I’m a professional photographer and I’m always out in the elements for work. And when on location, I’m shooting both photo and video and need a decent amount of gear. So I’m always looking for larger photography packs that can handle abuse and carry comfortably for long stretches.
While it’s been on the market for a while, I’ve not had a chance to get my hands on the award-winning WANDRD FERNWEH until recently. It’s large, built for backpacking, and if I could describe it in one word, I’d use the word: ‘impressive’.
How does this backpacker work with camera gear? Inserts, of course.
There are several options for camera cubes that will fit within the FERNWEH, and I picked up the Pro Plus Camera Cube, as I generally need a large cube for my gear. For my current main setup, I carry the following:
I usually have a tech pouch with cables and batteries and a Peak Design tripod that I carry with me on or in my pack. So for my big shoots, I need a big bag. The WANDRD FERNWEH comes in at 50L, so smaller than some of the other bags I have used, but it does fit what I need. So, let’s jump into the bag and see what it’s about.
Who It Suits
The FERNWEH rolls in at 50L, so it is a large bag, but when out on traveling shoots, I generally have a 50-70L bag with me for gear, so this is at the smaller end of what I usually carry. This pack is also well-suited for anyone needing a one-bag clothing and gear travel system. One of the great things about this bag is that no matter what size kit you need to carry when traveling, they have a cube that will work. If you are a small mirrorless/drone carry person, you can pick up the Mini Plus Cube, but if you carry a ton of gear, the Pro Camera Cube will not let you down.
The top opening of the bag opens into the removable bucket system. This system is divided by a nylon fabric that zips into place to keep items from falling into the camera compartment. If you were using a small camera cube and some packing cubes, you might not even need to utilize the zipper bucket for gear, but it is nice to have when you need it.
That said, with the modularity of the bag, it can work for quite a range of photography needs if you are traveling or backpacking. With the included features, the user could take this bag out for a day or two and carry all the necessary items for comfort.
Who It Doesn’t
The WANDRD FERNWEH is not a daypack; if you are going out for a hike with friends or shooting around town, this is a lot of bag for you to carry unless you need to bring a mini keg with you for hydration. The pack with a camera cube is pretty heavy even when empty, so that might be a deal-breaker for some. If you are looking for a travel bag/backpacking bag and only carry a small mirrorless camera, there are cheaper options out there that are more suited to the user without having the features of a full, dedicated camera bag.
The Good
There are a lot of unique features to the FERNWEH, but let’s start with the harness and back panel. At 50L, when fully loaded, this bag gets heavy. But, while using this bag, I took a few long hikes while fully loaded, and the harness easily handled the load. The back panel, straps, and belt utilize a thick air mesh that is reasonably breathable. This was nice when out in Moab on a 75-degree day; sweat spots were minimal, and comfort was optimal.
The load lifters mixed with the padded belt did their job. I could hike and scramble comfortably and keep my shoulders from feeling too much weight. The belt pocket is perfect for quick access to snacks or a pair of gloves when needed. The harness is adjustable so you can change the straps depending on your frame size for maximum comfort.
Overall the pocketing and access for the bag are fantastic. The front of the pack has a long pocket perfect for storing a rain shell and a hydration pocket. This front pocket also allows a hydration hose to be threaded to the back of the bag to keep the hose from adding any extra snag points.
The bag’s top has a pocket on the exterior and an interior mesh pocket. Both are sized for small tech pouches, bulky gloves, hats, or camp food pouches.
On one side of the WANDRD FERNWEH is a pocket for a thin water bottle or tripod. This might be the most confusing pocket as it depends on the size and shape of your tripod or water bottle. The pocket fits a Peak Design Travel Tripod perfectly. It is tight, but it fits and zips closed. If you have a bigger tripod, the fit might be just one or two legs and securing it with the straps. As for a water bottle, it won’t fit anything Nalgene-sized. You have to have a thin, tall bottle.
There is an external sling access to the camera compartment. This pocket has a zip pocket within it where you can store batteries or a card wallet if needed. Finally, the back panel that clamshells open has a small hidden passport pocket and a laptop sleeve that easily fits my 15″ MacBook Pro.
There is one last zipper on the bottom of the bag that, when unzipped, reveals a fabric flap that can loop around and attach, creating a compression hoop that can hold a sleeping bag, tent, or any other oversized items one may need while out. This extra space is excellent as it allows the user to carry additional items and not take up any of the pack’s interior.
The FERNWEH has four grab handles. Each one is constructed of padded webbing and feels great even when the bag has a ton of weight. The two side handles are wide, allowing the user to slide the pack onto a rolling luggage handle while traveling.
The materials chosen are suitable for an adventure bag. The front of the bag utilizes 630D Robic nylon. The Robic nylon covers the top pocket to the bottom of the bag, allowing for good abrasion protection. The 420D TPU-coated nylon is used on the sides of the pack and is equally waterproof and strong.
The Not So Good
Overall the FERNWEH is a fantastic pack, but there are a few things that I felt could use some help. First, the sling access in a pack this size is unnecessary. If you carry a fully-loaded pack, it will not be easy to swing around and unzip a pocket to access a camera. By the time you do this, the moose will be gone. A water bottle pocket might be better served in this space.
On the other side of the pack, the tripod pocket, while useful for the Peak Design tripod, should be enlarged to fit more options. It could still be compressed when needed, but a slightly larger volume could help with the user’s kit.
While the material on the bottom of the pack is strong, I would like to see some reinforcement in this area. If the fabric catches on a sharp edge, it could tear. But with some Hypalon or Cordura reinforcement, the bottom of the bag would be epic.
Technically separate from the pack, the Pro Plus Camera Cube has a two-zipper section. For my use case, this was just frustrating having the zipper pull land in an area where I wanted to safely store a lens, camera, or drone. The volume of the cube is significant, but the layout is just interesting. I know this is used in their other bags, but the cross strap gets in the way in the FERNWEH.
Granted, in a bag this size, most people would probably use a tech pouch; however, there was no admin organization in any pockets. Sometimes, it is nice to have separate pockets for items like hard drives, card wallets, or snack bars.
Verdict
Overall, this is a fantastic bag and one that will stay in my rotation. With the pocketing and overall size, the WANDRD FERNWEH makes an excellent travel and adventure pack. The bonus is that the harness system is comfortable even when loaded with gear. The bag fits in the overhead on a few flights, but I removed the belt to make the bag seem smaller. If you are worried about weight, there might be better options, but any large adventure bag will be a little on the heavy side. Also, for larger tripod users, remember that this might be a bag you need to get creative with to mount one.
I used the Gobi Tan color, which while attractive, was dirty immediately. But I am not one who worries about my gear getting used, dirty, or torn. This has become a new favorite bag for adventuring with my gear. If you are on the fence, just go for it. The WANDRD FERNWEH is comfortable and built to last.
What if an ultralight thru-hiking backpack company decided to make something for the rest of us? The ULA Equipment Ultra Dragonfly is a crossover pack with ultralight roots that is just as at home on the trail as it is on the tarmac or walking around your favorite theme park. The newest release of this pack comes adorned with Challenge Sailcloth’s flagship Ultra 800; a woven UHMWPE laminate that is equally strong and lightweight. The typical nylon-stretch pockets and panels are also upgraded with Challenge’s UltraStretch; a four-way stretch material with a UHMWPE ripstop for extra durability. This bag has served me as everything from a camera bag and a weekender to a parent bag. It’s a truly versatile backpack that could be an answer to the “if you could only own one” question.
Who It Suits
Those looking for a lightweight do-all backpack with a focus on one-bag-travel or larger EDC loadouts. This bag performs best when you’re packing light, and not carrying too much extra weight. You’re also someone who likes to bring their own organization via pouches or packing cubes. You may even be UL-curious, and this is a good entry point.
Who It Doesn’t
You’re a heavier packer looking for something a bit more substantial. Lots of tech or heavy equipment won’t serve you well in the Dragonfly. You also might like a lot of built-in or micro organization, which this bag doesn’t offer. On the other hand, if you don’t pack much at all, this bag might be a bit large at 30L.
Specs
Design
While ULA Equipment works with a number of fabrics from companies like Robic and Dimension Polyant, this new variant is their first foray with Challenge Sailcloth and their Ultra line of offerings, which you can read more about here, so we won’t go into too much detail. We can sum it up as a woven UHMWPE face with a recycled, waterproof PET backing, that is both ultra-strong and ultra-light. Needless to say, we really like this fabric along with its UltraStretch counterpart. While being hyper-functional, we also think they look pretty cool.
If you’ve never had an ultralight pack in your hands, you may be surprised at just how lightweight these packs can get. When it showed up, I thought the box was empty. The ULA Dragonfly comes in under 1.9 lbs, and that’s on the heavier side of this realm. In some cases, you may find UL bags “lacking” if you’re used to more typical EDC and travel bags. In almost all cases, UL bags forego lining of any sort, and in some cases, you’ll even see brands forego seam binding which cuts down on overall longevity in the name of shaving grams. Thankfully, the Dragonfly is a pack for The Rest of Us, and while it stays true to its UL roots, we have most of the trimmings we like to see for everyday use; binding, a somewhat-lined internal back panel and pockets, and even sufficient padding where needed.
Features
The first thing most people will notice is that U-shaped front panel. ULA takes a slightly different approach to panel-loader packs here, and what we end up with is something more akin to accessing a duffel. In practice, this makes packing in and out really simple, especially if you’re just using packing cubes or large pouches. The only downside is that due to the positioning of the panel, it does make quickly accessing individual items a bit of a bother, as they can drift to the bottom or back of the compartment. So we’d recommend using the individual pouches for items you plan on accessing more regularly, especially if they’re smaller. For those utilizing this as more of a travel pack, there are two interior compression straps to keep your gear or cubes in place.
Thankfully, the Dragonfly comes with a number of externally (and internally) accessible pockets and quick-access points. On the outside, you have five pockets, or six if you count the lashing on the front. One top quick-access pocket, one front stretch pocket, one rear dedicated laptop sleeve, and two generously sized bottle pockets. The bottle pockets easily fit a full-size Nalgene and then some, but are just as handy for storing a shell or insulation layer, or a tripod. Thanks to the top compression straps, longer items are easily stabilized. Internally, ULA adds two mesh zip pockets on the backside of the front panel, plenty large enough for gear such as wallets, a Kindle, or other items you want secure yet accessible.
One thing of note is that this bag does come fully equipped with YKK AquaGuard zippers; a love-it-or-hate-it approach. While this adds to the overall weather resistance, it does impede some access, as they are known to be relatively stiff and more difficult to operate with one hand. My personal preference is to opt for DWR-coated YKK RC zippers for everywhere but tech sleeves, but your mileage may vary.
Speaking of which, if you’ve got a laptop, the ULA Dragonfly will swallow it whole, including 16″ MBPs and similarly sized devices. It’s well padded and accessible on the upper back side of the bag, which you can see below.
Performance
While most UL harnesses may leave you wanting for anything other than UL backpacking, ULA has thankfully given us something a bit more substantial here. The padded air mesh with an upward-facing channel works brilliantly (heat rises, right?). And while the straps are padded, they’re generously wide and shaped, creating a nice “hug”.
While ULA states that the max load is somewhere around 30 lbs, I’d probably try and keep it closer to 20 lbs. At the same time, this bag could certainly carry more than 30 lbs if you needed to for brief periods of time. The lack of stays, a frame sheet, and a few other adornments just don’t allow the Dragonfly to be a heavy hauler, and that’s perfectly fine, as it wasn’t designed for that.
The Good
Duffel-style access makes packing a breeze
Bottle pockets are generous yet understated
Comfortable harness for such a lightweight bag
Incredibly lightweight
The Not So Good
Counter-intuitive to UL, but we’d prefer a fully lined bag
Straps could use ever so slightly more padding
AquaGuard zippers are stiff, but expectedly so
Verdict
The ULA Equipment Dragonfly is a wonderful addition to the world of crossover bags; bags that can do it all. It’s less than half of the weight of many other bags in its class, though that does mean slightly less load-bearing capability. Despite its UL origins, it still has many of the bells and whistles most of us expect when looking for an EDC or travel pack, like tech sleeves, bottle pockets, and quick-access pockets. Add in Challenge Sailcloth’s exciting new Ultra line of fabrics and the Dragonfly just gets that much better.
There’s only one bag that has come with me on absolutely every trip I’ve been on in the past five years; the Triple Aught Design Azimuth Backpack. That’s not an exaggeration. From all corners of the United States and Canada, to the Italian Dolomites and the shores of Northern Spain. The original Azimuth Backpack, released in 2017, has been a staple carry for me due to its equally excellent packability and utility. However, it was unavailable for many years after its initial release, leaving the secondary market as the only way to acquire one, often well above the original MSRP. And although TAD stock availability can waver, the TAD Azimuth V2 Backpack returned in 2022 with a few improvements and some upgraded material offerings. We’ve been testing this one for a while, and we can start this off by saying that version two is worthy of the same high praise.
Who It Suits
If you often need to head on an adventure at a moment’s notice, you should own this bag. If you travel often, you should own this bag. If you don’t know what your day may bring, you should own this bag. The Azimuth is something that is perfect to always have around, whether you’re hitting a summit during a business trip or if you just want to get out without your bag weighing you down. Doubling as both an ultralight pack and a packable bag, you appreciate flexibility in your carry. One-baggers may appreciate being able to stow this bag away for lighter days on the town or that just-in-case extra storage.
Who It Doesn’t
If you’re a business traveler that just sticks between the office and their hotel, the Azimuth may not do much for you. Alternatively, if you’re looking to do some serious trekking, even just day hikes, then the Azimuth may not be as substantial of a pack as you may like. The Azimuth excels at being a lightweight jack-of-all-trades, so if you need something more specialized, this may not fit the bill.
Specs
Design
If you’re familiar with the original Azimuth, not much has changed here. The silhouette is still essentially the same, with maybe a few pattern tweaks here and there. What you will notice is a change to slightly heavier materials – from VX03 and VX07 to VX21 and VX42 on the main body. This has some pros and cons which we’ll get into later, but all in all it’s a nice upgrade. The bag feels much more substantial, holds its shape better, and is all around more durable.
At a generous 19L, the Azimuth can hold quite a bit – I’d wager it’s more comparable to common 21-24L packs. And just like any good packable bag, it comes in at 0.8lbs. You’ll never even know it’s there, so taking it along for the ride is a no brainer. Just like with cameras and other gear, the best one is the one you have with you, and having it with you is half the battle. Throwing it at the bottom of my suitcase when I’m traveling for work costs me nothing, and if I’m able to get out for a quick hike to break up the monotony, I’ve got my trusty Azimuth with me.
Features
As one would expect, one of the features of a packable bag is that it packs down. This is one of the more noticeable changes from the earlier version of the Azimuth. Whereas the former was able to pack into its own pocket, that’s not the case with its predecessor. Since the new Azimuth is made from slightly heavier materials, it’s designed to simply pack flat, or just roll up to the size of a water bottle. In practice, this changes little. It was somewhat tedious to get the older variant into its pocket, so I rarely bothered. Rolling it up works just as well for me, and it’s usually how I packed it anyway.
The pockets are all still in place. The top pocket which also acted as a stuff-sack is still situated at the top of the pack. It’s potentially the only place on the Azimuth to stuff smaller items, so it can fill up rather quickly. The two front-facing zippers, adorned with YKK Aquaguard zipper chain, provide both side access and a vertical storage area, respectively. The side pocket is slim, but has a good bit of its own volume for stashing items like gloves or a hat, which you might want quick access to without opening the entire contents of the pack. The other zipper provides an easy way to get at the bottom of your pack without digging from the top down. It’s nice to be able to sling the bag over either shoulder to access the vertical pocket or even the main compartment.
The dual water bottle pockets are generous, but don’t have much of their own volume. So keep that in mind when you’re packing for the day – any sufficiently large water bottle, or tripod, will eat into the main compartment. This isn’t usually a problem, just something to be aware of. In practice, it helps the items in the pockets stay a bit more secure, since they’re snuggled in.
Unlike most packs with vertical compression, there’s no rolltop here. It’s simply a top-loading zipper, which works especially well due to the design of the compression. What you do get is a wider opening, as the top flares out a bit. This helps with packing and access, quite significantly. The vertical compression keeps the wider mouth tame, and still does its job by allowing a few inches of expansion in either direction – about an extra liter or two. It might take some getting used to at first, especially with less-than-full bags, but there’s a reason this feature remained unchanged.
If all of that isn’t enough for you, the Azimuth supports TAD’s Helix attachment system, allowing you to hang any of their Control Panels or various pouches from the top rear of the interior of the bag. Personally, I like having the Control Panel here as it acts as a pseudo frame sheet.
Performance
This is another area that earlier adopters will immediately notice a change; the straps. While these straps are certainly slim and lightweight, they’re much heftier than the originals – this is a good thing. I found the newer Azimuth to be a much more pleasant carry experience, all in all. As noted above, there isn’t a frame sheet, nor a true “harness”, but the straps are comfortable, and you have options for keeping interior items from poking you in the back.
Like the original, TAD has used all waterproof and water resistant materials on the Azimuth. While it’s certainly not submersible (stitches are holes), this bag (and its contents) survived many downpours, and even more days at the beach. Did I mention this is a great beach bag? It’s a great beach bag. Long story short, don’t expect it to survive hours in torrential rain, but it will keep your stuff dry long enough to get to some shelter.
The Good
Easy to pack down and take with you
Super lightweight without feeling flimsy
Heavier materials are a nice upgrade from the original
Great access and generous capacity
New straps are significantly more comfortable
The Not So Good
Interior items can easily poke into your back
No great way to pack it into itself
Water bottle pockets don’t really have their own volume
Vertical compression can feel unnecessary at times
Verdict
The Azimuth is my favorite packable bag – period. There’s a reason it was so highly sought after during its leave of absence. I’ve honestly not gone on a trip without the original in five years. However, the new and improved Azimuth has instantly replaced it. Not because it needed replacing by any means – it’s still going strong – but because I think the V2 is a very worthy upgrade. There’s more peace of mind due to the beefier materials, and the bag carries better thanks to the upgraded straps. Whether you have the original and are interested in an upgrade, or if you’re just looking for something to pack in with your luggage, I can’t recommend the Azimuth enough. I can’t wait to rack up even more miles on it.
Greenroom136 made a name for themselves creating practical, utilitarian, urban bags. Based in Malaysia, founder Patrick Lim took it upon himself to research the industry and learn the principles of bag design. What eventually spawned was a brand that has nailed the fundamentals and innovates based off tried-and-true principles.
The Greenroom136 Rainmaker is one such phenomenal pack. In this review we will be covering a custom (W?ldcard) Rainmaker bag, so depending on your needs, some features or design choices may differ.
Who It Suits
This bag has proven to be versatile due to its compression straps and clamshell opening. If you’re looking for an everyday pack that can serve double duty as a minimal travel bag for a weekend getaway, you won’t be disappointed with this. Moreover, if you want a no-frills, good bang-for-your-buck pack that you can have customized to fit your needs, I think the Rainmaker is an awesome choice.
Who It Doesn’t
I would say folks who want cutting-edge features may have better luck elsewhere. As I mentioned earlier, the Rainmaker innovates based on a solid understanding of the fundamentals, but if you’re looking for something flashier, this may not be for you.
Specifications
Name: Rainmaker
Brand: Greenroom136
Format: Backpack
Dimensions: 12.2″W x 17.3″H x 7.8″D
Capacity: 27 Liters
Weight: 3.5lbs (for standard build)
Shell: EPX400
Lining: 420d Ripstop Nylon
Zippers: YKK #10
Hardware: Fidlock Sliding Buckles
Price As Configured: MYR$1,335 (Approx. $295)
Design
The Rainmaker has a very understated aesthetic. To me, it looks practical, without any frills. It does have a boxy silhouette which I’ve heard some people complain about. I, however, quite like the boxy look. It also makes it very easy to use the corners of the bag well.
The EPX400 fabric makes the bag feel sturdy and adds a lot of the benefits EcoPak offers such as water resistance, abrasion resistance, and tear resistance. That coupled with solid craftsmanship makes this bag feel premium in a way that the average onlooker might not notice. Add onto that clean stitch lines and this is a pack that feels quality in ways that bag geeks will really appreciate.
The YKK zips feel burly and smooth. However, one pain point I have is that the rain flaps can get wedged into the zippers sometimes. There is the option to omit the rain flaps on the compartments, but I prefer having a little extra protection against rain. A possible solution could be to use AquaGuard zips, but that would add extra resistance when pulling on the zippers.
I made the choice to upgrade to magnetic Fidlock Slide buckles, which adds a bit of convenience when undoing the compression straps. There’s an option to also upgrade to Fidlock Snap buckles, or you can just keep it to standard side-release buckles.
Features
One feature that you may or may not like are the aforementioned compression straps. While they do allow for compressing the bag when you aren’t carrying as much or for securing larger loads, they also obstruct your zippers. It’s a double-edged sword, but since I went for the larger capacity bag, I appreciate the compression straps being there, though they do add some dangling webbing.
In regards to ergonomic features, there are adjustable load lifters, a sternum strap (which I’ve found to be difficult to adjust), the option to add side grab handles (which I’ve opted for on both sides), a rugged seatbelt-like grab handle at the top, broad and sturdy shoulder straps, and a very comfy padded back panel with mesh (there’s an option to add a luggage passthrough which I’ve opted for).
As for the other features, I opted for a Velcro strip to show off my morale patches and PALS webbing to attach pouches externally. There’s an epic corduroy-lined laptop compartment that’s spacious and fits my 16″ MacBook Pro. It feels delightful and it’s super easy to get my laptop in and out. Additionally, there’s this hidden pocket on the back panel that’s perfect for a passport or important items that you don’t want easily accessible from the outside. I also requested a peel-over front pocket that opens wide for easy access. Moreover, I went for the option to add a sunglasses compartment which is perfect for quick-access items. It’s lined on one side with the same corduroy that’s in the laptop compartment.
There are so many options to choose from when customizing this pack that you can really make it your own, resulting in something super unique and tailored to you.
Performance
My day-to-day performance has been exceptional. In the main compartment, there are two zippered mesh pockets, and one slip pocket on the back that you can use for a folder or something similar. The main compartment is super spacious, and I even used it for a weekend trip, packing around 3 days’ worth of clothes.
The front pocket is great for items you need quick access to. It has three slip pockets of varying sizes, so there’s a bit of organization. What I love about it though is that there’s actually a lot of dimension built in, so you can throw stuff in there and it doesn’t feel tight to access. There’s also a handy little key loop if you’re into that.
I think one of the things that makes this pack unique is the back compartment that houses that laptop pocket. It opens clamshell, which is an unneeded, yet very much appreciated feature. There’s a sleeve for you to store your tablet too. If I had to guess, this would be more than enough to fit a 12″ iPad Pro but be sure to refer to the measurements if that’s something you’re looking to do. There are 4 slip pockets. Two medium ones that I store an SSD drive and a USB-C cable in, and two pen slots, one of which I store my Apple Pencil in.
With the broad shoulder straps, the comfy back panel, and the load lifters, this is a very comfy pack. It’s got solid ergonomics, and the points of contact on your shoulders and back are ventilated with mesh to help air things out on those warmer days.
The EPX400 shell as mentioned earlier adds a lot of resistance to the elements, but I also want to highlight the 420d nylon that the pack is lined with. It adds an extra layer of quality and peace of mind knowing that it won’t be easily ripped or punctured. On top of that, the lining is this bright gold color which does wonders for visibility.
The Good
Customizable
Great access
Solid construction
Good weather resistance
Durable
Super practical
The Not So Good
Sternum strap is hard to adjust
Rain flaps can get wedged in zippers
Lots of straps dangling
Verdict
There are so many good things to say about this pack, from the in-depth customization to the practical and intuitive layout. On top of that, the Rainmaker is super affordable compared to other custom packs, and if you just get the base version with the Cordura shell, it’s even more affordable at around $150 at the time of writing. I feel confident in saying that the Rainmaker is a fantastic everyday pack with insane value for your money.
The new Able Carry Daily Plus is an everyday backpack that provides a larger alternative to the Daily Backpack. This pack is all about delivering a honed blend of comfort, organization, and sleek minimalist style. Let’s take a closer look and jump into the details below…
What makes a great EDC backpack? Our Creative Director, Taylor Welden, dives into his 12 favorite backpacks for everyday carry and what makes them awesome. Delve into the details below…
As 2022 wound down, for many of us, opportunities to travel arose with much greater frequency than they had over the past couple of years as Covid restrictions eased in many areas. For a great many of us that meant we needed new travel bags to schlep our stuff in style as we resumed our domestic and international wanderlust. Looking for something new to try this past year, Aer had notified us about their upcoming updates to the Travel Collection and it was the perfect opportunity to both resume travel and try out a new bag. As a softgoods company, Aer takes an iterative approach to their designs. Rooted typically in real-world user feedback, they strive to refine their silhouettes with each generation, without throwing out what’s worked in the past. That’s an aspect of Aer that I have always appreciated because it means they listen to their customers and are always striving to evolve their products in collaboration with their users.
The Aer Travel Pack 3 (TP3 from here on) is the latest revision in this line and has seen a number of updates over the previous generation which we will get into later in this review, but the gist of it comes down to a more adjustable harness, a more flexible main compartment and of course, magnets. I’ve had the opportunity now to travel multiple times in the past year (primarily in road trip format) and over the past several months I’ve been utilizing the TP3 as my clothing and tech carry on these trips. Professionally speaking, I’m a designer; personally speaking, I’m a new dad, so my experience with the TP3 is informed by these realities. So without further delay, let’s dig in and take a look at what it’s been like to live with.
Who It Suits
Tech-focused travelers looking to live the one-bag life are going to be the primary audience. It would also suit anyone who needs sufficient space and organization for a lot of gear. Photographers would likely be able to configure this into a viable camera bag.
Who It Doesn’t
Anyone bothered by lots of built-in organization will likely be frustrated by the layout. If you want colors other than dark neutrals you are out of luck, unfortunately. If “sleek” and “tech” are not aesthetic terms you are drawn to, I would recommend looking elsewhere.
Specifications
Name: Travel Pack 3
Brand: Aer
Format: Backpack
Measurement: 21.5″H (54.5cm) x 13″W (33cm) x 9″D (21.5cm)
Capacity: 35L (2135.83 cu. in.)
Weight: 4 lbs (1.81Kg)
Zippers: YKK
Material: VX42 X-Pac, 1680D Ballistic Nylon or 700D Cordura
Price: US$249-275
Design
Looks
Aer’s design language is decidedly in the tech space, which is an aspect they’ve never really wavered from. Their typically clean lines and choice of materials lean heavily into that aesthetic, which is going to be a very personal decision as to whether or not that works for you and your tastes. For me, I tend to lean towards bags that follow more of a “heritage” look and feel so this isn’t my immediate cup of tea. Despite that, I can appreciate the look for what it is and I don’t find it garish or overly complicated. Exterior branding is fairly minimal which always gets bonus points in my book but gosh Aer bags just have an abundance of zippers and very jangly pulls on them, which I find to be a significantly distracting aspect. Fortunately, if it bothers you as it does me, this is super easy to remedy by either removing the tabs and pulls altogether and installing something custom or just making simpler paracord pulls in place of the Aer branded ones.
The TP3 is positively loaded with pockets throughout every compartment, some of which are very discreet and almost hidden which affords you tons of opportunity to stash items throughout the entire bag. In fact, when I first received the bag I swear I found a new hidden pocket every time I opened it! Fortunately, though, this multitude of pockets doesn’t wind up looking like a jumbled, confusing mess as they’re all pretty cleverly layered throughout the interior.
Aesthetically you have three different material choices to work with. One is a robust 1680D Ballistic Nylon available in three distinct-yet-neutral colors which feature a neutral grey interior, the second is a 700D Cordura and the third is a much more tech-forward VX42 X-Pac which features a bright orange liner. Each look is distinct without changing the lines or design of the pack in any significant manner.
Construction
Aer designs their bags from their studio in San Francisco but has them manufactured in China, and though people are quick to criticize products made outside of the United States, I’ve experienced several bags from Aer over the past few years and they’ve all been very well finished. The TP3 has not been an exception to the rule. As I mentioned I’ve been using this bag for several months now for travel applications, usually being tossed in and dragged out of the various compartments of my truck on road trips with no sign of real material degradation. The extent of “wear” that I’ve observed thus far has been in the manner of a loose thread here and there.
This is a great opportunity to bring up the fact that Aer feels very confident in their products and offers you a lifetime warranty at no extra cost. If your bag were to develop a fault, simply reach out to them and they will repair or replace the bag. While I haven’t had to utilize their warranty service myself, I appreciate knowing that it’s available to me.
Materials & Hardware
My sample is finished in black VX42 from Dimension Polyant with a vibrant orange ripstop nylon liner and YKK AquaGuard zippers throughout. The VX material saves a small amount of weight over the Ballistic Nylon variant at 3.9 lbs over 4.12 lbs and is only slightly heavier than the 700D Cordura option (3.89 lbs). All of the touchpoints feel like they’re of a high quality, for example, all plastic hardware is from Duraflex which is a reliable manufacturer that can be depended upon. I’m also particularly fond of the top and side handles which feel so plush and easy to grab onto (a must on a travel bag).
If you choose the Ballistic Nylon or 700D Cordura version you’re still getting all the same hardware and quality, just with a different material finish.
Features
The first time you take the TP3 out of its packaging you’ll quickly come to realize that it is stacked with features for streamlined travel. For instance, I love that it lays flat and zips all the way open with its clamshell design to make packing the bag very comfortable and easy. The updated harness allows for better adjustability on a greater range of body types thanks to the reintroduction of the load lifters. I appreciate all of the options for carrying my essentials securely along with my clothing. The suspended laptop sleeve is very accessible and there’s still a lot of extra space for other items in that area of the bag should you need to carry a second laptop or other similarly sized items.
The external compression straps have been reconfigured over the previous generation to now not inhibit access to the main compartment at all, and they’ve shifted to magnetic buckles for these straps. This was a huge quality-of-life update which I am certain was based on customer feedback. I love that there is a semi-secret space to stash a small sling or day bag in the main interior so you can lighten up once you get to your destination. I often would toss the Day Sling 3 into this space when packing and it was really handy to have available once arriving at my destination when I most certainly didn’t still need a 35L pack. Speaking of hidden spaces, you’ll also find buried within a stash spot for an Apple AirTag (or similar tracking device) which is a welcome addition for peace of mind when you’re away from your bag.
Performance
Space & Access
The redesigned main compartment of the TP3 sees the removal of the previous shoe compartment of the last generation but this omission really optimizes carry capacity and access for packing. Now for context, I’m 6’2″ and broad-shouldered, so you can imagine my clothing is not at all small, yet despite this I was able to pack very comfortably into the space provided. Generally speaking, 35L packs can be a bit tight (for me) but my go-to Peak Design packing cubes fit easily in the main cavity while still leaving me full access to the rear laptop compartment and the front tech panel for things like my laptop, chargers, a plethora of cables and perhaps a book or two.
I do have to comment on the zippers once again though as there is an issue related to access due to them. The front and main compartment zipper paths are very close together and since each one has dual zippers (YKK #10 on the main compartment and #8 on the front), if they happen to be zipped closed on the same side, it becomes a jumbled nest of zipper pulls and I found myself frequently opening the wrong compartment when I wasn’t looking closely. This can be mitigated by intentionally making sure you close each compartment on opposing sides, but I found this small bit of extra cognitive load to use a bag to be slightly frustrating.
Comfort
Anyone who knows me knows how relentlessly picky I am about bag fit and comfort, which stems from harnesses and back panels that often don’t work well for my tall and broad frame. I am completely pleased to report that the TP3 harness is perfectly comfortable even when fully loaded. The straps are wide enough and have sufficient padding to help distribute the load evenly on your shoulders. The inclusion of the load lifters also is a very welcome feature for me as it lets me dial in the fit of the bag exactly where I want it (I prefer the top of the pack to not pull away from my back). The back panel is comfortably padded, and though I don’t typically love mesh-style panels, this one is just fine.
A small but welcome comfort feature I’d also like to mention is the top and side grab handles. I found them to be pleasantly padded and perfectly placed on either side so that when I swing the bag off my shoulder, the side handle is exactly where my hand naturally would be in that motion and removing the pack becomes a very smooth and seamless motion. Lastly, and while I don’t have it with my pack, Aer does offer an optional padded hip belt that will attach to the bag if you want some additional weight-bearing support.
Weatherability
Now considering I spend the majority of my time in the state of California, it’s a known fact that I am unlikely to experience weather any more adverse than oppressive sunshine or persistent wildfires, so I sadly did not have any rainy days during my months of testing. However, we can extrapolate what we know about these materials and paint a very realistic expectation of how this bag will behave in wet conditions. VX42 is a highly weather-resistant material and based on my experience with it in other packs it will hold up remarkably well in the rain. To top it off, we have some very stout YKK AquaGuard zippers to seal off any openings so I feel very confident in saying that your contents are going to be just fine within the TP3 in most environments. However, if you need a bit more, Aer does offer an optional rainfly which can be deployed to fully cover the pack from the elements.
The Good
Lots of clever pockets and hidden features
Comfortable harness with load lifters for fine-tuning adjustments
Improved compression that no longer obstructs front compartment
Improved capacity in main compartment
Nice grab handles throughout the pack
Not So Good
Too bulky and complicated to be considered a daily carry
Too many jangly zippers
Some pockets become difficult to access when the bag is full
Verdict
Aer is a brand I associate with slick designs and killer value and the Travel Pack 3 does not deviate from this formula. It is heavily feature-laden yet still sleek in its exterior appearance, available in three distinct material choices, comfortable, spacious, with a lifetime warranty, and all for under $300. We are in an era of carry where bags frequently break past that $300 barrier (in some cases, well past) so I find it refreshing that Aer is able to provide so much functionality in their bags and yet keep them at attainable price points. I really enjoyed my time with the Aer Travel Pack 3 and found it to be a worthwhile companion on the road despite some small complaints (no bag is perfect, after all). I think if the aesthetic suits your tastes, this is a great option in the 30L+ travel bag space.
ORBITGear is an Indonesian soft goods company making technical packs and apparel. What caught my eye is their design language. Each product they sell contributes to a sleek and techy aesthetic that I can totally get behind.
It’s not all looks, however. Their R104-ADV MK23 “Globemaster” has epic materials and construction. While maybe lacking for daily use, the travel capability of this pack is nothing to scoff at.
Who It Suits
Travelers who want exceptional water resistance and the ability to expand or contract their pack based on the load will appreciate the way this bag is built. There are so many ways to access the main compartment which we’ll cover later. ORBITGear also makes a ton of accessories for their backpacks, so if you want modularity, you may want to consider this pack.
Who It Doesn’t
If you’re looking for an everyday bag, this probably isn’t for you. The external access isn’t the quickest, and there’s an almost overwhelming number of pockets. The main compartment, although it’s spacious and can be accessed in multiple ways, is hard to organize and see what you’re trying to grab on the go.
Design
Let’s talk about the good first. ORBITGear did an excellent job with the construction. This pack feels sturdy and well-built, with clean stitching and no loose threads. Their choice of materials is killer too, resulting in a pack that feels indestructible. The top grab handle is cushy and made of a leather material that’s also on the bottom of the bag to protect it from surfaces you place it on. The hardware feels premium as well, with YKK zips and solid buckles.
It’s a very comfortable, albeit heavy bag, with great shoulder straps and comfy padding. This is essential for a pack that’s meant to carry large loads like this one. It’s also a darn good-looking backpack, perfect for urban dwellers with its sleek, techy look.
Where this bag falls short, for me, is in the pocket layout. There are almost too many pockets to know what to do with them. Let’s use the front flap as an example. The slip pockets are awkwardly shaped, so it was hard to find stuff that fit in them and the liner feels thin and a little flimsy, so it’s hard to organize with one hand due to the lack of structure. It’s also tight and hard to access or see what you’re doing.
You could opt for their modular pouches and use that as your quick access instead, but that’s another expense. Their accessories, although feeling great on their own, are not the easiest to put on securely. So, in my experience, the accessories were either too loose and slid around, or they were too tight and hard to put on. The slotted loop attachment allows, generally, for easy on-and-off, but they may not be the most secure.
I love what ORBITGear did with the main compartment, however. Aside from using the pack as a regular roll-top, you can also access it from both sides. What’s even cooler is that the bag can open all the way in a clamshell-like style. I love their thought process here. For everyday carry, everything kind of falls to the bottom and gets mixed up, but for travel the capacity, layout, and ease of access are excellent.
The laptop compartment is fine in its own right. It offers good protection, it’s spacious, and is easy to access. My only problem with it, however, is that to access it from the back, there’s an elastic strap with Velcro that just doesn’t feel good to use. It’s a small nitpick but it feels a bit out of place given the construction of the rest of the bag.
Features
There are a lot of cool ideas in this pack. As mentioned earlier, I love their solution to the roll-top problem. It provides great access to the main compartment without you having to open the whole thing. The laptop sleeve can be accessed from the back, or from the main compartment too, which is great. The dual water bottle pockets can fit a decently large water bottle, fitting one of my 32oz ones just fine.
If you’re the type who loves having a ton of pockets, maybe you’ll enjoy the fact that this backpack has a ton of them. In my opinion, however, they just don’t feel great to use and they can be overwhelming. It’s also easy to forget where you’ve put stuff.
There’s PALS webbing everywhere which is great for modularity, and I love that it’s not proprietary too. You’ve also got a sternum strap, load lifters, and mesh for ventilation. There are good ergonomics on this pack, and of course, there’s the insane weather resistance due to the materials and construction.
Performance
Despite not being the best for everyday carry, this pack was a solid travel bag for my short weekend trip to Miami. The aforementioned issues still remain of course, but having the huge main compartment and the ability to open it all the way made packing and unpacking great.
Although it’s accessible to open, it’s not necessarily easy to see what you’re grabbing unless you open the whole thing up. This wasn’t too much of an issue as when I got to my destination I unzipped the bag all the way to unpack anyways.
The pack is comfortable to wear, but it was very tall. For reference, I’m 5’9″. It definitely will look out of place in the office even if your workplace is more casual. As a travel bag, however, I think this looks just fine. It definitely blends into urban cityscapes with no issues.
The durability of this pack is exceptional. It held up to the elements very well, which is super important for a bag you’d be traveling with. Although I tested it for three weeks, I feel confident it will last a very long time. I trust it to keep my gear safe and dry from the weather.
The Good
• Excellent construction
• Comfortable
• Versatile roll-top system
• Good water bottle pockets
• Modular
The Not So Good
• Awkward and excessive amount of pockets
• Hard to see inside the main compartment when not fully opened
• External access could be better
• Very tall and boxy for daily use
Verdict
In my experience, I realized that I didn’t know what to expect from the ORBITGear Globemaster. I was hoping it would be a solid everyday backpack, but I soon realized that it was better suited for travel. Once I realized that I started to appreciate this pack more. The issues of the excessive pocket layout, external access, and limited visibility still remain. However, now I’m able to enjoy this backpack more for exactly what it was designed for – being a globemaster.
This article was written by Jeffrey McDuffie. Bag geek, everyday carry enthusiast, and connoisseur of video games.
I’ve never been obsessed with truly ultralight gear, but I can see the benefits of keeping my stuff lighter. Ultimately, I can be faster, more agile, and more efficient on the trail. Of course, there should always be a balance between being light, durable, and comfortable – and this is usually a place where ultralight gear (especially taken to the extreme) often fails. Some designers forget that carrying comfort is not only about the weight of a backpack. And also, the longevity of equipment is an essential factor for the users too.
MEC (Mountain Equipment Company) is not only a big Canadian retailer of outdoor gear from all over the world, but also they design and sell their own line of mountain equipment, under the MEC brand naturally. Designed by MEC, produced for MEC, with their own supervision, material choice, and quality control. And the MEC SERRATUS Pace UL 40 is an excellent example of that approach.
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Who It Suits
Ultralight enthusiasts who still ask for the functionality and comfort of traditional equipment. Mountaineers, hikers, and anyone looking for a very lightweight weekender mountaineering backpack or an extended summit pack. If your style is light and fast – this pack is for you.
Who It Doesn’t
Bushcrafters, survivalists, hunters, etc. It’s a dedicated light mountain pack, not designed for heavy forest and bush use. Also, mountain photographers could find the Serratus 40 a bit limiting and not protective enough for their expensive camera gear.
Design
Looks
The Serratus 40 is a cross-over pack with an ultralight-styled main sack and a modern trail-running vest-like suspension. It’s available only in a white color scheme, which enhances that pure ultralight look. With its tall, slim, roll-top design it just screams “I’m a modern mountaineer’s tool of trade!” It’s clearly an attractive and up-to-date-looking pack.
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Construction
I will not dive into all the technical details of the pack itself – you can find all specs online. But still, I checked the weight of the package to check the honesty of MEC in the product description… and it tipped the scale at 989 grams, which is perfectly in line with the advertised value of 992 grams. This might be the most accurate score I’ve ever seen in the pack industry. Now, some of you might say, “Wait, that is quite lightweight for 40 liters, but not truly ultralight.” But that weight includes all the features you won’t find in a hardcore ultralight pack: a fully padded waist belt with a zipper pocket on each side, a breathable padded back panel, wide and well-padded shoulder straps with multiple pockets, and last but not least – a full frame sheet with adjustable (bendable) aluminum stay, which you can remove to save 200 grams and make the Serratus 40 genuinely ultralight.
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Materials and Hardware
The main material is a nylon and Spectra blend with a TPU coating, so essentially a Dyneema fabric, which is a perfect recipe for good weather resistance and durability. And indeed the Serratus is robust enough for rocky mountaineering. As expected all hardware is made of plastic, which is not bad… but some of these tiny buckles look really fragile. That’s the price you pay if you want to join the ultralight club. So… just be careful, and don’t step on those buckles. But anyway, I spent an entire week in rocky terrain in the Tatra Mountains with this pack on my back, and I even used it to explore local caverns. The Serratus held up great, without any damage – it just got a bit dirty from muddy water after crawling through the cramped caves. That white limestone mud residue was most visible on the black parts of the pack (webbings, harness, etc.) and entirely blended with the white/gray outer fabric. But other than dirt the pack is as good as new.
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Features
If we consider low weight a feature, that’s the number one characteristic of the Serratus 40. Despite that low weight, multiple pockets are present on the pack (more on that in the next paragraph). It’s hydration compatible too – but make sure your hydration kit is a lightweight variant; my military Source system with an insulated hose (heavy) was a bit overkill for this pack (but as always worked like a champ).
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There’s also a dedicated backpack Recco reflector built into the Serratus 40… which could be considered a controversial decision under some circumstances. If the pack is used for summer hiking in non-avalanche terrain, the built-in Recco can be used to find lost hikers in the wild (in a forest, between rocks, etc.). Also, if combined with other Recco reflectors, it gives much better signal reflection than just one unit. It makes sense, especially on long multi-day trails or thru-hikes, when finding a person without Recco in a forest-covered or rocky area can be a real challenge otherwise. But in winter conditions, Recco (just like an avalanche beacon) should be rather worn on a body, jacket, belt, or vest. If you’re about to be caught by a rushing avalanche, you should first drop the pack – otherwise, it will work in snow like an anchor. And if you drop a Recco-equipped one, the rescue team might start digging into the snow to find your backpack instead of you. So check with your local mountain rescue team what they recommend, what are the actual conditions on a trail, and what kind of Recco spotting equipment they use. A final note: Recco can help, but it can’t be considered a substitute for an active avalanche beacon in the winter or something like Garmin InReach during long hikes as an actual rescue signaling device. An avalanche kit (active beacon, shovel, and probe) is a must when mountaineering in snowy conditions.
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Another small but essential feature is a set of side bungee compression cords with hooks, which give a lot of freedom when strapping gear to the outside or when adjusting the pack’s volume for the final summit climb. I really like that system on the Serratus – it works well with many different pieces of equipment. Add to this two daisy chains along the front mesh pocket, and you can easily attach trekking poles or carabiners to the Serratus. And last but not least – there’s a Y-shaped set of webbing straps on top of the pack, which keeps the rolled section tight and allows you to carry a climbing rope or similar stuff under that webbing.
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Performance
Space and Access
It’s a spacious pack – the Serratus gives you a true 40L volume, while many ultralight pack companies add side pockets and fully stretched mesh pockets to the total volume of the pack. So your ‘other’ 40L pack could be even below 30L in the main sack. Of course, it’s almost impossible to check the exact volume of the main body, but it feels like 35+ liters easily. It’s a top-loader with roll-top closure, so you should be careful what and where you load into the pack. Otherwise, digging into your pack to find what you need might be frustrating. The pack opens fully on top, so access is not bad, actually. And even the smallest gear is easily visible inside the pack thanks to its white color.
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Pockets and Organizing
An internal hydration pocket (could be used for a map too), two pockets on the waist belt, a zipper pocket for valuables, a front mesh pocket on the pack, and two side pockets – it’s a good storage and organization combo for an ultralight pack. I usually carried small EDC items in the waist belt pockets, a bladder in a hydration sleeve inside, car keys and a wallet in the top zipper pocket, and trekking poles outside. One remark – those side ‘bottle’ pockets are long but relatively narrow (without any stretch), so they are more suited for slim items like soft bottles, tent poles, etc. than for a bulky canteen or hefty 32 oz. Nalgene. But still I was able to squeeze a Grayl UltraPress filtering bottle in there. It’s also a good spot for trekking poles – it’s faster than using webbing loops and bungee attachments and prevents snagging rock with the poles when scrambling in rocky terrain.
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The front mesh pocket is big enough for a rain jacket or some other clothing or items, which I need quick access to. I also used it to dry my gear after a short summer drizzle. However, that mesh is not stretchy, which makes it very durable… but also not as spacious as I thought at first glance. The pocket opening could also be wider, to make it easier to load oversized items.
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And finally, all four pockets in the shoulder harness – I used one for a soft water bottle, the other one for sunglasses, another for a lightweight knife, and the last one for some snacks. In contrast, they are really stretchy; no complaints at all here.
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Comfort
Surprise, surprise! It’s a genuinely comfy ultralight pack! Padded suspension, mesh back panel, vest-like shoulder harness with double sternum cord, and load lifters – it’s a fully spec’d out harness. The Serratus also has long shoulder straps with enough adjustment for anyone – that is crucial for winter use over a puffy jacket, especially if you’re tall. And if you find them too long – roll them and attach them with a rubber band – it’s an easy fix. And finally, there’s an easy-to-adjust waist belt with two padded side panels so you can tighten it and put a lot of weight directly on your hips. As I said – it’s a superbly comfortable pack, which I had usually loaded with anything between 16 and 24 lbs of gear. Any negatives? Well, I’d prefer to have the option to remove the hip belt altogether for a final summit attack with just bare essentials in the pack, but that would surely add another 70-80 grams to the total weight.
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Weatherability
The seams are not taped, which is the only thing I’d wish for. Still, it’s a very weather-resistant pack. I had it in light summer rain, and it held up great without any leaks, so snowfall during winter mountaineering won’t cause any problems either. Sure, in a heavy storm the Serratus would certainly let some water in through stitching lines. So if rain is in the air, just protect your gear inside in an easy way – it’s a top-loader without side access, so a simple 40L plastic bag inside solves all issues without sacrificing any functionality. A rain cover is not something I’d recommend for this sort of pack.
Hip belt could be removable for superlight summit configuration
Seams not taped for total waterproofness
Front mesh not stretchy and with small opening
Only available in white
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Verdict
When choosing a pack, it’s up to you if you prioritize only the pack’s weight or you put more weight (pun intended) on features like carry comfort, pockets, durability, and price. The Serratus 40 delivers a good mix of all these features, plus very good materials and manufacturing. It’s made in Vietnam to keep the cost reasonably down, and at $189.95 is a pretty good deal if you’re looking for a new lightweight hiking daypack or even a weekend pack if you stick just to essentials in gear choice. It’s comfortable to carry throughout the whole day in the mountains and durable enough for tough rocky terrain. The color scheme looks good and modern, so if you’re not too picky about the colors, this pack should be on your shortlist when looking for a new mountaineering backpack.
Modularity is the name of the game with the Pilot. Keep it clean and minimalist in its purest format, or add pouches and modules to carry everything you could ever need. Heritage style meets modern materials and the Pilot can take abuse and keep smiling.
Who It Doesn’t
If you’re after curves, look elsewhere. The Pilot has a straight-edged rectangular form factor. At 18L this isn’t the biggest camera backpack and might limit those who need to bring a larger rig with them.
Construction
In the past 18 months, I’ve had the pleasure of testing two other WOTANCRAFT bags, the Scout Messenger Bag and the Commander Camera Bag. These are both exceptional bags in their own right so I was not surprised in the slightest when I pulled out the Pilot from its dust bag.
When you handle a WOTANCRAFT bag, you’re immediately struck by its hardiness. The nylon 6.6 that is used is a heritage aesthetic with modern benefits. It is lighter weight, it is arguably more durable, and it is very weather-resistant.
Elsewhere on the bag there isn’t a stitch out of place, and while this may not be as luxurious as the flagship Commander, it is a beautifully built bag that will make many photographers happy. From the distressed leather detailing on the shoulder straps and zipper pulls, to the Fidlock opening, WOTANCRAFT have yet again created a wonderful piece of carry.
Functionality
WOTANCRAFT’s modular design is enhanced even further on this updated Pilot model, with some borrowed features from other bags in their lineup, and some new features specifically for this model. Either way, it makes using the bag a delight. The watertight zippers on the two side entry doors are surprisingly smooth for a weatherised zipper, and give you peace of mind when storing your camera gear. On the exterior of these two doors you’ll find water bottle/tripod pockets. I found these to be excellent in use, and the cinched elasticated opening provides a little more security than your standard water bottle pocket. You can even aid that stability further by purchasing the tripod strap which simply loops through the side webbing and clips shut. This provides great stability when you’re on the move and fits perfectly around my Peak Design Travel Tripod.
On the inside of these two doors there are slip mesh pockets and the same wonderful microfibre lining that accepts WOTANCRAFT’s excellent modules. I honestly wish the mesh pocket wasn’t there, as I think the modules are a better storage solution (in both design and practicality) but your mileage may vary, particularly if you don’t want to add on any extras.
The front of the Pilot has two webbing rails like the original that allow you to attach any assortment of WOTANCRAFT pouches. This webbing also extends all the way under the base of the bag, where you could easily stow a jacket, tripod, or mat. While I prefer the aesthetic of the Pilot without them, they are undoubtedly useful when you need to gain a few extra liters or adjust your carrying loadout. For example, you can easily store your water bottle or tripod on the front of the bag using these pouches in tandem. The lid is patterned nicely to provide a scoop opening when the bag is laid down, and provides extra protection from the elements when reaching into your precious cargo. There is a perfectly phone-sized mesh pocket on the inside of the lid, giving you quick access to your device.
There is a simple sternum strap, and the shoulder straps also feature the same webbing, allowing you to attach smaller items like the Coin Pouch or Phone Pouch. There is also an optional waist belt, and while I don’t usually think they are necessary on smaller bags from a weight perspective, it does help with stability on the trail or when you’re fully loaded out.
Internally, there is a spacious compartment that houses a laptop sleeve on the rear, and then either a large empty EDC volume or a meticulously organized camera setup, depending on your preference. The internal removable dividers are of a similar style to the Commander, with one side of the volume capable of housing larger zoom lenses, and the other side split in two by a floating wall that can accommodate two prime lenses. Atop these dividers is a removable caddy that can carry any configuration of three full-frame lenses, a body and two lenses, or a body and a lens attached. It isn’t a standalone caddy and it doesn’t have any carrying attachment points; however, it does have flexible ends that allow it to compress when you’re carrying smaller APS-C bodies. It attaches to the inner wall via Velcro and is where I’ve been storing my body predominantly.
Another unique development here is the front of the bag. To the naked eye, the Pilot has a flat front, but on closer inspection there are two zippers that run the full height of the bag. Unzip these and you’ll have full access to a large panel that is a combination of Velcro and two zippered mesh pockets. This is an excellent execution of design and has proven useful in a multitude of ways. Using WOTANCRAFT’s modules, this is where I have been storing charging cables, my card reader, and my AirPods for quick deployment while also staying out of the way when I don’t need them. The top half of this section features two zippered mesh pockets, one on either side, and is a good spot for slimmer EDC such as a wallet or notebook. This section could accommodate a sweater or other smaller accouterment comfortably, and while it is useful, don’t expect it to give you another 10 liters of storage; I would guesstimate it being closer to three.
The WOTANCRAFT harness impressed me on the Commander, and I’m impressed again here. The breathable back panel has had no problem keeping up with me on the trail and it does support the weight of your camera gear nicely. However, I did find the lumbar support where the waist belt attaches a bit too obtrusive, particularly when the waist belt is attached. It’s not woefully uncomfortable by any means; you’re just aware that it’s there against your lower back.
Camera-Ready
While this can easily work as an EDC bag, its bread and butter is camera carry. At 18L, this isn’t a powerhouse studio that will allow you to bring every piece of equipment that you own as a professional shooter but it is a brilliant choice for shoots on location, where you’re taking a few select lenses and bodies. I comfortably carried two bodies and three lenses (including a telephoto) and all the accouterments that come with it. The Pilot would also be perfect for an everyday shooter, who doesn’t have mountains of gear and likes to keep it all together in a tidy package. When shooting, your gear is protected and the design is subtle and blends into surroundings nicely, particularly in the outdoors.
The Good
This is an excellent all-round bag, made from brilliant materials. It functions well with multiple access points and is designed to battle the elements. It’s a great investment piece that’ll last for a long time.
The Not So Good
To really get the most out of this bag, you need to buy the extra modules, hip belt, etc. That may be a turn-off for some. The top access is a little narrow and it can be challenging to pull out larger cameras and lenses at times.
Verdict
Those looking for a mid-sized, mid-range camera backpack will be very happy with the WOTANCRAFT Pilot update. As always from the Taiwanese brand, it’s well thought out and the manufacturing is impeccable. It reminds me of a stripped-back Commander, and as such it is an excellent gateway bag for the brand. At $249, you’ll be very happy with the functionality, durability, and longevity of the WOTANCRAFT Pilot.
Most people in the photography world know PolarPro for their filters. But recently, they have been branching into other areas to expand the brand. I love their filters, so I wanted to check out the PolarPro Boreal 50L Backpack to see what they were bringing to the table in other areas. The bag’s layout looked interesting, with enough room to carry my usual kit, a sleeve for a 16″ laptop, and a roll top to allow for more storage when needed. The main compartment is deep enough to hold larger camera bodies and lenses, making it appealing for those who are not running small mirrorless setups. But can the pack take a beating and be comfortable when fully loaded on long hikes? Let’s take a look.
Who It Suits
This bag could be a good fit for you if you carry large lenses, large camera bodies, or have a cinema setup. You can pack quite a bit inside. For my use, I was carrying:
1 – Lumix GH5II (with Cage) and small Lens
1 – Lumix S5II Body (with Cage) with a 35mm, a 24-70mm & a 70-200
With all this, I still had room for the PolarPro 7L Tech Pouch and another pouch. As there is no removable camera cube, this is a bag for someone looking for a dedicated camera pack. If you like a bag with sling access to the camera compartment, then this bag has that feature for you.
Who It Doesn’t
If you are looking for a camera bag for a small mirrorless camera or a day hike, this would not be the bag to pick up. It is a large pack with a lot of excess space if you have a small kit. Also, with the size of this pack, I would not recommend it if you are someone with a small frame.
The Good
The overall space within the pack and the layout of the pocketing in the Boreal is nice. There is no specific admin panel, but this takes over that space if you get the 7L pouch. The main compartment is 30L and is permanently a camera space, meaning there is no removable camera cube. This space is about 6 inches deep, which is excellent if you need the space.
The fabric on the Boreal is 600D Polyester and coated with DWR, so you can be out in a good amount of water and not have any issues with moisture getting inside. The top drop pocket and laptop pocket zippers are weatherproof YKK for the important items to stay dry.
One of my favorite parts about this bag is the padding and ventilation on the back panel and shoulder straps. With thicker padding that has excellent breathability, the pack feels comfortable even in hot weather. As with all packs, there will still be some hot spots, but the Boreal did very well while I was in Moab.
The hip belt holds the weight reasonably well, gives good support when fully packed out, and includes a pocket on either side. I love pocketing on my hip belts to store snacks for quick access when hiking. The water bottle pockets are a lightweight mesh large enough to hold a Nalgene or other 32oz style bottles. There is no spot for a hydration bladder, so having bottle pockets that can hold a large bottle or a larger tripod is nice.
Several solid grab handles are on the pack’s sides, bottom, and top. These were nice when fully packed to load and unload the pack into the truck.
The top of the Boreal 50L has a 15L roll-top compartment with zipper access to the camera compartment. I like roll-tops on camera bags to stash rain shells or other gear.
The Not So Good
As with all bags, a few things could be improved. The body of the bag feels loose. What I mean by this is it is very easy to pack the bag out wider than it zips. Which in turn can create issues with the dividers not staying in place. While not a deal-breaker, I did have a few times where this created issues with the dividers moving and gear sliding.
My other issue was with the zipper on the back panel. It starts inside the straps and then moves to the outside. If you start at the top and pull them down towards the bottom, the webbing stops you before completing the full zip. Again, not a deal-breaker, but it can be frustrating.
I had issues with the face fabric on the bag. While the pack stood up to the testing with no tears, holes, or significant issues, the face of the bag did see some issues with the coating getting nicks and marks. I am not one who cares about my bags looking perfect, as I believe that gear is meant to be used. But for some, this might be a deal-breaker. I wasn’t a fan of the sling access pocket. It is under one of the water bottle pockets, making it harder to access and use.
Verdict
Overall, this bag carries well fully packed. The harness system is well-built and comfortable, carrying all the gear I need for my work. With a bit of support for the frame of the bag, this could easily be one of my top bags, but that issue with the main compartment needing to hold shape and pulling the dividers away was something that I found frustrating. The pack held up well to all types of weather and was tossed in the back of a truck and saw some abrasion against rocks without tearing. The Boreal 50L is an excellent start for PolarPro to enter the bag space, and I am excited to see what they do in the future.
In a world where excellence often involves laser-focus, it’s common to see entire companies dedicated to mastering a single purpose. While Kuiu deliver a broad product catalogue (offering packs, clothing and sleep systems), the remit is kept tight to a sole activity: hunting. Drawing on ultralight principles and developing unique camouflage patterns, Kuiu have built a serious reputation for performance. Their gear rivals that of any technical mountaineering brand, for users hoping to come back carrying more weight than when they set out.
For Kuiu’s ‘No Offseason’ philosophy to succeed, their gear needs to handle serious wet weather. The Karluk is a waterproof rolltop backpack for hunters working near the coastline, riding into their grounds on a boat or ATV, or spending brief periods in the water themselves. That said, it’s less strictly a hunting pack than some of Kuiu’s line, and could work for photographers or conservation workers with similar needs.
Who It Suits
Hunters, adventurers and outdoors professionals working around water.
Who It Doesn’t
Long distance backpackers. Tactical gear junkies who want a pocket for every single item.
Just glancing at the Karluk, it’s obvious that water resistance is the priority. Even with modern waterproof zips and other technologies, the rolltop remains the simplest and best way to create a seal. I quickly learned to squeeze out excess air from the main compartment, or else it’d simply inflate like a balloon when I tried to close it. Kuiu’s seal sealing is really that good.
The fabric pulls a lot of weight in this department as well. Although it has a tough, almost ballistic-looking woven look, none of that comes through in touch. Instead the TPU finish is slick and stiff, with water simply bouncing off. It’s also slightly translucent, which keeps the interior bright and contents visible, mercifully.
Between the high denier and the hypalon reinforcement at the base, I had no concerns about my Karluk handling whatever I threw at it, whether that was dragging over wet granite or bouncing around in the back of a Toyota Hilux.
Unboxing the Karluk, I was sceptical about the straps. They are slim and straightforward, with little in the way of adjustment. The simplicity of these straps belies Kuiu’s expertise – on my body they keep the pack high and close to my back, without cutting into my shoulders or wobbling around in movement. There’s a limit to how much weight I’d want to carry without a belt, but up to that point it rode without a problem.
Features
The Karluk is an utterly spartan design: it’s a rolltop with a big, empty space inside, making it perfect for large or odd-shaped gear. When filled up with a casual day’s load things tend to swim around. After a few hours walking, I opened the bag to gaze onto the worst case of ‘gear soup’ I’ve ever come across. Looking inside, the only feature you’ll find is a pair of female buckles, welded behind the shoulder straps. Even after scouring Kuiu’s website, I have no idea what these are for. They don’t seem to match any of the current pack accessories they have on sale, or correspond with any other features on the Karluk.
Likewise, I couldn’t find much use for the external straps which run through the daisy-chain on the Karluk’s front panel. With the air-tight seal, compressing the pack once it’s closed up simply isn’t an option. The fabric’s slippery property acts as a downside here, since anything tucked behind those straps will slide out after a few steps
For small items, Kuiu have included one external pocket on the pack’s face side, closed with an Aquaguard zip. This is flat, with little volume to itself, and as such I found it hard to use with anything deeper than a notepad. Worse still, being zipped, this pocket isn’t as impermeable as the rest of the pack. After some particularly intense testing, I was disappointed to find that the wool hat I’d stowed inside had soaked.
Performance
Missing quick access might not be so bad for the core user, who will probably keep essentials at-hand using their clothing pockets, or one of Kuiu’s binocular harnesses. The Karluk’s pocketing lingers as a point of frustration for me. If I wanted to take a drink while hiking, I had to drop the pack and unfurl the rolltop to grab my bottle; compared with my friends who could take a draw from their bladder hoses without stopping, it slowed me up a touch.
That said, when I finally reached a hide, or a spot where I wanted to stop and glass, the rolltop was perfect. The fabric isn’t totally silent, but it’s a world apart from the crinkle of dyneema or x-pac, and ditching any zips or hook-and-loop from the closure means the Karluk will open up quietly, and stay open by itself.
When sealed, the waterproofing on the main compartment is completely reliable. It kept my gear dry when floating in a river or dumped under a waterfall, so I know it’ll handle whatever my adventures might throw at it.
With its simple straps and flat foam back panel, the suspension isn’t awful, but it’s not top-league either. Kuiu knows this: compare this pack to their super-technical DeltaStorm backpack, and the Karluk’s limitations are obvious. The difference is nearly 2lbs, and over $200, which means this isn’t a straightforward upgrade, but each user will need to decide what they need before buying.
Verdict
If your priority is waterproofing first and everything else second, the Kuiu Karluk is a great backpack. This is the unapologetic focus here, both in the Karluk 1850 and the larger Karluk 3000.
If not, the weak points might outweigh the positives: hunters require a more robust suspension, hikers favour low weight and compression, urbanites will want quicker access to their gear. The truth may be that laser-focus isn’t always the best approach after all.
This article was written by Jed Edwards. Based in east Scotland, Jed’s spent as many nights camping in the highlands as he has crashing on sofas with crusty punk bands. Whether it’s full of hiking gear or science fiction paperbacks, he always has a bag on his back.
You’re skipping four wheels for two. Public transport for the thrill of the throttle and that alluring sense of freedom. Hey, on a motorcycle even the mundane daily commute becomes an adrenaline adventure. But while it’s easy to get caught up in the purr of that enticing engine, you also have practical considerations to think about on a motorcycle commute.
Why do motorcycle riders wear backpacks?
Let’s face it, a motorcycle doesn’t offer the same load-hauling flexibility that a car does. No ample back seat for possessions to sprawl across. You need to get a little clever in the carry department. And sure, you can add panniers to the mix but they aren’t going to offer the same on/off bike carry freedom that a motorcycle backpack does. Plus when it comes to zipping through crowded streets, swapping bulky panniers for a backpack will help cut a little width off your motorcycle’s profile.
Do I need a special backpack for motorcycle riding?
Backpacks come in numerous shapes and sizes. A multitude of materials. Countless ways to organize your gear. And a variety of harness designs. So what is a good motorcycle backpack? What should you look for when choosing one? Well, you’ve got options. Some brands create backpacks tailormade for motorcycle riding. However, you can certainly use non-bike-specific packs too, as long as they offer up some key features that will make them practical for use on a motorcycle. Let’s consider these features in a little more detail below.
What makes a good motorcycle backpack
Load stability, comfort and freedom of movement
When you’re subjecting your pack to the demands of motorcycle riding, you need to feel confident that it will stand up to the abuse. The last thing you want is to be thrown off balance by a shifting load at high speeds or when leaning into turns. So how do you carry a backpack on a motorcycle?
First off, a compact, aerodynamic design will help reduce drag and keep the load close to your body. A sternum strap and waist belt will help stabilize the pack, assist with weight distribution and prevent shifting from side to side. And compression straps can help cinch the contents down for minimum bulk on your back. Additionally, the harness should enable freedom of movement, allowing your arms to steer easily. If you can dial in the fit to your specific body, even better. And when it comes to comfort, you’ll appreciate well-padded shoulder straps and a ventilated, padded back panel.
Weather protection
On a motorcycle you’re totally exposed to the elements. So if you’re commuting in wet weather and/or carrying items you don’t want to get wet (such as tech), you’ll want good weather protection from your pack. If you’re navigating through the occasional shower, a water-resistant pack should be sufficient, with perhaps added protection such as water-resistant zippers or storm flaps to protect exterior pockets. But if rain or snow are regular participants in your commute (or you want a pack that can double for downtime adventures in wet, muddy settings), a waterproof backpack might better suit your needs. In that case, look for features such as welded seams, waterproof liners and roll-top closures to help keep the elements at bay.
Durability
Life on a bike isn’t always easy, both for you and your backpack. So you want to make sure it’s tough enough to handle regular use. Does it need to be super burly? For most commuting environments, probably not. But if you want that downtime adventure adaptability, you’ll want to invest in something a little more rugged. It will likely cost more (and probably weigh more), but you won’t have to worry about how it will hold up when the going gets tough. If you’re sticking to cruising on city streets, you can probably save yourself some carry weight and cash with a more affordable option that still offers sufficient durability for your needs.
Work-appropriate aesthetics
If you’re using a motorcycle backpack for commuting purposes, it should look appropriate in your specific work environment. If that environment is casual, you’ve got more freedom in the aesthetics department. If it’s a little more formal, you’ll want to stick to cleaner, understated designs with muted colorways.
Work-ready organization
What do you need to carry in your backpack? A laptop? Keep an eye out for padded tech protection. Lots of smaller items? Consider a bag with multiple pockets to prevent rummaging. Ready access to frequently used gear? You’ll want exterior pockets on hand that will fit those items. The ability to carry bulkier items if needed? Then you’ll want some form of expandable storage. If you favor pouches over pockets or simply don’t carry a lot, you can dial back on the organization options.
Ease of use
You’ll likely be using your backpack with riding gloves on a lot of the time. So it’s worth considering features such as glove-friendly harness buckles and easily accessible main compartments. Additional features such as excess strap management will also add to the overall user-friendly experience. Also consider how easy a pack will be to get on over bulky protective riding gear.
Versatility
Do you want one backpack for the city streets and the off-road trails? Are you sticking to urban commutes or need a little flexibility to adapt to short trips? Ultimately it’s up to you to decide how versatile you want your pack to be. Maybe you’d like it to hold a hydration bladder. Maybe adjustable volume (such as through a roll-top closure or expandability) would be useful for travel needs. Bear this in mind when deciding whether a bag is right for you and how much you want it to be able to do.
Now that you have some tips on how to choose the right motorcycle backpack for you, let’s wheel out some prime picks to get you revved up…
The Ashvault Backpack went through multiple iterations to hone its bike-friendly design. And it shows with considered features such as a sleek, contoured profile for reduced drag, along with a distraction-free strap system. The highly water-resistant build includes weatherproof YKK zippers and water-resistant twill polyester with a waterproof backing. It’s also backed by a three-year warranty for peace of mind. A padded sleeve accommodates a back protector (available separately), a hydration bladder or a 13″ laptop. Additional pockets are on hand for further organization including an extra back protector pocket, a padded tablet pocket and a fully waterproof interior pocket for valuables. The 15L pack weighs just 0.6kg and offers double-curved shoulder straps for enhanced range of motion, a breathable back panel, and a removable chest strap. Other useful features include a helmet holder, tie-down points, reflective detailing, and a bright orange interior for improved visibility of the contents and emergency signal use.
If weather protection is a priority, check out the 20L SW-MOTECH Triton. This waterproof backpack has a welded PVC construction with reflective detailing for enhanced visibility on the go. The ergonomic design includes a comfy, breathable back panel, a padded harness and chest and waist straps for load stability on the move. It fits a 17″ laptop inside a dedicated pocket, with a front quick-access pocket for smaller essentials and side compression straps to adjust the volume as required.
– Volume: 20L
– Weight: 1.7kg (3.6 lb)
– Dimensions: 33 x 18 x 50 cm / 13.0 x 7.1 x 19.7 in
Another great option if you’ll be traveling through wet environments is the OGIO All Elements Backpack. This completely waterproof backpack has a roll-top closure and reflective detailing for enhanced rider safety. A sternum strap and removable hip belt keep the load secure, with a strap containment system also on hand to secure straps at high speeds. The pack offers a choice of pockets to organize your gear, including a removable organization panel and exterior quick-access pockets.
– Volume: 26L (1600 Cu.In)
– Weight: 1.13kg (2.5 lbs)
– Dimensions: 20.5″H (rolled) x 10.5″W x 6.75″D
– Waterproof seam-welded, roll-top main compartment
Looking for a dialed-in fit for maximized freedom of movement? Kriega’s R20 Backpack delivers with a thoughtful design that adapts to the individual rider. The adjustable harness adapts to different body sizes and allows the pack position to move up or down for a tailored fit. Kriega’s Quadloc-lite system keeps the harness angled away from under the arms for freedom of movement and the front harness buckle is easy to use even with gloves on. Further useful features include reflective detailing, four-point compression, securing options for loose webbing, and a removable waist strap. The pack can also accommodate a CE level 2 back protector or a hydration bladder. The tough build combines 1000D Cordura® on the base and harness with 420D nylon ripstop and water-resistant YKK zippers. And it’s backed by a 10-year guarantee too.
– Volume: 20L
– Weight: 1150g
– Dimensions: 470(H) x 280(W) x 150(D) mm (18.5(H) x 11.0(W) x 5.9(D) ins.)
While not created as a dedicated motorcycle backpack, the sleek and functional design of Aer’s Duffel Pack 3 allows it to adapt to two wheels. The pack is tough and durable, with a water-resistant and ergonomic design that helps keep the load stable while protecting your gear from the elements. A sternum strap and padded, breathable back panel help keep loads comfortable throughout the day, with a clean silhouette and minimal dangling parts to reduce drag. With multiple pockets on hand including a padded laptop pocket, ventilated shoe pocket, plus two compartments to store work and workout/travel gear separately, it’s a solid pick for organization too.
– Volume: 21.4L
– Weight: 2.9 lbs
– Dimensions: 20.5″ (52 cm) x 11.75″ (30 cm) x 8″ (20 cm)
Durable and adaptable for the commute or downtime explorations, Timbuk’s Especial Medio Cycling Laptop Backpack combines a durable, water-resistant exterior with a waterproof drop liner to keep gear safe from the elements. Reflective detailing and a tapered design help keep you visible and let you look easily over your shoulder. Multiple quick-access pockets keep essentials at the ready and there’s also expandable storage for bulkier items. Inside you’ll find padded storage for a 15″ laptop, while the ventilated and padded back panel helps keep you cool. Plus there’s also a sternum strap and waist belt to stabilize the load. Bonus? It’s backed by a lifetime warranty.
– Volume: 30L
– Weight: 1.5kg
– Dimensions: 8.66 x 13.39 x 20.87 inches
– Water-resistant exterior with waterproof drop liner
If reducing drag is one of your top concerns, the OGIO No Drag Mach 5 should be on your radar. The aerodynamic design minimizes drag and the molded exterior shell is also weather resistant. The bag packs plenty of additional features into its slick design including a helmet strap, removable sternum and waist straps, padded protection for a tablet and a 15″ laptop, and dedicated shoe storage. The bag also includes a removable fleece-lined hip accessory pouch, ergonomic straps with a quick-release buckle, and the ability to expand if you need a little extra space.
If you like the fit adjustability of the Kriega R20 but need more space, the R30 Backpack is a good alternative. The pack features Kriega’s Quadloc harness for an adjustable, tailored fit and improved comfort and freedom of movement. Gear is well protected in the 100% waterproof main compartment, which combines a roll-top closure and removable white liner for weather protection and enhanced interior visibility. The pack fits up to a 17″ laptop, with two water-resistant exterior pockets for quick-access items. Reflective detailing, loose webbing strap management, and six compression straps round out the features of this durable pack. And with its burly combination of 1000D Cordura® and 420D ripstop nylon and a 10-year build guarantee, you can rely on it to keep going strong for years to come.
– Volume: 30L
– Weight: 1.6kg
– Dimensions: 490mm H x 300mm W x 210mm D (19.3″ H x 11.8″ W x 8.3″ D)
Want carry functionality and riding protection in one? Look to the Point 65 Boblbee GTX 25L Backpack, which offers CE level 2 spine protection and up to 93% impact reduction. The pack also provides reliable protection for fragile items such as a laptop and camera thanks to its ABS shell. The water-resistant, aerodynamic design includes a ventilated, padded back panel, as well as a waist strap and sternum strap for comfort and load stability. Interior organization helps keep smaller items tidy and the pack also comes with a removable phone pocket.
Looking for a bike commuter backpack? Delve into five solid cycling options…
Growing up in Boulder, Colorado, outdoor activities are just a way of life. Cycling has always been a huge part of my upbringing. All through high school and most of college, I embraced bike commuting no matter the weather. I would leave for work 12 miles away in a blizzard and chug on through. At times passing cars and seeing the drivers look at me in disbelief. So naturally, I was always looking for a great bag to use, one that could hold up to all the weather and crashes and carry all my gear. Going way back, I used the original Timbuk2 messenger, then moved to the Chrome Citizen in camo for years. That bag has been with me through Boulder, Chicago, and San Francisco.
Now I prefer to use a bike backpack rather than a messenger when I commute. I don’t need the easy access that I did when I was thrashing the city streets on my fixie. Over the years, companies have even joined the ranks of commuter bags, especially those focused on bike commuting. So I chose a few packs that had caught my attention and decided to see which ones I thought might be the best for those who bike commute.
Just a little about how I approached this article, my commute is about 15 miles each way. So I do about 30 miles each day that I ride and about 120 a week using a pack. When bike commuting, I carry a laptop, a change of clothes, my lunch, and maybe a tech pouch. I used each bag for a minimum of 120, but most for about 200 miles. Each bike backpack is judged on four main things:
Carry – Comfort & Fit
Carry – Organization
Harness/Airflow on the back panel
Weatherproofing
These reviews cover the following bike commuter backpack options:
Having been a cyclist for many years, I was familiar with Ortlieb and their panniers. But I had never really looked at their backpacks till recently. I thought this lineup would be the perfect time to try them out and see how they compared to other companies I have used in the past.
I wanted to take a look at the Commuter-Daypack High Visibility. Reflective yarn interweaves the pack. So if you are bike commuting during hours when cars may not notice you, the reflection will help. Either this or if you have paparazzi taking photos of you, the yarn will reflect and ruin their photos.
One of the things I was interested in with Ortlieb was all their back panels look very interesting. They use foam in various ways to create padding and venting channels. While I picked up two packs from them, I used the Hi-Vis one for this article. The back panel of this bike commuter backpack has six TPU pads with three mounds each. I found that this TPU padding had some of the best airflow and venting that I have experienced. When I was commuting in 90 degree-plus heat, this was the bag of choice. The straps are extremely thin as far as padding and relatively narrow. So you feel any heavy loads, but I only ran into this being an issue once.
Despite the narrow and thin straps, the bag carries extremely well. There is both a sternum and waist strap to help keep loads stable. But even fully packed, the pack sits well, without much play when sprinting through traffic or climbing a hill. The bag itself is lightweight, which is nice that it does not add to the weight you are carrying.
While this bike commuter backpack is simple, the organization is well thought out. The Commuter is basically just a big rolltop. The exterior has a small pocket perfectly sized for keys, a phone, or your wallet. While it is not waterproof, it will take a decent amount of moisture to get water in there. When bike commuting, I always like a quick-access pocket for my keys, so when I lock up at work, it is not a pain to get them back in the bag. Several reinforced cutout straps are meant to hold a light or a U-lock. The straps can attach a carabiner or another light if needed.
While just one big cavern, the interior of the bag has a removable pouch that can hold a 15″ MacBook Pro. This pouch also has a front zipper pocket with two elastic pouches for organizing any items you might need to carry and locate later.
Overall, this bike commuter backpack is pretty rad; the only issue I had was that I was looking for a little more pocketing and organization.
All but the front pocket on the Commuter-Daypack High Visibility is waterproof, and this goes for most of the bags in their lineup. While the face fabric might hold onto dirt over time, the bag itself stays fairly clean. The rolltop will keep any water out of the main compartment, which is nice when it comes to keeping your clothing or electronics safe.
Pros:
Great airflow on back panel
High-vis reflective yarn
Removable organizer pouch
Waterproof main compartment
Cons:
Thinly padded shoulder straps
Lacks a wide range of organization options
Overall review of Ortlieb Commuter-Daypack High Visibility:
Mission Workshop is no stranger to the bike commuting world. I remember being in San Francisco and heading to their store shortly after they opened. All the bags had such style and that super rad feel. I have run through a few MW bags over the years but never really found one that worked well for the long hot commutes. Most of the back panels on the packs have a single foam padding without any channels. For me, this is a no-go. But the Rhake has three padded areas, with a Y-styled channel on the back. The airflow is not great, but it is better than the other packs I tried in their lineup. The padding is well placed and comfortable but one of the thinner padding panels in the lineup.
The main compartment of the pack is thin and tall, so items are more stacked. The pack has no waist belt, which I thought was strange at first. But due to the pack being more thin and tall, you do not have a lot of bulk sticking out and wiggling around while riding with a full pack. The Rhake sits well on your back while you ride, with the shoulder straps feeling comfortable. The shoulder straps are wide, but they sit very well in the crook between the shoulder and collar bone. Both straps have the Mission Workshop Arkiv® rails. These allow accessories to be added as needed. While this is not something I utilize, it is nice to have the option if needed.
The front pocketing is laid out nicely for quick access of items when using the pack as a work commuter. A small pocket at the bottom of this bike commuter backpack suits locks or items that you might need quick access to. There are two pockets on the side, which give the Rhake that distinctive look. One is formatted as a drop pocket, which I tend to use for keys and wallets, and an organization pocket with three zippered mesh pockets. I utilized this one for gadgets, like my mouse, pens, flashcards, etc. Finally, there is a medium-sized waterproof drop pocket on the top that drops between the two front pockets and the main rolltop compartment big enough to use as a tablet or notebook pocket.
The Rhake was one of the few packs that I got caught in a rainstorm while wearing. The bag does not come with a rain cover, but the mix between the VX fabric, the rolltop, and the weatherproof zippers does a fantastic job keeping anything that you carry nice and dry.
My big issue with the pack is the Fidlock buckles on the front. When opening one and you let go to open the other, the magnets do their job and close. So you have to get creative in how to open the front pockets or replace the buckles.
Pros:
Burly build with a lifetime warranty
Highly weatherproof
Good range of pockets
Cons:
Expensive
Limited airflow on back panel
Magnetic Fidlock buckles can make opening the front pockets tricky
Main Material: 22X nylon shell with Cordura TPX durable laminate technology
Laptop Sleeve: Yes, 15″
Warranty: Lifetime Guarantee
Price: $186.99
Chrome is the one company that I have probably owned the most packs out of in my time commuting. I think at this point, this is my 6th or 7th bag. They make a great product and always build with riding in mind. So I was interested in checking out their BLCKCHRM 22X Yalta 3.0. To be honest, I expected very little from this bike commuter backpack before I had it in my hands. But once I opened the box, explored the bag, and took it for the first ride, I was sold.
The pack is lightweight and carries well. The back panel uses a ribbed foam. These are nice as they sit like little nubs on your back, giving both a good spread of venting and airflow. The fact that there are very few contact points is nice so that you do not have a huge sweat patch on your back when you take the pack off. This bike commuter backpack was probably my second favorite when it comes to airflow.
As far as the pack’s overall carry, it does sit nicely while on the back with a full load. There is no waist strap on this bike backpack. For the normal ride with my regular carry, I never had issues with the pack flopping around. But I never used the pack fully unrolled for the full 26L. The sternum strap kept the pack secure on my body for most of the commute. The shoulder straps are fairly padded and sit well on the body. They are not too wide, so they also do not leave a big sweat patch on the shoulders.
The pack organization is unique, but in a way that works out very well for bike commuting. A waterproof tote separates the main compartment. This comes in handy if your lunch spills inside on a Friday, and you forget about it till Monday. It was easy to clean out and left no smell. This is also nice to pack my change of clothes in one area and any food/drink in a safe area.
There are several other pockets throughout the bag. As well as a laptop sleeve accessed through a side zipper, this same side zipper gives access to the main compartment when the tote bag is in place. The back of the bag has two side pockets that are about the size of an iPhone 11. Both of these pockets are lined to protect your screens or glasses. On the front, there is a side drop pocket that can house a beverage container, and the front has a drop pocket that is perfect for keys and a wallet or can even house your lock if needed.
The BLCKCHRM 22X Yalta 3.0 does not come with a rain cover, but the 22X sailcloth, matched with the rolltop and the waterproof zippers, works as a strong defense against any H2O that might try and ruin your day.
My one issue with this bike commuter backpack was the way it rolls down. Instead of the sides folding in for a straight line, the top ends up being wider. Normally this wouldn’t be an issue, except when bike commuting and needing to look over your shoulder to check traffic. The edges get in the way and almost look as though they are a vehicle or something in your peripheral vision.
Pros:
Tough build with lifetime warranty
Highly weatherproof
Good airflow on back panel
Good range of organization
Cons:
Rolltop edges can obscure over-shoulder vision
Overall review of Chrome Industries BLCKCHRM 22X Yalta 3.0:
Thule has an impressive range of backpacks. I normally only think of them as a bike rack company, but they have become much more over the years. They have several great bags for bike commuting. While several others might appeal more to other cyclists, I chose the Paramount 27L for its new redesign and it fits my style and carry a bit better. Since I don’t deal with rain, I did not require the rolltop.
At 27L, this is the biggest bike commuter backpack in the lineup. While big, it carries fairly comfortably. The airflow isn’t superb. There are two ribbed padded foam panels on the back with a center channel for venting. These are fairly thin, so on the hot days, they didn’t do a lot about airflow and venting. While most straps have a slight U-shape to them, the Paramount straps are just a flat foam. The straps are fairly plain but have one loop to hook a carabiner or something on while riding. This pack was one of the bags that did leave more of a sweat trace on the back and shoulders.
As previously mentioned, this pack carries quite a bit. While fully loaded, it sits nicely but really could use a waist strap to hold the load as I did feel the pack move around a bit while commuting. There is also no sternum strap, which I felt was strange for a 27L bag. So the fact that this bag does not have either makes it hard to commute with, especially for the longer commutes.
As far as organization, that is where this bag excels. If you need to carry a lot of gadgets along with a laptop and tablet, this bag is kickass. The front of the pack has three pockets. The front pocket on the bag has both a magnetic flap as well as a zipper. This pocket is about the size of a small tablet or a U-lock. Above this, there is a small pocket that is sized for a cell phone or sunglasses. This lined pocket protects any glass that might be inside. The top of the bag has a magnetic flap with a small zippered drop pocket. I used this for my keys and wallet while bike commuting as they were easy to access when I arrived at work or home.
There are two side zippers. One opens a pocket that acts as an admin pocket. This pocket has organization for pens, small hard drives, and any other items you may need to work or during the commute. The opposite side (the water bottle side) opens up into the pack’s main compartment, which is nice, so you don’t have to take the pack off if you need to access a raincoat or an extra layer. A small pocket on the rear of the bag fits a cell phone.
The main compartment has three sleeves separated by a covered foam and one mesh pocket. The main laptop sleeve, as well as the second sleeve, fit my 15″ MacBook Pro, with the main sleeve sized to fit even wider items. The third and smaller sleeve holds an iPad or other items similarly sized. I liked this setup as there are times when I need to carry both my 15″ and 13″ laptops and other items, and this bag can carry everything.
The Thule Paramount is probably the lowest on the list for weatherproofing. The material, while able to repel light moisture, would tend to soak up the water if the rain was intense. The flap cover will keep the rain from penetrating the insides, but a simple inbuilt rain shell would set this pack up for weatherproof success.
As mentioned before, my only issue with this pack is that there is no sternum or waist strap. In my opinion, a bike commuting pack that is this size needs at least a sternum strap, if not a waist strap, to help control the load movement.
Timbuk2 has been a big player in the bike commuter bag world for years. I remember my first messenger bag that I used from them in college. Man, I beat the shit out of that bag. Now years later, I had my eye on their Parker Commuter, and I was not disappointed.
This is a stellar bag for the long and short commutes and carries a ton while staying organized and providing superior airflow. So let’s talk about the back panel. There is a center channel with thick perforated foam padding on the sides. The center channel sits well on your spine with just enough space to allow for airflow. The thickness of the perforated foam allows for some stellar airflow. In my opinion, if they used the same foam and had some angled side venting channels, this would be the perfect back padding.
The carry of the pack is very nice as well. The pack has both a sternum strap as well as a waist strap. The pack is 26L and can expand to 35L. With this type of volume, this is a great pack to not only use as a bike commuter backpack but to make a store run on the way home and pick up a few items for dinner. But with this size, having a waist strap, for me, is a necessity. While I never used the expandable area during my testing, I found that the bag, while fully packed, carries extremely well, and because of this, I have used this pack longer than the rest.
So let’s talk organization. This pack has one of the best organization setups out of all the packs for this lineup. Starting from the front, there are three pockets; two zippered and one magnetic closure. The top zipper pocket is a weatherproof, lined pocket, perfect for sunglasses and any other items that you might need to have protected. The center pocket is a magnetic weatherproof drop pocket that is fairly deep. If needed, you can fit an iPad inside this pocket. During use, I tend to use this for my keys and wallet while bike commuting as I like the easy access.
The main compartment is spacious and has one Velcro drop pocket and flap access to the laptop compartment. This space also is expandable. So if you need the extra space, it is helpful for after-work store runs or if you need to store gear if the weather changes. The laptop compartment, while accessible from the interior of the main compartment, has a side access zipper as well and fits a 15″ MacBook Pro.
The two side water bottle pockets secure down with elastic. These are also nice for storing a phone or keys in a quick pinch or for a tall boy when the weekend hits. Lastly, there is a small lower pocket on the rear that stores the rain cover. While I rarely ride in the rain, and when I do, it is not hard enough to need a rain cover, I did have one commute with a downpour, and just to try it out, I used the rain cover. It’s quick to deploy and useful if you need it in your climate.
My one issue with the bag is the straps used to secure the bag when expanded are in the way of the zipper. I see the necessity of them, but it is still annoying to have to undo them to get into the bag. If you fail to clasp them, they swing around and can get in your peripheral vision. This can be an issue when you are checking over your shoulder in traffic.
Pros:
Durable build with a lifetime warranty
Good airflow on the back panel
Very comfortable carry with sternum strap and waist strap
Excellent organization
Cons:
Straps can obstruct the zipper when the pack is expanded
Overall review of Timbuk2 Parker Commuter Backpack:
Carry – Comfort & Fit – 8
Carry – Organization – 9
Airflow on the back panel – 8
Weatherproofing – 9
This article was originally published on 9 November 2020 and recently updated.
Triple Aught Design are Carry Award winners and fan favourites in the backpack world, however, I personally have never had the chance to test one for an extended period of time. Now, TAD are back with their new and improved version of their flagship pack, the Axiom. After 10 weeks of testing, let’s dive into the TAD Axiom S2 WX Pack.
Tough as Nails
TAD has a well earned reputation for creating robust and reliable packs, inspired by a love for the rugged outdoors. The question is, how does a company like TAD level up an award winning backpack that is both an every day champion and a capable outdoor pack?
The moment you pick up the Axiom S2 it is immediately apparent that it’s here to stay, and it’s going to be here far longer than you are. The attention to detail is second to none, with no sign of a single loose thread or stitch out of place, while the materials feel premium and best in class. The S2 comes in both VX and WX variants, and both styles look equally excellent.
From a materials standpoint, I was obviously excited for the WX version. I’m a heritage fiend, and when those heritage elements are melded with modern technologies, I’m instantly intrigued. In the S2’s case, the material in question is the TexWaxTM shell. This material is a 15/85 Cordura® and 12oz Duck cotton blend that is perfect for a bag designed for every adventure. After waxing, the finish weight is a burly 16.6 oz! TAD are known for their trusty construction and the Axiom S2 is no exception. Sewn in the USA, this hard-wearing pack is built to take a beating, dependably hauling your gear whatever life’s adventures throw at it.
The wax duck cotton provides an excellent handfeel, traditional style, and weather protection, while the Cordura® provides reinforcement. The blend used provides an aesthetically pleasing matte finish to the bag, and will help you avoid the sheen sometimes associated with waxed cotton bags. Available in Black or Dark Oak, this is an elegant bag, and certainly makes the Axiom more flexible for those who carry in more formal situations. This is a bag that’ll be equally at home in the office, on the trail, or roaming city streets.
Aside from the high quality exterior material, there are no shortcuts on the rest of the bag with YKK AquaGuard zippers, Duraflex hardwear, and hypalon trims. When you spend $395 on a bag, I believe that it should feel premium and unique, the Axiom S2 WX certainly does.
Function
As always, this is the critical part of any review. How does it function in daily use? The original Axiom is such a favourite and champion for a reason, so how does the S2 perform?
19L is a smaller capacity than I would traditionally choose for a daily bag, but thanks to its ingenious design and intelligent pocketing, the S2 feels more capacious than bags I’ve used in the 25L range. The clean silhouette hides a plethora of pockets, sleeves, and organisation options that can enhance your day to day very quickly. It was a bit of a learning curve, but once dialed, most people will enjoy how seamless the use is.
At the front of the bag, you’ll find the main admin compartment, this wide opening pocket has organisation slots for all of your daily essentials such as pens, cables, earbuds and other small items. Behind this wall of slotted admin, you’ll find a zippered pocket with a d-ring, and that could be a great home for more important items you want to keep out of the way. This admin pocket is wonderful to use with its wide opening and the full view of your gear is excellent. Perhaps they could have used a contrasting liner as seen in some of their other packs for increased visibility, but I haven’t found that to be a huge limitation. On the front panel of this admin area you’ll find a large slip pocket which I’ve used for my back up bag or waterproof shell. I usually carry a packable tote (such as the Bellroy Market Tote) in case I need to grab anything on the go, and this sleeve feels made for that type of use case. It’s easy to access but out of the way when you don’t need it.
The other external pockets on the S2 are numerous and equally efficient. Just below the main handle, there’s a slender quick access pocket. This has become a natural home for sunglasses, keys, maybe some earbuds. However, the best feature of this QAP is that it is lined with a stretch mesh that allows a good amount of give to squeeze some extra goodies in there. For example, thanks to the stretch, you can fit a full sized iPhone 15 Pro Max in there. The other benefit of this mesh is that the pocket stays out of the way, i.e. It doesn’t hang down into the main volume, if you don’t fill it. These types of touches on a bag make the user experience all the more enjoyable, as the bag works with you rather than against you.
The water bottle pocket lives on the right side of the bag and comfortably holds slender bottles like the 20oz MiiR bottle that is a favourite of mine for EDC, and it doesn’t protrude or disrupt the silhouette of the bag either. I personally love it when my contents are hidden within the confines of the bag, and this pocket does that very well. It takes up some room in the interior, but not enough to be an interference.
The laptop sleeve can be accessed from the left side of the bag via the weatherproof zipper and features a floating wall design. This is a clever piece of design from TAD as it also allows you access to the main volume without having to open the full clamshell. So whether you’re carrying a laptop or not, you can still use that to snag something quickly without taking the bag off, setting it down, and opening it. It’s a clean implementation, and my laptop felt very secure in there as I bounced around from studio, to field, or the travel inbetween.
The main volume might be the one of the most functional I’ve encountered for quite some time. Most bags prescribe one way or another–all pockets or no pockets. Now there are use cases for both styles without doubt, but the Axiom S2 sits on the fence very nicely here. Between the admin pocket on the front, the bellow pockets on the rear of that panel and a large open cavity, you have all the bases covered. You can toss things in freely, or you can half organise with your own pouches (like the excellent TAD Transport pouches), or fully organise with a mix of your own carry and the admin panel and expansion through the Helix system. It’s a versatile style that lends itself to being used in multiple situations rather than being cornered for one use purpose. As an EDC bag, that’s a home run in our books.
Comfort
It’s great to see a waxed pack taking comfort seriously. One of the new features for the Axiom S2 WX Pack is a redesigned back panel that aims to offer maximized airflow. Padded with closed cell cross-linked polyethylene foam, the channeled back panel provides all-day carry comfort. This channel that runs down the center and it allows for great airflow, and I didn’t find myself overheating. There are also load lifters on the Axiom, which you don’t always see on smaller EDC packs, so I’m glad to see them here. It makes a real difference to comfort, particularly if you’re being active or carrying heavier loads. For example, it helped me when carrying camera equipment and I felt the bag was secure and moved with me well as I was buzzing around. The sternum strap does the job, but it would have been great to see a Fidlock V buckle or similar here, for that smooth one handed function, but that’s easily swappable with one of your own if you feel the need. Comfort is critical to a good EDC bag, and I have no complaints here.
A Worthy Addition
After using the TAD Axiom S2 WX, it’s easy to see why it has such a loyal following. This is a truly versatile bag, for both EDC and Travel, and it’s designed in such a way that your relationship gets better with each use. I found its balance of differing carry styles to be really helpful on multiple occasions, I wasn’t pigeon holed into X, Y, or Z. The materials are phenomenal, and not once have I been concerned about the protection offered to my gear. Style wise it’s a looker, and while that opinion may vary from person to person, this isn’t a bag that’s too garish, or too tactical, or too minimalist, it finds itself a nice sweet spot that could appeal to most. It carries more than it looks like it will, it’s exceptionally comfortable to wear, and it is customisable with a slew of different accessories based on your needs and wants. I think this is a fantastic Everyday Carry Bag, and the WX variant is a welcome addition to the T.A.D Lineup. The TAD Axiom S2 WX is a bit like a tightrope walker from the circus – somehow it balances it all with grit and grace!
system keeps the harness angled away from under the arms for freedom of movement and the front harness buckle is easy to use even with gloves on. Further useful features include reflective detailing, four-point compression, securing options for loose webbing, and a removable waist strap. The pack can also accommodate a CE level 2 back protector or a hydration bladder. The tough build combines 1000D Cordura® on the base and harness with 420D nylon ripstop and water-resistant YKK zippers. And it’s backed by a 10-year guarantee too.
