Peak Design Travel Backpack Review | 30-45L Pack Perfect For One Bag Travel
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- čas přidán 18. 06. 2024
- The Peak Design Travel Backpack is nothing short of genius. The unique features, innovative design and quality materials easily make it one of the best bags we’ve ever tested. View Our Full Review: packhacker.com/travel-gear/pe...
0:00 - Intro
1:00 - Material & Aesthetic
2:45 - External Components
9:16 - Inside the Pack
15:29 - Durability & Testing
16:00 - Pros & Cons
16:42 - The Verdict
The Peak Design Travel Backpack is finally here. If you’ve been following us or you’re into backpacks, photography, or travel-you’ve probably heard of Peak Design. These guys have been absolutely killing it, making some of the most unique and innovative designs the backpack and photography world have ever seen.
We’ve been testing this thing out for three weeks and it’s seen use across multiple US states and a few flights. Much like their other gear, our first impression is that this bag has a lot of smart, innovative thinking, and it most definitely lives up to the hype.
The Peak Design Travel Backpack is a well-executed travel bag from a company with an excellent track-record of bringing innovative and unique designs to the backpack world. This is a bag that can easily handle one bag travel, photography, or digital nomading with ease-and it will be a joy to use for any of those activities. We have a couple small gripes-mainly the zipper choice, sternum strap, and side handles-but all of the amazing, innovative thinking that has gone into this bag vastly outweigh the few minor downsides. A winner, for sure.
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SHOW NOTES:
In this video, Tom Wahlin of Pack Hacker reviews the Peak Design Travel Backpack, an innovative 30-45L pack that’s perfect for one bag travel.
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Thumbs up this comment if you’d like to see a full review on the Peak Design Travel Line Tech Pouch, Wash Pouch, Packing Cubes, and Camera Cubes.
Thumbs are up in real life too (typing this awkwardly with pinky fingers)
Tom feels the same way 👍😂 → gph.is/2QrGk7B
-Hannah
OMG that was hilarious!!!
I'd love to see a review, and maybe a comparison/exploration of cost vs function? Like, what do you get for the premium price compared to something like an Eagle Creek system? The tech pouch seems pretty unique and obviously the camera cubes are made for the bag, but I'd really like your thoughts on that for the packing cubes and wash pouch!
Great points here FaerieDust! We'll consider this for the video if we end up rolling with it. Eagle Creek Specter still remain some of our favorite packing cubes to date.
- Tom
Thank you so much for showing the bag on a petite woman. Super helpful visual when I'm comparing bags!! A lot of these travel bags look great on a broad, tall person, but it takes just the right design to not look ridiculous on a shorter person.
You got it Cam! We try to show as much variety as possible to help out with the decision making process 👍👍
- Tom
As always, top notch production, quality and thoroughness. I really appreciate the straight, no nonsense approach. Also thorough. I don't believe I've seen any other reviewer go into detail on the zippers. One thing that might be neat to hear is how the weight effects your endurance. For example, pack each bag you review with a standard weight (a pillowcase filled with barley or something, get creative) and do a few standard laps somewhere and report back. It's not a scientific test, but it might help glean whether the extra weight in packs like these really bring the experience down.
Thanks Garrett - it's comments like this that keep us going! Dig the idea on the standard weight approach - plus it could replace our gym memberships 😉
- Tom
Thank you Tom for this video. It's be interesting to see another video about the zippers after 2 years of backpacking 🙏
Just bought the 65L, I wanted a lager travel bag, as I'm an over packer, and something to use for quick and long trips. I also bought the shoe pouch and 2 medium packing cubes. On the website, if you buy three items, you get 10% off the entire order, and there is always free domestic shipping! I'm so glad youtube suggested your videos to me!
That's awesome to hear Jerome, we're glad you're digging the videos! Keep us updated on your new travel gear, we love hearing what works for you too. 😊🙌
- Rebecca
Satisfied with the 65l?
( Om also an overpacker and looks for something big. 50-65l)
Was almost ready to buy this one instead of waiting for the Pakt backpack, however that zipper issue was enough on its own for me to say nope. In a bag that's almost $300, baffled as to why they would use bad zippers on the main compartments. Since this video was older, I checked to make sure that's still the case, and yup, "UltraZips" are still what they use (maybe even on the entire bag now?). Since the bag is useless if the main zips break or are a hassle to use, I'm passing this one by and waiting for the Pakt. Great video. Also appreciate you showing on someone shorter! Very helpful.
very helpful review! detailed and doesn't have any BS. subscribed
Glad you're digging the review, Yuheng. Stay tuned for more! 😊
- Rebecca
You guys are definitely thorough on your reviews.
Excellent in-depth review. My new go to channel for bag reviews.
Hey Mick-great to hear! 😄
-Hannah
Thanks for pointing out about the zips, I was almost coming onboard with this pack up till then.
But I'm also not too fussed with multiple access points to the main compartment in terms of security
yeah im thiking of using it for fifo.. wondering abot air lines
The zipper broke on my peak design sling after a year of fairly heavy use. The sent a replacement right away, no hassle. I was pleased with the customer service since I really like the sling and would have hated to look for something else, but still a bummer if it breaks on a trip of course.
Thanks for sharing Jan! Glad you had a good experience with quick replacement.
- Tom
Great video I would have loved to see you go through some packing scenarios of gear.
Glad you're digging the video, Brandon! For more packing info, we recommend checking out our Digital Nomad Packing List packhacker.com/packing-list/digital-nomad/ where we show you how to pack the Aer Travel Pack 2 for continuous travel. We're also working on creating more content like this, so keep an eye out! 😊👍
- Rebecca
crazy extensive review!
That's what we do mikkol79! 😄 Hope you found it helpful 👍😊
- Rebecca
@Pack Hacker -
just purchased this bag based on your review (was considering the Nomatic 40L) Very happy with this purchase! Thank you for your reviews. Would love to see more options broken put for longer* travel. - for instance could a bag make it on a 7 or 10 day trip to Europe etc etc! Thanks Again!
Hey Zachary! We're so glad you're digging the Peak Design Travel Pack. We recommend checking out our Digital Nomad Packing List as Tom used all of these items for over a month of traveling in Europe. czcams.com/video/mGvHt4blPDc/video.html 🙌😊
- Rebecca
I enjoy your videos cause they are concise and rich info. Also video quality is great. What hardware are you using? Thnx and keep posting.
Thanks Dsirius, glad you're digging the content! We shoot with a Sony a6500 and a7iii.
- Nathan
I like that pack, the size, the design and the Laptop sleeve. I did not like the Magnetic closer and the tablet sleeve. the tablet sleeve i like to have a zipper. I really like that every zipper is lockable.
I got myself a Osprey porter as new pack and hope it is still carry on.
Thanks for the video!
This is a well thought out bag and I love the minimalist clean lines of it, and there is a lot of hidden function in there. My first serious of use of it was while filming, I used it to carry my laptop and extra gear, a temba with an instax and film and various misc parts, chargers, sound gear etc in the main compartment, then smaller items, cables and whatever else needed to get stowed in the front pouches and storage area. The issue I found is if you turtle the bag to get at the main compartment, then you can no longer access the front areas. And I found this very frustrating, as sometimes I needed both, so I then had to zip it all up and flip it over. Yes you can go in from the front and I'll try that, but you then go through 2 zippers and then if you have quickly put things in that space (and not all of it in the zippered pouches) then it will slide out or get in the way when you dig into the main compartment. When I'm working there is many times when I need to get into a bag fast, and I feel like this system slows me down. I feel like the same issue could come up at airport security, when they may ask to see everything inside, I'd suggest opening from the top and not the back in this case. And, I will have to wait and see on this, but with the zippers on the inside flap and the way the seam works, it does not give me the feeling the zippers are as strong as I would like. This bag still may work for travel, but I'd be curious to see what other people think if they will use it to shoot with. Personally I was looking for something to replace or supplement my TAD litespeed (those are strong zippers), it has taken 4 years of heavy use and held up very well, but I was looking for something a bit larger, with a dedicated laptop space for faster TSA checks, and a less tactical look. I'll probably try the axiom to see how it compares to this.
Thanks for dropping your usage notes here Christopher - very helpful perspective for us and folks reading the comments! If you give the Axoim a shot, let us know how it goes. We're overdue for a review on anything TAD.
- Tom
And likewise thanks for the review and the breakdown off it. I still really like the pack just getting used to how it works in use. @@PackHacker
Thanks for the video Tom, by chance did you get around to testing how well the bag holds up to weather/rain? I travelled recently through Asia with a Lowepro Freeline BP 350 AW and it kept the inside dry through a tropical shower we got caught in, and I'm looking for that same level of weatherproofing in a bigger bag.
Hey David - the Peak Design Travel Backpack has weatherproof material, but if you're looking to make it completely waterproof, we recommend using the integrated rain fly. Check out our full written review for more information - packhacker.com/travel-gear/peak-design/travel-backpack/
Thanks for watching! 👍
- Rebecca
Hey great review! Will definetely help me deciding wether or not to back their kickstarter.
Speaking of which, I'd like to suggest that the reviews on ongoing kickstarter items come out a little earlier. It might not be possible, I know, but in this case, it would have been nice to at least include the camera cubes and packing system on this review, as their kickstarter is closing in 7 days from the date of this video. Just a thought.
Keep the good work!
Cheers.
Hey Thiago! Glad you dig the review!
As far as earlier, it's tough for us as we like to test products for at least 2 weeks of actual usage before completing a review (in this case, we went 3 weeks). We feel that's one of the best ways to get real data on how a product works in the wild. We do hope to increase our video output though! Should be possible as we grow.
We'll likely release a full review of all the pouches (see our first pinned comment) once the pack releases post Kickstarter.
Good luck with your decision!
- Tom
Now this is a beauty
Absolutely!
- Tom
Hi, thanks for the review. This bag is meeting almost all my criteria's except overall size. I was wondering if it would be super awkward to use it in daily life, commuting to work etc. I read some comments stating that bag looks small enough for daily use on 30l mode.
really nice video, thanks a lot
You got it, Alvin! 😊👍
- Rebecca
Great review!
Thanks Michael!
- Tom
That was a great review, thanks. Peak design are expensive but get what you pay for.
Definitely a solid pack! 🎒
-Hannah
Great honest review ! Will you do a review of the new Topo Designs Travel Pack ?
Thanks kneda01! We're about to get our hands on the new & improved Topo Designs Travel Pack and will assess on our Instagram mailcall next week 🎒
- Tom
very informative video! Any suggestion for 2 laptops backpack? like north face router (partition like space)
Great video. Literally going to a remote village in Thailand... can't have a broken zipper! 🤣 Great review.
It would be nice to see update video how this bag has been working and have you have problems with the zippers
I had my mind made up and went to get this backpack, but when I tried it at the store, I was surprised that it wasn't that comfortable. My main problem was the shoulder straps that flare out (maybe designed for larger people) and when you tighten sternum strap, the edges of the shoulder straps turn in and dig into the shoulders. Maybe because they are thin? I was able to A/B test this with a Think Tank bag and the difference was night and day. Try it first if you have a chance.
Thanks for sharing your insights!
-Eric
thes vidoes like this is awesome
Thanks, Lauren! 😄
-Hannah
Hey Pack Hacker - thanks so much for the great reviews! I have a question: am torn between the Peak Design Travel Backpack and the Pakt Travel Backpack - any thoughts?! Thanks.
A trick I used years ago to avoid checked bags, when carrying my camera gear was to "wear" my gear in my body, get the bag past the check then fill it while waiting for my flight to board, which would help with the weight of the bag at check in
Hey John - glad you've found something that works for you! 👍👍
- Rebecca
Hey Tom, I appreciate that your reviews not only cover pros but also some cons from real usage, which others don't tend to do - thank you.
I noticed when Hannah is wearing the bag, the hip belt is tucked away. Was there any additional info about fit from Hannah? I'm roughly the same height and torso, and find straps and hip belts fitting properly can be a challenge. Cheers
Hey Christine! Hannah here.
The pack has a comfortable, well-fitting carry system for my height and torso. However, the pack does seem a bit long on me, which didn't bother me but worth noting.
Hope this helps! Happy to answer any other questions you may have. 😊
-Hannah
Hi, great video, great channel :) I was wondering if someone at PackHacker or from the community has tested it during a hot summer ? The backpack seems to lack air flow ..
I'm looking for a one bag travel for a 3w summer asian trip (meaning hot&rainy), this PD bag seems nearly perfect but i just fear that this flat back panel will make me sweat a lot (... and it seems heavy and definitely expensive, so it needs to worth it)
I appreciate the well-rounded review. So many of these reviews are just gushing praise. Are you able to speak to how this compares to an Osprey Farpoint? Specifically for air travel. Thanks?
Hey Aaron-they're both solid packs! It just really depends on the features and aesthetics you’re looking for. For example, if you're traveling with more camera-centric gear, a lot of our team members prefer the Peak Design Travel Backpack!
-Hannah
PD please listen, YKK is a must for a Premium pack... pennies on the dollars for a $299.00 pack🤔. Great review, all well noted remarks and feedback for future possibilities of purchase. Ok I’ve already jumped on the train and pre ordered 😱😉😎
Nice - let us know how it goes Michael!
- Tom
I’ve been wanting to get this but I’m not sure which configuration to go with !!! I love this and I have 2 camera bodies so cool thanks for sharing this
Louis Luzuka - nice! Let us know where you end up!
- Tom
An amazing review!
Lets say i want this bag but a bit cheaper, what other bag would you recommand?
We go to japan for our honeymoon and i just want to have a high quality and comfortable 2-3 days bag when i send my suitcases forward to a hotel i get to after a few days traveling somewhere else.
I went to a store and they offered me the eastpak tranzpack 42l that opens as a shell.
Thanks 🙏🏻
Would be cool to see reviews about the Pouches! ;)
For me this backpack is perfect but the only issue i have is the zipper problem...
Awesome Florian! We've got a ton of interest on a pouch video, so I think we'll follow up with one closer to the launch!
Finally a channel that ive been looking for, wanted to find what (L) is more suitable in PD everyday backpack for a 15" gaming laptop, DSLR with a lens attached, a spare lens and some other accessory such as HDD and chargers. My initial choice was a 30l but will a 20l do? since my laptop is a bit bulky and are they comfortable to carry for longer time period? Your suggestion will matter alot, even if its a different backpack entirely. Thanks.
Hey Taran - deciding on the size of your pack really depends on your travel style. If you like a little extra space or the option to carry additional items, then perhaps the 30L version will suit you more. However, if you prefer to travel light, then the 20L version might be a better option. You can find out more info about our experience and the carry of the Everyday Backpack 30L in our written review here packhacker.com/travel-gear/peak-design/everyday-backpack-30l/
Although we don't have the 20L version to verify 100% it looks like your items will fit, however, it may be worth double-checking the size of your laptop, as the laptop compartment in the 30L version is slightly bigger. In addition to this, Peak Design has a side by side comparison, with a flat lay giving an example of the number of items you can carry in each www.peakdesign.com/pages/compare-bags
Hope this helps!
- Rebecca
I have been traveling with this bag for over 6 months now and really like it, except the weight. What would you recommend that weighs less?
Love it!
Thanks! 😄
Thank you for this awesome video! Is it possible to hook up a shoulder strap to the side of this bag and wear it crossbody / messenger style?
Hey AJ, anytime! We wouldn’t recommend it.
-Hannah
Great review
Thanks for watching! 😃
-Eric
I’m super glad that you chose to highlight the #danglefreeexperience you had with this bag.
In all seriousness, another great review, as always.
Thanks Mark! All about that #danglefreeexperience 🙂
- Tom
One thing I hope Peak retools on this bag is the button snaps that decreases the bag to 30L. They simply do not stay buttoned. It’s incredibly annoying. I regularly don’t need the 35 L and being able to lower the bags overall footprint is a great idea BUT the execution just sucks. I’ll snap them down and it doesn’t take much for them to become undone. I’ll grab it, getting ready to leave for the work day and either one or both snaps come undone. And the bag isn’t even fully loaded or overly heavy.
Hey guys,
So LOVE the review and I think this pack would be perfect. I do a 5 day trip for work every second week and have been using a carry on roller suitcase which I am starting to enjoy but thoroughly understand the limits of. I would like to make the transition from that and a laptop bag to an all in one bag. I also would end up using it for short to medium term travel if I do get it.
So question (long way to get there I know)
It has now been over a year since your initial review, have you had/heard of any problems with the zippers? I would hate for those to break? Also, do you know if peak design is planning on releasing an update any time soon or should I pull the trigger and get this one?
Btw, you guys are super helpful and love your website and CZcams channel
Hey Corné - that's a great question! So far, we haven't had any issues with the zippers on the Peak Design Travel Backpack, but one of our contacts did have issues with the zippers on the Peak Design Everyday Messenger, you can read more about this in our full written review packhacker.com/travel-gear/peak-design/travel-backpack/
When we reached out to Peak Design about the Zoom Zipper decision, they gave us this statement;
“Regarding our use of Zoom zips on the main access points, we’ve chosen Zoom because of a number of factors: strength, feel, testing performance, performance over time, and value. We’ve used Zoom zips across all of our bags, all of which are guaranteed for life, and we’ve seen a sub-0.3% failure rate on them. Another big part of our decision to use Zoom is that we’ve been able to develop a close direct relationship with them, something we’re not able to do with a supplier of YKK’s size. Zoom has been super responsive to our requests for tweaks and customizations. We pride ourselves in honing every last detail of our products to perform their specific functions optimally, and working with Zoom has allowed us to do that.”
And, for your second question, we currently haven't heard about any updates, but if we do, we'll keep you updated over our social channels.
Hope this helps!
- Rebecca
@@PackHacker THanks so much guys. Really love your channel and feel like i have gravitated towards your principles already before i found you so i feel like Pack hackers is my spirit channel;)
That's great to hear, Corné! We love that our community is full of such awesome, likeminded people. Stay tuned for more! 😊🙌
- Rebecca
Thanks for this video! Seeing footage of you putting the backpack under an airline seat. Were you able to successfully use this bag as your personal item on a flight? If so, how loaded up did you have it? 40L mode?
Hey Jeremy! Here ya go: cl.ly/7b2eacc92969
- Tom
First off I want to thank you for this vid. From a production standpoint it's the best available (at the time of typing this). Lighting is on point and that's such an important thing to me (I’m a Photographer). I now have a good sense of how this pack looks in the black colour-way. Love that you actually used the thing on 2 trips before posting this vid and that B-roll was awesome too!!
So I'm looking to get my first (and only) travel backpack. I bought and returned the Thule Subterra 34L. I found it uncomfortable and laptop side zip difficult to access. Hoping this is one will be better in both respects. How did you find the bag’s comfort?
You made a great point about the zipper and that’s now a concern for me as well. What good is an easy exchange policy when you’r in strange part of the world with a broken main zip? Perhaps the production model’s sternum strap will be altered to not come off as easy.
I’m currently backing the Travel Bundle + Camera Cube Medium. How did you like the packing cubes?
In any case, Peak Design should definitely link this to their kickstarter webpage. I’m probably going to do this now anyway. Fantastic job!!
Definitely - thanks for the comment on the production quality - we try out best! We also keep our review as objective as possible.
Comfort is somewhat subjective from person to person, but I personally found it to be pretty great. Hip belt does wonders for weight distribution as well.
As for the cubes, we have everything but the Camera Cubes and they have some really well thought out design - with enough interest will do a video on all this, too.
Good luck finding your perfect bag!
- Tom
Nathan did the bulk of our THULE Subterra testing - he didn't have any issues with the comfort but agrees it's not the most comfortable harness system out there.
- Tom
I've tried to read the articles and some product page about RFID protection. So it doesn't have an RFID protection in the bag? Newbie on choosing backpacks, but this is definitely a good shot for me.
Damn I leave for a month of travel in 5 days, would have absolutely selected this over Osprey Porter if it was available. Looks well thought out.
Mike Fowler - absolutely! Enjoy your trip - the Porter will be dandy for a month.
- Tom
Great vid!! WIll this pack fit under the seat in front of you on a flight if it's not expanded?
Hey Justin - when not expanded this pack should fit under the seat in front of you (depending on your airline of course) - hope this helps! 😊👍
- Rebecca
Does the shoulder straps creep slowly and eventually loosen? I love Peak Design products and I have their OG everyday backpack but my main problem there is the shoulder strap creep. I have to constantly adjust it to shorten the length.
Excellent objective review
Thank you!
-Hannah
Thanks Tom, great video. Carryology just voted this the best carry on backpack, with the Aer Travel Pack 2 and Heimplanet Transit Travel Pack as the runners up. These are the three I am trying to decide between - would you consider doing a comparison video of all three?
Hey Elisha - we currently have no plans to create a comparison video between these three packs, but we do recommend checking out the full written reviews where you can compare the ratings, pros, cons and the different features of each pack. Hope this helps! 😊
Aer Travel Pack 2: packhacker.com/travel-gear/aer/travel-pack-2-2/
Peak Design Travel Pack: packhacker.com/travel-gear/peak-design/travel-backpack/
Heimplanet Transit Line Travel Pack: packhacker.com/travel-gear/heimplanet/transit-line-travel-pack/
- Rebecca
Hey Guys!! i know they are two different packs, but ! what's the most confortable between the Eagle creek global companion and the peek design travel pack? and how much different is there in the confort? cheers thanks for reviewing this two packs !!
Comfort-wise, they're pretty comparable. The Global Companion has load lifters, which is always nice to have but also on the Global Companion, the hip belt is not hide-able or removable - so it adds a bit of bulk. Peak Design offers a harness system that's quickly hide-able and comfortable.
- Tom
I don’t know about this bag, but I’ve never had any zippers break on any of my Peak Design products, and I’ve used their everyday backpack almost every day for the last 5+ years.
Thanks for your insight, Joel 😃
-Eric
It’s a great bag. Very function and can fit a lot in. But it is heavy as hell. When full it is a bit of a beast to lug around.
Thanks for sharing your insights! 🤙
-Eric
Love your videos! Traveling to Asia (when COVID allows) and wondering what the best International (21") travel backpack would be that I can use as carry on? I'll be away for about 3 months in Thailand/Vietnam/Singapore area. I prefer not to check any luggage. I see a lot of great reviews on the Cotopaxi Allpa 42 and the Osprey Farpoint 40 (your reviews kind of made me think otherwise - 7.4 out of 10 in my opinion is average). So which one would you rate a 9 or higher? Or do they not exist? LOL. Appreciate the help!
Hey Matt, you can now sort through our highest-rated travel backpack reviews here: packhacker.com/travel-gear/category/bags-and-luggage/travel-backpacks/?order=rating
We also have a Carry-On Compliance Feature on all of our product pages which you can use as a guideline to check out the carry-on specifications for over 100 airlines. You can find this at the top of the page in the Technical Details section.
- Rebecca
Nice video and bag. Wish quick access pockets were toward the back of the pack just for a little piece of mind that no one pick pockets my passport
Thanks, Mireya! Great point here.
-Hannah
Hello . How about carry on trolley bags ? Can you make some suggestions pls?
Great video Tom! 2.5kg seems quite heavy for a backpack. How did it feel when you we wearing it?
Hey Alexander - thank you! Yes, the weight is certainly getting up there! The harness system does a great job for the comfort though.
- Tom
Hi, thanks for this review! Do you think this backpack is confortable enough to carry for very shorts 2 days hikes, or just walking the entire day through cities with it? More than venturesafe x40 for example? (wich you said is very confortable from that point of view) What is the best 35 to 45L carry-on backpack you've tested regarding comfort? Thanks!
Hey BornIntoThis20 - from our testing, we found that the Peak Design Travel Backpack has a very comfortable carry, although we tested this in more urban environments. For more information on the harness system, we recommend checking out the full written review packhacker.com/travel-gear/peak-design/travel-backpack/ and for more of our top pack recommendations, you can take a look at our Best Travel Backpack Guide packhacker.com/guide/best-travel-backpack/ - hope this helps! 😊
- Rebecca
I would like to see a video for the airline Carry on Icelandair! It seem very scare to have anything that has room to back for 5 days!
Hi Theresa!
We have a feature on our website that allows you to check the carry on compliance of bags on various airlines. It's located in the Technical Details section of our reviews.
- Austin
Any concern with the wearing of the rivet holding down the roaring shoulder straps?
I'm concerned the strap will wear through the rivet
Do a review on the Sterkmann 20-30 litre expandable travel backpack available on Amazon for $95. Looks promising but very few reviews
Hey Tom, I’m looking for some real world opinions with the hip belt system with this pack. My problem has been that most packs are too short and the hip belt just doesn’t distribute the weight very well because it’s too high and above my hips. What are your thoughts? I’m using the GORUCK GR3 right now but there’s very little organization... hence why I’m interested in this one.
Hey A Wayward Man - the placement of the hip belt will vary on your frame and torso size (Tom's torso size is 19.25") so your mileage may vary. From our experience, the hip belt works well as it's an ideal size and has the right amount of padding, making it comfortable and supportive enough to distribute the weight from the pack. Hope this helps, let us know if you have any more questions! 😊
- Rebecca
How comfortable is the harness system and how balanced does it feel wearing it packed to maximum? Can you compare it to another brand, for example Osprey Porter 46? Thanks for the informative review, well done.
Hey Peter, Tom found the harness system to be very comfortable and balanced when packed at maximum. (He's 6'2" with a 19.35 inch torso for reference.)
Hope this helps!
-Hannah
Great review! Silly question: I noticed you had a second or two of video showing you sliding the bag under the seat in front of you on an airplane but cut away prior to it being fully under. Does the bag fully go into the seat in front of you enough so that a flight attendant wouldn't make you put it in the overhead bin / would pass United's Basic Economy sizing tool? This is a critical item of mine in considering a bag. Thanks again!
Hey Manny - this really depends on the airline you're flying with as we've found the size specifications do vary airline to airline. While this was able to fit far enough under the seat to not stick out, if you pack it too full capacity, it's going to be a lot trickier. Plus, it does take up most of the room underneath your seat, so you will likely have minimal legroom. Hope this helps! 👍😊
- Rebecca
You only have to put your back up in the overhead bins when you are sitting at the emergency exits and only during takeoff and landing.
i know this is late, but it also depends on your flight manny. united has different sized planes for different flight destinations. so although this may work as an underseater for a flt from sf to nyc, it might not for those flt's to less frequented cities.
Great vid! Super random, but I really like the black t-shirt you're wearing, can I get a brand name or link?
Thanks Tyme! It's the Outlier Dreamweight T - packha.kr/2kua - we haven't officially reviewed it yet, but it's a really lightweight combination of Nylon & Merino Woo.
- Tom
Can I compresse it to 30L mode with the large camera cube inside .?
Also, has anyone done a review of this bag after a couple years of heavy use in a more rugged environment?
I really like the idea that it can collapse down and sort of pass as a work computer bag once you get there, though it does still seem big even on this dude who is what 6'2". Any others that you know of that can collapse down and not look like you are going on a hike when at the office?
Check out the Aer Travel Pack 2 ( packhacker.com/travel-gear/aer/travel-pack-2-2/ ) - this can compress down, too! 👍
-Hannah
Which pants are you wearing when holding the bag against the blue wall? They look great!
Hey Paul! These are the AAO Tech Pants (at 1:49). We haven't done a full review on them yet, as we're waiting for a V2 and a couple of improvements: packha.kr/g7kw
Here are all the pants & shorts we have reviewed! packhacker.com/travel-gear/category/bottoms/
- Tom
I really want to pull the trigger on this bag, but will not have the dough for the kickstarter. I might have to fork up the full price later on, but it looks it might be worth the price.
Let us know where you net out Jan!
- Tom
Looked like there was a quick clip of this fitting under an airplane seat? Have you found that possible on mainline offers such as a Boeing 737 or Airbus A320? Thanks!
Hey Brandon - depending on how you pack this bag, it can fit under the seat of a plane, but from our experience, airline seat dimensions do differ and currently, we haven't tested this pack on a range of different planes. Hope this helps! 😊
- Rebecca
Great review. What battery pack is that?
Hey Nimit - it's the HooToo TripMate Titan - check out our link here for the full written review packhacker.com/travel-gear/hootoo/tripmate-titan/ - thanks for watching! 😊👍
- Rebecca
Looking for travel ! But not too big and not too small light weight weather proof. Durable . Which one should I get ? U review so good for this bag. What do you see about Nomatice back pack ? Can advise?
Hi Kyaw, thanks for reaching out! You can find all of our backpack reviews here: packhacker.com/travel-gear/category/backpacks/
We recommend checking out the top rated ones for some of our team favorites!
-Hannah
Fully loading the pack to ~40L or thereabouts, would it be possible to rig a shoulder carry strap to any of the lash down points, or would it likely be too much weight for them to handle and/or poorly balanced?
Hey Daniel - we haven't personally tried this, but don't think we'd recommend it either. If you end up giving it a shot, let us know!
- Tom
Whats that blue you jave hanging? Looks nice :)
Hey Gabe - the blue bag hanging on the backpack wall is the Eagle Creek Global Companion 40L packhacker.com/travel-gear/eagle-creek/global-companion-40l/ 😊👍
- Rebecca
Hi, could you include (centi)meter mesurements in the video? Thanks! Great that you put a girl my height in it aswell :)
I think I finally found a better bag than my Osprey Farpoint 40. Personal preferance. Going to save up
Hi Marjolein13! You can find CM height translated on our full review pages on the right sidebar (find it in the CZcams description) - here's the link for this review! packhacker.com/travel-gear/peak-design/travel-backpack/ - glad you're finding that next bag!
- Tom
Great review Tom! Do you think this could pass a flight 'personal item'?
Hey Bondi 420 - normally your personal item is smaller than your carry-on, such as a laptop bag or tote. So, being 45L, this pack will likely be your carry-on bag. However, we have found that airline specifications do differ, so we recommend checking with your individual airline before you fly. Hope this helps! 😊👍
- Rebecca
Pack Hacker Good point. I’ve noticed they let backpacks slide whatever the size, as long as they’re not the oversized hiking/mountaineering type backpacks,
You can also check out our Carry-On Compliance feature at the top of our full written review packhacker.com/travel-gear/peak-design/travel-backpack/ for more info! 😊
- Rebecca
This or the Goruck GR2 34L, main use is for travel and EDC (30L mode?)
Concern with this is yea, durability in the long run, may look big like turtleshell as EDC?
Hey Lawrence - these are both solid packs, so it really does come down to your travel style and also what you find more aesthetically pleasing. Depending on where you're traveling to (urban or rural), whether you carry a laptop, and how long you'll be traveling for (extended travel or short trips), will help you decide which bag will work best for your use case. We also recommend taking a look at our Backpack Guide packhacker.com/guide/best-travel-backpack/ - which will help you choose the right backpack for you. Let us know what you decide and if you have any more questions. Thanks for reaching out! 🙌😊
- Rebecca
Hey Tom, love the channel and the reviews. You, Bo Ismono, and Chase Reeves are my go-to guys when my own extensive research stymies me.
So I want to finally attain one bag travel status and I'm torn between adding yet another GORUCK ruck (GR3) to my collection (GR1, GR2 34L, Rucker1, Rucker2, Civvy Kit Bag) and the Peak Design 45L backpack you review here.
I have a bunch of trips coming up in the new year and would love to truly attain one bag travel status. Right now I've figured out how to use a 21L Rucker and a 32L civvy kit bag for 1.5 bag travel (I mount the civvy kit bag's shoulder strap attachment d-rings to my Rucker's top handle and the front MOLLE using two small carabiners), but it's not ideal and I have to watch out so I don't knock somebody over every time I turn around.
Warranty: GORUCK has their famous SCARS warranty, and I like that I can pretty much use and abuse any ruck I have knowing they have my back. Peak Design seems to have a similar warranty.
Look and Feel: While the GORUCK line is actually rather minimal, the PD travel pack seems a bit more... discreet and more civilian looking.
Internal Organization: I don't really need much in terms of internal organization, though I like that the PD pack does have a layer that offers that when needed and that folds away when not.
Weight: Weight while empty isn't a huge deal, but I can see how a lighter pack with less heavy materials would be nice for long hauls. Between the two, which would you say carries more comfortably when fully loaded for a trip?
From a size perspective, I like how the PD pack can expand and compress as needed. The GR3 has compression straps, but I'm not sure how much it can compress down to (e.g. can it go down to 34L GR2 or 26L GR1 sizing?). I like flexibility, and the PD pack could potentially eliminate the need for choosing between my 34L GR2 or a much larger 45L GR3. I love my GR2 and it's not going anywhere, but I like having a streamlined packing procedure (at least mentally).
Accessories: I like how the PD pack has hidable straps, but the thinness of the main straps gives me pause about how comfortable they would be over long hauls. The GR straps are beefy and the included removable waist belt seems like they would work together for a good experience. Of the accessories, I would probably get the rain fly and shoe cover (though I use plastic bags now that work fine). That would run me about $320 (with their travel discount) vs. $545 for a new GR3. GORUCK will likely run a sale on some items for Black Friday, so maybe that will go down a bit in price, but there's still a big price gap.
Thanks in advance for any help you can provide.
Hey Chris - Tom here - thanks for the thoughtful comment.
Congrats on pushing towards that one bag status! Your current 1.5 bag setup seems pretty great, too - although I hear you on wanting to achieve a lower profile & not knocking things around.
I'll offer my opinion in your categories based on using both bags for 2 weeks each.
Warranty: GORUCK indeed has a solid warranty and Peak Design does as well. I've only heard good experiences with each company in return for repair or replacement. For durability, my money is on the GR3 though.
Look and Feel: Definitely - the Peak Design Travel Backpack is a little more streamlined in the exterior look. Really, we've found aesthetic decisions to be best placed on the wearer.
Internal Organization: GR3 offers more of a giant bucket where PD has a bit more org. We'll be launching our full review on the PD Packing Tools soon so stay tuned - we like that they're thinking about integration on many levels.
Weight: When fully loaded, I've found the Peak Design Travel Backpack to feel like a more ergonomic carry - plus, it's a big bonus that the hip belt stores away like it does. The GR3 belt can get a little unwieldy at the airport.
Size: The GR3 can compress quite a bit, but it's wider than the GR2 and GR1. GR3 compression is more "fluid" vs the more controlled zipping & buttoning on the PD Pack. I feel about the same with these two systems and don't prefer one over the other.
Accessories: Thicker straps doesn't necessarily mean more comfort - it's all about the density of the foam. Straps on each bag are quite comfortable, although the GR3 will take a bit of breaking in!
Have you considered trying to cut down on your loadout and use your 34L GR2? Here's what I did for about 2 years in the 40L version if it helps for some inspo! packhacker.com/blog/general/everything-you-need-to-travel-the-world-in-one-backpack/
- Tom
@@PackHacker So, just got the Peak Design Travel pack in the mail today. It is pretty cool. Lots of features and you can tell that every feature has been considered.
I'm not a big fan of the rotatable straps either. They didn't feel like they would stow well enough as there is a bit of bulk with the waist belt and straps stowed. The magnets felt barely strong enough to secure the bulk to the body, and it's not uncommon for only one magnet to be engaged.
However, I hate the zippers. The pulls are too small, with the exception of the main pulls, and they feel insubstantial. I do like that they are similar to the waterproof rubberized covered zippers YKK uses (GR doesn't use these since they use zipper track covers). I don't feel confident in them like I do with GR bags.
It's certainly a better aesthetic for sleek, minimalistic travel, but I can't help but miss the heft and security I get from a GORUCK pack.
@@thatchanguy - thanks for dropping your comment here, Chris! GORUCK & Peak Design are quite different when compared side by side, and it's great you were able to do that & decide what the best pack for you is. As far as the zipper pulls go - you can swap them out! Have you seen Bo's video on how to do this? czcams.com/video/S1AceZwFVJM/video.html
- Tom
@@PackHacker Ooh, thanks for sharing. I might just do that, although I'll likely do the GORUCK style of pulls. I tend to like those, although they can be tiring on your fingers over time.
@@thatchanguy - definitely - the GORUCK style pulls with the paracord and heat shrink are nice & pullable. They have a nice "how to install" video on their product page as well: packha.kr/onnn
- Tom
Hi Tom, how is this pack traveling over time? There isn’t a usage update over one month on your site, and very few reviews I can find where people have used this for more than a few weeks - interested to know if it holds up and continues to impress over time
Hey Elisha, we're currently working on updating our usage timelines across our reviews so keep an eye out. For the Peak Design Travel Pack after two months of testing, it's still holding up well. Hope this helps! 😊
- Rebecca
Trying to decide between the Peak and the AER Travel Pack 2. Which do you recommend? Thanks!!
Hey Misashinoko - they're both really great packs and rank as some of the best we've reviewed to date, so it's tough to recommend one over the other. The Peak Design can be expanded to 45L, so if there are instances when that may come in handy, maybe that's the route to go. Otherwise, if 33L is plenty then the Aer will provide a lightweight and smaller form factor on your back. Hope this helps, and we'd love to know what one you end up going with! All the best,
- Nathan
Does it stand on its own without falling?
The main zipper broke on my Everyday Backpack 2 broke after two uses. I had purchased this bag new from Peak Design and they promptly sent me a new one once I sent the old one back. Problem is the "new" bag was clearly a refirb older bag that someone else had returned for repair. There was nothing wrong with the replacement bag, but it looked old. In the end, I paid for a new bag, had if for 2 weeks, and then got it exchanged for an obviously used bag. I have to admit I feel a bit ripped off. After hearing that others have had this problem, there is no way I am going to take this bag on a trip for the same reasons cited by Pack Hacker.
Thanks for sharing your experience with us here, Karl. That sounds awful. Hope you've been able to find a pack that works better for you since then.
- Rebecca
Love this, wish I could justify spending the money on it 😢
About the zipper issue, that’s so true as mine failed and I have stayed away from PD because of this
Hey LeMonk- what a bummer! Which PD pack were you using?
-Hannah
Pack Hacker the 10L Sling. And it was mid trip. Very frustrating. But from some others’ stats i guess I’m the unlucky one
Bummer! 👎 Let us know what pack you decide on next!
-Hannah
Between the Cotopaxi 35L and the peak design what would you recommend? Week trips, mission trips, some business trips..
I cant decide too
Any word on release date for shipping? I didn’t see it on the site, although I might have just overlooked it...Thanks in advance
Hey Michael, the kickstarter says an estimated date of December 2018 👍
-Hannah
Own both Aer Travel Pack 2 and Peak Design. It isn’t close. PD is by far the best.
Hey J Johnson - we're glad that the Peak Design Travel Backpack is working so well for you, thanks for sharing! 😊👍
- Rebecca
J Johnson oh could you explain why please ? I'm torn between the two so having the perspective of someone who owns both would really help 👍🏼
@@florawirz7613 Capacity, for one. PD is much larger, in roughly the same footprint. PD also stands up on its own. I'm a portrait and wedding photographer, so the cubes are important to me. I use a 30L PD Everyday backpack as my daily driver.
By switching out cubes, I can make this my wedding bag; weddings have a lot more equipment required.
For travel, the extra capacity is invaluable.
in 30l mode, can i put pouches vertically/horizontally at the top? what other backpack allows easy access to camera and can carry clothes?
Hey LC Siew, you shouldn't have any problems-it's worked out for us! We recommend checking out the Rolltop Camera Backpack by Brevitē ( packhacker.com/travel-gear/brevite/rolltop-camera-backpack/ ) and the Niko F-Stop Camera Backpack by Chrome Industries ( packhacker.com/travel-gear/chrome/niko-f-stop-camera-backpack/ ).
-Hannah
Peak Design Travel Pack or Aer Travel Pack 2 or Tortuga Setout Divide? Can you rank them? 1 as the best. Tnx!
All are solid options! Check out our ratings found in each review.
Peak Design Travel Backpack: packhacker.com/travel-gear/peak-design/travel-backpack/
Aer Travel Pack 2: packhacker.com/travel-gear/aer/travel-pack-2-2/
Tortuga Setout Divide: packhacker.com/travel-gear/tortuga/setout-divide-backpack/
-Hannah
Fantastic overview! Seems like an awesome travel backpack feature-wise. From all the videos i've seen though, it looks really ugly and huge on the back unless you're 6ft. or taller.
Hey funkforyourtrunk, definitely an awesome pack! Any other packs you prefer?
-Hannah
Any comment on how it flies? Was wondering your experience with it. How was it trying to put it under the airplane chair, etc?
15:34 🙂 - of course a massive backpack is best in the overhead bin, but this will fit under an airplane seat in compressed mode with a bit of work.
- Tom
In terms of weight, how much difference is there between the Everyday backpack 20L and the 45L ?
I currently have the 20 and I do feel like I might want sometimes to use a 1 bag for longer trips or have more options but I'm a small person and I don't want to add too much weight...
Hey DimusTech - the Peak Design Travel Backpack is 4.55lbs and the Everyday Backpack 20L is 4lbs. 😊
- Rebecca
I love my one or two decade old Eagle Creek. I think is 45L too (dimensions very similar), but it has nothing for laptop. Made of Cordura bombcloth, has metal stays, and weighs 5 lbs. I can wear it all over IF I limit weight to about 20 lbs. Since Peak Design is comparable at 0.5 lbs lighter AND has a computer laptop sleeve, I decided to take the plunge.
is there a separate pocket on the side for shoes? (something entirely closed)
Hey Rachel, the main compartment in this pack is pretty much like a big bucket that works well with the Peak Design Packing Cubes packhacker.com/travel-gear/peak-design/packing-cubes/ - you can find out more info about this in our full written review packhacker.com/travel-gear/peak-design/travel-backpack/ where we go through all of the features.
However, if you're looking for a backpack with a shoe compartment, you can also check out the Aer Travel Pack 2 packhacker.com/travel-gear/aer/travel-pack-2-2/ - hope this helps! 😊
- Rebecca
What an amazing video. Thanks for doing this!
Question: on 15:35 it seems like you try to fit the bag under an airplane seat.
How good did it fit?
Can someone hope to put this bag under an airplane seat?
Hey Nicholas! It's a tight squeeze, but it's possible to fit under the seat when in the compressed mode (2 compression zippers zipped up.) We tested this on two Delta flights.
- Tom
This bag exceeds 19 inches tall. Most underseats on domestic give you 19 inches. It will exceed the width so it has to go in lengthwise. Which means flight attendants won't allow it under the seat sticking out into the row. Especially in exit rows. It's going to have to go in the overhead most times. If they made one 19 inches it would be perfect (i use a manfrotto now which is 19" and it just fits the seat width - but it fits).
S Larkson Thanks S! Appreciate the input. I am hoping that carrying it less than half full will allow me to squeeze it in in that space. Let's see how that works.
@@NicholasAngelidis1 how did it go using it as a personal item?
@@pkownada Unfortunately, i haven't used it as a personal item yet.