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

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OGIO Alpha Convoy 320 Backpack

Inspired by tactical backpacks, the OGIO Alpha Convoy 320 is the more compact brother of the OGIO Alpha Convoy 525. Although smaller, it retains a lot of the features that made the 525 great; MOLLE webbing on the front for pouch attachments, reflective panels for safety, and a dedicated pocket for laptops up to 15-inches.

At 20-liters the OGIO Alpha Convoy 320 makes a great a daypack for school, commuting and daily carry.

What we like

• Stylish tactical-inspired design

• The Cordura EcoMade makes the bag feels durable and well-made.

• Reflective material on the front of the bag is a nice touch. Great for city and campus commuters who often walk at night.

What we don’t like

• Lack of organizer pockets - OGIO depends on the use of external MOLLE attachment pouches instead of including extra pockets.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18.5” H x 12.5” W x 8.5” D

• Capacity: 20L

• Material: Cordura EcoMade

• Weight: 2lbs

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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OGIO Alpha Convoy 525 Backpack

OGIO offers a stylish and versatile backpack with their Alpha Convoy 525 backpack. Its design is inspired by rugged tactical backpacks and includes elements such as MOLLE webbing for pouch attachments, a tough Cordura construction and “tactical” color options.

Although its design is heavily inspired by tactical bags, the Alpha Convoy 525 backpack is an urban daily backpack at heart with a dedicated padded laptop compartment, padded shoulder straps and handles and an anti-theft back pocket. Those who want an even more compact version of the Alpha Convoy should check out the OGIO Alpha Convoy 320 backpack.

What we like

• Stylish tactical-inspired design

• The Cordura EcoMade makes the bag feels durable and well-made.

• Reflective material on the front of the bag is a nice touch. Great for city and campus commuters who often walk at night.

What we don’t like

• Even though the 525 is the largest Alpha Convoy backpack, at only 25 liters it still feels too small.

• Lack of organizer pockets - OGIO depends on the use of external MOLLE attachment pouches instead of including extra pockets.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 20” H x 13” W x 9” D

• Capacity: 25L

• Material: Cordura EcoMade

• Weight: 2.4lbs

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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