CODEOFBELL X-POD Review | Intuitive & Expandable Sling Bag

Despite its complex appearance, the CODEOFBELL X-Pod is an intuitive and comfortable sling with a “tacticool” look. View Our Full Review: packhacker.com/travel-gear/co...
0:00 - Intro
0:52 - Material & Aesthetic
5:14 - External Components
11:41 - Inside the Sling
16:08 - Durability & Testing
16:30 - Pros & Cons
17:20 - The Verdict
There’s no doubt about it: slings are convenient, stylish, and more popular than ever. In this review, we’re going to be taking a look at one of the more recent additions to the sling game, the CODEOFBELL X-Pod-a 2.3- to 4.5-liter sling that has a tactical look with plenty of customization options.
Based in Los Angeles, CODEOFBELL is a brand that specializes in small, efficient gear for carrying everyday essentials. That’s pretty much everything we’re looking for in a sling bag, so when we heard about the X-Pod, we knew we had to get our hands on it.
CODEOFBELL has taken the already-functional concept of a sling and made it even more functional with the X-Pod. Although there's a lot of complexity for such a small pack, everything has a purpose-and once you get used to it, it all feels quite intuitive. While we do have a couple of minor gripes, the X-Pod is clearly pushing the boundaries of what a sling can be-and we love that.
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View more reviews on our website: packhacker.com/travel-gear/
SHOW NOTES:
In this video, Tom Wahlin of Pack Hacker reviews the CODEOFBELL X-POD, an intuitive and expandable sling bag.
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[@PackHacker]

What’s your favorite sling bag at the moment?

[@slanteyesuperfly]

bellroy sling is my go to and I love it

[@GlobalAdventurer]

The one you haven't reviewed yet😁

[@Tariq.K]

bought codeofbell x-pod month ago and Im in love with this thing..

[@Soonerblake007]

My AER travel sling 2. Just wish the zippers weren't so "jangly" 😂

[@PackHacker]

We hear you, Global Adventurer! 😄🙌 - Rebecca

[@LuckyDippers]

I am a short Asian woman, so THANK YOU for including the clip of Lauren wearing it. I replayed and paused that several times. It was very useful and instrumental in me deciding to purchase this sling.

[@stebesplace]

Such a LEGIT sling guide! Thanks for putting in all the effort creating it. The CoB X-POD is worth checking out for sure.

[@PackHacker]

You got it, Steve! 🙌 Glad you're digging the guide, thanks for sharing. 😊 - Rebecca

[@koto9]

I love your guys videos! My favorite thing is how you guys rate the products, really unique and useful

[@PackHacker]

That's awesome to hear, Kevin! We're glad you're digging the rating system. 👍Stay tuned for more videos! 😊🙌 - Rebecca

[@thatchanguy]

"Buckle up" Haha. So while I like how efficient and brief your other reviews are, it seems like this more casual style video review works well too- especially for a bag with so many features. While a sling bag is superfluous for me, I can appreciate how helpful this will be for those in the market for one.

[@PackHacker]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us Chris! We totally get what you're saying. Sling bags aren't going to work for everyone, but we've found in testing, that they come in super handy for travel and everyday use. 😊🙌 - Rebecca

[@daviddessus8323]

Awesome review guys. That nearly made me want to try a sling 😁

[@PackHacker]

🙌😊👍 - Rebecca

[@kevinankin]

Because both sides of the main strap are adjustable you can max out one side and wear the buckle off to the side. This way it won’t interfere with your backpack and press up against your back.

[@PackHacker]

Great tip Kevin, thanks for sharing your experience with the community! 😊🙌 - Rebecca

[@jthebk3864]

I feel like this bag falls into a specialty category it's like a modern/tactical aesthetic. You guys should definitely do a video of other bags like this. I know it got a bad vote on insta but I would bet that's because the tactical look is kind of hit or miss with average consumers.

[@kiatography22]

thats a lot going on for a small sling pack but, i truly believe the Code of Bell X-pod is what triggered the recent interest in sling bags ;)

[@kevinankin]

Wei Kiat this and the hype around the Aer City Sling when it was originally sold out. Then Bellroy’s sling that sold out originally as well. Did they really sell out or was that just marketing? Hmmm.....

[@henrym.1290]

@@kevinankin definitely marketing from how few there are on the market lol

[@blurpleunc]

I bought Skinth Solutions WYW sling and it's fantastic. Can wear as a sling, carry as a bag, use as a pouch inside a pack, etc. It's excellent and very well-made. The shape/pockets may not be for everyone though. Xpac and aquaguard zips for the win.

[@PackHacker]

Thanks for sharing your experience with us blurpleunc! We're glad that you've found a sling that works so well for you and your travel style. 😊🙌 - Rebecca

[@spellerlittlewing]

I love this sling

[@nathangriff6862]

Thanks for another excellent review. I've been considering the CofB but I went with the Aer X-Pac sling and I'm really liking that one. Its a little more minimalistic but still has lots of options and functions. I have the feeling that the Aer is also a little smaller (which works better for me).

[@PackHacker]

Hey Nathan, thanks for sharing, it sure is tough to decide between these two slings. We're glad you've found one that works so well for you. It sounds like you have a solid collection of gear going on. 😊🙌 - Rebecca

[@nathangriff6862]

@@PackHacker I appreciate your kind response here, Rebecca, and I do have several options to choose from depending on my needs of the day. My wife thinks I'm a little nutty over these but I'm a 'bag guy,' I guess, so I'm always looking for something cool. I wear a little hip pack most everyday though with just the bare essentials so maybe I am just a little nutty after all. Have you seen the Arcteryx Maka 1? That gets the most use here anyway. Hey, I know that I learn a lot about bags and packs from you PH folks but the reason I always watch your videos is that you all seem like really nice, good people, too.

[@PackHacker]

Hey Nathan, we're so glad that you're digging the content and the team! We're all travel gear obsessed too, so we always love connecting with people who are on the same wavelength. 🙌 We've just tested the Arc'teryx Maka 2 Waistpack packhacker.com/travel-gear/arcteryx/maka-2-waistpack/ 👍 Thanks for sharing your go-to gear with us! 😊 - Rebecca

[@yumemirutenshi]

I'm a simple man, I see sling bag I press like

[@PackHacker]

🙌🙌🙌 - Rebecca

[@tobiasf4782]

Looks very cool 😎

[@PackHacker]

👍👍👍 - Rebecca

[@christopherdecker8171]

Thank you for the review. I'm currently looking for a sling/bag of some sort for a T-1 Diabetes "go bag". Other than typical meters and insulin, I need something to fit a bulkyish spare Dexcom CGM sensor, package is about 6" x 3" x 2" deep, like a huge PC mouse in a blisterpack. I was thinking it could be put in the extension maybe, then cinched back into small size. I would like the bag I do get to fit in a backpack when needed too. So need smaller, but not too small. A MaxPed med bag is a little too small, and needs an EDC organizer added. Curious if you think it could work, or know of a better bag. Thanks

[@joehodgson2815]

Great that it looks like it's symmetrical, and not "right-handed", for all us lefties who are so often overlooked. Maybe you could make that a consideration that you look at in your sling-pack reviews? I know we're only ten percent of any given audience, but ten percent is still quite a decent proportion :)

[@PackHacker]

Hey Joe, we hear you (another lefty over here 👋)! We talk about this in the Function section of our Best Sling Bag Guide packhacker.com/guide/best-sling-bag/#function 😊👍 - Rebecca

[@marcovieira2032]

Just got 2 of it .

[@elpanch]

Looking into buying this bag. Looking for something for travels that has the versatility / capacity to carry what’s needed for my 1 yr old toddler, or just use it as front carry + my travel back pack when light travelling. I currently own a 3l ulvö, which I really enjoy and like the simplicity of. I’m a bit concerned the buckle might be too bulky on my back.

[@summithockey451]

Hey, can you tell be if I can fit 2 bottles of Smart water in this pack? Looking to use it for day hikes.

[@JrKinabalu]

To those who are looking for future & aesthetic design, this could be the sling bag for u.

[@vincel5724]

Thanks for the video of this. I know it’s designed for a 13” laptop but could you squeeze a 15” laptop in there?

[@felipeseggiaro8000]

Great channel man, just subscribed & going through the content. Quick question... what bag would you recommend for the everyday home to work to gym & back (essentials are a laptop, headphones, gym shoes & clothes, towel and occasionally lunch). I'm looking for something neat and stylish (worn with a shirt and occasional suit), not too many pockets on the outside, and BLACK! I liked the Boundary Supply Errant bag or the Victorinox Deluxe Fliptop, but want to know your thoughts. Keep up the work, cheers from Argentina!!!

[@PackHacker]

Hey Felipe - glad you're digging the channel! Both packs are solid choices, however, for more information, we recommend checking out our Best Daypack Guide packhacker.com/guide/best-travel-daypack/ which talks you through daypacks for different travel styles with a ton of our pack recommendations. Hope this helps, let us know if you have any more questions! 😊 - Rebecca

[@yiorkis401]

I have the trakke ... other slings the Bellroy and the Insidious from Defy... nice vid !

[@PackHacker]

Sounds like you have a great collection going on here Yiorkis, thanks for sharing! 😊 - Rebecca

[@yiorkis401]

I meant I also like the defy /Bellroy 👌

[@PackHacker]

👍👍👍 - Rebecca

[@veritas.ve.42]

Can you review the DOUBLE NAME PROJECT - X-POD in 2021

[@atharhashmi5762]

Very nice

[@PackHacker]

😃

[@yumemirutenshi]

16:15 how do you keep the bag high up in your back? when I wore it, it always falls down dangling close to my waist.

[@PackHacker]

Hey Vincent - this does depend on the weight of your sling and how much you're carrying, but we found that by adjusting the strap and making it a little shorter helps to keep this sling higher on your back. 😊 - Rebecca

[@lichtloper]

6:04: If one wears the bag on one's chest the buckle is at my back - so can get/be undone without my wanting that.

[@2tangK]

Can anyone comment how easy this is to pack inside a larger travel backpack for overseas travel, can you pack it flat or easily stow the straps in any way?

[@alexpaz7904]

4 yrs have already passed..i wonder what other brands/model of sling bags would be considered as an alternative to the xpod/xpod2? Same techwear-esque look, w/ neoprene-like material at the back, number of pockets for easy organization, & overall functionality

[@matt-8592]

Nice vid guys. This sling is pretty cool but for me it is too bulky. I did some research into slings a while ago and wanted something lightweight, minimal with good security features and durability and I found the Pacsafe Vibe 150 Cross Body bag. Slim, practical, fits the body well. 2.2 litres, enough to carry all the essentials. Can fit a water botttle. I also overpacked it with everything I could possibly need on a flight+day out and it doesn’t become bulky or uncomfortable like some do. My opinion it’s perfect for travel and even better if you need to wear it on your front and carry-on on the back. Not much on this sling in the way of videos and I think it is under-appreciated considering. Maybe you guys could check it out? Also, Tom’s Casio always looks so shiny. Aheh. Edit: There is a 10L version called Pacsafe Vibe 325 if more space is needed. And one for tablets: Pacsafe Metrosafe LS150

[@PackHacker]

Hey M G - we get what you're saying, it's so important to find a sling that works for you and your travel style. That being said, we're so glad you've been able to find one that works so well for you. It sounds like you have a great system going on here. We currently have no plans to review the Pacsafe Vibe 150 in the immediate pipeline, but we'll check it out! Thanks for sharing your experience with us, we love hearing what works for you. Keep us updated! 😊🙌 - Rebecca

[@matt-8592]

Pack Hacker Yeap for sure. The pod has great features and is definitely unique. I would preferably use it on it’s own though (personally). Others could find it perfect for their style. 😄

[@PackHacker]

👍🙌😊 - Rebecca

[@glitchlife4639]

I need a sling bag to use as a daypack for a urban photography. Comfortable to wear, easy access, holds a dslr camera and 24-70mm lens, with an ipad pro and my purse. That is low profile and doesn't look like a bulging giant loot pinata. I have been using chrome industries kadet messenger bag which is epic but they really need to add 1 litre to the space, and provide under straps for holding a gimbal or tripod or even a rolled up jacket.

[@PackHacker]

Hey GlitchLife! We recommend checking out our Best Sling Guide packhacker.com/guide/best-sling-bag/ which includes a section on camera specific slings such as; - AmazonBasics Sling Backpack for SLR Cameras packhacker.com/travel-gear/amazonbasics/sling-backpack-for-slr-cameras/ - Peak Design Everyday Sling packhacker.com/travel-gear/peak-design/everyday-sling-5l/ - Incase DSLR Sling Pack packhacker.com/travel-gear/incase/dslr-sling-pack/ You can also check out our Photography Guide here packhacker.com/guide/the-best-camera-kit-for-your-travels/ We've found the F-Stop ICU packhacker.com/travel-gear/f-stop/small-shallow-icu-internal-camera-unit/ to be a great addition to a daypack or travel pack as you can easily move all of your photography gear from one to another in one go. And, when it comes to backpacks, there's the Chrome Niko F-Stop Camera Backpack packhacker.com/travel-gear/chrome/niko-f-stop-camera-backpack/ and the Peak Design Everyday Backpack packhacker.com/travel-gear/peak-design/everyday-backpack-30l/ Hope this helps! - Rebecca

[@glitchlife4639]

@@PackHacker yeah they look like loot pinatas though, I want sleek and low profile so I don't want a camera bag they are bulky, look like shit, and advertise to people look at me I have expensive stuff. Especially the peak design bag. I want something I can "use" as a camera bag that is "Low Profile" and not bulky, bulbous, and paints me as a target. Best messenger bag ive ever found www.chromeindustries.com/product/kadet-nylon-sling-bag/BG-196.html something like this but slightly larger.

[@PackHacker]

Hey! You can also check out the Mission Workshop Spar Sling packhacker.com/travel-gear/mission-workshop/spar-sling/ the Mystery Ranch Sling Thing packhacker.com/travel-gear/mystery-ranch/sling-thing/ the Incase Diamond Wire Reform Sling Pack packhacker.com/travel-gear/incase/diamond-wire-reform-sling-pack/ the 5.11 RUSH MOAB 6 Sling Pack packhacker.com/travel-gear/5-11/rush-moab-6-sling-pack-11l/ and the Red Rock Rover Sling Pack packhacker.com/travel-gear/red-rock/rover-sling-pack/ We also recommend using this link here packhacker.com/travel-gear/category/bags-and-luggage/slings-waist-packs/ to check out and filter a range of slings. - Rebecca

[@Harvey-Paul]

How long is the strap? Asking for waist carry.

[@snow2076]

can you do comparison between Alpaka go sling pro and peak design sling 3L and 5L? or any other small slings

[@PackHacker]

Hey Andri - we currently have no plans to create a comparison like this in the immediate pipeline, but I'll pass your thoughts onto the team. 😊 - Rebecca

[@twbuddha]

Doesn't look like their Pitch Black model is ever going to be in stock again... which is a shame, because it looks fantastic. Does anyone know of a similar alternative? I've been checking their site for over a month now and I can't wait any longer. It's time for me to accept that it's not going to happen. Open to ideas. Thanks.

[@webbryan1]

I feel like if I put a heavy item the folded part when in compressed mode will unravel?

[@PackHacker]

Hey ryan - we get what you're saying, but from testing, we've found that this feature is really quite secure. Hope this helps! 😊 - Rebecca

[@B0rnToSlay]

Have you guys reviewed that Nomatic backpack seen at 6:00?

[@PackHacker]

Hey BornToSlay - we haven't reviewed the Nomatic Travel Pack yet, but it's in the pipeline, so keep an eye out. 😊👍 - Rebecca

[@B0rnToSlay]

@@PackHacker Thanks, looking forward to it! The Nomatic Travel Pack is on my list of bags I'm considering

[@PackHacker]

😊🙌👍 - Rebecca

[@aaronv7820]

Will it fit an iPad mini

[@Amirul_Zahin]

I had this bag, i thought it is water resistence. It turn out water can still seep into your bag but not to the point totally soak up ur bag. Overall im please with the aesthetic & the durability

[@S3aCa1mRa1n]

Can I store a little laptop ? Or iPad mini

[@jim_bocho]

Going on here, going on there... ;) Nice Sling though, unfortunately not available in Germany it seems.

[@PackHacker]

Thanks for sharing this with the community, Jan! 👍 - Rebecca

[@schwartzcave736]

Welcome the Challenge... Orange in Orange Code of Bell Loadout...EDC

[@PackHacker]

👍😄😊 - Rebecca

[@alexlee6332]

This is such a great video! Do you know if an iPad mini will fit into the bag or is it too small? And how does it compare to the aer day sling in size and function?

[@PackHacker]

Hey Alex! We currently do not have an iPad mini to verify the fit 100%, but from comparing the dimensions it looks like the iPad mini is too big to fit into this sling. When it comes to comparing the Aer Day Sling 2 and the CODEOFBELL X-POD we recommend checking out the full reviews of both of these slings. You can use these reviews to compare the dimensions, pros, cons, ratings, different features and our experiences when testing them too. Hope this helps! Aer Day Sling 2: packhacker.com/travel-gear/aer/day-sling-2/ CODEOFBELL X-POD: packhacker.com/travel-gear/codeofbell/x-pod/ - Rebecca

[@totoybrown0908]

can a 11" tablet fits in?🙂

[@eyeofsauron7662]

I’m debating on this bag but I wonder if it fits a steam deck

[@eazy-j30]

I love it but for $149 thats about my backpack is worth do you guys have any discount code?

[@PackHacker]

Hey AJ - you can check out all of the deals on our page here packhacker.com/deals/ - plus we're constantly adding new deals all the time, so keep checking in! 😊👍 - Rebecca

[@eazy-j30]

I did, But I just emailed them instead and asked if they can give me a discount, and they did "ask and you shall receive" And I also mention you guys for giving such a honest and great review, cant wait to receive mine in the mail. Thank you.

[@MrJed_s]

When I clicked through for the pricing, I thought I must have ended up viewing a travel pack by accident. Nope, this thing truly costs $149.

[@PackHacker]

We get what you're saying, Jed. It's pretty pricy, but with the durable materials and the fact that it's manufactured in the USA (among other things and features) does add to the price. 😊 - Rebecca

[@stevengarcia8428]

For me, i do not think the compression straps are complicated as you say, more like tedious.

[@barriewylde5915]

any Herschel reviews

[@PackHacker]

Hey Barrie - we're currently testing out the Herschel Supply Co. Form Crossbody Large, you can check out our initial thoughts here packhacker.com/travel-gear/herschel-supply-co/form-crossbody-large/ - stay tuned for the full review! 👍 - Rebecca

[@SonalDack]

Great video but alas! It's not available in the UK! 😔

[@PackHacker]

Thanks for sharing Sonal! 👍 - Rebecca

[@marctwok]

They will ship to UK but you might have to pay import duty

[@sh0rtaznant]

Can you review the wandrd carryall duffle backpack?

[@PackHacker]

Hey sh0rtaznant - we're currently testing out this pack, you can check out our initial thoughts here packhacker.com/travel-gear/wandrd/hexad-carryall-duffel/ - stay tuned for the full review! 😊👍 - Rebecca

[@sh0rtaznant]

@@PackHacker awesomeeee can't wait! I mean I already ordered it... So I'm really just looking for confirmation that it was worth it 😬

[@PackHacker]

That's great, let us know what you think of this pack when it arrives! 🙌 - Rebecca

[@brikwal3338]

What is "Going on here"?

[@takeru51]

Instagram says NO!

[@pilsberry]

Design seems a little dad style when compared to something like the Bellroy sling. Great review though!

[@PackHacker]

Glad you're digging the review, SP! Is the Bellroy Sling your current go-to? 😊 - Rebecca

[@pilsberry]

@@PackHacker Hi Rebecca, I just have a no-name sling from Amazon at the moment, I want to maybe get a decently sized one to use as a day bag to compliment my new Aer Travel 2. But still considering options :)

[@PackHacker]

Thanks for sharing your go-to with us, SP. Let us know when you find what you're looking for. 👍 - Rebecca

[@MTobin1000]

I look at this compared to the Aer Day Sling 2 and they are "night and day" different from one another. The Aer sling is waaaaaaayyy more clean and classic. The Aer's quality is so apparent and the lack of a tactical look is a positive (IMO). I think the X-pod would be appropriate if you were backpacking outdoors. The Aer is a much more urban & mature look. Watching this video review makes me appreciate the Aer Day Sling 2 even more.

[@PackHacker]

Hey MTobin1000 - thanks for sharing your thoughts with the community. We love hearing what works for you! 😊 - Rebecca

[@starXzen]

interesting but I would have to disagree, i think why the Aer day sling 2 might seem more casual/urban ( i like both but i do prefer a bit more of a tacticool look myself so id lean towards the X-pod a bit more ), Aers offering is pretty basic in terms of what it can do. Having the versatility of this bag outshines many similar other offerings i mean the option to expand and the option to wear it as a waist pack and remove/add parts to the bag is really cool to me.Every part of the bag seems to be designed to have some sort of function its almost a evolution of sling bags in a way.

[@MTobin1000]

@@starXzen I hear ya brother. I can accept that point of view.

[@back2theunderground]

Just picked one up on poshmark . Appears it’s fbe first version. This is one utterly confusing ass bag ..

[@gibean]

Is it just me or there must be an absolute requirement for sling bag to be able to bring an ipad 11 inch ?

[@PackHacker]

Hey hafiz - there are slings for all different use cases and travel styles, check out our Best Sling Bag Guide packhacker.com/guide/best-sling-bag/ for more info! 👍😊 - Rebecca

[@01cthompson]

TBH. It looks a little too busy to me.

[@PackHacker]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us Chris. What's your current go-to sling? We'd love to hear what works for you! 😊 - Rebecca

[@AndreyMikhaylovlolmaus]

A lot of "going on" is going on in this video.

[@lastspud7030]

Who spends that much on a fanny pack... thats ridiculousness

[@RogerWilco1]

Dude, I’ve never seen this thing before- show me the pockets and interior and features before you go into branding and fabrics. I didn’t finish watching.

[@PackHacker]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us, Roger! 😊 - Rebecca