I bought this backpack after hearing from my colleague Chelsea Stuart I can't brag about it. I had a reliable (now discontinued) InCase backpack that I used as a personal item and it served me well on dozens of trips over about five years. But I wanted a bag for an upcoming trip (2.5 weeks in Europe with *just* a carry-on for five flights) that opened like a suitcase for easy packing. Since purchasing it, I took it on two long weekends (Amtrak to Newport, RI for a wedding and regional train to a Connecticut lake house) without any complaints. In fact, For both trips I took MORE than I needed.
Inside you'll find a zippered mesh pocket and a plastic pocket perfect for your toiletries. I can fit enough wet toiletries in the second pocket, as if I were allowed to take one on a plane. In the mesh pocket, I put other essentials like Q-tips, medications, glasses, etc. The main compartment is deceptively deep, making it easy to roll up clothes and put them together like Lego without using packing cubes. In fact, I packed everything in the second photo in this section (a romper, pajamas, a bikini, sunscreen, five pairs of underwear, a pair of denim shorts, a nap dress, three pairs of socks, two pairs of sandals, two t-shirts, a pair of culottes, a sleep mask, a curling iron, a mini flat iron, a makeup bag, and a tote bag). AND it has stretchy X-shaped straps to keep everything in place like you'd see in a rolling suitcase. when I unzip it, everything stays in place. But before I forget, there is a separate padded laptop pocket near the backpack straps that I found works well for books or a Kindle if your trip leaves you without a laptop.
I love that this backpack has DEEP side pockets so your umbrella or water bottle won't fall out. I actually put a flashlight and umbrella in a side pocket. (You could always (Use a flashlight.) Additionally, it features a generously sized pocket on the front of the backpack with easy access for sunglasses, snacks, pens… all sorts of little extras you need quick access to. To top it off, the backpack straps and top handle are STURDY. I felt completely safe carrying it and throwing it in the overhead storage compartments. on trains. I love the look and sturdy black canvas and faux leather construction, as well as the trolley pass-through that easily accommodates my rolling suitcase that I’m about to lug through multiple airports. At nearly $80, it’s not the cheapest backpack option, but if you’re a frequent traveler, you’ll get a lot done with it and save a lot on some baggage fees, making it well worth the cost. This backpack and I are definitely going places.
NOW, when it comes to flying, you won't be able to put your wet toiletries in the waterproof pocket (like I did in the photo above for a train ride). But! Many non-liquid and essential toiletries fit perfectly in there.
Get it from Beis Travel for $88 (available in eight colours).
