I had this for quite a while. accompanied me on several local business trips and a 9-day international trip to the UK. function-wise, this bag is perfect. it's lightweight and has some decent compartments. but sadly I'm not a big fan of their back panel and strap because it keeps slipping even after I applied aftermarket strap keeper. decided to sell it and bought an aer tp3s. even though i noticed aer tp3s is heavier even when its empty, the comfiness of its back panel and strap is unmatched 👍
I have the Bellroy Transit 20L and 28L and imo the 20L is the perfect office backpack. It's so good. I can't explain why or the reasoning but I much prefer the 20L over the 28L. For travel I do really like the 28L a lot. For nice hotels I use the Bellroy, for hiking and grungier locations I use the Dragonfly.
I'm a huge Bellroy fan, I always get questions and compliments whenever I'm out with mine. I can't see me buying this one, although I can totally understand why anyone would. Great review as always.
Many thanks for the review - very detailed and informative! I like the backpack, but for me it is missing organisation for admin stuff and especially documents. My current EDC bags are the Tom Bihn Synik 22 and 30 which are still in top place for me. I’m also a big fan of Belroy - I’ve got some of their wallets and pouches, but no backpack yet. Thanks again for your review - I will be watching out for your next one!
I have both the S22 and S30 as well, but want to replace both for a more subtle 28-30L backpack. Have you thought the same? If so, what backpacks are you deciding on?
Just a note: Aer TP3/TP3S doesnt have dual external water bottle pockets. It only has 1 with the other being a more of quick access side pocket that doesnt have a lot of elasticity. Another note would be that if you use the water bottle holder on the Aer it cuts into one of the inside side pockets on the main compartment which would bend anything inside. Thanks!
The 20l version is a sleek option for everyday carry if you don´t need too much junk. Laptop charger can be tossed into the main compartment and headphones too. Little things fit into the front pocket. Side pockets are fine for thin bottles only. Straps are good enough for the load and get loose from time to time... I learned to live with it. I am thinking about the 28l for business trips. Even low cost flight providers may accept the pack for carry on if not too full. Both packs are fairly light and simple. They are not trying to be "tactical". I would be happy if they were half the price.
I agree price is high but not goruck, evergoods high, except the Apex. And availability is also better, a lot retailer offer it. Means u can get discount sometimes.
@@Nomads.Nation True and checking how similar bags are priced, Bellroy is actually quite OK. My "half price" remark was probably more about the fact that going just 8 liters up for a backpack I might not use all that often may not be money best spent. But then again, checking what the others are making... on average they put 8 carry handles on one backpack and operate under the assumption that the more zippers the better😁
This bag had been across the globe with me for the last two years along with a bellroy 9L or 10L camera sling depending on my camera setup. Seriously, it’s incredible. I’m average height and skinny so I can pack a couple weeks worth of clothes in there provided I have laundry at the destination for the unmentionables.
This bag is currently on sale in Bellroy’s outlet for 30% off. I was debating between this and the Peak Design 30L. I liked the extra features (luggage pass and stowing straps) of the PD, but the discount of this was too good. Got a matching desk caddy for $10 off. So I snagged the pair for less than the original MSRP of this bag.
2-3 day trips? I have been using this backpack for months during the last 3 years. This is the best one bag travel backpack ever, period. Only bag that comes close to this is the Evergoods CTB 26 but it's 400 grams heavier.
Great review as always Aaron! You just never disappoint man! I have the Bellroy Transit Backpack 28L in this exact color and a few other Bellroy bags! Great design, I just love the choice of materials outside and especially on the inside and that is true for all of their products. I use it every day for the office/EDC and it is a great combo with the Bellroy Venture Sling 6L, I take them on every trip and they just feel like they are made for me, yeah man Bellroy...what can I say.... Now I'm in a dilemma between the Bellroy Desk Caddy, which you actually showed in this video, and the Peak Design Tech Pouch, i have only the PD, but I think its way too bulky for everyday use, so maybe something like the Desk Caddy would do a great job, considering that it fits great in the laptop zipped pocket. Keep up the amazing job and also waiting for the FYROOOO 🔥🔥🔥
You really do the best Bag Reviews on the Internet 👍 Would you rather go with the Transit Backpack 28 L oder this Ready Venture 26 L - for EDC or a Night away on a Business Trip?
thanks so much! I owe it all to our amazing editing team for making me look smart 😂 Both are too big for my personal EDC preference, but if you are looking for one bag to do both then I think 26L is much more manageable
@@Nomads.Nation I got the 26L today and loaded it up with everything I need for an overnight stay. I've rarely worn such an uncomfortable rucksack, it almost hurts to carry it. Do you maybe have a recommendation for a backpack between 25-30L that looks similarly good and is comfortable?
@@philipp7943 sorry to hear! But yea, I’ve always been consistently critical about Bellroys lack of shoulder strap padding. Be sure to check out the Aer Travel Pack 3 small or Able Carry Max - both are much comfier in my experience - super chonky padding on the shoulder straps and back panel
great review, as always. i have the bellroy transit workpack and loving the functionality. agreed, not a fan of their shoulder straps, little padding. perhaps i am drawn to those straps of Goruck and Boundary Supply.
Hope as you build your backpack, you will consider a model w/o a laptop compartment in a travel bag. A lot of us just like to travel for fun and don't need the sectioned off computer area or extra zippers. iPhone and iPad usually do the trip or just an iPhone.
I do agree that the non-laptop crowd is underserved and there should be more travel bags without laptop sleeves. Having said that, it won’t by my bag company, as we are dedicated to making the worlds best gear for laptop warriors and digital nomads 💻 💪🏻
I use a 25oz Larq water bottle and I saw the 17oz fit. Do you think the 25oz would fit this bag. I really like bags with hidden water bottle pockets. If you don't think the 25oz would fil, do you recommend another bag with an internal water bottle pocket that would? Very informative video Aaron.
I can’t say about the 25oz for sure - please reach out to Bellroy and ask them. As for bags with hidden water bottle pockets, check out Day Owl Backpack, Able Carry Max, and Knack Pack
@@Nomads.Nation yeah pretty much all of them on backpacks, I'm not really a side slinger, backpacks I put on or take off, I'm a big sling guy if I need to keep it on + access. I tend to throw things in there so it just settles on the bottom. The only thing I find it really works well for me in those vertical pockets is throwing a thin tech pouch (like the modern dayfarer or one of those similar shaped waterfield ones) into it. I prefer a moderate sized quick access/dump section, like the one on the top of their venture ready/aer capsule or even just an old fashioned jansport style extra front pocket (I know it would ruin the smooth look but it works!).
@@Nomads.Nation I love love that extra charger/mouse/tech dump section inside of the laptop sleeve though, its great, you only have to open one zipper to get all your computer stuff.
Wow this bag is currently on sale (30% off) but I'm really worried from the comfort! I'm rocking Aer CPP on a daily basis and I'm loving the Aer comfort. Also, why there's no luggage passthrough! I'm gazing the Able Carry Max for quite some time now - it's seems like a real banger, but it's $100 more expensive (now with the Bellroy discount) - What do you say Aaron? help is needed here ;)
if you like Aer comfort then you might be shocked by Bellroy's straps as they are significantly thinner (which many people like my sister prefer as they find them less oppressive).
@@Nomads.Nation BTW - do you think this promotion is a sign that they’re gonna release a new version of this bag. Let’s say - with a luggage passthrough?
While I appreciate the side-access features of the Transit line, the entire line has a couple of fatal flaws (for me). 1> zero attachment points (yes, I understand the minimalist aesthetic they were going for, but still...) 2> no luggage pass-thru .
Bellroy Transit 28L: Pros 1. Aesthetics + quality materials 2. Clamshell opening 3. Nice internal pocket that can hold accessory pouch 4. Dual water bottle holders Cons 1. No luggage pass-thru 2. Frontal vertical pocket not built for righ-handed swing around access 3. Laptop difficult to pull out when bag packed out 4. Internal dual water bottle holders usability compromised when bag packed out 5. Non-sense main compartment elastic holders Beautiful pack, but it's a no for me.
These complains are non issues for me after years of traveling. 1. I don't care as I just carry one bag 2. Never ever even thought about it, just use the hidden pockets (they are not just for bottles) for storing passport, etc 3. That happens in most backpacks, but in my experience that rarely has happened to me (and I tend to pack heavily) 4. Internal bottle holders are the only drawback but they are OK for small bottles and another better use for them is to use as hidden pockets for wallet, phone, etc 5. That is a non-issue, it doesn't get in the way so just don't use it, I don't even remember that is there. Also it has been useful when using as EDC to prevent things from moving around when packed light
I keep seeing reviews that the straps keep slipping, does anyone else experience this? I want to get the 20L. One review said they had both 20 and 28L and both had the same problem.
Bellroy added in new strap keepers that clip on more tightly. Not the most elegant solution but it certainly keeps the straps from sliding between uses.
Yeah - I have that bag - shoulder strap pads should be longer - too short and cuts into your shoulders. And the “Water bottle holders” suck - they don’t work -
A simple backpack from Targus or Swissgear would do everything this backpack would do and more for a fraction of the price. This bag to me says - I'm white and AI want to flex my privelage - im gullible - I'm just demanding...
Thanks for your comment! I do agree that this bag is pricey, and other cheaper bags have similar functionality. But when it comes to materials, build, aesthetic, and warranty, Swissgear and Targus simply cannot compare to the quality of Bellroy. Bags are like cars - both a Toyota and a Bentley will get you from Point A to Point B, they just do it in their own ways. Hope you have a great day :)
Do you want to help me build a game-changing backpack? 👉🏼 nomadsnation.com/building-a-backpack
I had this for quite a while. accompanied me on several local business trips and a 9-day international trip to the UK. function-wise, this bag is perfect. it's lightweight and has some decent compartments. but sadly I'm not a big fan of their back panel and strap because it keeps slipping even after I applied aftermarket strap keeper. decided to sell it and bought an aer tp3s. even though i noticed aer tp3s is heavier even when its empty, the comfiness of its back panel and strap is unmatched 👍
perfec analysis - this bag is super light and a joy to use, but just won't be as comfy as a more padded bag like the ATP3
I have the Bellroy Transit 20L and 28L and imo the 20L is the perfect office backpack. It's so good. I can't explain why or the reasoning but I much prefer the 20L over the 28L. For travel I do really like the 28L a lot. For nice hotels I use the Bellroy, for hiking and grungier locations I use the Dragonfly.
Agreed it’s an amazing office bag - def looks the part!
I'm a huge Bellroy fan, I always get questions and compliments whenever I'm out with mine. I can't see me buying this one, although I can totally understand why anyone would. Great review as always.
thanks dude!
What bag of theirs do you have?
I have the Bellroy Melbourne in black@@jondough7823
Okay
Many thanks for the review - very detailed and informative! I like the backpack, but for me it is missing organisation for admin stuff and especially documents. My current EDC bags are the Tom Bihn Synik 22 and 30 which are still in top place for me. I’m also a big fan of Belroy - I’ve got some of their wallets and pouches, but no backpack yet. Thanks again for your review - I will be watching out for your next one!
Glad to hear you liked!
I have both the S22 and S30 as well, but want to replace both for a more subtle 28-30L backpack. Have you thought the same? If so, what backpacks are you deciding on?
Just a note: Aer TP3/TP3S doesnt have dual external water bottle pockets. It only has 1 with the other being a more of quick access side pocket that doesnt have a lot of elasticity. Another note would be that if you use the water bottle holder on the Aer it cuts into one of the inside side pockets on the main compartment which would bend anything inside.
Thanks!
Thanks for that!
The 20l version is a sleek option for everyday carry if you don´t need too much junk. Laptop charger can be tossed into the main compartment and headphones too. Little things fit into the front pocket. Side pockets are fine for thin bottles only. Straps are good enough for the load and get loose from time to time... I learned to live with it. I am thinking about the 28l for business trips. Even low cost flight providers may accept the pack for carry on if not too full. Both packs are fairly light and simple. They are not trying to be "tactical". I would be happy if they were half the price.
half the price = half the quality
I agree price is high but not goruck, evergoods high, except the Apex. And availability is also better, a lot retailer offer it. Means u can get discount sometimes.
@@Nomads.Nation True and checking how similar bags are priced, Bellroy is actually quite OK. My "half price" remark was probably more about the fact that going just 8 liters up for a backpack I might not use all that often may not be money best spent. But then again, checking what the others are making... on average they put 8 carry handles on one backpack and operate under the assumption that the more zippers the better😁
@@xc43t 😂
This bag had been across the globe with me for the last two years along with a bellroy 9L or 10L camera sling depending on my camera setup. Seriously, it’s incredible. I’m average height and skinny so I can pack a couple weeks worth of clothes in there provided I have laundry at the destination for the unmentionables.
love it!
This bag is currently on sale in Bellroy’s outlet for 30% off. I was debating between this and the Peak Design 30L. I liked the extra features (luggage pass and stowing straps) of the PD, but the discount of this was too good. Got a matching desk caddy for $10 off. So I snagged the pair for less than the original MSRP of this bag.
I think you made the right choice. Be sure to let us know what you think of the bags after testing for a few days
2-3 day trips? I have been using this backpack for months during the last 3 years. This is the best one bag travel backpack ever, period.
Only bag that comes close to this is the Evergoods CTB 26 but it's 400 grams heavier.
nice to meet a superfan of the bag!
No it's not 😂
Great review as always Aaron! You just never disappoint man!
I have the Bellroy Transit Backpack 28L in this exact color and a few other Bellroy bags! Great design, I just love the choice of materials outside and especially on the inside and that is true for all of their products. I use it every day for the office/EDC and it is a great combo with the Bellroy Venture Sling 6L, I take them on every trip and they just feel like they are made for me, yeah man Bellroy...what can I say....
Now I'm in a dilemma between the Bellroy Desk Caddy, which you actually showed in this video, and the Peak Design Tech Pouch, i have only the PD, but I think its way too bulky for everyday use, so maybe something like the Desk Caddy would do a great job, considering that it fits great in the laptop zipped pocket.
Keep up the amazing job and also waiting for the FYROOOO 🔥🔥🔥
thanks mucho amigo! 🔥🔥🔥
Awesome reviews. Ty for the content.
Our pleasure!
I was 100% in, but the lack of a luggage strap is a dealbreaker for me.
Yea really hoping that Bellroy starts adding that on more products
You really do the best Bag Reviews on the Internet 👍 Would you rather go with the Transit Backpack 28 L oder this Ready Venture 26 L - for EDC or a Night away on a Business Trip?
thanks so much! I owe it all to our amazing editing team for making me look smart 😂
Both are too big for my personal EDC preference, but if you are looking for one bag to do both then I think 26L is much more manageable
@@Nomads.Nation thanks
@@Nomads.Nation I got the 26L today and loaded it up with everything I need for an overnight stay. I've rarely worn such an uncomfortable rucksack, it almost hurts to carry it. Do you maybe have a recommendation for a backpack between 25-30L that looks similarly good and is comfortable?
@@philipp7943 sorry to hear! But yea, I’ve always been consistently critical about Bellroys lack of shoulder strap padding. Be sure to check out the Aer Travel Pack 3 small or Able Carry Max - both are much comfier in my experience - super chonky padding on the shoulder straps and back panel
@@Nomads.Nation thanks very much. Trying to get one of those in Germany
great review, as always. i have the bellroy transit workpack and loving the functionality. agreed, not a fan of their shoulder straps, little padding. perhaps i am drawn to those straps of Goruck and Boundary Supply.
Totally agree
Hope as you build your backpack, you will consider a model w/o a laptop compartment in a travel bag. A lot of us just like to travel for fun and don't need the sectioned off computer area or extra zippers. iPhone and iPad usually do the trip or just an iPhone.
I do agree that the non-laptop crowd is underserved and there should be more travel bags without laptop sleeves. Having said that, it won’t by my bag company, as we are dedicated to making the worlds best gear for laptop warriors and digital nomads 💻 💪🏻
I use a 25oz Larq water bottle and I saw the 17oz fit. Do you think the 25oz would fit this bag. I really like bags with hidden water bottle pockets. If you don't think the 25oz would fil, do you recommend another bag with an internal water bottle pocket that would? Very informative video Aaron.
I can’t say about the 25oz for sure - please reach out to Bellroy and ask them. As for bags with hidden water bottle pockets, check out Day Owl Backpack, Able Carry Max, and Knack Pack
That 20L looks like a great packable daypack option
semi-packable yes
Thanks for great review. I am in between this one and the venture ready 26L, still couldn't make up my mind, so hard to pick.
The good news is you can’t go wrong with either. If it’s for travel purposes I’d recommend getting the 28L so you have a bit more space when need be
Nice Video Aaron!
thanks a lot!
The Bellroy tag on the inside main compartment can fit an air tag.
I always forget this, sneaky-awesome design from them
I like Bellroys transit line more than the venture stuff if only for the separate laptop sleeve. I’m sorta over the vertical exterior pockets though.
you are over it on all bags? Bellroy, Evergoods, Able Carry, etc?
@@Nomads.Nation yeah pretty much all of them on backpacks, I'm not really a side slinger, backpacks I put on or take off, I'm a big sling guy if I need to keep it on + access. I tend to throw things in there so it just settles on the bottom. The only thing I find it really works well for me in those vertical pockets is throwing a thin tech pouch (like the modern dayfarer or one of those similar shaped waterfield ones) into it. I prefer a moderate sized quick access/dump section, like the one on the top of their venture ready/aer capsule or even just an old fashioned jansport style extra front pocket (I know it would ruin the smooth look but it works!).
@@Nomads.Nation I love love that extra charger/mouse/tech dump section inside of the laptop sleeve though, its great, you only have to open one zipper to get all your computer stuff.
@@jonuiuc yea its great, and works very well too, unlike Peak Design's which is too tight imo
Wow this bag is currently on sale (30% off) but I'm really worried from the comfort! I'm rocking Aer CPP on a daily basis and I'm loving the Aer comfort. Also, why there's no luggage passthrough! I'm gazing the Able Carry Max for quite some time now - it's seems like a real banger, but it's $100 more expensive (now with the Bellroy discount) - What do you say Aaron? help is needed here ;)
if you like Aer comfort then you might be shocked by Bellroy's straps as they are significantly thinner (which many people like my sister prefer as they find them less oppressive).
@@Nomads.Nation BTW - do you think this promotion is a sign that they’re gonna release a new version of this bag. Let’s say - with a luggage passthrough?
@@eitanlahyani1 not sure tbh, but we can hope so!
What was the tripod you showed briefly in the water bottle section and do you recommend it? Looked super compact!
something I picked up at a random market in China lol, not sure what the brand is
This reminds me of an Evergoods bag. How would you say this compares to a CPL 28? Especially comfort wise.
I haven’t tested a CPL28 so I can’t say for sure, but my understanding is that Evergoods should be more comfortable
While I appreciate the side-access features of the Transit line, the entire line has a couple of fatal flaws (for me). 1> zero attachment points (yes, I understand the minimalist aesthetic they were going for, but still...) 2> no luggage pass-thru .
Point 1 isn’t something I care about but I strongly agree with point 2
Flight personal item?
Depends on the flight, but maybe 50/50 chance
Bellroy Transit 28L:
Pros
1. Aesthetics + quality materials
2. Clamshell opening
3. Nice internal pocket that can hold accessory pouch
4. Dual water bottle holders
Cons
1. No luggage pass-thru
2. Frontal vertical pocket not built for righ-handed swing around access
3. Laptop difficult to pull out when bag packed out
4. Internal dual water bottle holders usability compromised when bag packed out
5. Non-sense main compartment elastic holders
Beautiful pack, but it's a no for me.
💯
These complains are non issues for me after years of traveling.
1. I don't care as I just carry one bag
2. Never ever even thought about it, just use the hidden pockets (they are not just for bottles) for storing passport, etc
3. That happens in most backpacks, but in my experience that rarely has happened to me (and I tend to pack heavily)
4. Internal bottle holders are the only drawback but they are OK for small bottles and another better use for them is to use as hidden pockets for wallet, phone, etc
5. That is a non-issue, it doesn't get in the way so just don't use it, I don't even remember that is there. Also it has been useful when using as EDC to prevent things from moving around when packed light
@@leotravel85 word
Was that a trick to trigger the comment "the Aer TP3 doesn't have dual water bottle holders"? 🤔
not sure what you mean? 🤔
I keep seeing reviews that the straps keep slipping, does anyone else experience this? I want to get the 20L. One review said they had both 20 and 28L and both had the same problem.
Not in my experience
Bellroy added in new strap keepers that clip on more tightly. Not the most elegant solution but it certainly keeps the straps from sliding between uses.
No luggage pass thru is weird for a travel backpack
It isn’t if you just look at it as a light one bag travel pack… but outside of that, I totally agree
I think you need to update the title. It is labeled as [publish]
Ugh thanks dude, updated 😂
Is this new? Have seen reviews on this a few years ago
@@BELLOOO11 I agree. Thought this review was published years ago. I know the bag has been out for quite some time.
@@arlencarlson yea its not "new new" but it's kinda "new" - def mispoke in the beginning though. Thanks for watching!
Can you do the Thule Aion please? 🙏
Hopefully one day, it’s on our wish list
Yeah - I have that bag - shoulder strap pads should be longer - too short and cuts into your shoulders.
And the “Water bottle holders” suck - they don’t work -
Agreed on the shoulder straps, I think the water bottle holder works very well, just depends on what water bottle you have
Can I fit this under the seat of an airplane?
depends on the airplane, but I'd say you'd be good most of the time (assuming the airline lets you take it on)
*PUBLISH*
Haha OOPS! Fixed now thanks for the comment lol
A simple backpack from Targus or Swissgear would do everything this backpack would do and more for a fraction of the price. This bag to me says
- I'm white and AI want to flex my privelage
- im gullible
- I'm just demanding...
Thanks for your comment! I do agree that this bag is pricey, and other cheaper bags have similar functionality. But when it comes to materials, build, aesthetic, and warranty, Swissgear and Targus simply cannot compare to the quality of Bellroy. Bags are like cars - both a Toyota and a Bentley will get you from Point A to Point B, they just do it in their own ways. Hope you have a great day :)
Get a smaller GaN charger for your laptop. Your charger is just too large.
you got a specific brand you suggest? I'd love to pick one up
Anker 735
@@Nomads.Nation Anker, Ugreen, Minix are all good brands. I've bought units from each in the past.
Minix 65w or 100w. It also comes with international attachments. Very handy and small. @Nomads.Nation
Now if it only came in bronze…
dare to dream