4-Day Travel Backpack

[rob_s]

No, not a dad bag (https://pistol-forum.com/showthread.php?23854-Need-new-dad-bag/page20), and no, not a laptop bag/briefcase (https://pistol-forum.com/showthread.php?19647-Laptop-bag-briefcase), but another type of bag thread... the travel backpack! The bag kind of needs to do a bit of what the other two do, plus a little more and a little less.

some basic criteria:

hold 5-ish days worth of clothes (e.g. two pairs of jeans, 5 t-shirts, 5 underpants, 5 pair socks, perhaps a jacket, etc.)
hold a 17" laptop (15.5"x10"x1.25")
has a separate compartment for an iPad (plus if it's easily accessed from the outside)
has at least one externally-accessed pocket (pills, ID, sunglasses, phone, that type of thing but not all at once)
at least one water bottle holder, prefer two, on the sides (may not be a deal killer)
be as big as it needs to be, but not bigger than it has to be (ability to cinch down when empty a plus)
prefer a "clamshell" design, particularly if it includes zipper stops to keep the whole thing from flopping open)
doesn't need to have compartments for electronics (chargers, etc.) or toiletries as those are in dedicated pouches I can just drop in
probably goes without saying, but needs to fit in overhead bin (can't imagine I'll get it under the seat)
the lighter the better
needs to be at least passable in an office environment



this one doesn't have the water bottle pouches on the sides, but I'd love it if it worked for this because I've wanted one since they were announced. :p

ETA: It also happens not to fit my laptop :(
Tom Bihn Synik 30 (https://www.tombihn.com/collections/travel-bags/products/synik-30?variant=15334842400831)

62293

[littlejerry]

Probably not your style, and doesn't meet all of your criteria, but I bought a GR2 for this task. So far it has worked well for my limited business travel during Covid.

[rob_s]

Probably not your style, and doesn't meet all of your criteria, but I bought a GR2 for this task. So far it has worked well for my limited business travel during Covid.

The molle is particularly distasteful to me. and it may be a bit larger for me, but the GR1 (https://www.goruck.com/collections/rucksacks/products/gr1?variant=32874238574692) in a 26L *might* ben an option as it appears to have slightly less molle.

Thanks!

[RJ]

For the last 20 years of business travel, I used a Swissgear / Victronix / Wenger backpack. There are oodles of different designs available. I found they were very very durable, and had features I liked a lot. Just enough room for change(s) of clothes as needed on short business trips; easy to wear while running through hotels and airports, enough pockets for my stuff to be organized in a consistent manner, and setup for business use with dedicated laptop pocket sleeves as well as various key rings, inside zipper pockets, pen holders, etc. It never looked out of place anywhere from the Boardroom to Construction sites.

I paired it with a nice large leather billfold for frequent travel cards, passport/identity papers/foreign DLs, and multiple currency types. All I had to add for staying anywhere literally forever (hint: ExOfficio Underwear :cool:) with extra clothes was a small rollaboard 20" or less case.

Not precisely mine, but this is very close:

62294

[rob_s]

I came across this guy, and having recently picked up a sling bag from them I'm a huge fan of the brand. There's two sizes too.

https://www.aersf.com/travel-pack-2-black/

[ST911]

No, not a dad bag (https://pistol-forum.com/showthread.php?23854-Need-new-dad-bag/page20), and no, not a laptop bag/briefcase (https://pistol-forum.com/showthread.php?19647-Laptop-bag-briefcase), but another type of bag thread... the travel backpack! The bag kind of needs to do a bit of what the other two do, plus a little more and a little less.

When you say "backpack", do you want a bonafide backpack that you can wear comfortably for longer periods, or something you can throw on your back temporarily as you walk through concourses or in and out of hotels?

[rob_s]

When you say "backpack", do you want a bonafide backpack that you can wear comfortably for longer periods, or something you can throw on your back temporarily as you walk through concourses or in and out of hotels?

that's a great question, and something I'm not 100% on. Historically I've hated convertible bag/packs, but this may be one instance where it would work well, particularly as I have to go from airport, to car/bus/train, to hotel, to construction site (all possible "backpack" mode) but then also into corporate offices (possible "briefcase" mode).

[ST911]

that's a great question, and something I'm not 100% on. Historically I've hated convertible bag/packs, but this may be one instance where it would work well, particularly as I have to go from airport, to car/bus/train, to hotel, to construction site (all possible "backpack" mode) but then also into corporate offices (possible "briefcase" mode).

You'll be in the 40-70L range then, depending on your packing.

Check out the Osprey Transporter: https://www.osprey.com/us/en/product/transporter-duffel-65-TRNSPTR65_333.html

I have bunch. Stowable straps. These have the access and accessory pockets it sounds like you're looking for. No water bottle slots but you could add an accessory pouch. The 65 stuffs underneath airline seats pretty easily except on some puddle jumpers. They're not business appearance, but aren't sport or tactical either. Their exterior is slick and keeps them from snagging on stuff. On some sizes or model years, minor features change like stowability of straps. I wouldn't hike it, but its comfy enough to get through airports, public transit, a few city blocks, etc.

The Deuter Aviant line is GTG. Check out the Aviant Access 38 or 55 backpack, here: https://www.deuterusa.com/products/aviant-access-38?variant=29393661853814

Same concept as the Transporter, more backpack or "travel case" than duffel.

[rob_s]

You'll be in the 40-70L range then, depending on your packing.

Check out the Osprey Transporter: https://www.osprey.com/us/en/product/transporter-duffel-65-TRNSPTR65_333.html

I have bunch. Stowable straps. These have the access and accessory pockets it sounds like you're looking for. No water bottle slots but you could add an accessory pouch. The 65 stuffs underneath airline seats pretty easily except on some puddle jumpers. They're not business appearance, but aren't sport or tactical either. Their exterior is slick and keeps them from snagging on stuff. On some sizes or model years, minor features change like stowability of straps. I wouldn't hike it, but its comfy enough to get through airports, public transit, a few city blocks, etc.

The Deuter Aviant line is GTG. Check out the Aviant Access 38 or 55 backpack, here: https://www.deuterusa.com/products/aviant-access-38?variant=29393661853814

Same concept as the Transporter, more backpack or "travel case" than duffel.

I think both of those are a bit more "hiker" than I'd like. Would be great for personal use but in this case I need to defer to the more stringent of the locations, and that's office appearance. Needs to be passable in a professional office first and then on personal trips the appearance won't matter.

good info on the size thing. I tend to try and size down, and have kept my various "dad bags" small-ish. I'm always amazed at how much clothing I can stuff into a bag, although when that includes business clothes it gets a bit tougher.

[farscott]

I have a Tom Bihn Synix 30. I use it as a two-day travel backpack so I do not have to check bags. There is a water bottle pocket, but it is centered in the rear of the bag to avoid throwing the bag off balance. It will hold a thirteen-inch laptop and an iPad Pro just fine, but I doubt my seventeen-inch laptop would fit. It would definitely be too heavy.

[TGS]

Why do you need to bring a 50l-70l bag, with all your clothes, hygiene supplies, etc for a week long trip...into an office, in a manner that is "business" appropriate?

[rob_s]

Why do you need to bring a 50l-70l bag, with all your clothes, hygiene supplies, etc for a week long trip...into an office, in a manner that is "business" appropriate?

couple of things...

1) I'm not entirely convinced the bag will need to be that big
2) quite often meetings occur on the arrival or departure day. I don't want to schlep my heft bag into an office, and I don't want to have to go back to the hotel to retrieve a bag
3) if done right, I think I can leave the clothes and hygiene supplies behind and cinch or zipper down the larger compartment to at lease make it passable. note how the AER cinches down here https://youtu.be/YKO_2XMkz7w?t=1109
4) not really thinking week-long here. More like a two-day with a travel day on either end, or a long weekend (fly out Friday, return Monday) for personal trips

[Cookie Monster]

The last few years I have been using a Patagonia MLC. A little on the big side at 45L but allows me to add stuff when traveling with the kids and gives me the room for my electric travel kettle. Awesome organization that is great to live out of with the additions of some packing cubes. If you stuff it, it won’t fit in the over head on little regional planes and the convertible backpack straps and lack of a hip belt maxs out comfort at 22 or so pounds. But If you are traveling with more weight then that with one bag travel then you are doing it wrong.

If I was looking to collect bags, I probably get a Tortuga Travel Pack as well but I am committed to the MLC until it is non functional. 150 days of traveling in the 3 or 4 years and no significant wear - not a lot for you pros out there but enough for traveling for me.

[pangloss]

You want the Osprey Porter, not the Transporter.

Sent from my moto e5 cruise using Tapatalk

[GJM]

My wife and I have used this bag from mystery ranch for the last three or four years with complete satisfaction.


https://www.mysteryranch.com/mission-rover-bag

[Balisong]

Take a look at the Oakley Kitchen Sink. The gf and I loved the one I got so much that we got another one for her. I think it would fit your needs nicely and I have used it as carry-on several times.

https://www.oakley.com/en-us/product/92060A?skuCode=92060A-013

[TGS]

4) not really thinking week-long here. More like a two-day with a travel day on either end, or a long weekend (fly out Friday, return Monday) for personal trips

I guess I got confused and should have realized it was a 2-day bag for personal trips when you wrote a requirement for "5-ish days" for trips that can be taken into an office. In the latter context, I can't imagine any office culture outside Wall Street that deals with a travelling agent end up having an issue or sneering at you dropping a generic backpack (outdoors type or not) in the corner while you do your business before flying out. Sort of like the topic of wearing sneakers with a suit while commuting to work....nobody actually gives a shit, it just makes sense.

The only thing worth actually thinking about for 2-day trips is the likelihood of you flying on regional jets like the ERJ-145. If so, they can't fit standard carry-on sized luggage in the overhead compartments; that includes these larger-ish backpacks with wheels.

Splitting between a 20-25l laptop backpack and a sling-bag or satchel that fits nicely under the seat may be preferable, if that's a likely possibility. Fjallraven, Amazon Basics, VertX Gamut backpack or VertX Transit sling, Nut-Sac, PacSafe, whatever.

Me personally, I haven't found a situation under 5 days that isn't covered by using a satchel/sling bag under the seat and a VertX Gamut or traditional carry-on luggage over-head. When my current satchel from a street-vendor in Spain gives way, I'll probably buy a Nut-Sac.

[JAD]

I have used a GR1 for five day international business travel since 2012. It is durable to task and the simple internal layout makes using a packing cube to hold my private stuff really easy; I then ditch the cube in the hotel room or rental car when going in to customers.

I added a GR2 for last year to make it a little easier to pull off in winter, but I still use the GR1 half the time. I understand your distaste for molle and every once in a while GR makes their packs in a slick format, but ultimately it doesn't bother me that much.

It is also really important to me that the gear I buy from GR is U.S. made, though not all their stuff is.

Like Glocks and ARs, there's usually a reason that common is common.

[DamonL]

Here are some reviews of various packs that might help.

https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/topics/travel/best-travel-backpack

https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-carry-on-travel-bags/

[vcdgrips]

Ebags was my first stop when I got on my one bag one world travel style kick a few years back. I bought a Motherlode, augmented it with their eBags brand packing cubes and traveled for 5 days with ease. While I did not carry a 17 inch laptop, the Motherlode series will carry one that big as the the opening/area for it is huge.

https://www.ebags.com/backpacks/travel-backpacks/

Ebags is in the midst of a style/colorway switch out and you can get said bag for 45ish to 89ish depending on color way. The motherlode series has a zip out water bottle carrier. I never used it as I prefer using a platypus style bottle as it weighs a fraction of a nalgene or other bottle and roles down to nothing in terms of taking up room.

Knowing everything I know now having taken dozens of road/flight trips with it, I now do the following
1. I would buy the "Jr" sized bag and save a few inches of linear space to maximize its ability to fit in poorly loaded overhead bins and under seats
2. I have switched to eagle creek specter packing cubes because they are lighter that the ebag ones
3. I make a travel list for every trip plugging in weather, dress code and plane size. After a few trips, you know exactly what to take and how to pack it.


Ebags latest and greatest is 175 ish, claims to fit a 18 inch laptop and is double clamshelled for a tech side and a clothes side. It also has taken some design cues from Tom Bihn (at least) re including included/integrated packing cubes/storage bags

https://www.ebags.com/backpacks/travel-backpacks/luxon-travel-backpack/136205XXXX.html?dwvar_136205XXXX_color=Black&cgidmaster=travel-backpacks#

One question you need to asks yourself is how heavy is this bag going to get and how far to you have to tote it as most travel backpacks have marginal waist belts that transfer little to no weight to the hips. If you are going to really load this thing up, Osprey or some of the more boutique brand mentioned in the article below may be the way to go.

Osprey is never a bad choice as their warranty is a no BS for life and you could likely test laptop fit at any number of retailers. They are also having quite a sale as they too are changing up styles/colorways.
https://www.osprey.com/us/en/category/sale/

Finally: a recent NYT/Wirecutter article review re travel backpacks:
https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-carry-on-travel-bags/

Let us know what you do.

[ST911]

You want the Osprey Porter, not the Transporter.

Also a great bag.

@rob_s (https://pistol-forum.com/member.php?u=2173) - It wouldn't have a few features, but the Arcteryx Covert CO case is smaller, and might pass more without losing functionality. Not sure if they still make it?

[rob_s]

This probably isn't a thread/discussion where you have much to offer based on your posts so far. If this is a use-case you can't fathom, then... But I'll reply anyway.


I guess I got confused and should have realized it was a 2-day bag for personal trips when you wrote a requirement for "5-ish days" for trips that can be taken into an office. In the latter context, I can't imagine any office culture outside Wall Street that deals with a travelling agent end up having an issue or sneering at you dropping a generic backpack (outdoors type or not) in the corner while you do your business before flying out. Sort of like the topic of wearing sneakers with a suit while commuting to work....nobody actually gives a shit, it just makes sense.
I'm in commercial construction. If I want to do the least amount possible, and present that appearance and impression, I could show up in a corporate office in dirty boots, jeans, a flannel shirt, and some giant hipster/biker beard. Some wouldn't care, some would even be impressed, and neither of those groups much matter. I'm interested in presenting an appearance based on my experience over 20 years in the industry to affect as much influence, innovation, and improvement as I can, and advance my career as rapidly as possible to make more money and have greater job security. you don't do that, at least in my business, showing up in a suit and sneakers.


The only thing worth actually thinking about for 2-day trips is the likelihood of you flying on regional jets like the ERJ-145. If so, they can't fit standard carry-on sized luggage in the overhead compartments; that includes these larger-ish backpacks with wheels.
that's good to know. I haven't had to spend much time on smaller planes, but that likelihood is increasing.


Splitting between a 20-25l laptop backpack and a sling-bag or satchel that fits nicely under the seat may be preferable, if that's a likely possibility. Fjallraven, Amazon Basics, VertX Gamut backpack or VertX Transit sling, Nut-Sac, PacSafe, whatever.

Me personally, I haven't found a situation under 5 days that isn't covered by using a satchel/sling bag under the seat and a VertX Gamut or traditional carry-on luggage over-head. When my current satchel from a street-vendor in Spain gives way, I'll probably buy a Nut-Sac.

I can easily do the two-bag thing with what I have now. that's what I do now. What I'd prefer to do is narrow it down to a single bag, particularly for certain trips.

[littlejerry]

The Evergoods brand packs were mentioned in a
Luckygunner video. They look well designed and more discreet than Goruck.

https://evergoods.us/collections/packs

My 26L GR1 is a bit too tight for me for 4 days. I'm usually packing gym clothes, athletic shoes, plus the normal business attire. The 34L GR2 is big enough for 3-4 days if I pack light. YMMV.

[BobM]

You might look at the Aston House Backcountry in black from Hillpeople Gear. I believe it was designed for business travel but also useable outdoors.

[littlejerry]

You might look at the Aston House Backcountry in black from Hillpeople Gear. I believe it was designed for business travel but also useable outdoors.

I have and use this for 1-2 night backpacking and hunting trips. Would not recommend for normal commuter travel. Too many fiddly and snaggy straps, not comfortable enough with just the shoulder harness, and zero organization.

Great for the intended use in the woods and long distance rucking. Not my first choice for commuting.

[rob_s]

Ebags was my first stop when I got on my one bag one world travel style kick a few years back. I bought a Motherlode, augmented it with their eBags brand packing cubes and traveled for 5 days with ease. While I did not carry a 17 inch laptop, the Motherlode series will carry one that big as the the opening/area for it is huge.

https://www.ebags.com/backpacks/travel-backpacks/

Ebags is in the midst of a style/colorway switch out and you can get said bag for 45ish to 89ish depending on color way. The motherlode series has a zip out water bottle carrier. I never used it as I prefer using a platypus style bottle as it weighs a fraction of a nalgene or other bottle and roles down to nothing in terms of taking up room.

Knowing everything I know now having taken dozens of road/flight trips with it, I now do the following
1. I would buy the "Jr" sized bag and save a few inches of linear space to maximize its ability to fit in poorly loaded overhead bins and under seats
2. I have switched to eagle creek specter packing cubes because they are lighter that the ebag ones
3. I make a travel list for every trip plugging in weather, dress code and plane size. After a few trips, you know exactly what to take and how to pack it.
That's great info, and very helpful, thanks. The Jr looks interesting
https://www.ebags.com/backpacks/travel-backpacks/mother-lode-jr-travel-backpack/117769XXXX.html?dwvar_117769XXXX_color=Garnet&cgidmaster=



Ebags latest and greatest is 175 ish, claims to fit a 18 inch laptop and is double clamshelled for a tech side and a clothes side. It also has taken some design cues from Tom Bihn (at least) re including included/integrated packing cubes/storage bags

https://www.ebags.com/backpacks/travel-backpacks/luxon-travel-backpack/136205XXXX.html?dwvar_136205XXXX_color=Black&cgidmaster=travel-backpacks#
this would be great if it had compression straps or a zipper to allow the bag to collapse down when no clothes inside.



One question you need to asks yourself is how heavy is this bag going to get and how far to you have to tote it as most travel backpacks have marginal waist belts that transfer little to no weight to the hips. If you are going to really load this thing up, Osprey or some of the more boutique brand mentioned in the article below may be the way to go.
That's a great point. One reason I'd like to keep the bag smaller is that it'll reduce my desire to over-fill.

[littlejerry]

I get where Rob is coming from. I've been on a number of trips where I was staying in a different city, or even country, every night. That means jumping from hotels to taxis to boardrooms, to planes, back to taxis, then factory floors. Usually with 12hrs of jet lag. The fewer pieces I have to carry, the better.

My favorite feature of the GR2 is the separate front compartment. It lets me segregate office supplies from clothing/toiletries so I don't accidentally dump my dirty underwear on a conference table when I'm pulling out my power supply/mouse/headset etc.

In my case I'm the customer 90% of the time, but I'm still representing a $10m business to people who are also dealing with our direct competitors. It's always in your best interest to give off the perception of professionalism and generally having your shit together. You also never know when you may get pulled into a meeting senior execs.

Moral of the story: don't look like a college student or retiree when traveling for work.

[Doc_Glock]

this one doesn't have the water bottle pouches on the sides, but I'd love it if it worked for this because I've wanted one since they were announced. :p

ETA: It also happens not to fit my laptop :(
Tom Bihn Synik 30 (https://www.tombihn.com/collections/travel-bags/products/synik-30?variant=15334842400831)

62293

The center bottle holder on the Synik was a happy surprise to me. I loved it.

Again recommend the Nomatic Travel Pack.

[rob_s]

Again recommend the Nomatic Travel Pack.

that looks great. Well, "looks great" isn't exactly right as the aesthetics aren't super great IMO but the overall functionality of it looks pretty damn good.


https://youtu.be/EX_r45_m078

[Doc_Glock]

that looks great. Well, "looks great" isn't exactly right as the aesthetics aren't super great IMO but the overall functionality of it looks pretty damn good.


https://youtu.be/EX_r45_m078


I have been using mine for 6 weeks for daily needs and one four day trip. I have walked probably a hundred miles and biked 6-8 hours with it and find it fits my needs. Remains to be see if it is durable.

As I have gone through this thread I see there are so many, many good options that it likely probably doesn't matter much, just find one and commit and it will probably work out.

Adding: The Synik feels higher quality, but it is not as functional as the Travel Pack. I don't use the Synik at all any more.

[TGS]

This probably isn't a thread/discussion where you have much to offer based on your posts so far. If this is a use-case you can't fathom, then...

Or, it's possible I've flown enough to come to the conclusion that 1-bag ideas aren't such great ideas, particularly when you have to represent yourself well to organizations (public and private). I apologize if I aggravated you by trying to parse out what you were actually needing to do. It's not my fault that your requirements started at a 5-day business trip, then it's a 2-day personal trip, and now we're back at business trips. I'm not a big-dick high stakes power player in construction like you are, so I didn't pick up whether there was a real purpose here or if it was just another one of your mental masturbation threads where you're intent on proving to the world how you can turn the simplest thing into mind-numbing difficulty.

I wish you the best of luck in your journeys.

[vcdgrips]

WARNING LONG POST-SLIGHT THREAT DRIFT RE ONE BAG TRAVEL GENERALLY

Factoring in new info re possible increased frequency flying regional jets, IMHO -30-35L is your max size. That Nomatic pack looks to be quite slick and is seemingly engineered to get under any seat given its profile. Tier One engineering-Tier One pricing. The eBags stuff is still likely to be the intersection of quality/value with Osprey likely the most comfortable way to carry the bag over long distances in airports etc.

Additionally, your 15.5 inch laptop which you characterize as a 17 inch one (I do not typically travel with a laptop so you know what you know) seems to be driving the train a bit. If you had a 15 inch laptop max, I suspect a whole cohort of 30-35 L bags would open up to you at 18-19 x 12-13 x 8-10 size wise, yo include the made in the USA Tom Bihn Line.

While reasonable minds can differ, based on you interaction with your customers, I have attached a 5 DAY Packing list for a business casual training trip. I like to fly in natural fabrics and otherwise pack lighter weight, wrinkle resistant synthetics. Every piece of clothing goes with everything. I tend to wear grey/black/blue non earth tones. a SECOND pair of shoes for me is always a big decision as I wear a 13 such that they take up room. If I was just traveling and not having to sell anything, I could definitely get by a monotone running style shoe (Allbirds etc.) which could pull double duty re being worn during the day and after 5 as well. If I was you and was only going to pack one pair of shoes, it would be a softer soled ecco/rockport/allen edmond etc that was well shined but I could go for a brisk walk in after work (3 miles- 45 minute max)

PACKING LIST
17 MAY 16 – 20 MAY 16/KC TO THE NAC (Columbia SC) VIA DULLES
WEATHER- MID 80S TO LOW 60S AND RAINY/ WILL FEEL LIKE 50S AT NIGHT
PLANES- EMBR 175/EMBR145 & EMBR 145/EMBR 175

BAG 1- EBAGS Motherlode(cinched down hard will fit sideways in overhead)/PACKED BACKPACK- BLK EDDIE BAUER (collapsible)
EAGLE CREEK SPECTER PACK CUBES


WEAR
1 COTTON/WOOL UW
1 COTTON/WOOL PANT
1 COTTON/WOOL SHIRT
1 TRAVEL BLAZER
1 COTTON/WOOL SOCK
1 PR SHOES (NICER THAN WORK OUT, LIKELY BLK LEATHER ECCOS)
1 WATCH
1 GLASSES
1 MEDAL
1 RING
1 BELT
GOVT ID
TRAVEL CASH
FLASHLIGHT
PEN




MAIN PACK
TRAVEL DOCS
CRED
WALLET
I PHONE CHARGER (G)
I PHONE (G)
I PHONE CHARGER CORD (G)
I PHONE HEADPHONES (G)
PERSONAL (P) PHONE
P PHONE CHARGER
P PHONE CHARGER CORD
EXTRA BATTS (CR123)
JOURNAL WITH ATTACHED PEN/PENCIL/HIGHLIGHTER IN SLEEVE
USB BATT PACK
H20 BOTTLE/SPORK/SNACKS/
FIRST AID KIT
FOLDABLE BACKPACK (EDDIE BAUER)

MAIN PACK (CONT)

FLEECE/THUMB SLEEVED FIRST ASCENT/SWEATER FOR COLD CLASSROOM
SUNGLASSES IN CASE
EXTRA GLASSES IN CASE
KINDLE FIRE STICK AND ACCESS.
LIGHTWEIGHT RAIN COAT

2- PANTS
2- L/S BUTTON UP SHIRTS
2- S/S SHIRTS (LIKELY MERINO WOOL FOR UNDERSHIRT OR FREE STANDING USE)


4 SOCKS
4 UW
1 WORK OUT SHIRT (POST CLASS HIKES)
1 PRANA/KUHL PANTS FOR HIKING?
1 WORK OUT /CASUAL SHOES (ON THE BUBBLE)
1 SLEEP SHIRT
1 SLEEP SHORTS

3-1-1(TOILETRIES BAG-ZIPLOCK/ALL TOILETRIES DECANTED INTO CONTACT LENSE CASES EXCEPT DEOD.)
BRUSH
HAIR GEL
MOISTURIZER
TP
TB
DEODORANT
SHAVE CREAM
SHAVE OIL
RAZOR

[rob_s]

Or, it's possible I've flown enough to come to the conclusion that 1-bag ideas aren't such great ideas, particularly when you have to represent yourself well to organizations (public and private). I apologize if I aggravated you by trying to parse out what you were actually needing to do. It's not my fault that your requirements started at a 5-day business trip, then it's a 2-day personal trip, and now we're back at business trips. I'm not a big-dick high stakes power player in construction like you are, so I didn't pick up whether there was a real purpose here or if it was just another one of your mental masturbation threads where you're intent on proving to the world how you can turn the simplest thing into mind-numbing difficulty.

I wish you the best of luck in your journeys.

62325

[Cookie Monster]

You want the Osprey Porter, not the Transporter.

Sent from my moto e5 cruise using Tapatalk

I had a Porter 60 - it could of been 60. Too big for carry on but a good bag. The Porter is nice though it lacks organization.

[rob_s]

Additionally, your 15.5 inch laptop which you characterize as a 17 inch one (I do not typically travel with a laptop so you know what you know) seems to be driving the train a bit. If you had a 15 inch laptop max, I suspect a whole cohort of 30-35 L bags would open up to you at 18-19 x 12-13 x 8-10 size wise, to include the made in the USA Tom Bihn Line.

just for clarity, I believe my current laptop is technically a 16" screen designed to fit into a ~15" body, but I may in the future wind up with a 17" and so would like to not have to buy a new bag at that time.

[flyrodr]

Here's one I've put a lot of miles on. Great for a slightly-longer-than-weekend trip.

https://fishpondusa.com/half-moon-weekender-bag-peat-moss

[Cookie Monster]

With laundry once a week and some basic resupply I could live out of a 45L bag indefinitely.

One bag is the way if you are hoteling and temps are 20+.

[rob_s]

Looks like bags has a new hotness, the Citylink Travel Backpack (https://www.ebags.com/backpacks/travel-backpacks/citylink-travel-backpack/136200XXXX.html) at $180

Which has them putting old busted (Mother Lode Jr Travel Backpack) on sale for quite the discount at ~$80.

[orionz06]

https://www.ula-equipment.com/product/atlas/

Email these guys and ask about a larger laptop compartment. I've got two of their bags and friends have closets full of their gear, all with nothing but good to say.

[luckyman]

My 2 cents ...

I’d consider at least a super-minimalistic case that can hold your laptop, charger, thumb drive, notebook, etc. and that you can maybe stuff in your luggage.

If you’re the big dog coming in, someone will offer to store your luggage in their office. Also, being taken around to different buildings is normal, and being driven to different sites is not uncommon You’ll want something to carry around your laptop in.

When you’re not the big dog, at least for me I’m always bemused by how many people get invited to meetings, normally filling the conference room to overflowing. You can end up as a little bit of “that guy” if you are the one that actually needs to be putting stuff in and out of your luggage during the day. That might not be an issue if you pretty much only use a laptop and always get your pen, thumb drive etc out at the start of the day, but that’s not me[emoji1].

If you’re someplace for a few days it’s nice to not schlep around your empty luggage.

It’s nice to be able to put your luggage overhead in the plane and still have something small to hold your laptop, kindle, earphones, etc

Finally if you end up in a small plane you can gate check your luggage and not be stressing about dropping your laptop.

[orionz06]

I can't imagine any office culture outside Wall Street that deals with a travelling agent end up having an issue or sneering at you dropping a generic backpack (outdoors type or not) in the corner while you do your business before flying out. Sort of like the topic of wearing sneakers with a suit while commuting to work....nobody actually gives a shit, it just makes sense.



It has affected hires, winning bids, and so much more in my slice of the engineering world. Some people might be OK dressing that way, but they don't get to choose entirely how they're perceived.

[TGS]

It has affected hires, winning bids, and so much more in my slice of the engineering world. Some people might be OK dressing that way, but they don't get to choose entirely how they're perceived.

Dressing what way? Wearing sneakers to presentations?

[orionz06]

Dressing what way? Wearing sneakers to presentations?

That, and how Rob described. One doesn't need to wear a full suit, or even dress up too terribly much, they just gotta do it well and not look like compromises were made. Not to drift things too much further.

[TGS]

That, and how Rob described. One doesn't need to wear a full suit, or even dress up too terribly much, they just gotta do it well and not look like compromises were made. Not to drift things too much further.

That's cool, really novel information, never knew that.

Is that applicable to what I wrote, about people commuting to work?

[orionz06]

That's cool, really novel information, never knew that.

Is that applicable to what I wrote, about people commuting to work?

Nope. Reading the thread backwards had me miss what you were getting at...

[rob_s]

My 2 cents ...

I’d consider at least a super-minimalistic case that can hold your laptop, charger, thumb drive, notebook, etc. and that you can maybe stuff in your luggage.

If you’re the big dog coming in, someone will offer to store your luggage in their office. Also, being taken around to different buildings is normal, and being driven to different sites is not uncommon You’ll want something to carry around your laptop in.

When you’re not the big dog, at least for me I’m always bemused by how many people get invited to meetings, normally filling the conference room to overflowing. You can end up as a little bit of “that guy” if you are the one that actually needs to be putting stuff in and out of your luggage during the day. That might not be an issue if you pretty much only use a laptop and always get your pen, thumb drive etc out at the start of the day, but that’s not me[emoji1].

If you’re someplace for a few days it’s nice to not schlep around your empty luggage.

It’s nice to be able to put your luggage overhead in the plane and still have something small to hold your laptop, kindle, earphones, etc

Finally if you end up in a small plane you can gate check your luggage and not be stressing about dropping your laptop.

Some good thoughts here. I’m not the big dog (yet!) but often I find that it’s the big dog that can get away with looking however he wants, then you have the middle dogs like me trying to present themselves well, and the bottom/little dogs that still think it doesn’t matter what they dress/look like (a thought that I myself probably held on to for a little too long...)

You make a good point on the separate bag thing. On The trip that originally inspired this thread there was a meeting attendee that had a very sleek shoulder bag that appeared to carry just a laptop and a few other odds and ends. I’m not sure that particular bag would work for me, but I’m going to think about what would be my “have to have” and see about a bag that holds just that, in any event. One issue is that I’m on the training, innovation, technology and efficiency side of the business and so I often “need” a laptop, a mouse to function correctly in some of our software, the large power brick that come with a performance laptop, and an iPad for the actual jobsite or training jobsite staff (not to mention various other cords and interfaces). Sidebar, but I’ve also been on the lookout for a small bag when I only need the iPad since for me the difference between laptop and no laptop is pretty huge (mostly due to the power brick :( )

And you also make a good point regarding gate checking, whether being forced to or volunteering to do so. I suppose that in the former situation I’d just pull the laptop out of the bag and carry it naked (which maybe creates a use case for at least a sleeve). Part of the point of this exercise is to keep me from wanting to do the latter.

[Wyoming Shooter]

My wife and I have used this bag from mystery ranch for the last three or four years with complete satisfaction.


https://www.mysteryranch.com/mission-rover-bag

What George said. I keep mine packed for short-notice, short-duration travel. It fills that role very well. ELN

[RoyGBiv]

Looks like bags has a new hotness, the Citylink Travel Backpack (https://www.ebags.com/backpacks/travel-backpacks/citylink-travel-backpack/136200XXXX.html) at $180

Which has them putting old busted (Mother Lode Jr Travel Backpack (http://Mother Lode Jr Travel Backpack)) on sale for quite the discount at ~$80.

Some colors of that Jr bag can be had on Amazon for $40-something.
https://www.amazon.com/eBags-Mother-Weekender-Junior-Backpack/dp/B00A7BEQG6/ref=asc_df_B00A7BEQG6/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=198071104488&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=13852781896155904795&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9027285&hvtargid=pla-381071027758&psc=1

The new hotness is on sale today for $160, with a code (shown on the product page) for an additional 30% off... $112.

[rob_s]

Some colors of that Jr bag can be had on Amazon for $40-something.
https://www.amazon.com/eBags-Mother-Weekender-Junior-Backpack/dp/B00A7BEQG6/ref=asc_df_B00A7BEQG6/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=198071104488&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=13852781896155904795&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9027285&hvtargid=pla-381071027758&psc=1

The new hotness is on sale today for $160, with a code (shown on the product page) for an additional 30% off... $112.

I think that, at these prices and with the discount, I'm going to order both and see what I like.

I'm tempted to like the new hotness but (a) there's no real reviews I can find yet and (b) it doesn't have the same expansion zipper that old busted does and (c) they reduced the number of compression straps to one per side down from two...


old busted
63260

new hotness
63262

[karandom]

I've had great luck with the Tortuga Setout Divide. Its my short trip bag and is perfect for that need.

https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/products/setout-divide-backpack

You can tuck the straps and use is more as a bag with a handle or toss it on your back (not a real distance hiking setup FYI). I don't use the hip belt and take them off to slim down the pack.

I use it as a 2-3 day bag, but could stretch to 4 day depending on what I needed.

[Jason M]

The molle is particularly distasteful to me. and it may be a bit larger for me, but the GR1 (https://www.goruck.com/collections/rucksacks/products/gr1?variant=32874238574692) in a 26L *might* ben an option as it appears to have slightly less molle.

Thanks!

Huckberry has slick versions which would perhaps be less distasteful?


https://huckberry.com/store/goruck/category/p/62576-gr1-slick-26l-exclusive

[rob_s]

Packing to fly out today, and looking at this rolling carryon and realizing how much wasted space there is in there, plus dreading having to drag that plus the laptop bag though the airport and Ubers and hotels…

Plus, having my Aer City Sling 2 (https://pistol-forum.com/showthread.php?23854-Need-new-dad-bag&p=1302312&viewfull=1#post1302312) and iPad Mini 6 setup so dialed in, I don’t really need a laptop bag for trips to conferences etc. (although I am regretting not getting the sling in black now just to looks slightly more professional than the OD I got).

Which brings me back to looking for some sort of backpack solution. I could carry the Aer on my front and a large backpack on my back and I feel like (so long as I stay physically able) it’d be easier than rolling a bag though air ports.

Something I can fit my 17in laptop and accessories into, but also 4-5 days worth of work/conference attire.

Previously I was pretty opposed to “convertible” bags but now I’m thinking that might be the way to go.

Would be great if it was big enough to expand for 5 days worth of clothes but cinch down for 2 days worth, although 2. night trips aren’t as big a deal to just carry a small duffle and my everyday briefcase.

Too late for this trip and I’ll have to read back through this thread *and* stay motivated once home to actually order something.

[GJM]

My wife and I have been using a Mystery Ranch bag for years for the role. Our bags were the predecessor to this:

https://www.mysteryranch.com/mission-rover-bag

[vcdgrips]

I stand by posts # 20 and #32 I would add that if you are really going to go 1 bag with a 17 inch laptop, you are going to likely be in the 40-46L space given 4-5 days of clothes even if you pack well in cubes and really think about a wardrobe choices.

1. EBags Motherlode Jr at 85-12


2. Osprey Fairpoint/Fairview/Porter 40-46 at 99-209 depending on model/color way and size (if you have a shorter torso you can often save real money as they have bags aimed toward women that get marked down the most. To me a dark bag is a dark bag for a 17 inch torso and It would not otherwise slow me down if it was labeled a Ladies bag.YMMV
Osprey absolutely exceeds the intersection of quality/value. Is NOT sewn in the PRC and contiues to have the best warranty in the business despite being acquired in the few years.


3. Tom Bihn (Note Made in the USA with Tier One materials and priced accordingly.)

Techonaut 45 (Essentially an Aeronaut optimized as a backpack with a dedicated laptop space. (390)

Or a Brain Bag 36L+. (225) Think an old school Eagle Industries 3 Day Assault Pack that has been optimized for travel/edc with some built in organization. You will likely have to go with some type of removable laptop sleeve. That would be a 48 add from Tom Bihn, something functional could likely be had for under 20 with ease.



Added

happy to kick around pros/cons of anything you come across and what has been mentioned to date.

[littlejerry]

Agree on the size comment.

I have a 26L GR1. It's ok for a night or two, but quickly maxes out. The 34L GR2 adds a lot of space and organization for business travel. It lets me use the main compartment for personal stuff and use the front compartment for work stuff (tools, notebook, cables, etc).
That way you avoid digging through your underwear to find something in the conference room or job site.

[GJM]

My wife and I have been using a Mystery Ranch bag for years for the role. Our bags were the predecessor to this:

https://www.mysteryranch.com/mission-rover-bag

The cool thing about the Mystery Ranch is it works stuffed and as a sleek bag, almost large brief case size. Internal compartments for shoes or dirty clothes, laptop and brief case stuff, storable shoulder straps and single strap.

My wife's in use:

96726

Mine empty:

96727

[TOTS]

While I’ll always be a recommender of Mystery Ranch products, especially for travel, a less expensive option would be Ogio. I used the Renegade Pro for 4 years of airline work, and my father is using it for international travel still.
https://www.amazon.com/OGIO-Renegade-Backpack-Black-Medium/dp/B09TQPS7DF/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?crid=3C9FA8VHJEFRE&keywords=ogio+renegade+rss+backpack+pro&qid=1667840605&sprefix=ogio+renegade+rss+backpack%2Caps%2C126&sr=8-4

I feel they are a great way to go when you can find deals. EG, I got the above pack for $35 from Costco. Don’t know that I’d pay $100 for it. But they do come with a lifetime warranty. I’m mainly recommending this brand as it seems to fit your desired look.

[rob_s]

I would add that if you are really going to go 1 bag with a 17 inch laptop, you are going to likely be in the 40-46L space given 4-5 days of clothes even if you pack well in cubes and really think about a wardrobe choices.

This seems to be about where I'm arriving. Many of these manufacturers don't make it easy to translate LxWxH to L.

Just going with that I know and am familiar with, my current carryon is an old version of this from Eagle Creek (https://www.eaglecreek.com/products/tarmac-xe-2-wheel-carry-on). stated 40L bag that is 13.75 x 22 x 9 in (2,723 CI).

If I take that knowledge and carry it over to a brand like Aer that I know and like, and apply it to something like their Travel Pack 3 (https://www.aersf.com/travel-pack-3-gray) I see a 35L bag that is 13 x 21.5 x 9 in (2,516 CI).

Shlepping both bags (laptop bag and rolling bag) through the airport yesterday definitely made me with I already had a single-bag solution. I was also reminded that when I drive I typically also have a small soft-sided Yeti that I travel with, and ruminating on this topic made me realize that "carry on" on back, "fanny pack" on front, and possible Yeti in hand would be a lot less fumbly.

I do wish it were easier to see some of these things in person.

[SouthNarc]

Rob GORUCK just did the GR2 in their Heritage line which is waxed canvas in a 26L and a 34L capacity.

I have one of each that fills the role for me
that you described. No MOLLE either.

https://www.goruck.com/products/gr2-heritage-usa?variant=40733418913892

[vcdgrips]

Rob Says :

"Shlepping both bags (laptop bag and rolling bag) through the airport yesterday definitely made me with I already had a single-bag solution. I was also reminded that when I drive I typically also have a small soft-sided Yeti that I travel with, and ruminating on this topic made me realize that "carry on" on back, "fanny pack" on front, and possible Yeti in hand would be a lot less fumbly."

At this point, I travel just enough to be dangerous. Presuming you travel domestically, a quality roller and a laptop bag (even augmented by a fanny pack) is a solid way to go, particularly if you fly Southwest whose overheads are oversized so they do not "profile" roller bags for checking (gate or otherwise).

However, I have been a 1 bag traveler when flying since the early 00s.

I have seen multiple folks, particularly on on non SWA flights have to check/gate check roller bags that were designed, sold, look and measure as carry on. All the while, folks with non roller duffels and/or backpacks, that certainly look bigger to me, get no static unless the duffel/pack is well over 40L.

Take-a-Ways
1. If you are going to go one bag on a 5 day trip-wardrobe selection is key. If your pack is the 30-35L range, it is critical.

2. Generally speaking (not just to Rob) If I was a road warrior, not religiously flying SWA, and I was going to carry a "carry on" and a personal item, my carry on would not have wheels... period. I would likely opt for some type of duffel. (Eagle Creek, Patagonia Black Hole, Eddie Bauer First Ascent Maximus, REI, BAD Duffel Co etc.) Indeed, while I am chomping at the bit to use an "international sized" Briggs and Reilly Roller I rescued from the thrift store for 10.00 for my next trip, I am going to take my own advice as I will be traveling international (10 days) and I do not want to have to check a bag for any reason.

3. This website looks a bit dated but was started by a travel pioneer of One Bag Travel-Doug Dyment
https://www.onebag.com/rsrc.html

4. Based on multiple prior trips where I one bagged for 5 days (business casual), I am sure it could be done with the Motherloade or the Osprey I mentioned having admitted done so without a laptop but having plenty of room for it. (bags are 40-45L)

5.The Tier One stuff by Go Ruck, Tom Bihn (Techonaut 30, Synik 30, Brain Bag 36) and MR in the 35ish L max category is doable by applying a wear one, pack 2 outfit philosophy with those and supporting clothes/gear made from travel friendly synthetics/down/merino wool as appropriate.

If heavier fabrics and/or protective gear is needed needed: I suspect

a. You are going to have to wash and/or

b. You are going to have to go 2 bags but you could still carry on if you push away from a roller.

Rob et al:

Let us know what you do...

[UNK]

I got tired of buying cheap backpacks in school every year and bought my son a Sand Piper backpack in middle school.
Hes graduating from college and still has that same backpack and uses it every day. There was an issue with some stitching and I sent it back to them and they wanted to replace it. It was the USMC digital pattern which was no longer available so they repaired it. I think he had the three day pass.

https://sandpiperca.com/collections/gear-packs

[Doc_Glock]

I have been using mine for 6 weeks for daily needs and one four day trip. I have walked probably a hundred miles and biked 6-8 hours with it and find it fits my needs. Remains to be see if it is durable.

As I have gone through this thread I see there are so many, many good options that it likely probably doesn't matter much, just find one and commit and it will probably work out.

Adding: The Synik feels higher quality, but it is not as functional as the Travel Pack. I don't use the Synik at all any more.


that looks great. Well, "looks great" isn't exactly right as the aesthetics aren't super great IMO but the overall functionality of it looks pretty damn good.


https://youtu.be/EX_r45_m078



Quick update as I am geeking out about bags again.

I gave the Nomatic 40L to my college aged son who -breaks everything- He loves the bag, and he has been unable to break it in several years of use. It is heavy but it delivers.

We had at one point three Tom Bihn Synik 30s in the family. Now we have zero. They worked okay, were very durable, but always just carried weirdly. Like a saggy diaper. Thankfully they resell readily to the TB cult members.

I remain thrilled with the performance of my $80 on sale Osprey last generation Transporter 30L. Works great as EDC bag, hiking, walking to work, travel bag. I bought two to have a spare since they changed the design.

[rob_s]

Nice to see this get bumped.

I am super close to pulling the trigger on this guy.
https://paktbags.com/products/the-pakt-travel-backpack

As well as the similar 22L for work.
https://paktbags.com/products/everyday-22l-backpack


https://youtu.be/jtRgtbkNjvU?si=NgTzEnarKetcU6_R

[Ndbbm]

I keep eyeballing the peak design bag as a travel pack. https://www.peakdesign.com/products/travel-backpack

Jason

[Dark Star Gear]

Quick update as I am geeking out about bags again.

I gave the Nomatic 40L to my college aged son who -breaks everything- He loves the bag, and he has been unable to break it in several years of use. It is heavy but it delivers.

We had at one point three Tom Bihn Synik 30s in the family. Now we have zero. They worked okay, were very durable, but always just carried weirdly. Like a saggy diaper. Thankfully they resell readily to the TB cult members.

I remain thrilled with the performance of my $80 on sale Osprey last generation Transporter 30L. Works great as EDC bag, hiking, walking to work, travel bag. I bought two to have a spare since they changed the design.

So... I have this love hate with my Synik 30... It works. It works VERY well and I've had it on 4 continents and dozens of countries, never needing (much) more from a bag, save for maybe another 5 liters, but the shape could be improved. Have you found the Nomatic to match the organization and have a better shape?

[Doc_Glock]

So... I have this love hate with my Synik 30... It works. It works VERY well and I've had it on 4 continents and dozens of countries, never needing (much) more from a bag, save for maybe another 5 liters, but the shape could be improved. Have you found the Nomatic to match the organization and have a better shape?

I haven’t used the Nomatic for a few years, but my kid loves it. For me the Nomatic actually had too many nooks and crannies and organization. I prefer a simpler, lighter bag. My kid got caught by TSA with a giant forgotten folder tucked away in the Nomatic and it took forever to actually find the thing even though they could see it on X-ray.

I did like the way it carried. I never liked the way the Synik carried. Ever. And I tried multiple times to make it my go to. Tried with and without frame sheet. Really tried, but it just carries the weight low and when stuffed tends to turn into a bit of a beach ball.

My Osprey Transporter makes me very happy.

[DamonL]

I wanted to share this website,

https://packhacker.com/travel-gear/category/bags-and-luggage/

Pachackers.com reviews all kinds of travel gear including backpacks. Theyhave reviewed a lot of packs.

[Sensei]

Eberlestock Switchblade. I have 2.

https://eberlestock.com/products/switchblade?wickedsource=google&wickedid=EAIaIQobChMIo8qW1a_egwMVoZ1aBR33jw95EAAYA SAAEgJdv_D_BwE&wickedid=&wcid=15779097511&wv=4&&gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIo8qW1a_egwMVoZ1aBR33jw95EAAYASAA EgJdv_D_BwE

[Doc_Glock]

Eberlestock Switchblade. I have 2.

https://eberlestock.com/products/switchblade?wickedsource=google&wickedid=EAIaIQobChMIo8qW1a_egwMVoZ1aBR33jw95EAAYA SAAEgJdv_D_BwE&wickedid=&wcid=15779097511&wv=4&&gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIo8qW1a_egwMVoZ1aBR33jw95EAAYASAA EgJdv_D_BwE

That looks great! Gonna cost me money.

I really appreciate a pack any more without a bunch of exterior compression straps etc to catch on anything.

The Switchblade is likely pretty heavy as most Eberlestock stuff, but certainly burly and over built.

[Cookie Monster]

https://www.patagonia.com/product/black-hole-mini-mlc-convertible-backpack-30-liters/49266.html?cgid=luggage

They have changed the bag up some still I purchased it in 2016 or 2017.

You need to be on point with your packing but used this for 2 to 7 day work travel with a laptop - not a 17 inch.

I found black fabric repair tape to cover the puke inspiring logo but I tend to strip all my stuff of branding.

Lack of convenient place for a water bottle is a minus but it is not out of place in an office. Traveling this light is pretty freeing.

[vcdgrips]

The PAKT systems looks well thought out.

There is certainly something to be said for having complementary equipment that is brand exclusive. I am admittedly very high on Tom Bihn. Indeed, when I one bag traveled this summer for 5 days to MV, I used a TB Brain Bag coupled with a now discontinued TB packing cube backpack stored inside with complete success.

Peak Designs, Aer, Tortuga and Nomatic are all reviewing well with integrated design throughout their respective lines. I do think that many of these boutique lines are approaching their pricing max given their not being sewn in the USA.



At this point, IMHO, if the bag is:

35-45 Liters
Made of a 500D+ tier one material
Uses YKK Zippers
Uses Duraflex/Peer fasteners
Has a lifetime guarantee (fully acknowledging that this is very brand dependent re what is “covered” and/or “excluded”)

It is going to do the job for a 5 day max biz casual trip so long as one gives some thought to wardrobe choices that coordinate and can be easily care for on the road.

If i needed more room and/or my trip exceeded 5 days, I am a huge advocate of a backpack/duffel combo completely avoiding anything with wheels.

[rob_s]

Nice to see this get bumped.

I am super close to pulling the trigger on this guy.
https://paktbags.com/products/the-pakt-travel-backpack

As well as the similar 22L for work.
https://paktbags.com/products/everyday-22l-backpack


in preparing to place an order for one, the other, or both, and confronting the high combined price, I've been thinking about which I would prefer.

I think I'm likely to order the office pack first.

on a recent trip where I had to drive 5 hours one day, then have some casual time, then funeral attire, then casual again, then drive another 5 hours, then work, then casual, then drive... I was needing a lot of outfits over relatively few days, and getting frustrated trying to do my usual "shove this all in the smallest bag possible" while also packing some food fundamentals into a cooler when my wife said "why don't you just take a bigger bag?" which, of course, I initially resisted before not only upping my suitcase size but also my cooler size, and winding up having a far more pleasant trip getting in and out of hotels and such, with the exception of my shoulder-mounted briefcase and no good way to affix the yeti to the suitcase handle. Having now rectified the Yeti issue (bungies away!) I'm thinking that any driving trips may just stick with the larger-bag solution.

Still, when flying specifically for work conferences the one-bag, backpack, solution will probably rule.

[Doc_Glock]

Probably not your style, and doesn't meet all of your criteria, but I bought a GR2 for this task. So far it has worked well for my limited business travel during Covid.


I have used a GR1 for five day international business travel since 2012. It is durable to task and the simple internal layout makes using a packing cube to hold my private stuff really easy; I then ditch the cube in the hotel room or rental car when going in to customers.

I added a GR2 for last year to make it a little easier to pull off in winter, but I still use the GR1 half the time. I understand your distaste for molle and every once in a while GR makes their packs in a slick format, but ultimately it doesn't bother me that much.

It is also really important to me that the gear I buy from GR is U.S. made, though not all their stuff is.

Like Glocks and ARs, there's usually a reason that common is common.

Jumping back in because I received a Long Range Rucker 33L yesterday which is essentially a cheaper, heavier GR2 with a place for ruck plates.

i have had a bias against GoRuck due to what I feel is their over pricing and all the molle, but…

This is really an amazing bag. Way over built. Because of this it can easily haul 40lbs or more. It’s well built too and the organization is wel thought out. It carries great.

Based on this I can see why the GR2 is so popular for one bag travel. If you sized it up to their ~40L model I think could travel indefinitely honestly with some laundry.

The downsides are: weight (overbuilt is heavy), molle and crazy steep price.

I am going to EDC this Long Range Rucker as well as use it with ruck plates so we will see how my opinion ages.

[littlejerry]

Jumping back in because I received a Long Range Rucker 33L yesterday which is essentially a cheaper, heavier GR2 with a place for ruck plates.

i have had a bias against GoRuck due to what I feel is their over pricing and all the molle, but…

This is really an amazing bag. Way over built. Because of this it can easily haul 40lbs or more. It’s well built too and the organization is wel thought out. It carries great.

Based on this I can see why the GR2 is so popular for one bag travel. If you sized it up to their ~40L model I think could travel indefinitely honestly with some laundry.

The downsides are: weight (overbuilt is heavy), molle and crazy steep price.

I am going to EDC this Long Range Rucker as well as use it with ruck plates so we will see how my opinion ages.

I'm still using my GR2 and just got back from a 3 day domestic trip.

My career/industry changed in 2021 so my typical travel has changed from 5 days in China to 1-5 days domestic. Unfortunately I often have to travel with a lot of water/ocean gear now which necessitates a large roller bag (wet suit, dry suit, boots, gloves, PFD, goggles, etc). I still keep my "main" kit to a single bag so I don't get any crossover funk from the water gear into my normal attire.

The GR2 soldiers on as my preferred bag. It'll easily cover me for 3 nights with workout clothes/shoes, laptop/work stuff. I do want to buy a cube of some type though so I can more quickly ditch the clothing at the hotel.

[Chance]

I am super close to pulling the trigger on this guy.
https://paktbags.com/products/the-pakt-travel-backpack

Is there any legitimate place to buy these other than the Pakt website? I've got multiple trips coming up and the 35L version is perfect for what I need, but the blue one is pretty and it's not in stock.

[JAD]

I am still beating the hell out of my GR1. The GR2 is big on my frame; I use it scouting.

[farscott]

Bags are like holsters. What fits me does not fit you and vice versa. For me, the Tom Bihn Synik 30 is the bag that I take on trips up to five days. Got it before COVID shut down travel and have been using it since then. It has done quite a few "fly out on Monday morning and fly back on Friday morning trips" as well as several shorter trips or me. It works as I rarely need a suit for business travel and because I do not like to travel with what I need and nothing more. I use a few packing cubes with it as well as the internal organization and carry my laptop in the provided compartment.

Not having to carry another bag and not needing to check luggage has saved me more than once, including when a group of us barely made a connection and the checked luggage did not. I had what I needed, but my colleagues had to shop for everything from toiletries to shirts.

[vcdgrips]

Packing cube favorites

https://www.rei.com/search?q=Thule%20packing%20cubes

Thule Compressible
1. Ykk zips
2. Xpac like fabric
3. Widely available

They are heavier than the eagle creek specter and eBag ones they have replaced.
Build quality and ability to stuff/compress is far superior

FWIW

[TOTS]

Id also add Mystery Ranch’s packing cubes to the list of approved items! I’ve had the set for the last few trips and really like them.

https://www.mysteryranch.com/zoid-cube-bag?quantity=1&size=S

[Cookie Monster]

Packing cubes are key. I like the lightweight Eagle Creek ones. Their two sided clean/dirty ones are great - clean clothes in one side and you move clothes to the other as they get too much to wear.

I think I used 15 or 16 to organize my 2 week bag for wildland fire assignments.

[Doc_Glock]

I am going to EDC this Long Range Rucker as well as use it with ruck plates so we will see how my opinion ages.

Cross post with my promised update on the Long Range Rucker.

I obtained a GoRuck Rucker - Long Range 33L (https://www.goruck.com/products/rucker-long-range) a couple weeks back.

It is essentially a cheaper, heavier GR2 with a place for ruck plates. It was on "sale" for $225 at the time, but my goodness GoRuck's sale prices are still extravagant.

It weighs a heavy 5.3lbs empty, but the build is super burly.

It fits cheapo Amazon ruck weight plates well, and wearing it with ruck plates is really quite comfortable except for the weight. They don't bash into your spine at all. I took the lower pad out of the ruck pocket which opened up a little space inside and I don't notice any difference in how the weight is carried.

There is good hydration system access if you use that.

My clip on belt fits to the Molle on the sides for those times that I want a belt, which is mainly when biking to work.

I like it so far. It can easily haul 40lbs or more, and certainly does not feel fragile. My usual load is 15-25 lbs, but I have used it on the stair stepper with 45lbs. What a great work out!

I find the shoulder straps a bit on the wide and stiff side, but it is not a huge issue. There is a lower back pad that feels strange, but not obnoxious or irritating, just strange.

The bag and zippers were really stiff on arrival, but with maybe 15 hours of carry including an hour in the rain, it has started to soften up. I expect this to get better still by a lot.

Organization took me a bit, I settled on putting most little sundries and a file organizer in the front pocket. I use the main pocket water, food, bike tools and clothing layers, as well as ruck plates if desired. The exterior slash pocket is pretty worthless when the bag is loaded at all. I don't have a need for the multiple side mesh pockets in each main pocket, but I like the two small compartments at the top of the front main opening. I have always been more of a top loader pack guy so a fold flat pack is a new experience. Sometimes I like it sometimes I am annoyed with all the zipping up and down.

The grab handles are very useful. Especially as weight increases for in and out of car, and general tossing it around.

33L seems big and it is a bigger pack, but this is what it takes to hold all my winter gear for a bicycle commute. I generally wear a lot of layers going in at 20* and shed them to the pack at 50* going home.

Overall I like it. Rucking seems like a great, low impact work out. The pack handles 45lbs weight beautifully.

I would consider a GR2, but not for $400 clams, and where would I put the ruck plates? This is a nice do all pack for me.