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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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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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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Public Rec Pro Pack Plus

Public Rec scores a home run with their versatile Pro Pack Plus. This backpack features a roomy main packing compartment that can be used for multi-day travel plus a discrete bottom compartment for shoes or laundry to keep your dirty items separate. When paired its handsome minimalist design, it’s no wonder why the Pro Pack Plus is a favorite backpack with shoe compartment.

The rear laptop compartment is filled with pockets for organization and includes a 15” laptop sleeve with an additional sleeve for a tablet or documents. You’ll have also enough room in this compartment to store a couple of notebooks or binders when needed.

Along with being a solid daily laptop backpack, the 26.5L of capacity in the Public Rec Pro Pack Plus gives you the room to pack for impromptu weekend getaways or business trips. The sleek minimalist design also gives you the ability to hit up the gym before or after work while still looking professional at the office. 

The Public Rec Pro Pack Plus is constructed of water resistant poly-twill and has a semi-rigid construction. This means that the backpack does a great job at keeping its shape even when empty to prevent an unsightly floppy and sloppy appearance. Details like these is what makes the Pro Pack Plus such a great backpack for professional environments where looking your best matters.

The back panel and shoulder straps are generously padded for comfort and we have come to appreciate the cushy mesh and airflow channels on warmer days. Overall, the look and quality of the Pro Pack Plus leaves little to be desired for the working professional who expects more from their carry.

What we like

• Attractive minimalist design

• Very roomy packing compartment that’s perfect for weekend travel or after-work gym sessions.

• Great organization of daily work items

• Hidden pockets in the back for extra security

What we don’t like

• No stretch in the water bottle pockets limits your carry to slim bottles

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” (H) x 12” (W) x 7.5” (D)

• Capacity: 26.5L

• Weight: 2.7lbs

• Materials: Water resistant poly-twill fabric

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 15”

• Tablet/Document Sleeve: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

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Everyman Hideout 5-Way Commuter

It’s a backpack, messanger bag, sling crossbody bag, briefcase and a clutch.

It’s a daily laptop backpack, weekend travel pack and a work to gym backpack.

The Everyman Hideout 5-Way Commuter Pack lets you decide what you want to carry and how you want to carry it.

The versatile packing compartment includes velcro-backed packing cubes that can be used for both travel and organizing daily carry. This compartment also includes compression straps for easy packing of bulky clothing and gear. Remove the packing cubes and compression straps altogether and you have an open main compartment that you can use just like a regular top loading backpack.

A second laptop compartment operates as your mobile office. Felted wool laptop and tablet sleeves keep your tech safe from scratches while additional pockets can accommodate a pen, chargers and flat documents.

The Everyman Hideout 5-Way Commuter Pack is one of the most versatile backpacks we have come across to date. We appreciate its slim and minimalist footprint that minimizes unsightly bulk when worn and keeps you looking your best. The rugged ballistic nylon exterior and water resistant zippers gives Hideout Commuter an attractive black-on-black colorway that makes the bag look as good as it functions.

What we like

• Handsome minimalist design that would look great at both the office and at the airport.

• Super fast and easy to switch between modes of carry

• Includes packing cubes

• Removable packing cubes and compression straps allows for versatile use of the packing compartment

What we don’t like

• Slim 18L packing compartment limits what you can pack to 1 or 2 nights of travel.

• No water bottle pockets

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” (H) x 12” (W) x 6” (D)

• Capacity: 18L

• Materials: 1680 PU lined Ballistic Nylon, water resistant zippers, felted wool

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 15”

• Tablet Sleeve: Up to 12.9”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

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Knack Pack Series 2

The Knack Series 2 expandable backpack is the newest update to the best selling Knack Pack - a daily backpack that expands into an ultra-functional travel pack.

With the Series 2, Knack has managed to keep the best parts of the original Knack Pack and add killer features such as more internal organization, improved security and a brand new streamlined look.

What sets the Knack Pack Series 2 apart from other hybrid bags is that it doesn’t compromise on daily carry features. Inside you’ll find a generous main compartment that is separate from the travel compartment, a new front internal organizer compartment and separate laptop compartment. We love how the expandable travel compartment is out of the way until you need it.

What we like

• Top-notch materials like the full grain napa leather give this backpack a premium, and dare we say luxurious, feel.

• For an expandable backpack the Knack Series 2 is surprisingly lightweight. When compressed, it’s about the size of a regular 24L daily backpack with little extra bulk.

• Amazing pocket variety for both everyday and travel items. The daily main compartment is separate from the expandable travel compartment for a true convertible backpack experience.

What we DON’T like

• We love the hidden side water pocket but unfortunately you will be limited to only storing slimmer bottles. Wider bottles, like a 32oz Nalgene bottle or larger Yeti tumbler, will not fit.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19"H x 12"W x 4.5"D (unexpanded)

• Capacity: 24L-35L

• Material: Water resistant 420D Nylon or Polyester Ottoman Fabric. Full grain Napa leather touch points.

• Weight: 3lbs

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

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Stitch Traveler

Originally made for golf enthusiasts on the move, the Stitch Traveler is a versatile travel backpack that is more than meets the eye. The main compartment is large enough to store a change of clothes (or two if you pack light) for an easy transition from work to play without skipping a beat. And the rear compartment if filled with pockets for the daily grind such as a 15” padded laptop sleeve, document sleeve and smaller pockets for essentials.

One neat feature that Stitch offers is a customizable metal initials ingot that is attached to the front of the bag for a one of a kind bag that can be used for work, workouts, golf and weekend travel.

What we like

• Laptop and organizer compartment in the back is excellent. Plenty of pockets for daily essentials.

• 3-side zipper entry makes loading and unloading the backpack easy.

• Makes a great work-to-golf or work and gym backpack. Allows you to keep your daily items separate from a change of clothes.

What we don’t like

• Main compartment is just one open compartment with little organization. We wish there were more pockets on the inside of the main compartment to separate travel items (socks, toiletries, shoes, laundry)

• Missed opportunity to include a dirty laundry/shoe compartment.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 21” H x 12 W" x 8.25" D

• Materials:  Water and stain resistant ballistic nylon and YKK zippers

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

• 2-in-1 backpack to duffle design

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

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Nomatic Travel Pack

The Nomatic Travel Pack is a great option for anyone who wants a smaller weekender backpack for short trips. At a 30 liter max capacity, it’s the perfect size for one or two nights away. Features like a TSA-friendly laptop compartment and roller bag sleeve make it ideal for airport carry.

Nomatic also does a great job with its generous pocket and compartment placement. Not only do you have essential pockets like an RFID safe pocket and a top pocket for sunglasses or a wallet, but you also have a generous front compartment with tons of organizers for smaller items. It’s a great way to keep you organized no matter how busy your travels.

What we like

• Lifetime warranty

• Lots of pockets and great organization options for smaller items.

• Can be carried as a backpack or briefcase.

• Awesome magnetic water bottle pocket keeps the bag’s profile clean and professional when not in use.

What we don’t like

• It’s heavy - at over 4 lbs the backpack gets heavy quick when filled to capacity.

• Great as a travel bag but impractical to use as a daily backpack. It’s a bit too bulky and heavy (see above) to use as a work backpack.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18.5” H x 12” W x 9.5" D

• Weight: 4.16 lbs

• Volume: 20-30L (expandable)

• Materials:  Polyester with PVC coated water resistant fabric on the front

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

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Shieldon Travel Carry-On Backpack

Shieldon offer a feature-packed yet affordable travel bag with their Travel Carry-On Backpack.

For those who travel with lots of tech, Shieldon makes plenty room for items like a laptop, tablet and accessories. The backpack features a generous 17” laptop compartment plus an entire front organizer pocket for easy-access to small items like external hard drives or a keyboard.

The main compartment is expandable from 23 liters to 38 liters which allows you to turn this carry-on backpack into a daily backpack by just compressing the main compartment zipper.

To get a hands-on look check out our Shieldon Travel Carry-On Backpack review.

What we like

• Expandable main compartment - use as a daybag or travel backpack.

• Includes a heavy plastic toiletries pocket to keep things like bottles of shampoo or body wash away from the rest of your stuff.

• Really affordable - Shieldon does a great job at adding features usually only found in more expensive carry on bags.

What we don’t like

• Internal mesh pockets feel a little cheap and it’s questionable if they will hold up over time.

• Only the front panel is made out of coated water resistant material.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17.7” H x 11.5 W" x 6.3" D

• Weight: 12.8 oz.

• Volume: 23-38L (expandable)

• Materials:  Polyester with PVC coated water resistant fabric on the front

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

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AmazonBasics Slim Carry On Backpack (Weekender)

With the AmazonBasics Slim Carry on Travel backpack, Amazon takes a shot at offering a stylish yet functional travel backpack for those who need a reliable carry-on for flights. Our first thoughts when coming across the AmazonBasics Slim Carry On Backpack was that it was a noble competitor to the popular eBags Professional Weekender at almost half the price.

The AmazonBasics Slim Carry On Backpack comes in two sizes; the weekender version which we review here and the smaller and thinner overnight version.

What we like

• Tons of useful organizers and pockets. Great for organizing work, tech and personal items.

• Bright orange lining makes it easy to locate and find things in a hurry.

• For the price, we are impressed with the quality. The materials and construction compete with more expensive travel bags.

What we don’t like

• Clips that hold the shoulder straps in place are made of cheap plastic. Not sure how they will hold up over time.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 20” H x 13.5” W x 8” D

• Weight: 3lbs

• Materials: 100% Polyester

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

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AmazonBasics Slim Carry On Backpack (Overnight)

With the AmazonBasics Slim Carry on Travel backpack, Amazon takes a shot at offering a stylish yet functional travel backpack for those who need a reliable carry-on for flights. Our first thoughts when coming across the AmazonBasics Slim Carry On Backpack was that it was a noble competitor to the popular eBags Professional Weekender at almost half the price.

The AmazonBasics Slim Carry On Backpack comes in two sizes; the overnight version which we review here and the slightly larger weekender version.

What we like

• Tons of useful organizers and pockets. Great for organizing work, tech and personal items.

• Stylish yet understated design. Can be used for both business and personal use.

• For the price, we are impressed with the quality. The materials and construction compete with more expensive travel bags.

What we don’t like

• Clips that hold the shoulder straps in place are made of cheap plastic. Not sure how they will hold up over time.

• Main “suitcase” compartment really can’t hold more than a change of clothes. If you need more room than go with the AmazonBasics Weekender version.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” H x 12.5” W x 7.8” D

• Weight: 3lbs

• Materials: 100% Polyester

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

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Chrome Summoner Backpack

The Chrome Modal is all about smart carry by providing easy access to your essentials while you are on the move. Just like the larger Chrome Macheto, the Modal’s main compartment is made of up of a dual organizer system that allows for separation of items.

Even when the main compartment is zippered shut, each section is easily accessible from the outside. The front compartment can be accessed from the front like a duffel bag while the back compartment that holds your laptop can be accessed from the top of the bag.

What we like

• Really sleek modern design that gives you easy access to virtually every pocket and organizer inside the bag.

• Dual internal organizational compartments keeps things neat and separate inside the main compartment.

What we don’t like

• No external water bottle pockets.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.5” H x 13” W x 8.5” D

• Capacity: 32L

• Materials: Polyester/600D Twill melange fabric

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

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Aer Travel Pack 2

The Aer Travel Pack 2 is a comprehensive travel backpack that is perfect for one bag travel. Its roomy main compartment opens up like a suitcase for instant access to multiple days worth of clothing and personal items. Organizing your daily essentials has never been easier thanks to the Travel Pack’s front panel organizer, separate laptop compartment and smaller pockets for quick access items.

What we like

• Lots of accessible pockets which are perfect for organizing smaller items.

• Incredibly durable ballistic nylon feels rugged enough to withstand years of heavy use. Zippers also feel high quality.

• We love the addition of a separate shoe/dirty clothes pocket.

What we don’t like

• Main compartment doesn’t include any tie down straps or mesh dividers to keep clothing and items from spilling out when opening. If you plan on using packing cubes than this shouldn’t be an issue.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 21.5” H x 13.5” W x 8.5” D

• Capacity: 33L

• Materials: 1680D Cordura® ballistic nylon

• Weight: 3.7 lbs

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15.6”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

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eBags Professional Weekender Backpack

The eBags Professional Weekender is a larger travel version of the everyday eBags Professional Slim. Changes to the design include a larger carrying capacity, more organizer pockets and a Travel Sentry approved laptop compartment that is TSA-friendly.

The bag is considered a convertible thanks to its stowable shoulder straps that can be tucked away as needed. Size-wise, the eBags Professional Weekender is small enough to fit in overhead storage bins on smaller domestic airlines.

What we like

• Tons of useful organizers and pockets. Great for organizing work, tech and personal items.

• Has a TSA-friendly laptop compartment and a separate pocket for a tablet.

• Perfect for extra large laptops - can fit a laptop up to 18-inches.

What we don’t like

• The bag is not versatile - its size and weight keeps it strictly a travel bag. As a daypack or daily carry bag, it’s simply too bulky and heavy.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 21” H x 14” W x 8” D

• Capacity: 31.9L

• Weight: 3lbs 7oz

• Materials: 840D & 900D Twisted Polyester

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 18”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

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Briggs & Riley Cargo Backpack

The Briggs & Riley Cargo is perfect for anyone looking for a professional looking weekender backpack to take with them on busy work trips. The main compartment opens up like a suitcase for full access to clothes, shoes and other personal items. The front pockets are perfect for smaller items and provide quick-access to essentials such as an iPad, pens, passports and eyeglasses.

What we like

• Structured professional design. Looks and feels like a quality backpack.

• Small enough to be used as a carry-on or airline personal item. Fits underneath airplane seats.

What we don’t like

• Not fully weatherproof. Leaks are a possibility if caught in a heavy downpour which is a disappointment at this price point.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” H x 11.5” W x 8” D

• Capacity: 24L

• Weight: 2.3 lbs

• Material: Proprietary nylon twill

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

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AmazonBasics Carry-On Travel Backpack

The AmazonBasics Carry On Travel backpack is a large capacity backpack for those who seek a reliable one-bag solution for travel. Style-wise, the Amazon Carry On Travel backpack can be best compared to the popular eBags TLS Mother Lode backpack but at a much cheaper price. Both backpacks are essentially suitcases with shoulder straps and allow you to carry a trip’s worth of clothing and items in one convenient bag.

What we like

• Front organizer does a great job at storing smaller items that need quick access.

• Flexible main compartment that compresses and expands as needed.

• Huge padded laptop compartment is perfect for larger laptops.

What we don’t like

• Waist strap feels flimsy and does not do a good job at distributing weight.

• No water bottle pocket on the outside of the bag.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 20.1” H x 15” W x 6.5” D

• Weight: 3.64lbs

• Materials: 100% Polyester

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

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eBags TLS Mother Lode Weekender Convertible

The TLS Mother Lode is one of eBag’s most popular travel bags thanks to its large carry capacity and thoughtful design that makes travel organization easier than ever. At almost 60 liters, the Mother Lode is perfect for one-bag travelers or for those who need a large airline carry-on backpack.

eBags offers the TLS Mother Lode backpack in two sizes:

• TLS Mother Lode (59.8 liters)

• TLS Mother Lode Jr (41.6 liters)

The photos and specs on this page are for the full size 59.8 liter TLS Mother Lode.

What we like

• Tons of useful organizers and pockets with a large main compartment for clothing. Perfect for 7+ day trips.

• Durable fabric and construction. Feels like it will hold up to common travel abuse.

• Great for extra large laptops - can fit a laptop up to 19-inches.

What we don’t like

• Chest and waist straps are actually pretty crappy. Chest strap has the tendency to come loose when in use while the waist strap is thin and provides very little support.

• No TSA friendly laptop compartment.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 22” H x 14” W x 9” D

• Capacity: 59.8L

• Weight: 3lbs 15oz

• Materials: 840D & 900D Twisted Polyester

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 19”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

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Chrome Macheto Travel Pack

Chrome offers a smarter way to travel with their Macheto travel pack. The Macheto can be converted to a duffel by just tucking away the shoulder straps in the back panel. The bag offers plenty of room for multiple days of packing with a 42 liter capacity that is expandable to 48 liters.

What we love most about the Macheto travel pack is how the main “luggage” compartment is sectioned into two separate areas to pack your clothing, shoes and other personal item. This smart design is what separates the Chrome Macheto from similar weekender backpacks that either only have one side of the main compartment sectioned off for clothing storage or leave the area as one main compartment without any netting. This separation is great for sectioning off dirty clothes or just better packing organization.

What we like

• Dual internal organizational compartments

• Large capacity allows for 2-3 days of clothes and personal items.

• 1680D ballistic nylon construction feels rugged and like it will hold up to use and abuse while traveling.

• Compact enough to fit on the overhead bin of most airlines.

What we don’t like

• No way to attach a longer shoulder strap to convert it into a messenger bag.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” H x 13.5” W x 10-12” D

• Capacity: 42-48L

• Materials: 1680D ballistic nylon

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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eBags Professional Flight Laptop Backpack

Whether you need a reliable carry-on backpack for vacations or a professional looking bag for business trips, the eBags Professional Flight laptop backpack is the perfect balance of form and function for those on the move.

At almost 29 liter capacity, the eBags Professional Flight backpack is large enough to carry one or two changes of clothes, work items and your tech while still being small enough to be used as a personal item or carry-on on many airlines.

What we like

• Lots of smaller pockets and organizers for personal, work or tech items.

• Small enough to be used as a personal item or carry-on on many airlines.

• Top headphone pocket comes in handy when the backpack is stored under an airplane seat. Things like headphones and snacks can be accessed without having to pull the bag out from under the seat.

What we don’t like

• Zippers aren’t as smooth as other eBags backpacks like the Professional Weekender and Professional Slim Laptop Backpack.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17.5” H x 12.75” W x 8” D

• Capacity: 28.8L

• Weight: 3lbs

• Materials: 840D Twisted Polyester

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15.6”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Timbuk2 Wander Backpack Duffel

The Timbuk2 Wander is a convertible backpack and duffel bag made for those who need a high-volume travel bag to take with them wherever they roam. The main compartment is incredibly roomy and at 40-liters it’s the perfect size for one-bag travel enthusiasts. For easy duffel carry, simple unclip the shoulder straps at their ends and stow them away in the back panel.

What we like

• Lots of useful pockets and storage options throughout the bag.

• Wet/dry compartment is great for dirty clothes or shoes.

• External compression straps allows you to pack for a days or a couple of weeks.

What we don’t like

• There are plastic clips that allow the shoulder straps to be stowed away when the bag is being used as a duffel. Yet these clips are poorly designed and can come loose when the shoulder straps are in use.

• No hip belt for help with heavier loads.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 22.8” H x 15” W x 7.5” D

• Weight: 3.7lbs

• Capacity: 40L

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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