Last updated: December 30, 2018 – Still in progress
I am currently looking for a backpack that I can use as a day-pack as well as travel. So I figured I would keep a journal of my progress and research here. I have some specific criteria:
- I want something that is convertible between 20-30L. I feel that is a comfortable range for my general daily use and travel
- For travel, I want enough space to pack for a 2-3 day trip while staying compliant with carry-on restrictions on flights as a personal item
- Lastly, I need it to carry a 15″ laptop
My current research so far has lead me to the following:
- NOMATIC Travel Pack
- Tortuga Setout Divide Backpack
- WANDRD PRVKE 21L
- Boundary Supply Prima System Modular Travel Backpack
- Medium Expandable Knack Pack
NOMATIC Travel Pack
Available from nomatic.com and they are currently having a holiday promotion where you can get $75 USD off select bags.
What I like:
- Looks appropriate for office use
- Expands from 20L to 30L
- Luggage style expansion keeps the look of the backpack clean
What I dislike:
- The suggested method of keeping the zippers for the main compartment secure by using zip ties through the eyelet is such an afterthought. Unfortunate oversight for what would otherwise be a well thought out backpack.
- The waist strap, while great that it is included, has limited functionality and won’t be capable of carrying more than cash or cards. Where am I suppose to put my phone?
Tortuga Setout Divide Backpack
Available from tortugabackpacks.com
What I like:
- Expands from 26L to 34L
- Looks pretty decent, and passable for office use
- Luggage style expansion keeps the look of the backpack clean
- The hip belt has more functionality compared Nomatic’s offering
- Rain cover available as a separate purchase
What I dislike:
- Starting at 26L may be too big for my daily use
- The front compartments don’t open completely and feels cumbersome to get things out.
- Rain cover makes it on the dislike list because for the cost the bag, you’d think they can include it.
WANDRD PRVKE 21L
Available from wandrd.com
What I like:
- Can triple as a functional camera bag
What I dislike:
- Capacity is not as flexible
- Rucksack style bag doesn’t look as professional
Boundary Supply Prima System Modular Travel Backpack
Available from boundarysupply.com
What I like:
- Can triple as a functional camera bag
- Expands from 25L to 35L
What I dislike:
- There seems to be some wasted space at the bottom of the bag when the camera module is installed.
- Top quick access compartment becomes less useful as you fill the bag up.
- I suspect that at its max capacity of 30L, the backpack dimensions will exceed the dimensions of what is allowed as a personal carry-on item on flights.
Medium Expandable Knack Pack®
Available from knackbags.com
What I like:
- Looks appropriate for office use
- Expands from 17L to 31L
- Luggage style expansion keeps the look of the backpack clean
What I dislike:
- Full carrying capacity is split between two compartments.
If you have any additional suggestions I should consider, please leave a comment below.