I just received my Tortuga Lite pack. I’m on the tall side (5’10” or 177cm) and plus-sized. I haven’t traveled with it yet, but the chest and hip straps fit no problem, even though I’m a size 20/22.
Thank you for the in depth review! I reached out to Tortuga about what size torso is best for each bag, and with my smaller frame it looks like the PRO adjusts to my measurements while the Lite would be big. However, I’m now concerned that the hip belt would be too loose on me. It’s a huge bummer. For reference here’s the info I got from Tortuga: 40L PRO: 16-20” torsos 40L LITE: 19-21” torsos After watching a few of your reviews now I’m leaning towards getting the Osprey Fairview 40L, although will miss the organization of the Tortuga backpack PRO has.
I have traveled with the Tortuga Pro and really loved it especialllyyyyy the adjustable harness system, i found the hip belt did fit me but it was almost as tight as it could go. so if you are around the same size as me it should fit! I do loveeee the Osprey Fairview but yes it does lack in organization
I have the pro but it looks different so maybe an older model . I am 5 foot 10 and 24 inch waist and can cinch the hip belt really tight and it’s not too big . I love the hip belt as it removes all the weight from my shoulders
Great review!! The lose hip belt would be a no go for me. I don’t want to have to gain weight for it to fit my narrow frame. A shame that was overlooked in the design process. Curious, Is there a (removable) frame sheet in the pro? I would have loved to see where the bottom of the straps hit you. I have been finding with big bags, the straps are too long and almost hit the bag, which isn’t a good fit. Happy about load lifters and adjustable fit (I wish more bags had those features) and it looks super comfy. Still, I wonder if a bag that big would fit a 5’5” human with a 17” torso…. It’s been very hard finding a comfy travel bag that fits well. The best fit so far the Goruck2 26L, which is only 18” long, has two compartments and a top notch laptop compartment. But it is super heavy when packed out…and it does lack some features I would like…For short trips, I wear the Tom Bihn Synik but it’s only 22L..at around 18” it fits my torso well. I wish it rose higher on my back… Enough about me. You did good! I always thought an Aer might be a good option to check out. I wonder if Cotopaxi is a worthy/robust travel bag. Their ads pop up on my Instagram feed often….I would love a review.
Aer is definitely a different type of fit, I have never tried the Cotopaxi I will try and add it to the list! Glad you enjoyed the review!! It sounds like the Lite would be a better option for you :)
Great video! Very thorough comparison. Just got the lite using your link. Also got the Alpaka Elements through the Nomad Nations link, but returning it because I found the main compartment surprisingly small for my needs. That pack is very tech and organization oriented, maybe not as space efficient for non digital nomads. One week in Kauai coming up!!
That adjustable harness seems like a game-changer for me. I LOVE to wear my packs tight and high, and adjusted the harness to allow that. That feature is pretty darn rare, especially for the 30L Tortuga that I have. Without it, I'm not sure I'd like the Lite as much. Great review!!!
I've traveled with both, i think the Osprey can fit more with packing cubes and it so breathable. The Tortuga Lite is more minimalist and sooo light but for me not as comfy as the Osprey
I can live without the admin pocket (I do like a full-length admin pocket, though), but since they didn't include one I really wish they at least made that side access front pocket as large as they did on the Pro version. Also really wish there was a tablet sleeve in the laptop compartment since I often have to travel with a work laptop and then bring my iPad along for a personal device (and again, since there is no admin area with a large pocket to put a tablet in). I was really hoping this bag would be a no-brainer for me when I heard it was coming out, but ugh! So, so close! I still may get it though. Lots of great things going on with this bag. I've had the Tortuga Setout 35L for years and it has been nothing short of awesome, so I definitely trust their bags.
They really do have great long lasting bags! I understand the frustration with the no tablet sleeve. It is meant to be just a very simplified travel backpack tho, maybe just try it out and see if you can pack it to your liking because it's such a lighter carry!
Can we use it for daily commute as well. Does it look bulky if i have laptop , pair of shoes and tee for daily use. Appreciate you suggestion in advance
If you’re going to make it “lite” please get rid of laptop compartment. Many of us travel to get away from the need to be tethered to a computer. Where is a great travel bag without a laptop compartment taking up vital volume?
Okay that's a good point forsure, it does take up that extra space. I'm gonna be on the hunt for a good travel pack without a laptop compartment for my non laptop travelers!
@@GSB-p1s I also agree. However, those laptop compartments are great for when you want to keep flat items in there. Say, a folder, journals, books, etc. I used mine recently for quick to grab items that were relatively flat.
I love this pack but I can’t get past it looking like a carryon on your back. I feel like a backpack needs to look like a big backpack not a suitcase🤦♀️
Amazing, I just looked for a lite review yesterday so thanks for that! Actually I’m really pleased, I felt like I was drowning in the bulky pro straps. I actually don’t use most of what they got rid of. Do you think the lite can handle more clothing now that the admin panel is gone?
Your laptop might be safe but your wallet is not😂 when trave you should never leave your passport and wallet out of your side, never put them on the back of the backpack
Do you prefer the Pro or the Lite??🎒🤔 Let me know your thoughts on these bags in the comments⬇
I just received my Tortuga Lite pack. I’m on the tall side (5’10” or 177cm) and plus-sized. I haven’t traveled with it yet, but the chest and hip straps fit no problem, even though I’m a size 20/22.
Awesome! It's a really light carry for the size, I hope you enjoy using it!
Thank you for the in depth review! I reached out to Tortuga about what size torso is best for each bag, and with my smaller frame it looks like the PRO adjusts to my measurements while the Lite would be big. However, I’m now concerned that the hip belt would be too loose on me. It’s a huge bummer.
For reference here’s the info I got from Tortuga:
40L PRO: 16-20” torsos
40L LITE: 19-21” torsos
After watching a few of your reviews now I’m leaning towards getting the Osprey Fairview 40L, although will miss the organization of the Tortuga backpack PRO has.
I have traveled with the Tortuga Pro and really loved it especialllyyyyy the adjustable harness system, i found the hip belt did fit me but it was almost as tight as it could go. so if you are around the same size as me it should fit! I do loveeee the Osprey Fairview but yes it does lack in organization
I have the pro but it looks different so maybe an older model . I am 5 foot 10 and 24 inch waist and can cinch the hip belt really tight and it’s not too big . I love the hip belt as it removes all the weight from my shoulders
Great review!!
The lose hip belt would be a no go for me. I don’t want to have to gain weight for it to fit my narrow frame. A shame that was overlooked in the design process.
Curious, Is there a (removable) frame sheet in the pro?
I would have loved to see where the bottom of the straps hit you. I have been finding with big bags, the straps are too long and almost hit the bag, which isn’t a good fit.
Happy about load lifters and adjustable fit (I wish more bags had those features) and it looks super comfy.
Still, I wonder if a bag that big would fit a 5’5” human with a 17” torso….
It’s been very hard finding a comfy travel bag that fits well. The best fit so far the Goruck2 26L, which is only 18” long, has two compartments and a top notch laptop compartment. But it is super heavy when packed out…and it does lack some features I would like…For short trips, I wear the Tom Bihn Synik but it’s only 22L..at around 18” it fits my torso well. I wish it rose higher on my back…
Enough about me. You did good!
I always thought an Aer might be a good option to check out. I wonder if Cotopaxi is a worthy/robust travel bag. Their ads pop up on my Instagram feed often….I would love a review.
Aer is definitely a different type of fit, I have never tried the Cotopaxi I will try and add it to the list! Glad you enjoyed the review!! It sounds like the Lite would be a better option for you :)
Super helpful review, thank you!
Of course!! Glad you enjoyed 😊
Great video! Very thorough comparison. Just got the lite using your link. Also got the Alpaka Elements through the Nomad Nations link, but returning it because I found the main compartment surprisingly small for my needs. That pack is very tech and organization oriented, maybe not as space efficient for non digital nomads. One week in Kauai coming up!!
Thank you for the support!! Omg i hope you have an amazing trip and love the bag😊
Great comparison. Appreciate the perspective from a fellow woman!
I got you!!
That adjustable harness seems like a game-changer for me. I LOVE to wear my packs tight and high, and adjusted the harness to allow that. That feature is pretty darn rare, especially for the 30L Tortuga that I have. Without it, I'm not sure I'd like the Lite as much. Great review!!!
100% agree!! Any bag that has the adjustable harness will automatically be my go to! Thank you :)
are you saying your 30l tortuga has the adjustable straps? what's it called? wonder if anyone is selling it used near me!
@@bebexpink Yes. You can raise or lower the shoulder strap/harness system to accommodate different carry styles and torso lengths. Super useful.
Super helpful, great review 🙏🏻
Glad it helped! :)
Thanks for the breakdown, Marisa.
Of course! They are great backpacks!
How long is your torso? I’ve seen a video where the reviewer says it is for 16 to 18 inch torsos, but the website says it’s for 19-21 inch torsos
Want to watch Tortuga Lite V.S Ospreys Fairview 40L in material; lockable feature; comfort and heat retain and how they’re being packed out. Thanks
I've traveled with both, i think the Osprey can fit more with packing cubes and it so breathable. The Tortuga Lite is more minimalist and sooo light but for me not as comfy as the Osprey
Could you also review the Cotapaxi Allpa 42l? :)
I will try and add it to the list! :)
I can live without the admin pocket (I do like a full-length admin pocket, though), but since they didn't include one I really wish they at least made that side access front pocket as large as they did on the Pro version. Also really wish there was a tablet sleeve in the laptop compartment since I often have to travel with a work laptop and then bring my iPad along for a personal device (and again, since there is no admin area with a large pocket to put a tablet in). I was really hoping this bag would be a no-brainer for me when I heard it was coming out, but ugh! So, so close! I still may get it though. Lots of great things going on with this bag. I've had the Tortuga Setout 35L for years and it has been nothing short of awesome, so I definitely trust their bags.
They really do have great long lasting bags! I understand the frustration with the no tablet sleeve. It is meant to be just a very simplified travel backpack tho, maybe just try it out and see if you can pack it to your liking because it's such a lighter carry!
Can we use it for daily commute as well. Does it look bulky if i have laptop , pair of shoes and tee for daily use. Appreciate you suggestion in advance
I personally wouldn't its way too big and bulky on me for edc. But if you're bigger it may work
Does the Tortuga Pro have aluminum stays?
i'm not totally sure, i think thats a better question for Tortuga to be sure!!
If you’re going to make it “lite” please get rid of laptop compartment. Many of us travel to get away from the need to be tethered to a computer. Where is a great travel bag without a laptop compartment taking up vital volume?
Okay that's a good point forsure, it does take up that extra space. I'm gonna be on the hunt for a good travel pack without a laptop compartment for my non laptop travelers!
I agree
I will use that section for some jackets or something because I agree with you , at least I never travel with laptop
@@GSB-p1s I also agree. However, those laptop compartments are great for when you want to keep flat items in there. Say, a folder, journals, books, etc. I used mine recently for quick to grab items that were relatively flat.
I love this pack but I can’t get past it looking like a carryon on your back. I feel like a backpack needs to look like a big backpack not a suitcase🤦♀️
I know, unfortunately these bigger bags are gonna look huge. The sacrifice we must make to fit all our stuff 😭
I got caught in a rainstorm yesterday with a cloth Vera Bradley backpack, not fun.
Oh no! Yeah that is my nightmare, I neeeed some weatherproof materials for my bags!
Amazing, I just looked for a lite review yesterday so thanks for that! Actually I’m really pleased, I felt like I was drowning in the bulky pro straps. I actually don’t use most of what they got rid of. Do you think the lite can handle more clothing now that the admin panel is gone?
@@strandreayes! Without that front admin pocket it just allows more in the main compartment. More room=more clothes 😁🙏🏻
Since this TH-cam channel is called GearfortheGirls, you could make reviews of feminine looking gears also. I like them pretty, sexy and sturdy….
I have been on the hunt! I've got some coming soon 😁
Why are there so many dangling straps 😢
Not as much as other bags I've seen but yes there are some, especially for me because I wear my bags very tight. Might not be the same for you!
Your laptop might be safe but your wallet is not😂 when trave you should never leave your passport and wallet out of your side, never put them on the back of the backpack
Forsure! That's not necessarily how I would pack, was just trying to show how much could fit :)
No matter where I put my wallet it is not safe cuz Aaron and Marisa keep making me buy more bags
@@dkc2885 We can be best friend..LOL
HAHA we're a blessing and a curse, sorry!