You omitted to mention the rear section has two ‘ladder’ type seams which you can hook Pakt’s custom made interior bags to. These secure the bags in place so nothing moves about and includes a waterproof bag for wet items - well thought out. One down side, I travelled from LA to Norway recently with the 45l version - completely new bag to me, and when passing though security had to literally unzip all the zips until I found the quick access one to the laptop section. So, through experience (and 3 frustrating security checks) my advice is, if you opt for this bag, thoroughly familiarise yourself with each top zip and to which compartment of the interior it allows access. A minor point I know, but as you say, speed is useful when travelling. Otherwise I am completely satisfied with this bag, it is impressively constructed, albeit a pricy option. I’m now 60 & have traveled all my life, today’s innovations in packing are game changing, I wish this type of design had been around back in the ‘70’s & ‘80’s.
I believe that a true alternative would be the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L. It's got very similar features (suitcase style, stowable straps, organization, external quick access) but is quite a bit cheaper and is a little bit simpler to use overall.
Spent 12 days traveling to Japan with this bag after REALLY assessing my options for the one bag travel style (watched this review several times and found it was the push to get the bag!) Overall, I love it. The Green is the best looking and I don’t mind the branding on the front pocket either. It is a big bag, but for 45L felt reasonable, and being a taller guy it may not have been as much of an issue for me as it would be for others. The bag is comfortable to carry, even for longer stretches as I found the top adjustable straps on the top to make it easier on my back. I did have concerns that when this thing was fully stuffed it may cause issues as a carry on, but had zero issues getting it in an over head bin on either my domestic or international flights. The carrying capacity on this thing is nuts. I packed 10 days worth of clothes, toiletries, admin/tech pouch of cables and power bricks, my girlfriends laptop, Ipad, water bottle, steam deck in the case, travel sling in the expansion pocket and souvenirs all with room to spare in the expandable pocket and in the front admin and pouch pockets. Even stuffed my coat inside before getting on the plane without any issue. I really liked how you could access the top of both the main compartments by opening the zippers slightly and getting to my admin pouch if I needed it. The laptop sleeve was a life saver too, felt really nice and gave me little concern about the safety of the laptop and ipad that were both inside. I was so confident, I even got another day pack while traveling to carry more souvenirs and use that as my carry on and checked this bag WITH the laptop and ipad inside. Both survived LAX without issue. Also appreciate how well segmented the bag is for how much it holds, it was super easy to organize clothing and the pouches and other travel necessities. I love this thing, will be my go to for all my overseas travel from here on. I feel like I didn’t even really utilize the volume efficiently as well, due to not using packing cubes. Hard to find anything I dislike about it actually.
@@newagain9964 Didn’t weigh before or after the trip- if I had to guess? 20 pounds ~ It also helped that I packed a capsule wardrobe of basic shirts and a few pairs of pants and light socks and underwear. Did one wash while out there for the entire trip. One pair of shoes for me and wore them the whole time. Pays to invest in a versatile pair for walking and hiking and can be used for more casual occasions like dinners etc ESPECIALLY in Japan. Was walking 20k steps nearly everyday.
@@pineapple2814 I hear ya. But 3 pairs (2 packed) of shoes is optimal for me. I like this bag. Also gonna look at 30L ver. Might mean 1 less pair. Lolz. Np tho.
3:50 You're right about the lint on the Black Ember products. I know they've introduced a new blend where it picks up less dust (I have not seen a video where they compare yet) , but so far they've only introduced the Citadel in the new "velocity RN66" material. I emailed them about a month ago and they said they had no plans to introduce the Forge in such material. That was very disappointing to hear, especially considering that the customers who purchase them might be more design conscious than others, and said customers are likely to be particularly annoyed by these "extra hitchhikers" .
Hi Aaron, I recently moved to HK (where I think you're based?) and I am looking to purchase a travel backpack. Any locations / shops you recommend to try out a range of backpacks to figure out what suits my needs best? I particularly love this backpack and the Tortuga 40L
Thanks ! Great review as always. I like the idea of dropping the EDC into the larger bag for things like a kids swim meet or baseball game. I am eying the 35 l do think that is too big for a backpack in these situations? Extra books etc. when a little more space is needed than the 15l EDC?
@@Nomads.Nation yeah I was afraid of the that. Looking forward to your new bag. I truly want the modular approach to my use of bags - 3 levels ( EDC-> Day Outing -> Full Travel ) I can’t be the only one that thinks this way. I hate to unpack and move things into a larger bag. Drop and Go! Have a Blessed Holiday!
@@BV35 you aren't the only person to feel that way, but the truth of the matter is that these super modular bags are great in theory, and bad in actual usage. Initially I wanted my bag to be a modular 3-in-1 do-it-all-sling-EDC-travel bag, but the more I learn about bags the more I realize these features are (unfortunately) quite gimmicky. Having run this channel for 3+ years and responded to every comment, the truth of the matter is that the bag brands that have the cult-like followings are the ones who focus on simplicity and well-built bags (Evergoods, Aer, Bellroy, GORUCK, Able Carry, etc) and not the ones who have a million features. Granted, a little expansion can still go a long way, which is why my first bag is planned to expand from 21L to 26L - but only 5L expansion because anything more does damage to the bag and doesn't work the right way (cuz the bag is not designed to be a larger bag). Hope that clear it up! Granted, maybe check out the Knack Pack Expandable Medium - it's got the best expansion I've seen - we did a review on it
I tried the peak design 45 and it was too large to fit in the overhead bin when filled. I now have the Tortuga travel backpack and I tend to overstuff it so it also doesn’t fit in the overhead bin. What is a good alternative that is a little bit flatter that can fit in the overhead bin?
The answer is - it depends. Depends on how heavy of a packer you are, which airlines you fly on, if you want to bring shit back, etc. For me though - 35L would be more than enough. Just gotta do laundry once a week
Here’s Pakt’s response below: Thanks for reaching out! The 22L was not designed to fit in the front expandable pocket of the 45L backpack, but it will fit if you pack it out very lightly. You could also attach it to the outside of the bag using the accessory straps to secure it, or you can try putting it in the inside of one of the clamshell openings. We've successfully done all 3, but the inside the bag options require it to be essentially empty in order to fit.
When I see reviews of this bag, or Aer or similar travel backpacks, it makes me wonder if y'all knew that ebags has had a brilliant "mother lode" travel backpack for, like, a decade or longer. Not only that, but you can buy it new for $99.99 instead of over $300 for a comparable backpack like this. The only thing I like about the Pakt travel backpack over the ebags version is the center laptop sleeve. That's not enough to spend the price difference on.
ofc! I haven't reviewed it personally, but it definitely should be on every travelers radar as its supposed to be a great budget option and probably works brilliantly. But in terms of craftsmanship and overall aesthetic, eBags cannot compare to anything by Aer/Pakt/Etc in my opinion
@@Nomads.Nation I'm not sure about that. I've used eBags' rolling carry-on case for about 12 years and no signs of degradation in the zippers, liner or exterior. Even the wheels are fine. The backpack is identical, but with shoulder straps. I can't speak to the strap comfort yet.
@@wendybeattie6935 I still have and use the ebags carry-on wheeled bag! Just used the backpack on a week trip with a flight and it was great! Only slightly uncomfortable in the strap shape, but better that I had my hands freed up on this airport trek.
I feel as if all of the reviews that I have seen about this pack, gloss over the fact that there is not a padded waist belt. This pack seems to be aimed at people who want compartmentalization and space for tech. As a person who has traveled a lot and with only a carry on, it is in my humble opinion that a park should have a padded waist belt. It’s transfers the load to the hips, saving one’s back and shoulders. This waist belt being only webbing is pointless in my opinion.
I agree and should have put more emphasis on this - BUT - having said that, I know many friends/travelers who will never ever ever ever use a hip belt, even on a 45L travel bag. So everyone has different travel styles
I'm really coming around on the laptop compartment being in the middle. Sometimes when its right against the back you can feel it in there. Having it split I also like for big packs, feels like that sorta layout works better for clothes. Id probably go for the 35l. 45+ is sorta huge.
Yeah it was a great move for a bag like this. I feel like most bags kinda have to have laptops up against one’s back because the only way to reasonably get padding on both sides of the laptop without adding size is to utilize the back-of-the-pack padding for one side. With a bag that’s committed to being this size and style, though, it works in the middle, and it doesn’t have to sacrifice much in the way of accessibility either.
Other alternatives you could’ve mentioned are the Matador Globerider 45 and the Wandrd Transit. I chose not to purchase this bag because I wasn’t sure if one of the compartments can hold my cpap case. However, my friend relies on the v1 of this bag. Great review!
I liked your comparisons with other back packs. Finally- a company that realises the computer is the most important item to be protected. Great in depth review
Just got 45 litre amazing, other back packs have their computer storage at the back where your back is this may add all the weight pressure to the computer screen, makes sence. Great product.
Thank you for a thorough review. I appreciate the honesty and alternatives, pros and cons. Extremely helpful. Will subscribe to the channel and watch more. Again, thank you!
I think this bag is a a company's attempt at trying to drain their customers. Compared to the V1, we lost the waterproof compartment, lost the secure secret stash pocket, lost the sling bag convertible hip belt and lint magnet of a material. To regain the waterproof feature, we must buy their accessory pouch which can be clipped inside on that step ladder thing in the interior. And what is up with that attachment system? That is an unnecessary feature made with the sole purpose of milking the customer with "accessories". Defintiey do not like their placement and use of their "logo" They improved on the accessory strap though. V1 had the issue of potential loss in transit. The TSA pouch feature is quicker to access and put away but lets face it, that was a gimmick feature from the start. Anyone who didn't like emptying the pocket at TSA would already have a spot in their bag to leave their things. The increase in size is also a good thing for those that need it. I like the space for the day bag (yet another expense). I prefer how Gravel did that though with their travel system. Overall, I would say if you want a 45L bag then, this is an option. But if you wanted the 35L version, V1 is better value. Of course the V1 wasn't 35L capacity but still that would be a better purchase. I couldn't make this statement if the V1 never existed though. It is because they showed us a good product before that I am so disappointed with this version. They did absolutely nothing to hide their corporate greed. The "upgrades" are minimal not warranting the price hike. They took one step forward and one step back (yes they basiclaly didnt move forward at all) Glad Chase Reeves didn't attach his name to this version. Man I never ranted like this before! I just wanted to let it out since Fyro is coming out and defintiely don't want them to follow Pakt. Looking forward to Fyro!!!
I know I've seen this review before but can't for the life of me understand why I didn't comment this already.... According to Pakt: "The capacity of the 45L bag is actually 41L unexpanded and 53L expanded. The 35L bag is 32L unexpanded and 42L expanded. These are conservative measurements and you actually get several liters of extra space beyond the stated volume when the expansion slot is open." I finally ordered my 45L Forest Green bag (will retire my v1). Looking forward to using it.
It’s so hard to decide on a bag. Peak design 45 l hits a lot of boxes but so many people mention comfort is seriously lacking but it’s got great usable volume. Aer travel back pack looks pretty much perfect with minor quirks and I worry slightly about over all capacity but it’s a top contender. This looks awesome but without even trying it that clam shell design just isn’t my cup of tea as I prefer one large opening. I used the minnal 3.0 and enjoyed many aspects of it but the lack of structure in the bag was frustrating and I needed a touch more capacity. Tortugas new bag looks like a solid option even though I’m not a massive fan of the look and hip belt but understand it could come in handy. So hard to decide
Capacity should be your first thing - if the Minaal was too small then the Aer bags will be too small. Avoid the Pakt if you like one main compartment. From there it’s between PD and Tortuga - I’d pick Tortuga all day cuz comfort is most important.
I wish I could answer this, but the truth is it depends - on the airline, the ticket you buy, the location, and the mood of the front desk person checking you in.
I was drawn to this the travel pack for the less attention grabbing (thus less prone to theft or robbery) design, color choices and durable materials used. The clamshell dividers are uniquely practical for a more wrinkle free travel. I like the zip out expansion pack that can also fit the 15 liter day pack while transiting but one has also the option of using it as part of the under seat stowage in a larger commercial plane too. I am guess 45 +10 =55 liters in total would not be accepted at carry-on by most airlines. The 15 liter day pack with that is amazing flexibility both sliding into the expansion pouch or under the seat carry-on is perfectly thought out. The 35 & 45l v2 travel back pack is out of stock and overprice for non US residence. It does not include the 15l day back which is another overpriced $185USD. The daisy chain loops don’t have much of a functional use. The hip strap does no longer double as a fanny pack as like in version 1. I would to compression packing cubes instead of the PakT branded ones regardless of the loops. The clip-on pouches are very expensive for they lack luster utility. There are more functional and cheaper one out there that make more sense. The front 2 pouches can’t be combined into an one cable locking system like Peak Designs 45 liter. The aluminum back stays have been replaced with a cheaper plastic set. The water bottle pouch is not long enough to be used alternatively, as a tripod or monopole & stand pouch.
agree on many of your points, it's definitely not a cheap bag. Having said that, I still prefer V2 over V1 as it feels more refined (although agreed, that their whole ecosystem is very aggressively priced)
if you don't mind about the size differences, then Aer Travel Pack 3 for me all day. Peak Design will have the most features out of the 3, but is usually considered the least comfortable. Pakt is great as well.
Not sure how you do it but your reviews are the best. Nothing or no one does it better than how you lay everything out. Thank you!! I have one request- I watched your take on Aer and this one and I am seriously not sure which one to take as I like them both. If you had to pick between X PAC and this model, which one would you chose. I like more space and a laptop compartment which is easily accessible. I fly to work every week for 3 days and looking for a solid option
thanks so much! I assume you are referring to the Aer Travel Pack 3? Regular size? If that's the case I'd pick Aer - the laptop compartment is very accessible and it looks/feels more like an 'I'm going on a work trip' bag
I have the V1 and I was really looking forward to it. And for me it falls short. Dividing the middle compartment is just too inconvenient. When travelling you feel like everything fits just not right. Not by much, but enough to make it not work. And because of that, the laptop compartment doesn't work right. It gets pushed into either one of the other compartments. I fear this bag will have the same problems. 11:01 re: the safety of the laptop: both surrounding compartments won't always be packed with clothes. One may also put technical stuff there. Chargers, beauty products and appliances. That does not provide protection to the laptop.
You did not really address v1 vs v2, which is why I clicked. I know the basic differences (I have v1) but would have appreciated your comments on that.
Been waiting for your review. Just a day or so before my 35L version arrives. I think for me the 35L is optimal since there is still a chance it will fit under a seat…yet has the potential to grow with my travel needs as I head toward true one-bag travel.
@@Nomads.Nation While I have only taken one trip so far, I can add a few early comments. It is not as comfortable in carrying as an Able Carry Max. However, I was carrying a slightly larger load in the Pakt as well, with expansion pocket in use. Yet not quite fully packed out either. Dropping the weight/load a bit made things more comfortable. Still getting used to the load lifter straps...new to me. Maybe the backpack needs to be worn in a bit, too?--maybe. The laptop section appears to be ideal for a 16" MBP. Also fits my 2020 ThinkPad P1. But it does not fit my 2023 ThinkPad P16s (my work machine), which is just slightly larger. That latter point means that for some air travel trips, I will probably be taking my Able Carry Max (I can take both for car travel since I have more room...and I actually did for my recent trip where I brought two machines). With all that said, my overall travelling preference is the Pakt--it has a lot of thought put into it as far as easy access on-the-go. But I can see it being not perfect for everyone.
@@arlencarlsonhow did you find it to fit under the seat? I’m debating between the 35L Pakt, Aer Travel Pack 3 / Small versions and having it to fit under the seat is a must for me since I have a carry on luggage with me whenever I go to Japan
Been trying to find this info and haven't seen any concrete mention of it. Regarding the expandable area for the 15L day pack, any idea on how much the dya pack can be filled before it can't fit in there? Im wondering if my Aer Travel Sling (similar dimensions to the Pakt 15L pack) would fit in there.
For the overhead bin - totally depends on the airline, the weight of the bag, and the mood of the agent checking you in. For under the seat - don’t think so
for sure! but it's still getting harder out there for one bag travelers. Many OBT-ers are only going with superlightweight ~28L bags to ensure they never get separated from their pack
be sure to subscribe to our sister channel Gear for the Girls - she's got a full Pakt review plus several travel backpack roundups coming soon. In every video she goes outside with the pack to talk about its comfort and you can see how it looks on her (she's 5'2) www.youtube.com/@GearfortheGirls/videos
5:36 I just noticed you've got two passports. Not sure if one of them is your new Singaporean one, but if you have not already, since you have Italian ancestry, it's by far one of the easiest EU passports to get, and they have very generous rules on how an Italian descendant can get one. I would highly recommend it if you don't have an EU passport already.
ironically I just looked into this, but I thought I read you needed intent to live in Italy afterwards? Is this not true? Cuz I'd love an Italian passport
@@Nomads.Nation So as you probably know, citizenship and passport rules are full of De Jure vs De Facto interpretations of the law, so there is often flexibility. Ireland and Italy are the only two EU countries that have generous ancestral linage citizenship (Jus sanguinis), and between these, Italy is by far the easiest to get. If their requirement is " intent to live" , do some research and find out exactly what "intent" means and how strictly it's enforced. I'm a Japanese / US dual citizen, and technically if I want to keep my Japanese passport, I have to have the " intention to renounce other nationalities", however, it is not enforced, and many people falsely believe it's impossible to be a dual Japanese national. On the bright side, I have access to the Japanese healthcare system (about 95% cheaper than US, literally).
@@Nomads.Nation Yeah man, once you secure your third passport, the pro move is to start working on getting rid of the US citizenship and avoid that damn FBAR and FACTA. You have to pay the IRS a cruel $4000 exit tax, and lie and check the box claiming your intention to renounce isn't to avoid taxes. After that, you'll be a free bois. Looking forward to the day you low-key flex by stuffing in 3 passports into the front compartment on a review
Great review! I’m really impressed with what Pakt has done here. I don’t think this pack is for me personally-I like to one-bag it for trips around a week that don’t require a ton of clothes or tech, and if I need either this much space or this much organization, I’m fine just checking a bag and carrying a smaller pack. But I know there are lots of people out there who, for work or fun, want a bigger one-bag pack for long trips that kinda replicates the checked-suitcase experience, which was a space I feel like Pakt really figured out with the v1 and nailed with this one.
have the impression that the waist belt is not gonna be taking enough load onto your hips. I really liked the removable waist belt from the first one. Also, It doesn't feel as if that weird TSA bag is really comfortable to pack.
I totally agree on the TSA bag - it sounds like a cool feature in concept, but in practice it looks like a hassle to deal with, and I’m not sure what it fundamentally does that another pocket or an accompanying sling doesn’t.
@@j.b.1903 You dump your stuff in their prior to security, then after security just grab your bag and go vs having to scoop up a bunch of loose stuff from a bin. It actually really comes in handy and allows me to get to my gate and re-organize vs clogging up the back end of security.
Do you want to help me build a game-changing backpack? 👉🏼 nomadsnation.com/building-a-backpack
You omitted to mention the rear section has two ‘ladder’ type seams which you can hook Pakt’s custom made interior bags to. These secure the bags in place so nothing moves about and includes a waterproof bag for wet items - well thought out.
One down side, I travelled from LA to Norway recently with the 45l version - completely new bag to me, and when passing though security had to literally unzip all the zips until I found the quick access one to the laptop section. So, through experience (and 3 frustrating security checks) my advice is, if you opt for this bag, thoroughly familiarise yourself with each top zip and to which compartment of the interior it allows access. A minor point I know, but as you say, speed is useful when travelling.
Otherwise I am completely satisfied with this bag, it is impressively constructed, albeit a pricy option.
I’m now 60 & have traveled all my life, today’s innovations in packing are game changing, I wish this type of design had been around back in the ‘70’s & ‘80’s.
Great call on the lack of speed with the laptop compartment
What was total weight with your clothes and laptop packed in it? And how many pairs of shoes did you fit in it?
@@newagain9964 I also had checked luggage on this particular trip because I was visiting family & had presents
I believe that a true alternative would be the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L. It's got very similar features (suitcase style, stowable straps, organization, external quick access) but is quite a bit cheaper and is a little bit simpler to use overall.
I’ve heard great things about Cotopaxi - hoping to review them soon
Thanks for the tip, this bag is out of my price range.
@@NikitaHunt we’ll be publishing a best budget travel backpacks video soon - stay tuned
@@Nomads.Nation thanks, will keep an eye out.
Spent 12 days traveling to Japan with this bag after REALLY assessing my options for the one bag travel style (watched this review several times and found it was the push to get the bag!)
Overall, I love it. The Green is the best looking and I don’t mind the branding on the front pocket either. It is a big bag, but for 45L felt reasonable, and being a taller guy it may not have been as much of an issue for me as it would be for others. The bag is comfortable to carry, even for longer stretches as I found the top adjustable straps on the top to make it easier on my back. I did have concerns that when this thing was fully stuffed it may cause issues as a carry on, but had zero issues getting it in an over head bin on either my domestic or international flights.
The carrying capacity on this thing is nuts. I packed 10 days worth of clothes, toiletries, admin/tech pouch of cables and power bricks, my girlfriends laptop, Ipad, water bottle, steam deck in the case, travel sling in the expansion pocket and souvenirs all with room to spare in the expandable pocket and in the front admin and pouch pockets. Even stuffed my coat inside before getting on the plane without any issue. I really liked how you could access the top of both the main compartments by opening the zippers slightly and getting to my admin pouch if I needed it.
The laptop sleeve was a life saver too, felt really nice and gave me little concern about the safety of the laptop and ipad that were both inside. I was so confident, I even got another day pack while traveling to carry more souvenirs and use that as my carry on and checked this bag WITH the laptop and ipad inside. Both survived LAX without issue. Also appreciate how well segmented the bag is for how much it holds, it was super easy to organize clothing and the pouches and other travel necessities.
I love this thing, will be my go to for all my overseas travel from here on. I feel like I didn’t even really utilize the volume efficiently as well, due to not using packing cubes. Hard to find anything I dislike about it actually.
appreciate your analysis, and agree that this bag is best in green
What was the total weight with clothes and laptop packed in it? And how many pairs of shoes did u pack?
@@newagain9964 Didn’t weigh before or after the trip- if I had to guess? 20 pounds ~
It also helped that I packed a capsule wardrobe of basic shirts and a few pairs of pants and light socks and underwear. Did one wash while out there for the entire trip.
One pair of shoes for me and wore them the whole time. Pays to invest in a versatile pair for walking and hiking and can be used for more casual occasions like dinners etc ESPECIALLY in Japan. Was walking 20k steps nearly everyday.
@@pineapple2814 I hear ya. But 3 pairs (2 packed) of shoes is optimal for me. I like this bag. Also gonna look at 30L ver. Might mean 1 less pair. Lolz. Np tho.
@@pineapple2814 wait. What shoes are study enough for hiking, light weight and quick drying for street AND informal smart dress style??
3:50 You're right about the lint on the Black Ember products. I know they've introduced a new blend where it picks up less dust (I have not seen a video where they compare yet) , but so far they've only introduced the Citadel in the new "velocity RN66" material. I emailed them about a month ago and they said they had no plans to introduce the Forge in such material. That was very disappointing to hear, especially considering that the customers who purchase them might be more design conscious than others, and said customers are likely to be particularly annoyed by these "extra hitchhikers" .
I don't know why they wouldn't update all their products to the new material - its SO much better (I have the Citadel R3 and love it).very strange
@@Nomads.Nation Review on R3?
@@anonanon7368 gonna be a while, best case 5 weeks
Hi Aaron, I recently moved to HK (where I think you're based?) and I am looking to purchase a travel backpack. Any locations / shops you recommend to try out a range of backpacks to figure out what suits my needs best? I particularly love this backpack and the Tortuga 40L
yo dude go to Surburban for sure - Kwun Tong location is best but Causeway Bay is also awesome
Thanks ! Great review as always. I like the idea of dropping the EDC into the larger bag for things like a kids swim meet or baseball game. I am eying the 35 l do think that is too big for a backpack in these situations? Extra books etc. when a little more space is needed than the 15l EDC?
35L is pretty big. It’s a travel bag for a reason lol
@@Nomads.Nation yeah I was afraid of the that. Looking forward to your new bag. I truly want the modular approach to my use of bags - 3 levels ( EDC-> Day Outing -> Full Travel ) I can’t be the only one that thinks this way. I hate to unpack and move things into a larger bag. Drop and Go! Have a Blessed Holiday!
@@BV35 you aren't the only person to feel that way, but the truth of the matter is that these super modular bags are great in theory, and bad in actual usage. Initially I wanted my bag to be a modular 3-in-1 do-it-all-sling-EDC-travel bag, but the more I learn about bags the more I realize these features are (unfortunately) quite gimmicky. Having run this channel for 3+ years and responded to every comment, the truth of the matter is that the bag brands that have the cult-like followings are the ones who focus on simplicity and well-built bags (Evergoods, Aer, Bellroy, GORUCK, Able Carry, etc) and not the ones who have a million features. Granted, a little expansion can still go a long way, which is why my first bag is planned to expand from 21L to 26L - but only 5L expansion because anything more does damage to the bag and doesn't work the right way (cuz the bag is not designed to be a larger bag). Hope that clear it up! Granted, maybe check out the Knack Pack Expandable Medium - it's got the best expansion I've seen - we did a review on it
@@Nomads.Nation THANK YOU! I TRULY Appreciate You and Your Channel! -- God Bless! Rob
@@BV35 glad to help :)
Could you review the Cotapaxi Allpa 42l? :) Would love a comparison between these and the Tortuga and maybe Aer
It's on our wish list!
I tried the peak design 45 and it was too large to fit in the overhead bin when filled. I now have the Tortuga travel backpack and I tend to overstuff it so it also doesn’t fit in the overhead bin. What is a good alternative that is a little bit flatter that can fit in the overhead bin?
All airlines have different speculations for the overhead - imo since you are an overpacker though you need to get a smaller bag
Flew Jet Blue and I fully Pakt my 45L and it fit perfectly in the overhead compartment.
Hey mate , im travelling to Asia for 4weeks. Should i get 35L or 45L? Not sure if 45L be too bulky for carry on... any info what you do mate. Cheers
The answer is - it depends. Depends on how heavy of a packer you are, which airlines you fly on, if you want to bring shit back, etc. For me though - 35L would be more than enough. Just gotta do laundry once a week
@@Nomads.Nation thank you mate
@@l3n221 safe travels!
Does it support a shoulder strap?
I do not believe so
Will either the 45L or 35L fit under an airline seat?
35L maybe have a chance. No way with the 45
Would you say the 45L has the same amount of space as a standard hard case carry on suitcase?
@@garysandhu5082 approximately... yes.. ish
Can pakts’ 22L bag fit in that travel compartment?
I don’t have the 22L so can’t say for sure. Pakt will definitely be able to answer this question though - please let us know what they say
For sure. I’ll reach out to them and let you know
Here’s Pakt’s response below:
Thanks for reaching out! The 22L was not designed to fit in the front expandable pocket of the 45L backpack, but it will fit if you pack it out very lightly. You could also attach it to the outside of the bag using the accessory straps to secure it, or you can try putting it in the inside of one of the clamshell openings. We've successfully done all 3, but the inside the bag options require it to be essentially empty in order to fit.
@@papahumza thanks for the follow up!
When I see reviews of this bag, or Aer or similar travel backpacks, it makes me wonder if y'all knew that ebags has had a brilliant "mother lode" travel backpack for, like, a decade or longer. Not only that, but you can buy it new for $99.99 instead of over $300 for a comparable backpack like this. The only thing I like about the Pakt travel backpack over the ebags version is the center laptop sleeve. That's not enough to spend the price difference on.
ofc! I haven't reviewed it personally, but it definitely should be on every travelers radar as its supposed to be a great budget option and probably works brilliantly. But in terms of craftsmanship and overall aesthetic, eBags cannot compare to anything by Aer/Pakt/Etc in my opinion
@@Nomads.Nation I'm not sure about that. I've used eBags' rolling carry-on case for about 12 years and no signs of degradation in the zippers, liner or exterior. Even the wheels are fine. The backpack is identical, but with shoulder straps. I can't speak to the strap comfort yet.
@@lynneftw good to know!
I bought that ebags pack and used it for one trip only as I found it so uncomfortable to carry, yet I loved the wheeled suitcase for many many years
@@wendybeattie6935 I still have and use the ebags carry-on wheeled bag! Just used the backpack on a week trip with a flight and it was great! Only slightly uncomfortable in the strap shape, but better that I had my hands freed up on this airport trek.
I feel as if all of the reviews that I have seen about this pack, gloss over the fact that there is not a padded waist belt. This pack seems to be aimed at people who want compartmentalization and space for tech. As a person who has traveled a lot and with only a carry on, it is in my humble opinion that a park should have a padded waist belt. It’s transfers the load to the hips, saving one’s back and shoulders. This waist belt being only webbing is pointless in my opinion.
I agree and should have put more emphasis on this - BUT - having said that, I know many friends/travelers who will never ever ever ever use a hip belt, even on a 45L travel bag. So everyone has different travel styles
Still haven't come across something that can top Samsonite Bleisure 17.3" 34/39L
never heard of it but I'll check it out!
I'm really coming around on the laptop compartment being in the middle. Sometimes when its right against the back you can feel it in there.
Having it split I also like for big packs, feels like that sorta layout works better for clothes. Id probably go for the 35l. 45+ is sorta huge.
Yeah it was a great move for a bag like this. I feel like most bags kinda have to have laptops up against one’s back because the only way to reasonably get padding on both sides of the laptop without adding size is to utilize the back-of-the-pack padding for one side. With a bag that’s committed to being this size and style, though, it works in the middle, and it doesn’t have to sacrifice much in the way of accessibility either.
Well, this guy is spot on when saying there is no need to watch any other reviews of a particular item after you have watched his. Thorough stuff.
thanks so much!
Other alternatives you could’ve mentioned are the Matador Globerider 45 and the Wandrd Transit. I chose not to purchase this bag because I wasn’t sure if one of the compartments can hold my cpap case. However, my friend relies on the v1 of this bag. Great review!
Thanks dude and great alternative suggestions
I liked your comparisons with other back packs.
Finally- a company that realises the computer is the most important item to be protected. Great in depth review
Glad it was helpful!
Just got 45 litre amazing, other
back packs have their computer storage at the back where your back is this may add all the weight pressure to the computer screen, makes sence. Great product.
Yes. Throw your passport in a rear facing quick access pocket. 😂. What could go wrong?
I think in an airport it’s fine - outside of that though, yes, probably better to keep your passport in a more secure location
Thank you for a thorough review. I appreciate the honesty and alternatives, pros and cons. Extremely helpful. Will subscribe to the channel and watch more. Again, thank you!
Thanks for the sub!
Love the bag even ordered it along with the 15L day bag but never will I ever put my passport in the admin pocket. Too exposed to pickpockets!
🙌🏽
Sucks they didn’t hook you up with their day pack.
Tell me about it lol
Great review! Looking forward to mine arriving in 3 days. I got both sizes and will only keep one
Please let us know which one you pick and how it feels after you test it out for a bit
Which one did you keep?
He’s just keep the peak design travel 45
I'm sure he kept the 35L because you really don't need more than that.
too bad, this kind of bag should come with the compress straps.
Not a deal breaker for me, but yea a bit surprising they don’t have them now that you mention it
One of the best reviews I’ve seen on this bag. Thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
Did they get rid of the removeable fanny!? Noooooo :(
rip
I think this bag is a a company's attempt at trying to drain their customers. Compared to the V1, we lost the waterproof compartment, lost the secure secret stash pocket, lost the sling bag convertible hip belt and lint magnet of a material.
To regain the waterproof feature, we must buy their accessory pouch which can be clipped inside on that step ladder thing in the interior. And what is up with that attachment system? That is an unnecessary feature made with the sole purpose of milking the customer with "accessories". Defintiey do not like their placement and use of their "logo"
They improved on the accessory strap though. V1 had the issue of potential loss in transit. The TSA pouch feature is quicker to access and put away but lets face it, that was a gimmick feature from the start. Anyone who didn't like emptying the pocket at TSA would already have a spot in their bag to leave their things. The increase in size is also a good thing for those that need it. I like the space for the day bag (yet another expense). I prefer how Gravel did that though with their travel system.
Overall, I would say if you want a 45L bag then, this is an option. But if you wanted the 35L version, V1 is better value. Of course the V1 wasn't 35L capacity but still that would be a better purchase. I couldn't make this statement if the V1 never existed though. It is because they showed us a good product before that I am so disappointed with this version. They did absolutely nothing to hide their corporate greed. The "upgrades" are minimal not warranting the price hike. They took one step forward and one step back (yes they basiclaly didnt move forward at all) Glad Chase Reeves didn't attach his name to this version.
Man I never ranted like this before! I just wanted to let it out since Fyro is coming out and defintiely don't want them to follow Pakt. Looking forward to Fyro!!!
Epic rant lol and much appreciated!
I know I've seen this review before but can't for the life of me understand why I didn't comment this already.... According to Pakt: "The capacity of the 45L bag is actually 41L unexpanded and 53L expanded. The 35L bag is 32L unexpanded and 42L expanded. These are conservative measurements and you actually get several liters of extra space beyond the stated volume when the expansion slot is open." I finally ordered my 45L Forest Green bag (will retire my v1). Looking forward to using it.
I didn’t see this, thanks for that information
Is there a budget alternative to the Pakt Travel Backpack V2? What I need is a "Dual-compartment packing" main compartment model.
not that I know of unfortunately
This one tempts me. What size of daypacks would fit into that compartment? Like probably nothing bigger than a 15L like their Everyday bag?
Yea I would use the dimensions of their everyday bag as your guidelines
Great work BUT. You never address SHOES. The biggest problem of all.
put em in a plastic bag and shove em in the main compartment lol
It’s so hard to decide on a bag. Peak design 45 l hits a lot of boxes but so many people mention comfort is seriously lacking but it’s got great usable volume. Aer travel back pack looks pretty much perfect with minor quirks and I worry slightly about over all capacity but it’s a top contender. This looks awesome but without even trying it that clam shell design just isn’t my cup of tea as I prefer one large opening. I used the minnal 3.0 and enjoyed many aspects of it but the lack of structure in the bag was frustrating and I needed a touch more capacity. Tortugas new bag looks like a solid option even though I’m not a massive fan of the look and hip belt but understand it could come in handy. So hard to decide
Capacity should be your first thing - if the Minaal was too small then the Aer bags will be too small. Avoid the Pakt if you like one main compartment. From there it’s between PD and Tortuga - I’d pick Tortuga all day cuz comfort is most important.
@@Nomads.Nation the perfect reply I needed. Thank you!
@@HeroesJourneyHub glad to help! And we always appreciate it when you use our links to make a purchase 🙏
Does the 35L version of the V2 fit under the airplane seat?
I wish I could answer this, but the truth is it depends - on the airline, the ticket you buy, the location, and the mood of the front desk person checking you in.
Do you prefer the Pakt Travel Backpack v2 or the Alpaka Elements Backpack for city trips and airline travel?
My go-to would be Able Carry Max or Minaal Carry On 3.0, but out of your two options I would go with Pakt
Nahhh my Tomtoc T66 is where it’s at. Now if Tomtoc have it a lighter interior. That would be perfect 👌
Love the T66
I was drawn to this the travel pack for the less attention grabbing (thus less prone to theft or robbery) design, color choices and durable materials used. The clamshell dividers are uniquely practical for a more wrinkle free travel. I like the zip out expansion pack that can also fit the 15 liter day pack while transiting but one has also the option of using it as part of the under seat stowage in a larger commercial plane too. I am guess 45 +10 =55 liters in total would not be accepted at carry-on by most airlines. The 15 liter day pack with that is amazing flexibility both sliding into the expansion pouch or under the seat carry-on is perfectly thought out.
The 35 & 45l v2 travel back pack is out of stock and overprice for non US residence. It does not include the 15l day back which is another overpriced $185USD. The daisy chain loops don’t have much of a functional use. The hip strap does no longer double as a fanny pack as like in version 1. I would to compression packing cubes instead of the PakT branded ones regardless of the loops. The clip-on pouches are very expensive for they lack luster utility. There are more functional and cheaper one out there that make more sense. The front 2 pouches can’t be combined into an one cable locking system like Peak Designs 45 liter. The aluminum back stays have been replaced with a cheaper plastic set. The water bottle pouch is not long enough to be used alternatively, as a tripod or monopole & stand pouch.
agree on many of your points, it's definitely not a cheap bag. Having said that, I still prefer V2 over V1 as it feels more refined (although agreed, that their whole ecosystem is very aggressively priced)
Question is Peak Design 45L travel pack, Aer travel pack 3 or Pakt travel pack 45l?
I’m leaning towards Peak design but still not 100% sure
if you don't mind about the size differences, then Aer Travel Pack 3 for me all day. Peak Design will have the most features out of the 3, but is usually considered the least comfortable. Pakt is great as well.
Not sure how you do it but your reviews are the best. Nothing or no one does it better than how you lay everything out. Thank you!!
I have one request- I watched your take on Aer and this one and I am seriously not sure which one to take as I like them both. If you had to pick between X PAC and this model, which one would you chose.
I like more space and a laptop compartment which is easily accessible. I fly to work every week for 3 days and looking for a solid option
thanks so much! I assume you are referring to the Aer Travel Pack 3? Regular size? If that's the case I'd pick Aer - the laptop compartment is very accessible and it looks/feels more like an 'I'm going on a work trip' bag
I have the V1 and I was really looking forward to it. And for me it falls short. Dividing the middle compartment is just too inconvenient. When travelling you feel like everything fits just not right. Not by much, but enough to make it not work. And because of that, the laptop compartment doesn't work right. It gets pushed into either one of the other compartments. I fear this bag will have the same problems.
11:01 re: the safety of the laptop: both surrounding compartments won't always be packed with clothes. One may also put technical stuff there. Chargers, beauty products and appliances. That does not provide protection to the laptop.
great points
You did not really address v1 vs v2, which is why I clicked. I know the basic differences (I have v1) but would have appreciated your comments on that.
Spoiler alert; it’s better
Been waiting for your review. Just a day or so before my 35L version arrives. I think for me the 35L is optimal since there is still a chance it will fit under a seat…yet has the potential to grow with my travel needs as I head toward true one-bag travel.
Please let us know what you think about the bag after testing for a few weeks
@@Nomads.Nation While I have only taken one trip so far, I can add a few early comments. It is not as comfortable in carrying as an Able Carry Max. However, I was carrying a slightly larger load in the Pakt as well, with expansion pocket in use. Yet not quite fully packed out either. Dropping the weight/load a bit made things more comfortable. Still getting used to the load lifter straps...new to me. Maybe the backpack needs to be worn in a bit, too?--maybe. The laptop section appears to be ideal for a 16" MBP. Also fits my 2020 ThinkPad P1. But it does not fit my 2023 ThinkPad P16s (my work machine), which is just slightly larger. That latter point means that for some air travel trips, I will probably be taking my Able Carry Max (I can take both for car travel since I have more room...and I actually did for my recent trip where I brought two machines). With all that said, my overall travelling preference is the Pakt--it has a lot of thought put into it as far as easy access on-the-go. But I can see it being not perfect for everyone.
@@arlencarlson awesome analysis dude! I really want to take it on a 7-10 day trip to experience the bag in all of its glory
Whoa, nice mini review!@@arlencarlson
@@arlencarlsonhow did you find it to fit under the seat? I’m debating between the 35L Pakt, Aer Travel Pack 3 / Small versions and having it to fit under the seat is a must for me since I have a carry on luggage with me whenever I go to Japan
Been trying to find this info and haven't seen any concrete mention of it. Regarding the expandable area for the 15L day pack, any idea on how much the dya pack can be filled before it can't fit in there? Im wondering if my Aer Travel Sling (similar dimensions to the Pakt 15L pack) would fit in there.
I don’t really have specifications, but I’d say a 15L bag normally packed out would be fine
I might have missed it, but does the 45L work as a carry on? If so, Under seat potentially or overhead bin only?
For the overhead bin - totally depends on the airline, the weight of the bag, and the mood of the agent checking you in. For under the seat - don’t think so
Good review but as an old traveler I would like to know where the cpap machine goes.
Hopefully should fit in the main compartment
Sure, they weigh your bags, but they're much lighter than any rolling luggage.
for sure! but it's still getting harder out there for one bag travelers. Many OBT-ers are only going with superlightweight ~28L bags to ensure they never get separated from their pack
I’m a very petite woman 4’11”, i would love to see a reference how it looks on petite ladies :)
be sure to subscribe to our sister channel Gear for the Girls - she's got a full Pakt review plus several travel backpack roundups coming soon. In every video she goes outside with the pack to talk about its comfort and you can see how it looks on her (she's 5'2)
www.youtube.com/@GearfortheGirls/videos
Thank you! I found their channel but cant find the video. Will check again. Tysm
@@Lloydetc like I said, videos are "coming soon" - be sure to hit that notification bell so you know once they are live!
Does the 35L have the expansion that the 45L has?
Not 100% sure right now as I am traveling
Do you have any idea when they will be available again? Ugh!
I do not but I’m sure if you reach out to Pakt they will give you an answer
Is this better than the Aer travel pack 3 ?
In my opinion, no
Can you do a quick review on the 15L ?
We have a review of the 22L coming soon, don’t have the 15L unfortunately
welp i'm buying that
If you do be sure to let us know what you think of it!
Which app do you use to design bagpack??
I don't design myself, I can't even draw stick figures,, I hired a designer
5:36 I just noticed you've got two passports. Not sure if one of them is your new Singaporean one, but if you have not already, since you have Italian ancestry, it's by far one of the easiest EU passports to get, and they have very generous rules on how an Italian descendant can get one. I would highly recommend it if you don't have an EU passport already.
ironically I just looked into this, but I thought I read you needed intent to live in Italy afterwards? Is this not true? Cuz I'd love an Italian passport
@@Nomads.Nation So as you probably know, citizenship and passport rules are full of De Jure vs De Facto interpretations of the law, so there is often flexibility. Ireland and Italy are the only two EU countries that have generous ancestral linage citizenship (Jus sanguinis), and between these, Italy is by far the easiest to get. If their requirement is " intent to live" , do some research and find out exactly what "intent" means and how strictly it's enforced. I'm a Japanese / US dual citizen, and technically if I want to keep my Japanese passport, I have to have the " intention to renounce other nationalities", however, it is not enforced, and many people falsely believe it's impossible to be a dual Japanese national. On the bright side, I have access to the Japanese healthcare system (about 95% cheaper than US, literally).
@@roseforeuropa amazing info, thank you so much!
@@Nomads.Nation Yeah man, once you secure your third passport, the pro move is to start working on getting rid of the US citizenship and avoid that damn FBAR and FACTA. You have to pay the IRS a cruel $4000 exit tax, and lie and check the box claiming your intention to renounce isn't to avoid taxes. After that, you'll be a free bois. Looking forward to the day you low-key flex by stuffing in 3 passports into the front compartment on a review
I have it and I love it.
It’s a phenomenal bag
Great review! I’m really impressed with what Pakt has done here. I don’t think this pack is for me personally-I like to one-bag it for trips around a week that don’t require a ton of clothes or tech, and if I need either this much space or this much organization, I’m fine just checking a bag and carrying a smaller pack. But I know there are lots of people out there who, for work or fun, want a bigger one-bag pack for long trips that kinda replicates the checked-suitcase experience, which was a space I feel like Pakt really figured out with the v1 and nailed with this one.
Couldn’t have said it better myself
have the impression that the waist belt is not gonna be taking enough load onto your hips. I really liked the removable waist belt from the first one. Also, It doesn't feel as if that weird TSA bag is really comfortable to pack.
the waist strap is better than not having one, but agreed, it's not gonna be as comfy as a padded one
I totally agree on the TSA bag - it sounds like a cool feature in concept, but in practice it looks like a hassle to deal with, and I’m not sure what it fundamentally does that another pocket or an accompanying sling doesn’t.
@@j.b.1903💯
@@j.b.1903
You dump your stuff in their prior to security, then after security just grab your bag and go vs having to scoop up a bunch of loose stuff from a bin. It actually really comes in handy and allows me to get to my gate and re-organize vs clogging up the back end of security.
Je vois pas de passants pour mettre un cadenas ?
❤️ 🇫🇷
Issa biggun. Dig it
😎
Man now idk what bag to get lol. Between nomadic, matador and this bag
Matador or Pakt is better than Nomatic for travel bags imo
@@Nomads.Nation well I ended up buying the aer xpac one. Since Pakt was first choice but they’re sold out till end of may it says
@@samoporto9847 you made a great choice
Would a 40oz owala fit in the water holder?
Can’t say cuz I don’t have one. Probably best to ask Pakt customer support - be sure to let us know what they say
@@Nomads.Nation I just got my 35L travel backpack and it fits my 40oz.
@@ninebanger1585 awesome, thanks for the update!
Cowabunga.!
🤠