of hidden features

• Great internal pocket placement for organization

• One-bag - expandable and convertible design makes the Convertible Duffle incredibly versatile

• Anti-microbial treatment on inside lining to help combat smells

What we don’t like

• Laptop compartment does not have lockable zippers

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19” x 13” x 5” (19” x 13” x 9” expanded)

• Capacity: 24L (40L expanded)

• Weight: 2lbs 9oz

• Materials: 420D high-density nylon, anti-microbial 150D polyester lining

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 15”

• Tablet Sleeve: Up to 13”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

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Troubadour Pioneer [Review]

Designed to be both a daily work backpack and a gym/travel bag - the Troubadour Pioneer offers a handsome option for those looking for a versatile backpack that can do it all.

Its design is pretty straightforward with a sleek polished exterior that won’t look out of place in office settings where looking your best matters. The outer pockets are discreet with two water bottle pockets that snap back into place when not in use to provide a cleaner look and multiple quick-access pockets for daily essentials such as a phone and sunglasses.

On the inside you’ll find an impressive variety of pockets for your work items plus a generous 17-inch laptop sleeve that’s soft-lined to protect your tech from scratches. This laptop compartment can also be accessed from an outside side zipper for fast entry without having to open up the main compartment.

The Pioneer’s secret sauce however is its sneaky bottom compartment made with an anti-microbial lining for storing shoes and clothing. This is a large compartment that can fit a men’s size 12 in running shoes with room to spare for a sweatshirt or shorts. You can also use this bottom compartment for stashing a change of clothing for overnight stays. The highlight of this compartment is the ability to keep your gym/travel items separate from your work items.

At 23.5 liters the Troubadour Pioneer is the perfect laptop daypack for professionals who need a reliable backpack for work without the unsightly profile of larger backpacks. But unfortunately this compact size does cut into the bag’s usable packing room. The shoe compartment uses up a lot of space inside the main compartment and you may find yourself limited in how much you can carry. But for those tired of large bulky backpacks and awkward silhouettes, the Troubadour Pioneer might offer a good compromise between size and functionality.

Troubadour’s secret weapon has always been their highly water resistant designs and the Pioneer is no exception. The exterior is constructed with a waterproof fabric and water resistant zippers which offers peace of mind to city commuters on rainy days.

Speaking of construction, the shoulder straps are plush and made with a high-density foam that feels great under load and its padded back panel offers great breathability thanks to its generous airflow channels. When it comes to quality construction Troubadour doesn’t miss and it’s safe to say that the Pioneer is one backpack that feels as great as it looks.

What we like

• Sleek sophisticated design and a high quality water resistant construction

• Large bottom compartment for shoes and clothing

• Amazing organization - great variety of internal and external pockets

• Highly water resistant construction for peace of mind on rainy days

What we don’t like

• The bottom shoe compartment takes up room inside the main compartment. At 23.5L this means packing a change of clothes or shoes won’t leave much room for bulkier items inside the main compartment.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.3” (H) x 11.8” (W) x 6.3” (D)

• Capacity: 23.5L

• Materials: Water resistant recycled polyester fabric, vegan leather

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 17”

• Tablet Sleeve: None

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

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Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 [Review]

The Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 could easily be described as the Fort Knox of travel backpacks with its large array of cutting-edge anti-theft features for peace of mind when on the move.

The self-locking zippers are a clear highlight of the design. Each exterior zipper is lockable - from the main compartment to the laptop compartment. Not only can the zippers lock themselves but each zipper can also be used in conjunction with a TSA lock for another level of security. 

Other great anti-theft features include Pacsafe’s own eXomesh slashguard technology which uses built-in stainless steel wire mesh inside the fabric to protect against cuts and slashes. The zippers are also puncture-resistant to safe-guard against tampering. A single RFID-safe pocket in the front pocket gives you a great spot to stash a passport or credit cards.

Packing the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 is a breeze thanks to it’s 3-way zipper design that gives you wide-open access to the main compartment. In all, you’ll get 35 liters of packing room which we found to be more than enough for a 2-4 day trip.

The shoe compartment can be found on the bottom of the backpack and it’s one of the largest shoe compartments we have tested yet. You can easily fit a pair of men’s size 12 running shoes  with room to spare. This compartment is also lockable for peace of mind.

After all is said and done Pacsafe has really outdone itself with this backpack. The anti-theft features alone are above and beyond other travel bags. And the overall design is very solid - from the shoe compartment to the wide open main compartment for easy packing - the Pacsafe EXP35 gets the job done.

What we like

• 3-way zipper design makes the main compartment super easy to pack

• Massive bottom compartment is great for larger shoes or laundry

• Amazing array of anti-theft features including self-locking zippers and slash-proof fabric.

• Made with water resistant recycled fabric

What we don’t like

• Anti-theft zippers take a moment to get used to.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 20.5” (H) x 9.8” (W) x 7.9” (D)

• Capacity: 35L

• Materials: Water resistant 750D recycled polyester, recycled polyester lining

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 16”

• Tablet Sleeve: None

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

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King Kong EDGE35 [Review]

The King Kong EDGE35 is a versatile backpack that can be used for workouts, travel and daily carry thanks to its 35 liter capacity and clamshell style main compartment that makes loading the backpack a breeze. This main compartment is large enough to fit multiple changes of clothes and bulkier items like boxing gloves and other workout gear. The EDGE35 even includes a large bottom shoe compartment for sneakers or dirty laundry.

For daily carry, the King Kong EDGE35 features a large 17” padded laptop compartment and a front admin compartment with plenty of pockets for organizing smaller essentials. The side Fidlock magnetic buckle straps allow you to compress the backpack down for a slimmer profile on days you want to keep it light.

Construction-wise, the King Kong EDGE35 is an absolute beast with beefy zippers and a heavy-weight fabric construction. This definitely feels like a backpack that you can toss around without worrying about the integrity of the construction. Of course, this rugged construction comes at the cost of weight - the King Kong EDGE35 weights a total of 4lbs when empty.

When it comes to the overall design we are impressed the King Kong EDGE35. The 35 liter capacity makes it a great option for gym goers who carry bulky workout kits like shoes, boxing gloves, pads and weight lifting belts. The fact that this backpack opens like a suitcase for easy packing is easily one of the highlights of the EDGE35’s design and its wide variety of pockets and compartments makes it a great choice for anyone looking for a one-bag solution for workouts, travel and daily laptop carry.

What we like

• Sleek design that looks great as a gym or travel backpack.

• Plenty of pockets for organizing gym items and clothing inside the main compartment

• Side water bottle pockets hide away when not in use for a cleaner look.

• Clamshell main compartment for easy packing/unpacking.

What we don’t like

• Compression straps work great for managing the backpack size but unfortunately you have to undo these buckles to get into the main compartment.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.7” H x 12.6” W x 8.7” D

• Capacity: 35L

• Materials: 1000D Nylon, YKK Zippers

• Weight: 4 lbs

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

• Shoe compartment

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

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Under Armour Hustle 5.0 [Review]

The Under Armour Hustle 5.0 was designed with student athletes in mind and you can see this inspiration throughout its design. A roomy 29-liter capacity gives you enough room for a busy day of classes and a bottom shoe compartment allows you to partition shoes, laundry and other items you want to keep separate from the rest of your carry.

Is this one of the best affordable backpacks for school and workouts? Let’s find out.

Video Review

The Rundown

What we like

• Roomy 29L capacity is large enough to store a basketball, shoes, school books and more.

• Available in lots of colors for a personalized look

• Soft-lined laptop sleeve and front valuables pocket to protect tech from scratches

• Bottom shoe compartment is great for keeping dirty stuff away from clean items

What we don’t like

• Light weight and low cost comes at a cost to overall quality. The MSRP is $55 and to be honest, this backpack feels like a budget backpack.

• UA Storm Technology is a bit oversold. Although the bag is technically water resistant, it’s nothing special.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 20” (H) x 12.6” (W) x 6.3” (D)

• Capacity: 29L

• Materials: 100% Polyester

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 15”

• Tablet Sleeve: None

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Who is this backpack for?

• For Students: The roomy main compartment is perfect for storing your laptop, books and notebooks while the exterior pockets give you the organization you need for pens and accessories. The Hustle 5.0 is a nice Goldilocks size for school - not too big and not too small.

• For Athletes and Gym Goers: The bottom compartment is handy for separating your dirty shoes or laundry from your clean items. The MOLLE webbing on the front and shoulder straps also makes it easy to attach additional gear. 

What fits inside? Pockets and Compartments

The Hustle backpack can be divided into three major compartments: the front admin compartment, the main compartment, and a bottom shoe compartment.

The front admin compartment features slip pockets for pens and accessories and is also large enough to store a couple of additional notebooks and smaller books.

The main compartment is where you will find a soft-lined 15-laptop sleeve. Under Armour did a good job at providing a false bottom so that the laptop sleeve floats about two inches from the bottom of the bag to prevent damage from drops.

If you are using the Under Armour Hustle 5.0 primarily as a school backpack, the 29-liter capacity can fit a fair number of large binders, books, and notebooks. 

For sports, workouts, and travel, you can fit three or four days' worth of clothing and toiletries depending on how lightly you pack. A full-sized basketball takes up about half of the inside of the main compartment.

The last major compartment is the bottom shoe compartment. Our testing revealed that it can easily fit a full-sized #7 basketball as well as size US 12 men’s running shoes.

What fits inside the shoe compartment? Men’s US size 12 shoes (left) Size 7 full sized basketball (right)

One important thing to mention about the shoe compartment, however, is that it shares its space with the main compartment. This means that whatever you store in this shoe compartment will take up room inside the main compartment. When Under Armour says this bottom compartment is "expandable," they mean it expands into the backpack.

Under Armour includes a few additional exterior pockets for extra organization. The first is the fleece-lined pocket on the front of the bag that is large enough for items such as a phone, sunglasses, or wallet.

There are also two side pockets for items such as water bottles and umbrellas. These pockets can easily hold larger 32-ounce bottles.

Materials and Construction

The Under Armour Hustle 5.0 is primarily made of polyester, making it very lightweight. Seriously - when empty, this backpack feels like air.

However, this lightweight construction comes at the cost of overall quality. The outer fabric and inner lining feel thinner than we would like, and the stitching throughout is very simple, which is most evident when looking at the inside pockets. If you want a heavy-duty backpack, you might want to consider spending a little bit more and finding a bag made with more substantial materials. Our Best Backpack with Shoe Compartments buying guide features some great alternatives.

The shoulder straps are nicely cushioned and very comfortable, we have no complaints here. However, the cushioned foam back panel leaves something to be desired. There is no structure to it, making it easy for oddly shaped items to poke into your back, which is our largest complaint.

Under Armour also does not include a chest strap or waist belt for additional support. We actually like this about Under Armour backpacks because it means fewer annoying dangling straps, but it might be a deal breaker for those intending to carry heavier loads and would like the extra support.

Waterproof? UA Storm Technology

Under Armour uses its UA Storm Technology as a selling point for this backpack, and we are here to set a few things straight. Although the fabric has a water-resistant coating, we believe that the UA Storm technology is a bit oversold in our opinion. If water gets on the fabric, it will roll off, but under heavy rain, water will find its way into the backpack with repeated exposure.

The Under Armour Hustle 5.0 also does not include any special water-resistant stitching, and the zipper for the main compartment, where your expensive laptop will be, is not water-resistant either, giving it weak points for water to sneak in. This construction is not anything special, nor is it bad. In fact, most backpacks are built this way and offer the same level of protection.

Will you be okay in a light rain? Yes. Is the Under Armour Hustle backpack waterproof? No, not even a little bit.

Final Thoughts

Buy on Amazon

Under Armour's best-selling backpack is popular for a reason - it hits enough sweet spots to a broad spectrum of people. It can be used as a gym bag, a sports bag, a school bookbag, and even for travel in a pinch. What's not to like?

With an MSRP of $55, you really can't go wrong. However, it's important to understand that this backpack isn't high-end. It's not made with the best materials, nor is it the most water-resistant backpack you can get. But if you're looking for a backpack that balances functionality and affordability, the Under Armour Hustle 5.0 is perfect.

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