3 Must-Have Backpack Features for Safer Carry in 2021
From antimicrobial fabrics to wireless phone charging - these features allow for safer backpack carry in 2021.
Keeping safe in the age of COVID-19 is still a top priority even as more people get vaccinated and restrictions in some areas relax in 2021. As a result, getting from point A to B comes with some extra considerations as items like face masks, hand sanitizer and other new essentials have become part of our daily carry.
Whether you expect to safely travel, commute or run errands; here are three backpack features that can help make your journey a healthier one.
Hex Technical Backpack with Anti-Microbial Technology
1) Anti-Microbial Fabric
Did you know that fabrics can become breeding grounds for germs? This can be especially true for backpacks and bags that come into direct contact with the ground and other unsanitary surfaces.
Antimicrobial fabrics have long been used in the healthcare industry where it's common to come into contact with harmful microorganisms. Hospital sheets, scrubs and other fabrics are often treated with antimicrobial technology to minimize exposure to patients and staff.
Recently, backpack brands have been taking advantage of this technology and implementing it into their backpack and bags. The result? You now have a germ fighting layer of defense in something you touch daily.
The HEX Technical Collection of backpacks and bags is a great example of antimicrobial technology in action. Each bag uses a treated fabric that can repel and resist up to 99% of bacteria, mold and fungus. HEX has even had the fabric independently lab tested before release so we know that these bags mean business!
Wireless phone charging on the HEX Technical Backpack
2) Wireless Charging
With more of our daily gadgets embracing wireless charging, shouldn’t this reflect how we charge on the go? An easy way to minimize contact with public surfaces is to add a wireless charger to your carry.
The HEX Technical Backpack features a special charging pocket that makes wireless charging as simple as placing your phone on top of the bag. This special feature lets you avoid having to grab charging cables from the inside of your bag or scrambling to find an electrical outlet in public spaces to charge your phone.
Taking advantage of backpacks who integrate wireless charging into their design is a great way to make sure your isn’t phone placed on icky surfaces the next time your gadget is low on battery life. This means less surface contact and more peace of mind when you are on the move.
Slip pockets let you access important items while minimizing touch points
3) Easy-Access Slip Pockets
A slip pocket is any pocket that doesn’t have a zipper or fastener in order to access it. Slip pockets make grabbing important items fast and easy, especially when you are in a hurry. Many backpacks implement slip pockets on the outside for must-have items such as water bottles and phones.
You can take advantage of slip pockets for safer carry by stashing items such face masks and hand sanitizer bottles. This allows you to grab these items quickly without touching any of the other items inside the backpack. The lack of fasteners means less spreading of harmful microorganisms on the metal and plastic surfaces found in zippers and buckles.
Shop The HEX Technical Collection
The HEX Technical Collection featuring Anti-Microbial Technology
If you are looking for a bag with today’s world in mind then the new HEX Technical Collection has all of the features you need to haul your important items with confidence.
Every Technical bag is made with antimicrobial technology that actively repels bacteria, mold and fungus. Take advantage of wireless charging on the go and slip pockets for a safer way to carry in 2021 and beyond.
King Kong Backpack II vs PLUS26 Gym Backpack Comparison
In this gym backpack comparison we take a look at the King Kong Backpack II and the new PLUS26 to explore what the real differences are. Is it worth the upgrade?
Those looking for a feature-packed gym backpack should be no strangers to the King Kong Backpack II. This classic backpack offers great gym and daily carry features that make transitioning from work to workout easier than ever.
Recently, King Kong has released the PLUS26 - an updated successor to the popular Backpack II. While the PLUS26 holds on to a lot of the same features that make the Backpack II awesome, it still has some upgrades that are worth your attention.
In this King Kong Backpack II vs PLUS26 backpack comparison we take a hands-on look at what the real differences are so that you can decide which version of this iconic backpack is the better choice.
Quick Specs
 |
 |
|
|---|---|---|
| Volume | 28 Liters | 26 Liters |
| Material | 1000D Polyester Ripstop Nylon |
1000D Polyester Ripstop Nylon Hypalon |
| Laptop Sleeve | Up to 15" laptop | Up to 16" laptop |
| Weight | 3.5lbs | 3.5lbs |
| Dimensions | 20"H x 13"W x 7"D | 20"H x 12"W x 7"D |
| Price | Check on King Kong | Check on King Kong |
Video Review
Size and Materials
When it comes to size and carrying capacity there isn’t much of a difference between the PLUS26 and the older Backpack II.
While the Backpack II has a carrying capacity of 28 liters, King Kong has decided to slim it down a bit with 26 liters in the PLUS26.
In terms of actual size and dimensions, the PLUS26 is an inch less in width than the Backpack II while the height and depth has stayed the same.
King Kong has also decided to keep most of the materials the same as well. Both backpack use the same 1000D Nylon on the exterior with YKK zippers and both interiors are made with the same bright red ripstop nylon lining.
One addition to the PLUS26 is the use of Hypalon on high-impact areas. You can find Hypalon along the sides of the front shoe compartment, on the water bottle pockets, shoulder straps and handles. Hypalon is even used to reinforce the stitching on the front shoe pocket strap for extra durability.
Hypalon panels on the King Kong PLUS26
Pockets and Compartments
Shoe Compartment
One of the best features on the Kong Kong Backpack II has always been its shoe pocket. Unlike other backpacks with shoe compartments, King Kong places the shoe pocket on the front of the bag which helps keep the inside of your backpack fresh. The entire pocket expands by using two zippers on the sides and is secured with a heavy duty carbon steel buckle.
The PLUS26 keeps the same shoe pocket design but has changed the buckle to a Fidlock Quick Release Buckle. Although it doesn’t feel as heavy duty as the old carbon steel buckle it is much easier to maneuver. In fact, you can open and close the Fidlock Buckle with just one hand thanks to the fast action magnets that simply pulls the buckle into place.
Admin Pocket
Both the Backpack II and PLUS26 include a small admin compartment above the shoe pocket that features multiple smaller pockets for pens, business cards and a phone.
On the Backpack II we found the slip pockets inside the admin compartment to be a little too small for items like a larger phone, laptop charger or wallet. But one feature that is missing from the King Kong PLUS26 is the cable port that allows you to port a charging or headphones cable to the outside.
On the PLUS26, King Kong offers similar smaller pockets inside the admin compartment but with the addition of a larger slip pocket that is just the right size for a Macbook charger or glasses case. The addition of this slip pocket makes organization of your daily items much easier to manage and we prefer this pocket over the older style on the Backpack II.
Main Compartment
When it comes to main compartment access, both the King Kong PLUS26 and Backpack II feature a dual access main compartment design. This is definitely one of the best features of these bags and one that King Kong made it a point to stick with. This design allows you top loading access to the main compartment with one zipper and full clamshell access to the main compartment with the second zipper.
Once inside there are a couple of minor differences between the Backpack II and PLUS26 worth pointing out. The first difference is with the internal zip pockets that line the left side of the main compartment. On the Backpack II the top pocket is much higher up and the bottom mesh pockets are much lower than the pockets on the PLUS26.
King Kong centers these pockets on the PLUS26 and the result is easier access to the pockets. This is especially true for the top pocket since the older Backpack II design meant that the zipper was slightly buried in the seam making it harder to find when needing to access it quickly. This is a very small improvement but an improvement non-the-less.
The second difference is with the laptop sleeve on the right side. On the Backpack II there is 360 degree spacing along the entire laptop sleeve that creates a protective bumper around your laptop against bumps and drops.
Unfortunately King Kong got rid of this spacing on the left and right sides of the laptop sleeve with the PLUS26. Instead the laptop sleeve itself stitches directly onto the sides of the back panel. Because of this small detail we have to conclude that the Backpack II has the safer laptop sleeve.
Water Bottle Pockets
The last pockets to compare are the side water bottle pockets. On the Backpack II, King Kong offers a compressed water bottle that expands with a zipper and mesh divider. This allows you to hide the water pocket while not in use.
King Kong changed these pockets on the PLUS26 by adding a simple elastic band design. In our opinion this elastic band design is easier and faster to use since you don’t have to fiddle with zippers. It’s just less fuss to deal with when you are on the move.
COMFORT FEATURES
When it comes to comfort features there are big differences in the shoulder straps and back panel that are worth pointing out.
On the Backpack II, the shoulder straps measure 2.5-inches in width and are very padded with a soft mesh lining on the inside. King Kong has changed the shoulder strap design that is much stiffer with less cushion. They also made the new PLUS26 shoulder straps much wider - measuring in at a little over 3-inches.
Our one big gripe with the King Kong PLUS26 is with the shoulder straps. Although the wider design will give more support to those with broader shoulders, the cushioning could be a lot better. Because of this we have to give the older Backpack II the point for having the more comfortable shoulder straps.
The second difference is with the back panel design. Although the back panels look different they really don’t feel that much difference when the bags are worn. In fact, they feel about the same when the backpack is fully loaded.
What we like about the back panel on the PLUS26 is that the air channel cutout offers much better airflow against your backpack while still providing good upper back and lumbar support. This is great if you plan on using your King Kong backpack for hiking or outdoor workouts.
King Kong Backpack II VS PLUS26: Wrap Up
King Kong Backpack II
King Kong PLUS26
Choose the King Kong Backpack II if… you want a reliable gym backpack that can also be used for work or travel. Despite the upgrades to the PLUS26, the Backpack II offers most of the same functionality such as dual access to the main compartment, multiple organizer pockets and an exterior shoe pocket. The Backpack II also has a more protective laptop sleeve and generously cushioned shoulder straps for added comfort.
Choose the King Kong PLUS26 if… you want the best features of the Backpack II with a few upgrades for easier daily carry. The PLUS26 offers better internal pocket placement and an improved front admin pocket for daily essentials like sunglasses and chargers. Other improvements include quick-access water bottle pockets and an easy to use magnetic buckle in the shoe compartment for less hassle on busy workout days. The PLUS26 also includes Hypalon panels in high impact areas for less wear and tear over time.
Topologie Satchel Backpack Dry Review - Minimalist Backpack for Work and Play
In this Topologie backpack review we explore the Satchel Backpack Dry - a clean and minimalist work backpack with an impressive waterproof design.
Topologie has a lot to offer in the world of work backpacks. Their leading example is the Topologie Satchel Backpack Dry, a unisex backpack that takes its inspiration from classic trekking bags and business satchels. The end result is a modern backpack with much to offer in terms of pocket placement and weather resistance.
We recently did a hands-on review of the Topologie Haul backpack - a water resistant backpack tote with a generous 22 liter compartment. The Topologie Satchel Backpack Dry takes a different route by streamlining the outside for a more minimalist design and a smaller carrying capacity of 15 liters. What we get is a modern work backpack that has everything you need for a full day of carry in a sophisticated profile.
In this Topologie review we are going to get hands-on with the Satchel and explore it’s waterproofness, carry capacity and comfort.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 15L
Dimensions: 16.5 x 10.8 x 4.7 inches
Materials: Polyurethane-coated 600D Polyester, Polyurethane-coated poly-canvas, PU
Padded sleeve for laptop up to 15”
Internal water bottle pocket
Hidden back pocket (for phone/passport/wallet)
Video Review
Materials and Construction
The Topologie Satchel Backpack Dry is made out of a combination of water resistant and waterproof materials. The body itself is made out of polyurethane-coated 600D Polyester and poly-canvas. Although these materials are not completely waterproof they are water resistant thanks to their polyurethane coating. This means water will form beads on contact and roll off the fabric before it gets the chance to soak in.
The top lid is made out of waterproof PU. It’s a thick material with a rubbery texture. This design allows the backpack to be protected in rain and snow as moisture hits the top of the backpack when worn.
You can also see this waterproof PU used in the front backpack detail and shoulder straps. The PU on the shoulder straps acts as a waterproof barrier to prevent the shoulder strap padding from getting too soaked and uncomfortable if you were ever to be caught in the rain.
On the back of the backpack is where you will find a hidden zipper pocket. Topologie was thoughtful enough to add a water resistant zipper to this pocket.
If you look closely you can see that the zipper itself is covered by PU “lips” that prevent water from soaking through the zipper on contact. It’s important to note that this zipper is not waterproof, but the PU does prevent water from soaking into the zipper on contact.
Pockets and Compartments
As mentioned above, the only exterior pocket is a hidden back pocket that is large enough for items like a phone or passport. Other then this pocket Topologie has opted to contain all other pockets and compartments on the inside of the bag.
To gain access to the main compartment you will have to undo the front metal utility hook. Underneath the lid you’ll find two magnetic closures that help keep the lid in place.
Inside is where you will find a plastic key clip, 15” laptop sleeve, separate document sleeve and three smaller slip pockets for organizing personal items.
What is lacking are the usual specific organization pockets for small items like pens and business cards. But the included smaller slip pockets can be used for these items without issue.
The document sleeve is a welcomed addition. Since the laptop sleeve and document sleeve rest against the back panel it does a good job at keeping your business papers safe and prevents them from being damaged when carrying. This is the “work satchel” part of the backpack that works quite well.
The last pocket on the inside of the main compartment is a water bottle pocket located on the one side. This gives a water bottle or umbrella it’s own spot so it’s not just floating around inside the backpack.
The one con we found is with the laptop sleeve itself. Anyone who is rougher with their backpacks and are worried about laptop protection may be disappointed by the lack of padding on the laptop sleeve.
Carry Capacity
What fits inside the Topologie Satchel Backpack Dry?
The backpack has an internal carrying capacity of 15 liters which is a great size for a commuter or work backpack where you just need to carry daily essentials like a laptop, tablet, business papers and a few personal items.
To give you an idea of what fits inside, you can carry:
Laptop
Tablet
Water Bottle
Sweater
Room to spare for additional small items such as large headphones
You could also fit two 1-inch binders and a large textbook with room to spare for your laptop and smaller items inside the slip pockets.
As you can tell the 15 liter capacity isn’t enough for the Satchel to be used as a travel backpack but it’s great for urban commuting and to carry a few daily essentials.
Fit and Comfort
One design element we appreciate about the Topologie Satchel Backpack Dry is that it is unisex and can be worn by just about anyone. This is mostly due to its small/medium size and shoulder strap placement.
The backpack measures in at 16.5” (L) x 10.8” (W) x 4.7” (D) and the shoulder straps are a little over 4 inches apart. This shoulder strap placement is a nice middle ground for people with both broad and narrow shoulders.
The shoulder straps are adjustable using metal buckles. Much like a belt, you can adjust the length of the shoulder straps via the punched hole placements on the shoulder straps. This allows the shoulder straps to stay in place once adjusted but they don’t provide the same fine tuning you would normally get from a plastic adjuster seen in most other backpacks.
The shoulder straps are also padded. It’s not very thick padding but the bag itself can only hold 15 liters worth of stuff. So even when the backpack is full it never really gets that heavy.
The back panel padding is also on the thinner side but it’s padded enough to still be comfortable. Part of that reason is how the inside compartments are designed. The back panel shares the same padding as the laptop sleeve. So you have your laptop or documents resting against your back. This design prevents objects from poking into your back when wearing the Satchel and helps give it an attractive flat profile.
Overall the backpack is very comfortable when worn. The shoulder straps and back panel are padded enough to provide a comfortable experience when the backpack is fully loaded with heavier items like books and a laptop.
For a commuter or work backpack this is all you really need in terms of comfort features. Because of its size it would have been overkill to add more straps or padding since 15 liters is already a modest carrying capacity.
Final Thoughts
Overall the Topologie Satchel Backpack Dry provides a good and comfortable carry experience and we do recommend it if you are on the hunt for a slim, modern and minimalist backpack for work, weekends or commuting.
Its waterproof and water resistant materials makes it a great choice for daily commuters who want the added waterproof protection during sudden rain showers. The satchel-inspired design also ensures it won’t look out of place in an office or more professional settings.
Where to buy: Topologie
Topologie Haul Backpack Review - A Modern Backpack Tote
We review the Topologie Haul backpack - a unique convertible backpack tote that pays homage to the early rock climbers and alpinists.
Topologie is an interesting brand.
Inspired by rock climbing gear, Topologie’s designs are modern yet feature enough outdoor elements to make the bags unique in both form and function. You can see the rock climbing inspiration in small design details like the use of climbing cord as zipper pulls and outdoor inspired grab handles and trim while focusing on an overall clean aesthetic that rivals those of more popular minimalist bag makers.
This backpack review will focus on the Topologie Haul backpack - a unisex convertible backpack tote that blends climbing haul bag elements with a clean urban carry design. Let’s take a closer look and explore the Topologie Haul’s finer details.
Features at a glance
Capacity: 22L
Dimensions: 17.3” (H) x 12.99” (L) x 5.9” (W)
Materials: Water repellent washed Nylon Taslon with PU coating, Polyester Pongee lining and splashproof zippers
Padded sleeve for laptop up to 15”
Internal water bottle pocket
Available in Navy, Black and Green colors
Pockets and Carry
Let’s start with a quick review of the Haul backpack’s pockets and carry features.
The Topologie Haul has a generous carrying capacity of 22 liters thanks to its large main compartment and smaller pockets sprinkled throughout the design.
What fits inside?
The main compartment measures 16.5” inches in height and is large enough to carry multiple large textbooks and binders. It’s also large enough to use as an overnight or gym bag by comfortably accommodating 1 change of clothing and a pair of shoes.
Inside the main compartment is where you’ll find the laptop sleeve that can comfortably fit a laptop or tablet up to 15-inches.
Inside the Topologie Haul - laptop sleeve
As an everyday carry backpack for work, school or commuting the laptop sleeve will be perfect for most people who just need to separate their laptop from the rest of the contents inside the bag.
What the Topologie Haul laptop sleeve is lacking however is thick padding and a false bottom. A false bottom creates a gap underneath the laptop sleeve to prevent the laptop from hitting the ground if it were to ever be dropped. The lack of a false bottom is worth considering if you are rough with your backpacks and are concerned about extra laptop protection.
Inside the Topologie Haul - internal water bottle pocket
Besides the laptop sleeve, the only other pocket inside the main compartment is a water bottle pocket/umbrella pocket. What’s interesting about this pocket is that it can be easily accessed through a side zipper. This side zipper goes straight into the main compartment to allow you to access the water bottle pocket or things at the bottom of the bag without having to open up the main compartment zipper from the top. It’s a smart design feature that Topologie does really well.
Topologie Haul backpack - side zipper access to main compartment
On the outside of the bag you have two zipper pockets. The first zipper pocket can be found on the front of the Haul backpack.
The front pocket is a large open pocket with no organizers inside. An idea for improvement would be for Topologie to add some organizers to this pocket for extra small items like pens, charging cables, lip balm and other personal effects.
The second zippered pocket can be found on the back of the backpack underneath the shoulder straps. This allows for safe storage of smaller items like a phone, passport or wallet.
When it comes to pockets and organizers the Topologie Haul backpack offers great options for secure carry of small and large items alike. Our only complaint is the positioning of the water bottle pocket. The way it’s currently positioned results in awkward carry of large books and binders. This could be prevented by moving the pocket to the other side of the main compartment.
Water bottle pocket placement makes it difficult to store larger items like books
What we really like about the Topologie Haul is it’s overall simplicity. The Haul will not overwhelm you with an array of hidden pockets and compartments that would make the bag feel over-engineered when used. Simplicity is a theme that runs throughout the Haul’s design and pocket placement - which translates into an intuitive everyday backpack that feels as practical as it is stylish.
Comfort Rundown
One of the Topologie Haul’s best feature is it’s ability to be converted from a backpack to a single hand tote bag. This is possible thanks to two nylon clips that allows you to stow away the shoulder straps behind the back panel.
Easy conversion from backpack to tote bag
When it comes to comfort - the back panel and shoulder straps are decently padded with the shoulder straps measuring in at a little over 2 inches in width. The Haul’s comfort is due in part to the backpack’s wide tubular body that does a great job at distributing weight on your back and shoulders. The Topologie Haul is also incredibly light which adds positively to the overall comfort and carry experience.
Although the Topologie Haul is a unisex backpack it seems better suited for people with smaller frames and shoulders. The gap between the shoulder straps is about 3 inches apart which is great for anyone with smaller frames but can be a bit uncomfortable for people with broader shoulders. If you are most comfortable wearing men’s backpacks that feature wider shoulder strap than you might want to reconsider if the Topologie Haul can offer a comfortable fit.
Materials and Construction
According to Topologie’s official specifications the Haul built from:
Body: Washed Nylon Taslon with splashproof PU coating
Lining: Polyester Pongee fabric
Zipper: Splashproof zippers
Hardware: Duraflex nylon buckles (shoulder strap clips)
All of the materials are incredibly lightweight which add to the backpack’s comfort as touched on before. Like most lightweight backpacks, the Haul itself is not structured (outside of the foam back panel) giving it a casual look that we associate with many nylon bags.
Splashproof Materials and Zippers
One feature Topologie emphasizes is that the Haul is “splashproof.” Let’s see if we can shed more light on that.
The Topologie Haul features “splashproof” PU coating on the outside materials which makes it water repellent. Essentially, you can pour water on the backpack and it would form beads and run off before it got a chance to soak into the bag.
The zippers are also advertised as “splashproof” which deserves some clarity. The zippers used on the Haul include these small rubber lips that cover the actual zipper teeth underneath and gives water a chance to roll off before getting a chance at soaking through.
It’s important to note that these zippers are not waterproof but water resistant. They do a much better job at preventing water from getting into the backpack than your average zippers but water can still get in if these zippers become soaked.
How does this translate to real life? Well, you can wear the Topologie Haul during a light rain or snow but it may not stay dry if you were ever to get stuck in a heavy downpour.
This backpack isn’t for your if you are specifically looking for a waterproof backpack for college or work but it does a better job than most at protecting you from light rains and splashes. For most people a water repellent backpack will be enough protection for daily carry.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to overall design and function the Topologie Haul is an impressive daily carry backpack tote with lots to offer. Its urban design is sleek enough to wear to the office yet roomy enough to use as a school, travel or gym backpack. Its versatility is actually one of its biggest selling points.
The only cons we could find was a lack of organizers for smaller items and the placement of the water bottle pocket inside the main compartment. But these things can be overlooked thanks to the Haul’s intuitive pocket design and clever features like side access to the main compartment and hidden pocket beneath the shoulder straps.
Not many brands can manage to incorporate rock climbing aesthetics into a minimalist bag and the results so far have been impressive. The Haul backpack is unique yet unmistakingly modern and we are excited to see what else Topologie has to offer in the world of carry.
Shieldon Travel Carry-On Backpack Review - Tech Backpack Meets Suitcase
The Shieldon Travel Carry-on Backpack is an impressive budget travel bag that proves you don’t have to spend a lot to score a reliable travel-tech bag for your next trip.
Travel-tech weekender backpacks have become popular in recent years thanks to the increasing number of tech and accessories that help us survive our daily grind. With a main compartment that opens like a suitcase - bags like the Shieldon Travel Carry-On allow us to leave the laptop backpack and duffel bags at home for a more streamlined solution.
This is where Shieldon scores a home run - offering an affordable travel backpack with enough storage for things like a laptop, tablet, and tech accessories.
The backpack’s 23 liter main compartment is large enough for overnight stays while it’s expandable feature allows you to use the backpack for multi-day getaways at an impressive 38 liters. Shieldon does a great job at allowing you to customize the size and capacity to allow you to use the backpack exactly how you need it.
Fully cinched 23L vs 38L expanded capacity
When it comes to its design the Shieldon Travel Carry-on Backpack reminds us a lot of the Incase EO Travel Backpack. But at half the price we believe this Shieldon bag is a worthy competitor if you are looking for travel gear on a budget.
Features at a glance
MSRP: $64.99
Expandable capacity: 23L-38L
17-inch laptop compartment with tablet pocket
Separate compartment for personal items like water bottles and tech accessories.
Carry-on friendly size
Made of polyester with water repellent PVC coating
Travel Features
Inside the Shieldon Travel Carry-On
Inside is where you’ll find travel must-haves like a mesh divider and pockets for toiletries and smaller items. At 23 liters the bag is roomy enough to hold an overnight’s stay worth of clothing but when expanded it can hold 2-3 days worth of clothing (or longer if you are a light packer.)
Plastic spill-proof toiletries pocket
Shieldon’s toiletries pocket is actually an impressive feature that not a lot of backpacks include. Instead of mesh, the brand uses a clear heavy plastic to safeguard liquids from spilling into the rest of the main compartment.
Hidden anti-theft back pocket
Tech Carry
Shieldon offers a few spots for tech storage including a laptop compartment with separate zip access. The laptop compartment doesn’t open flat for TSA-friendly access at airports, but it does a great job at giving you quick access to your laptop without disturbing the items in the main compartment.
The laptop compartment includes a built-in padded sleeve for laptops up to 17-inches and a separate tablet sleeve. The tablet sleeve is roomy and can fit a 11-inch iPad Pro.
Shieldon laptop compartment
The front of the backpack features a full-length compartment equipped with organizers and pockets for things like pens, water bottles and smaller accessories. It’s a great place to store tech accessories like external HDDs, charging cables and still have room for bulkier items like a full sized desktop keyboard.
Shieldon front organizer pocket
Comfort and Materials
The Shieldon offers a padded mesh back and shoulder straps with an additional adjustable sternum strap to offload some of the weight when fully loaded.
Shieldon shoulder straps and adjustable sternum strap
As far as comfort goes - the backpack’s mesh padding does a good job at offering comfortable carry but you can definitely feel the difference between the cheaper Shieldon backpack and the more expensive Incase EO Travel Backpack or the Aer Travel Pack 2. The back panel on the Shieldon Travel Carry-On backpack feels thinner and not as stiff.
A closer look at the padded back
What the backpack lacks is the inclusion of premium materials in it’s build. Don’t expect materials like ballistic nylon or TPU coating. Instead the Shieldon Travel Carry-On Backpack is made of polyester with a PVC water resistant coating on the front panel. But this is expected with budget travel backpacks in the $50-100 range where premium materials are too expensive to include.
With that said the Shieldon Travel Carry-On Backpack is still scratch resistant and durable enough to survive busy traveling. We also like the water resistant front panel that allows for surviving sudden showers or snow.
Shieldon hollow zippers allow for travel locks.
All of the zippers are smooth with no snagging and the metal zipper pulls also add a touch of durability. One great design feature that Shieldon does right is including hollow zipper pulls that allow you to lock any of the compartments with a luggage lock. It’s a not-so-obvious security feature that is worth pointing out.
Final Thoughts
Is the Shieldon Travel Carry-On Backpack worth it? The simple answer is yes.
At the time of this review you can pick up the Shieldon Travel Carry-On Backpack for $64.99 which is a great price if you are looking for a weekender backpack with tech-carry options. Many similar weekenders can retail for twice the price.
When it comes to looks - Shieldon does a great job at offering a minimalist and streamlined design that is stylish enough for casual or work travel alike. Many budget backpacks either sacrifice robust design for cheaper prices but we think Shieldon does a good job at balancing both.
