All About Packable Backpacks: 4 Packs Compared

[@NoraDunn]

🧳 Save luggage space and fees with this FREE Travel Gear and Packing List CHEAT SHEET! bit.ly/3AFfiTq Includes special discount codes up to 25% off the things you need. 👉🏻 Here are the Best Packable Backpacks for Travel that I showed in this video: Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack - osprey.pxf.io/JzNx7v Osprey DRY Stuff Pack - osprey.pxf.io/6eNJmm Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Day Pack - alnk.to/5F8hZGr Tortuga Packable Backpack - alnk.to/fSg8NjG 👉🏻 Go Deeper with these reviews: Sea to Summit Video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jqGXhGOcaNWLjsksi=qoeO6r7LuOV1ZR5R Osprey Pack Comparison: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hqC7ep6Bd5eIf9ksi=-U2qq4gaN5EXA5Ww 📖 Here's an article I wrote all about Ultralight Packable Daypacks with even more info, criteria, and bags than I covered here: www.theprofessionalhobo.com/portable-perfection-ultralight-packable-backpacks-for-easy-travel/

[@LauraGailEagleton]

Just returned from a 3 week trip to the British Isles. Lots of walking! Watch out for the weight you put into these packable backpacks. No hip belt and lousy shoulder straps were problematic for me. I also had to carry my walking poles. This was my first trip like this in 30years and at 73 I felt the weight on my shoulders and lower back. Found that the travel and fashion backpacks aren’t that comfortable either. Next purchase will be a new backpack, probably an Osprey because I love their products and have used them for years.

[@MeiLee-t2v]

The hip belt is indeed critical.

[@NoraDunn]

I believe the hip belt is critical, but only if the weight is heavy. Most of these packable backpacks can't take the sort of weight that requires a hip belt, in my opinion. Also, the addition of the belt detracts from how "packable" it is. Laura - I do encourage you to have a look at the Tortuga pack. The shoulder straps are really good!

[@LauraGailEagleton]

I was using the packable backpack as my personal carryon because I needed to check a bag to bring home the Scotch! I am still looking for a personal item to ride on my Travelpro Maxi Light spinner which is my carryon. Many simply fall off because of the tapered top. Love your info, Nora. Been following you for a while.

[@jaymyers5605]

I appreciate that you test thoroughly vs. An unpacking review that hasn't been put through wear and tear doesn't help when you are not trying to buy every piece of travel gear out. Thanks!

[@NoraDunn]

Thank you so much for your feedback! Indeed I like to put my gear through its paces :-)

[@joannagraf7645]

I just took the Tomule waterproof, 25 L daypack on a 3 week trip to Europe. For me it was the perfect combination of lightweight, packability, waterproof, padded straps, 2 water bottle pockets, lightly padded straps, chest strap with whistle and great price. I would highly recommend it.

[@NoraDunn]

Awesome! Thanks for the suggestion!

[@adoptagoldfishdotcom2283]

I use my packable drybag (eddie bauer) to do my laundry, putting clothes, water, and soap in and shaking it around. I also use it for all the usual things but this extra use makes it a winner for me.

[@NoraDunn]

Very clever!

[@sherryschumacher1881]

The Eddie Bauer "Stowaway" line of packable backpacks are my favorites. They have a 20 liter and a 30 liter version - I have both. For the price, they really can't be beat. Right now the 20 liter is on sale for $20 and the 30 liter for $27. Great video, Nora!

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks Sherry! I've seen them, and I researched them for my feature on packable backpacks on my website. The thing I didn't like was how bulky and heavy they are. Not super packable like the Osprey or Sea to Summit. (But perhaps comparable to the Tortuga pack? Not sure).

[@sherryschumacher1881]

@@NoraDunn Yes, definitely larger and heavier than the Osprey & Sea to Summit.

[@KGundry-g1k]

Very informative. I use my travel backpack for my personal item on the plane. I put my padded nylon purse with my DSLR camera and lenses inside as well as my air plane travel necessities and a few days of clothing (in case of lost luggage). A pocket with a zipper is a must since that is where my keys, wallet passport, etc go. Then when I am at my destination I use my purse and leave the backpack in my luggage. I used to use a backpack while site seeing but having to stop and take it off as well as worrying about theft made me move to the purse that is easily accessible.

[@NoraDunn]

I'm with you on using a (crossbody) purse instead of a backpack to hold my valuables while exploring, especially if I'm going through busy marketplaces where pickpocketing/petty theft is common.

[@mdubb4855]

The REI Flash 18 and Flash 22 are worth checking out. If you remove the very thin back padding from the water bladder slot, they both lay very flat in my luggage and they have very light weight even with the padding left in place. Oddly enough a current (8th-10th gen) iPad is too wide to fit in the water bladder slot for the Flash 18, but my 10" Fire HD will (the iPad is more square-ish the 10" Fire more rectangular wide screen). (The padding only provides a little protection if left in place, but having a slot to position my tablet is really more important to me.) I've always thought that either of these would work out well for exploring at my destination, but actually they are too large (I use a 4L Fjallraven Uvo hip pack - slung instead of on waist - instead). Where some of these stuffable or compact folding solutions excel, is as a replacement for heavier "personal items". Let's face it, 7kg limits are getting more serious, and now the 7kg is combined overhead AND personal item weight, which is really a kick in the carry-on teeth. Try making that limit with a 6lb rollaboard (6lbs empty!) and a 2 lbs personal item. We need to start thinking in terms of an overhead that's only 2 lbs empty, and a personal item that's around 8-12 ounces empty.

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks for sharing this excellent info!

[@JeremiahBlues]

Muji's "collapsible backpack" is great if available where you live. It doesn't advertise anything but delivers on everything. I spent several days walking around Bangkok with 3KG on my back all the time (~5 on final day) and it's more comfortable than the average 20-30L regular backpack. Got it in a pinch to replace an Eastpak in a pinch, it was such a pleasant surprise that it's become my everyday daypack and grocery bag.

[@NoraDunn]

Great recommendation - thanks!

[@davidpeterzell789]

Well this is great... Another great video. But for me, I should say that I want (and have) something different from my packable travel backpack. (I might have said this once before, and forgive me for bringing this up again since you've answered me previously). As a one-bag travel fanatic, I want the packable travel backpack to reside in my larger carry on backpack (which is currently a Tortuga 40L-lite), BUT... to be FULL in my larger backpack... Flat and full of important things. And so my little packable (and packed) backpack leaves the command module (big travel backpack) under three conditions. First, it leaves the big backpack when I fly or need to store my remaining baggage away from me (e.g. on a train). At these times, it contains my passport, money, wallet, credit cards, computer, cell phone/camera, toiletries, earplugs, medications, water and any other in-flight essentials or valuables. In this way, the small pack removed from the big pack is great for cruising through security and for having stuff I need when the big backpack goes into the overhead bin. Second, little backpack leaves the big backpack whenever I want a small backpack for day hikes, attending conferences, or want to walk around town. Helps if the backpack has anti-theft/slash qualities. Third, the little backpack leaves the big backpack if I buy stuff and need to expand to two bags. So that's a little different than loading up two pieces of luggage, and requires limiting contents including the packable pack to one 40L bag.

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks for going into detail about your packing strategy! I'm currently on a one bag trip with the Tortuga Lite myself, and I have packed my packable backpack. The difference is that I pack it empty, rather than with stuff in it already. But I really like how you do it!

[@davidpeterzell789]

@@NoraDunn 👍👍

[@davidpeterzell789]

@@NoraDunn After 3 weeks of traveling with the Tortuga 40L Lite backpack: Actually, for my style of packing (40L backpack plus good smaller backpack that fits, fully loaded, inside the bigger one), my ideal minimalist ultralite 40L backpack would remove even more pockets, including the large front (with admin panel) and back pockets (computer pocket), and the little pocket at the top front. And the hip belt would be top quality, not removable. The current weight-bearing hip belt is one of the best features, but it is just a little tough to navigate, and doesn't seem to take as much weight off the back as it could. And it's a bit difficult to tuck away the backpack straps when stowing it, e.g. in an overhead compartment. If such a minimalist ultra lite 40L backpack exists, I haven't found it!

[@davidpeterzell789]

@@NoraDunnHi Nora! Hope your “retirement” is going well. Well I’ve ditched the Tortuga 40L Lite. After years of traveling with backpacks as my primary bag, my back and hips finally rebelled while traveling for 2 months this summer and fall 6:09 . So now I use a wheeled carry-on luggage bag like normal civilized people. 😂 MUCH happier.

[@NoraDunn]

@@davidpeterzell789 Ha ha! Well, you gave it a good shot. I signed off traveling long-term with backpacks long ago, though I do still occasionally go on short trips with them.

[@jennybutler9135]

thanks for all your info, slowly getting through them all. I last did an around-the-world backpack trip in 1989 and my, things have changed. you are easy to listen to, and have great information and options - really appreciate all I'm learning. planning a 6-week bus, Eurail, fly trip from Australia meeting up with a son who is in the UK at present. So travelling light. your info on carryon, stuff packs etc invaluable. THANK YOU so much. South Oz.

[@NoraDunn]

Thank YOU, Jenny!

[@katherinezulick8637]

The Osprey ultralight stuffpack is great. Took it to Costa Rica for a week and it worked well for a daypack.

[@NoraDunn]

Awesome!

[@piedbald47]

I like the orange backpack for its color!

[@NoraDunn]

Me too!

[@paulcontursi5982]

I love my Mountainsmith Scream 25. It may not pack down quite as small as the ones you reviewed, it has outstanding strength to weight capability and unlike similar packs whose tiny water bottle pockets are often an afterthought, the Scream has fabulous pockets that can securely hold virtually any bottle.

[@NoraDunn]

Awesome! Thanks for sharing!

[@cindyk3076]

You always have such great and usable information, thank you!

[@NoraDunn]

You're welcome - thanks Cindy!

[@Barbaralatrevisana]

I encourage you to also look at packs such as the Gonex 20 lt. and the Zoomake (20 and 30 lt.) ones. They are a fraction of the price of the “brand name” ones, and I have now used them for 3 years (I now own 4 of them, different sizes…). They do not have waist belts, but I do not pack a lot in them on longer walks or hikes, only water and a jacket. The bigger ones have a chest strap and the shoulder straps are padded just enough for me. They are great as your “personal item” on planes, the 20 lt ones comply with European airlines, the 30 Lt. one goes with me on Delta. I also use them for visiting cities, carry water, jacket, umbrella. If I buy something they are great to hold groceries or other items. The ones without pockets are useless for me. I like to hide my money and passport in the back hidden pockets that most of them have. I tried the osprey and returned it, too flimsy for me. Although, I do own an osprey “real” backpack which I love, but now it does not go to Europe any longer after I discover the packable ones…

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks for your input! I love the Osprey ones for the exact reason you don't - because they're "flimsy" which I consider ultralight and easily packable! But given how you described how you use your backpacks, I think something with more "girth" works well - especially since you use it as your personal item rather than packing it inside your luggage. I'm glad you found the right (packable) backpack for your travel style and needs! Gonex makes great packing cubes, so it's good to know they make other stuff too.

[@sbkpilot1]

I take a 25L Venture Pal backpack that folds down great but also has enough heft to it that it does not feel like just a sack. I use it in conjunction with my Porter 46. I usually carry my Porter 46 as a single bag as I have an extreme dislike to do the "turtle" style carry with a daypack dangling in the front. However since my main pack is somewhere around 13kg, just a hair over carry on limits, I usually have to check it and take my valuables in my day pack on travel days. One of these days I will figure out how to cut down on more stuff to get under 12kg but at the moment i've cut down as much as I possibly can 😁

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks for the suggestion!

[@riverfarms_]

Thank you for this video! I'm planning my first international trip and I want to do one bag for 10 days. I was trying to figure out a solution in case my bag had to be checked since I would have a laptop and camera with me. I was eying one of the osprey packs and looking for a review lead me here, then you literally mentioned using it for the exact reason I was considering it. England in the winter says to go with the dry stuff pack, saved this video so I can come back and use your affiliate link when I go to buy it.

[@NoraDunn]

Awesome! I'm so glad you found my review, and feel great about getting it now!

[@redlock4004]

Keeping fluids outside of your pack is important. If your water (or wine :) ) bottle leaks or breaks it will soak everything inside your bag.

[@NoraDunn]

Great point!

[@redlock4004]

@@NoraDunn I had a friend drop his pack with a bottle of wine in it. Ruined his camera and made a lot of his cloths pink (and smell funny). Oh, and the broken glass, ha ha.

[@NoraDunn]

@@redlock4004 Yikes!

[@janeshiota1005]

Thanks for this post. Perfect timing as I am packing for Europe!

[@NoraDunn]

Glad it was helpful!

[@westsideloyalty]

FIY the little Pocket inside the Osprey Ultralight (where your store your Keys), is the actual storage bag for thte Backpack. Thats the reason why there is a velcry inside. Once the backpack is in there, this is the one Backpack on your list with the smallest size.

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks for sharing! This is the pocket I pack the Osprey into, and it's still a bit bigger than the Sea to Summit.

[@paraagshah4153]

Should check out the Wandrd Veer packable backpack. Comes with an inflatable back padding and an optional inflatable camera cube. Has decent organisation too and external water bottle pocket that is deep and usable.

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks for the suggestion!

[@MiaHessMusic]

Thank you Nora. Glad I checked my email to lead me to this video! As always, excellent video. Do you have videos of your travels??

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks as usual, Mia! Yes, I do have some videos of my travels, from years' past. You can find them on the home page of my channel. Sadly, these types of videos don't move my channel forward in terms of views and revenue, and they're incredibly labour intensive, so I've stepped back from continuing to make them.

[@manueldelgado5336]

Nice video! Been considering one of these, but have you checked out the Mystery Ranchs one?

[@NoraDunn]

I haven't! I just peeked at it online, and it looks a bit more "technical" with a water bladder reservoir and some extra webbing and straps. This means it won't pack down super duper small, but it could be very handy if you like super duper outdoor adventures.

[@manueldelgado5336]

@@NoraDunn thanks! Yeah, it looks a bit more technical, but seems to pack a bit smaller than Tortuga. Thanks to your video i’m between Osprey and a Matador one.

[@NoraDunn]

@@manueldelgado5336 I really like Osprey, but I have heard good things about Matador.

[@Mr.DJones]

Thank you for your time and posting. New neckless, very nice. :) Packable Backpacks, are not for me. Enjoy. :)

[@kaz-davcheek6758]

Info on your mesh jacket please.

[@NoraDunn]

I got it from Anatomie! They may not carry this specific style (Bailey Mesh Jacket), but I know they have some similar styles. Use NORA20 for $20 off! www.anrdoezrs.net/click-100713654-15411612

[@kaz-davcheek6758]

Thanks!. They were out of my size(having sale this weekend) Would have liked the style you have so....guess it was for the better.

[@jamiemiller1448]

I wish that you compared them to the Amazon Basics.

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks for the suggestion!

[@ActualOwl]

Would the waterproof bag also be a little more resistant to pickpockets?

[@NoraDunn]

Mmm...perhaps, in that the main compartment has a roll-top closure which might be harder to get into than the zipper closure.

[@Mommaslew]

Great review ❤😊

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks!

[@kovie9162]

I tend to only wear a backpack when going to a cafe or library and such to do some work on my laptop, on travel days, when flying or taking a train and such, and when hiking. Otherwise, I find them cumbersome, heavy and unnecessary because all that I usually need is my wallet, phone and keys, and maybe a water bottle if it's hot and I'll be walking a lot. So this is a great idea in case you pick something up during the day like a souvenir or something else that you bought and don't want to hold in your hands. I honestly never understood people who walk around all day with big backpacks, especially tourists, other than of course parents with babies or young kids. What do they put in there that they really need? Is it more about feeling secure "just in case" they need this or that item that most people rarely actually need, the way that some people overpack on trips? Special medical equipment? Blankets for the park? Change of clothes or light jackets? Books? I prefer feeling light and carrying only what I know I'll need.

[@NoraDunn]

What I use my pack for depends; on short excursions, I may bring a rain jacket (perhaps a sweater or scarf in case I get chilly), water bottle, and a snack. If I'm going to a cafe to work, I'll stick in my laptop. I'll also take it if I'm going shopping (for groceries or whatever). But mostly I use them for hikes - which for me are often very long and require extra layers, snacks, water, etc.

[@jeffreydimsdale6508]

I normally travel with one bag and a personal item. Now I also need a medical device which is about the size of a 3-inch ring binder. Is this item from the one gag plus personal item rule? Thank you.

[@NoraDunn]

I'm not sure to be honest - I think it depends on the medical device and the airline's policy.

[@candymay75]

❤

[@uniquenameification]

I used the Sea to Summit on a trip to Thailand. The size was perfect - I could store it in my sling and use it as needed for groceries, etc. Unfortunately, it did not last long at all. I used it once as a personal item on a flight, and then it ripped out when i took it on a snorkeling trip. I simply stored it under the bench in the boat like everyone else, but when it was time to leave my bag was basically destroyed. Strangely the plastic shopping bag inside was fine (and got me back to the hotel). Nobody else had an issue, and obviously I didn't place it on anything that looked sharp. Anyway, the size is awesome, but I will try something else next time. For the price, I expected something much more durable.

[@NoraDunn]

Very odd about the bag ripping - it's pretty durable!

[@Lexus3377]

I need to share the horror story with Ryanair recently on flight from Zagreb to Milan. My carry-on bag was big bulky they refused to let me board until I add 75 Euros, it was a true nightmare. By the way ,great videos and keep doing good work! 👌

[@NoraDunn]

I'm sorry that happened. It's not uncommon, especially with Ryanair.

[@samantha1877]

So this has been bugging me..weren't you on another show. I can't remember the name

[@NoraDunn]

Well, I've been on a few things, but you might be thinking of another Nora Dunn - who used to be on SNL and has starred in many movies.

[@samantha1877]

Oh...I was thinking of a travel show?

[@NoraDunn]

@@samantha1877 I've done a few guest appearances on random shows, but nothing major....

[@lorenzolopez2502]

Oh my gosh. You rambled for 9 minutes that you were going to review 4 packs. Please just do it, your title did the same thing but in 7 words. 😮

[@NoraDunn]

Sorry my style doesn't suit your preferences. I thought my information was valuable. You could always have skipped ahead if you disagreed.