Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC 30L (2023) - Initial Review
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- čas přidán 10. 02. 2023
- An overview of Patagonia's 2023 Black Hole Mini MLC 30L backpack. Designed for travel, but capable of everyday carry (EDC) use as well. Combining the storage of a duffel bag, with the organization of a backpack, while being made of weather resistant recycled polyester. This bag seems like a winner to me, but will it become the best all around EDC and travel companions? Let's put it to the test.
I just got mine a week ago in Smolder Blue because my first choice of color (black) wasn't available. Boy, am I glad I got the Smolder Blue because this color is so low-profile and yet very attractive. Way above my expectations. The branding is also very subtle. I practice-packed and knew I made the right choice right away. Apart from the color, I do like its versatility of converting it from backpack to duffle and then to briefcase with a very clean look. It also stands by itself which is a must for me. I can't wait to go on my first trip with this next month.
I noticed these bags are so popular that it's reallly difficult to find them (got mine from REI). I have a feeling it will be for the next two seasons due to the predicted volume of people traveling this year. My advice is, broaden your preference in colors when they become available because chances are, if your first preference is not available and you wait out, you might have to wait a little longer on its availability.
By the way, great review. You touched on all the most important features of this wonderful bag.
I just got this last Wednesday, haha. hoping to use it in a future trip!
I bought this bag today at Patagonia store. I love it ! My 15.4" Thinkpad, 1" thick fits snugly in laptop sleeve. Very comfortable in backpack mode !
@scottr7078 Enjoy!!
Great review
Great video!! Didn't even know that came out with a new one. I've had the older model for a while now. I use it for weekend trips and I love it! My biggest issue with is was not having a water bottle holder.. and boom! Thanks again!
Thank you! I hope you enjoy the new one as well!
Thanks for the overview! I am strongly considering to get this for everyday use - looks quite ideal to use as a work+sports bag. Guess the only problem is they are out of stock everywhere haha
p.s. can't wait to see you long term review
The small strap on the bottom is actually for you to hook over the bars of a larger wheeled bag when carrying the two in and out of a taxi and/or airport for checking-in.
It's for both purposes, not just one or the other.
I believe that they get the extra few liters to make it 30L on the stretchy side pocket as other companies do the same thing.
I bought the same bag in November 2022 and it was marketed as 26 L. Couple months later they changed it to 30 L even though it’s the same product. I think they get the extra liters from the back admin, panel, and inside pockets
That explains A LOT. I thought I was going crazy. lol
Oh, I was checking for the 26l cause I wanted something smaller but now I know it's the same!
I got this one for everyday use. It's a gŕeat bag for commuting but it gets uncomfortable if filled with heavy stuff (groceries). Shoulderstraps are thin and the waiststrap doesn't help much. But i'am still happy with it. No way this is a 30l, i own two 30l backpacks and i can't fit their content in the patagonia.
well said, Bryan.
Love the review -- thank you. I'm seriously considering the pack. However, I'm also curious about the hoodie you're wearing in the video. It looks super comfy -- what brand/model is it?
@Shpiker Thank you! The hoodie is a Melanzana Micro Grid, and you’re right, it’s very comfortable. I’ve had it for a few years now and would definitely get another. Hope this helps!
Excellent review of a handsome bag which, unfortunately, has the same deficiency as my Goruk GR2 has relative to travel use, namely, no external, easy access pocket with addman features for travel papers, pens, and other quick-need items. A strange omission by Patagonia and the GR2,s front pocket is worthless. Thanks for clear and intelligent review.
That grab handle on the back? I think it's also, or even primarily, a roller luggage handle pass-through
Right you are!
Great review, just ordered mine in the blue as well. Can I ask you what carabiner you have attached to the one corner? Name/model# by any chance? It fits so well in that spot
It’s a Black Diamond, but not sure of model unfortunately, just a run of the mill carabiner I had laying around. Sorry!
Question, after filling up the large compartment with clothing and other items, I notice the weight distribution will be greater towards the from of the bag rather than against your back. Will this feel awkward, and will this stress the zipper over time? Thank you
@charlenesterm2498 I haven't noticed any discomfort in the load distribution, and I've overstuffed this bag without being worried about the zippers. Hope that helps!
Is there a risk that by trying to be 3 good bags its falls short on on being an ergonomic backpack?
@demon1spence Yes, there are a couple of drawbacks about the versatility, but overall, I'd say the added benefits outweighs the disadvantages
Do you think it will fit 17 inch laptop? Great review.
17” may be a touch big… Patagonia says it will fit a 16”. I measured the laptop sleeve and it’s 11” wide x 17” deep. Hope that helps!
is there a way to adjust backstrap length?
Yes, the shoulder straps do have length adjustments!
Does this bag pack down into itself like the black hold duffel does?
It does not, no
Think I could get a 16" laptop in the sleeve? Thanks
@giantasparagus Yup! 16” should be fine
@@SJA-Reviews Thanks!
i love the design but i wish it could be a bit shorter as I'm only 5'2" (160cm) tall and looking for something versatile but may be 15 to 16" long. so i'm a bit hesitate if I should get it as it would look huge on my back.
@jenwang7187 I’ve seen a couple reviews from people around your height and they did find the bag to be a bit too big for their back. It could still work as a duffel/messenger bag though?
@@SJA-Reviews most time, I plan to use it like a backpack. too bad, features are good. well, hopefully they'll have shorter version in the future.
Do you think it would fit under the airline seat?
I’m confident it would, although it probably wouldn’t leave much room for your feet. I will be traveling with it in a week or two and can let you know for sure!
I flew with one fully packed out under the seat on delta. Not ideal for foot space, but nice to know you can do it in a pinch if the overhead bins fill before you board.
I flew to Austin this past weekend with this bag. Can confirm it fits perfectly under an airline seat. I recommend turning it into duffle mode while doing this.
I have both this bag and the previous. It is bigger than the 26mlc version. There are a lot of changes from the older version.
It does work as a personal (under seat) item on US airlines. For discount airlines like Spirit or Frontier you do not need to pay for a bag. I can easily do a long weekend or push it out to 5 days with just this. Best bag I’ve used.
I enjoyed the content. Could you do some videos of you using the gear in the field? Some pros/cons…thanks! Subbed.
great review! is not 26L tho?
Thank you! And yes, Patagonia is marketing it as a 30L as of spring 2023. Hope this helps!
Is this water proof or water resistant?
@stanleyl.9026 Water resistant
Puedes conseguirte para enseñar las otros tamaños
@FelipeMolina-ce3yl ¿Como este? ¿O diferente? ¡Gracias!
czcams.com/video/dcxWVOIThTI/video.html
@@SJA-Reviews si muchas gracias desde Punta Arenas Chile