Hi, I have a Bellroy Venture Sling 6L that I just purchased (meaning, I can still return it). I mainly want this sling for my personal item while flying and as a day pack while hiking or out for the day when I'm traveling. My packing list would generally be:

Water bottle
Portable Charger
Cable
Light Sweater/Jacket

plus other minutiae that is less important. It would be hugely helpful for this packing list if the water bottle could be carried externally. The Bellroy Venture would have to have the bottle put in the bag and then be dug out of the compartment when I want to drink. However, slings that I've seen with an external water bottle either have what looks like a flimsy mesh pocket that would hang horizontally when the pack is on your back (and looks like it would be likely to fall out), or a compression strap system on the bottom that looks like it would either be too weak and it would fall, or it would not be easily grabbed and put back in. So I'm basically asking if these strap systems work better/faster than I'm thinking they would. If, while hiking, I could rotate the bag, grab the water, drink, and put it back without having to retighten straps, or better yet, do it one handed without rotating the bag to the front, I would definitely return the sling I have and get something with straps (like the Rework Toshi or other options I've seen from Grayl or Wandrd).

Please let me know if any of you have advice. I generally hate the buy/return cycle so I am mad at myself for potentially incurring it for myself and don't wish to do it again to try these strap systems out. Thanks!

I'm on a quest to replace any and all liquids in my toiletry bag with solids. It's mostly just become an interesting exercise for fun, since I've never really had any issues with liquids.

Found this by chance in a shop today, it's a bunch of alum stone crystals that you add water to to make a deodorant spray. The package says you should be able to fill it up again about 10 times before the crystals are fully dissolved and it should keep you dry and sweat-free for 24 hours. I'm going to give it a try, but I'm wondering how well this will actually work. Anyone tried something like this before?

Edit: can't seem to add a picture so I'll put a link to the photo HERE

I’m bored and overthinking this, but what size bag do I bring? Going to Spain, Argentina or Chile solo. Yes, I’ve read all the other posts about this but I’d like more specific advice. Would a 20L fjallraven kanken work? I already have it and would rather not buy a new bag. (although I could). Basically just wondering if I can stuff all my shit in there. Here’s the criteria.

-Must be carry on only

-Must fit clothes for a week, phone, headphones, chargers/battery pack, toiletries/meds a book etc.

• I’d like it to have a bit of extra space (2-5L) for souvenirs or whatever.

Thanks!

Any suggestions for best packing cubes to fit in tomtoc 40l bag?

I hate the clamshell design that dominates the hard shell luggage. It's not efficient, the internal divider always breaks, and it takes up a lot of room to open.

Does anyone have any recommendations on a checked or carry on hard shell that opens like a soft shell (i.e from the top).

I travel about 10x a year and usually 2x internationally. I'm a big guy, so weight is a concern as my clothes/shoes weighs more :)

For context I am planning some winter eastern Europe traveling and I plan on using one bag for the first time.

I already own an osprey talon 33, but I think it has some unnecessary features on it as I will be mostly in urban areas/sites. Also while not as important it looks very outdoorsy for an urban setting.

So for my general requirements looking for something that is in ballpark L range of the Talon. Don’t need to check it obviously and something with decent water resistance. My iphone died bc a singular drop of rain hit it and i’ve been paranoid abt water since lol

Something I’m not sure whether would be a plus or minus is an organizer. I like to keep neat but no idea if it will just cause issues instead. Keen to hear thoughts about it.

Something around the 200 $ mark as well. Can’t shell out more than that.

Anyways even if something doesn’t line up with the needs above feel free to recommended. Just looking to get pointed in right direction and if you think I should stick to my talon 33 say so as well !

Thanks in advance.

I’ll only be using it to charge my iPhone 11 as I’m traveling on the road and have been using my car to charge my phone. I’m not sure how much a good bank goes for but for budget purposes I’m hope to spend around $50.

What discontinued travel worthy bags would you like to see offered again?

My favorites:

• Mystery Ranch Scree 32. Overhead compliant, load transferring harness in a couple torso sizes as well as adjustable and gender specific versions.
• Topo Designs Core Pack. Vertical clamshell,personal item sized, water bottle pocket, laptop compartment, etc.
• Gossamer Gear Vagabond Trail Packable. Ultralight, excellent shoulder straps, good for personal item and day pack.

I ordered the NH Escape 23L from Decathlon on Black Friday. I have looked at a lot of reviews and it seems like a good alternative for me against my Timbuk2 never check expandable.

The bag I received does not have the hidden zippered pocket on the water bottle sleeve. Online reviews and the products page show this pocket on the 23L. I have sent Decathlon messages since 12/9 and have not heard back. They chat function always shows unavailable, for US website. Has anyone had a similar issue with their customer service or the NH 23L bag?

After my latest trip, I've had a bit of an epiphany about my tech carry - I think I'm lugging around too much gear (or maybe just not the right stuff). Looking at my cable organizer feels like opening Pandora's box of adapters, cables, and chargers I rarely use.

I'd love to hear what your tech essentials look like. Specifically interested in:

• Power solutions (chargers, power banks)
• Cable setups
• Adapters/docks
• Any clever multi-purpose gear

My goal is to slim down my setup while maintaining functionality, and maybe even improve my everyday carry in the process. What's made the cut in your bags?

Hi all,

I've perused a lot of threads here and have some good candidates, but I wanted to solicit some specific input. I'm looking for a recommendation for a travel bag 20L or less to use as a personal item with the airlines while traveling, but without a bunch of compartments. My wife has the Fjallraven Raven 28 and I initially liked it. I was going to grab the 20L version, but after using hers for a weekend I actually don't like how many compartments it has. I don't need a laptop sleeve and I've found that I prefer the single compartment, clamshell opening style, rather than the top-zip style, if that makes sense. I was considering the Fjallraven Kanken at 16L, but I've had comfort issues with Fjallraven's barebones shoulder straps that this bag uses. I'm probably looking to spend less than $150 on a bag.

Thanks for any recommendations! Bonus points if anyone has a rec for a bag with a harder-wearing fabric than the typical nylon, I find I'm hard on fabrics and often end up ripping nylon bags

What companies that released an outstanding bag have gone bust

And where can I buy one? I'm in Australia.

Where can I buy these elastic bands to stop my straps flapping around? I want this type as I don't want to roll up the straps and I like how I can still tighten and loosen the straps (which I do a lot)

https://preview.redd.it/612zpthqae7e1.jpg?width=3468&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=dc52bc6648a3ba2f83388decbdb3c9a4bb04d4e9

Hello I'm looking for a small satchel for carrying around everyday. I'm not interested in modern technical designs. I prefer simple and more vintage look. I like leather and canvas.

I would like to carry everyday essentials like keys wallet water etc plus a book and tablet.

I've seen a few options on Amazon but they seem to be very low quality generic chinese brands.

https://www.amazon.es/-/en/dp/B09XX9JCZ2/ref=pd_aw_ci_mcx_mh_mcx_views_0_image?pd_rd_w=UeSBd&content-id=amzn1.sym.b9eb2adc-6d0c-411b-beca-c225f578a5d4%3Aamzn1.symc.aded5f8f-4764-433a-af3c-cae2ef910974&pf_rd_p=b9eb2adc-6d0c-411b-beca-c225f578a5d4&pf_rd_r=JJZFYV90MMGQH30QZVWZ&pd_rd_wg=spUEZ&pd_rd_r=e671ec3c-ba8c-43e9-a8ff-5acc7fa84320&pd_rd_i=B09XX9JCZ2

I saw this bag but was worried about the quality.

The closest equivalent for size is kind of similar to Indiana Jones bag. Not a full messenger bag maybe something half the size of a messenger.

I want something that I can wear under a jacket and generally not feel that much when I'm wearing it and I'd like for it to be fairly soft so that it doesn't have large profile whilst empty.

My North Face Borealis has been my longest running bag to date, took it around the world with me and put it through hell, but managed to go the distance, however its getting to the stage where its beginning to show its age, so I am looking for an upgrade.

The newest version of the Borealis looks rather hit or miss from reviews, so I have come seeking advice.

This bag will be used more for EDC/work and short trips, so organisation is key. It needs to be able to stand (something the old Borealis could not due to its slanted base, and ideally some level of waterproofing. Ideally no larger than 26L.

https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/15/business/backpack-united-healthcare-video-backlash/index.html

Hi, I’m planning to buy a Samsonite BIZ2GO backpack as a carry-on while traveling. I’m considering 15.6" model (44 x 33 x 20 cm). I’m opting for this one because the compartments look super convenient, espesially for clothes and gadgets, and there aren’t many options of any popular brands available where I live. 

This will be my first time traveling with Wizzair and Transavia, both of them have 40 x 30 x 20 cm size requirements for a free hand bag.

Could someone please clarify if it could be acceptable as a free carry-on with these particular companies? I’ve read that 3-4 cm won't be a big difference but the fact that they say a ‘small bag’ as a free carry-on concerns me. I feel like there's nothing else I could choose from.

Should I risk it?

Thank you in advance!

Backpack 15.6" https://www.samsonite.co.uk/biz2go-laptop-backpack-15.6---earth-green/142143-1316.html?cgid=C376

https://preview.redd.it/cnhe7v76397e1.jpg?width=600&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=32a5f094c828d41e70c31f119b795463d3760f21

https://preview.redd.it/byl64v76397e1.png?width=2000&format=png&auto=webp&s=c485c3ce54a7183a63f748830a3a20a924a1620f

Has anyone purchased from the AER website from Europe? I want to buy my father an AER TP3 Small and I would like to know what the purchasing experience is like with shipping, possible tariffs and so on. I have the Thule Aion 28L as a plan b, but I would like to try to get the AER. He travels every 2 months by plane and works on a boat, I would like it to be waterproof and 28L/30L, he uses it daily and usually carries technological things like a laptop and a large tablet, if it has a double compartment for this the better.

As plan b I have the Thule Aion 28L.

I have a work trip to Cancun for 5 days in January. This is a benefit trip so it won’t be business focused, but I need outfits that don’t make me look trashy since its with coworkers. I live in the midwest and have only been to Florida to visit family- so I never have owned anything specific for visiting tropical areas. I have NO idea what to wear.

I only have one bathing suit and a swim skirt. I have a flowy poncho thing to use as a cover up. I have a few shorts and tanks, but no sun dresses and I feel like sun dresses are going to be better when it comes to wearability with the heat… but where can I find them in December/January?! I also was told sun shirts would be a good idea because I have extremely pale skin. I was told Sierra would have them and when I went in and asked they looked at me like I was crazy cause its winter.

Someone help me out please! I feel clueless.

I made a fast choice and bought the Base Camp Duffel - M (71L) from the north face but ended up being WAY too big to be used as a carry on.

I was about to buy the Base Camp Voyager Duffel—42L but I want to hear your recommendations first.

I think about a bag rather than a carry-on luggage because is maybe more comfortable to be carrying around as I walk a lot when traveling.

My idea is to have the backpack that I currently have (a Victorinox 30L that is small af but it already took my appreciation) and then a carry-on.

Any recommendation is more than welcome.

Thanks!!

Hi friends, essentially what I am looking for is a CTB26 that’s more comfortable.

I currently own the CTB26, MLC30 & Osprey 26+6. I’m looking at the Able Carry Max as my next option.

My usual load out is as follows:

TPC8 MBP14 inch (need this for work) CAP 1 for chargers, electronics CAP 0.5 for spare classes, pens, small wires Earphones Spare phone (need this for work) Flip Flops Powerbank Sleeping Mask Beanie

Powerbank, earphones, phone, wallet go in my sling. Beanie and sleeping mask usually go in front horizontal pocket of the CTB26.

No dopp kit, I mainly travel between Bangkok, Jakarta and KL and just get toiletries from 7-11.

CTB has perfect pocket layouts but it doesn’t carry weight well at all.

MLC carries the weight decently but I don’t like the lack of external pockets.

Osprey carries the weight best but I want a separate laptop compartment.

3/4 full

https://preview.redd.it/6j5bq7n46e7e1.jpg?width=3468&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d7e9f729c49a65e23e6f8147cab4a546af21c3ec

My Wall Of Bags, waiting for the GR1 prodigal son to arrive. Top left - 34L Aer Travel Pack 3 (my EDC), top right - 24L Mystery Ranch Urban Assault, bottom left - 34L GR2, bottom right - 45L GR3.

https://preview.redd.it/luaft3zxh77e1.jpg?width=1200&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fd17ad2dca789e8268dd53403d6763d3e8118f30

Edit: it's arrived!

Hi friends, looking for some travel advice from anyone in the know; heading out to Colombia in Jan for 4 weeks and expecting a wide range of temps (tropical in the North to ~15C in Bogotá)…

Any great lightweight recommendations for which jumper/sweater/jacket to bring for Bogotá and the coffee region? Bringing a 40L decathlon backpack so should be small enough to pack away after we leave the chillier areas! I have a pack away rain jacket as well.

Gracias a todos 😊

I had purchased the Diversion and Evolution pants and both have flared out and now look terrible . They have become two big to wear and the black or charcoal color is quickly fading. I might just go buy some regular jeans to replace them. Has anyone had similar experience and what did you replace them with ,

Hello!

I adore my PacSafe Vibe 28L, but would love recommendations for a daybag that:

• I can use on short hikes when I'm not travelling
• is small enough to fit inside my PacSafe, then taken out when I reach my destination for daily holding of wallet, water bottle, jacket etc. It can be absolutely tiny but I need a side pocket for a bottle!
• is small enough to pass as a 'personal item' if I buy stuff abroad and then fly back
• is water-resistant (doesn't need to be waterproof)
• has at least some structure. I tried a 'packable' daybag and I hated the lack of structure. Moreover, it was an expensive one (Matador FreeRain) and the fabric tore on me despite my being very careful about how I treated it.

What I've considered so far:

• I went to Decathlon and tried all their 10L backpacks, but they struggled to fit my Nalgene in the side pocket. They are also not water resistant at all.
• The LL Bean Stowaway and Eddy Bauer Stowaway look like they have a bit more structure, but I'm a little wary of packable bags now.
• Currently, I'm eyeing the Osprey Daylite 13L, but I'm concerned that it's just too big to fit into my relatively small (28L) PacSafe. Does anyone have this/a similar combo, and know how small the Daylite's footprint is when you pack it flat?

Alternatively, does anyone know of another daybag that will work? I live in a country with very limited options and shitty return policies, so I can't just try multiple bags out :(

I taking my parents to Europe and will be trying to get them to one bag pack.

I’ve shared and recommended sick Steve’s packing list and Benefits of one bag packing etc. they love Rick steves.

We’ll be popping between 2-3 cities over ten days and historical my mom is a ridiculous over packer.

I have a vessel dxr plus which has served me well at 35L across multiple ten day trips.

Looking for one bags that would be good for boomers who are a bit nervous about one bag packing.