On each side of the bag, you’ll find two external water bottle holders, a refreshing inclusion for a travel backpack in 2024. They aren’t super deep, but you can secure your bottle using the compression strap above for extra peace of mind.
We tested it with a 17 oz Lark bottle and a 10 oz Yeti. Both fit, though the Yeti was snug.
The compression straps do a solid job slimming the bag down for carry-on specs. But heads up — they block access to the main compartment when buckled. So you’ll need to unclip them to unzip the main clamshell fully.
Inside the main compartment, there’s no built-in organization. Just a deep black hole. It’s ideal for folks who prefer using packing cubes, but the all-black lining does make visibility a bit tough.
There’s also a mystery flap at the bottom. Possibly a structural insert? It adds some firmness when upright but can be collapsed flat. A quirky but useful little touch.
We packed the bag with:
- Hoodie
- Dop kit
- Two packing cubes
- Tech pouch
It all fit, but we’d say it packs more like 34–35L, not the full 40L as advertised. Still, for weekend trips or short-term travel, it’s got plenty of space.
The tech compartment deserves props. It opens clamshell-style and gives you dual-sided access — one to the main compartment and the other to your laptop and gear.
You get:
- Padded laptop sleeve (fits up to 17″)
- A second tablet sleeve
- Mesh storage pocket for accessories
- False bottom padding to protect your devices in case of drops
You’ll also find a top handle that’s thick, squishy, and easy to grab, along with another top quick-access pocket that’s ideal for sunglasses, earbuds, or your boarding pass.