Matador ReFRACTION Packable Backpack Review (+ Duffel & Sling)

[@Nomads.Nation]

Do you want to help me build a game-changing backpack? 👉🏼 nomadsnation.com/building-a-backpack

[@AronConsuelo]

Love the idea of packable backpacks because you don't need to carry your travel bag around. Anyway, I agree with you with that slate blue color it looks fantastic!

[@Nomads.Nation]

such a great color!!

[@bani_niba]

I have this Matador pack as well as the Aer Go pack 2. The Matador is one of the better packable bags in my opinion. The stretchable mesh is quite the perfect material for the outside pockets. But after using the Matador a few times, I became less enthused. In general I don't like floppy bags and the carry system on the Matador is a little thin (which is par for the course for packable bags). Also, the external pockets don't match my needs - for example, I don't need 2 quick access pockets, one is enough. That's why I replaced the Matador pack with the Aer Go Pack 2 as my day pack. The carry comfort on the Aer is best in class. One of the main reasons for me using a day pack is for my light jacket that I might be taking off and on constantly for weather changes. That external stash pocket is exactly what I wanted/needed in a day pack (to hold my jacket without having to unzip the main compartment). While the Aer doesn't pack down quite as small as others, it's good enough.

[@Nomads.Nation]

They are two of the best, but agreed that I personally prefer the Aer

[@tansk33]

The Aer Go Pack 2 also has a luggage pass through, and can be used as a personal item on flight. I do like that feature.

[@unfi6798]

G'day Aaron & Team. There are differences, durability & usages between a full tang blade & a folder. There will always be trade-offs but some are designed for a specific use. We are very sure that you knew the specifics. The first two item were designed for "just in-case" we need the extra space or we need a bag for all the hoarding that Tav did on the weekend. They can be rolled, folded or just lay flat in the main bag/backpack. No cubes? No worries mate, we've got the ReFractor. Something that Reeves & McKenna would appreciate having in time of need. (Reviewers are hoarders) ReFractor were not really meant for EDC but its values reveal itself when you have one in your EDC backpack. A minimalist pack? It's also a great bag when mushroom hunting. The sling is self explanatory, the duffel can be folded & pack into the ReFractor daypack. Can you imaging how much stuff you have with that duffel after a shopping spree in Singapore.? The combo (pack, sling & duffel) will be excellent for adventuring across the Causeway. Have you any idea how many beautiful states there are in Malaysia.? The alternatives are great too with satisfactory reviews. One question: Have you ever thought of doing a vid on alteration, modified & customisation of backpacks & slings etc to suit the Users& intentions? Think it's worth looking into. It will be wild. Cowabunga.!

[@Nomads.Nation]

Great suggestion, something we’ll def consider! 🤠

[@ratheruninspired]

I have two packable backpacks: one made by LL Bean in dark green and the ReFraction in the blue color you showcased. The LL Bean bag has more robust carry straps and some padding on the back panel. I lean towards the Matador bag because it takes up less space, has fantastically deep water bottle pockets, and the color is great. Thanks for the video. Nice to see this category get a thoughtful review.

[@Nomads.Nation]

Nice I’ll be sure to check it out

[@ratheruninspired]

@@Nomads.NationI wouldn’t. You already have the bag I prefer of the two.🙂

[@jazzsmit]

I have been looking into packable backpacks these few days, especially the Matador Refraction. Nice review and just in time. Thanks!

[@Nomads.Nation]

Be sure to check out our newest video of the 10 Best Packable backpacks - just published now

[@paraagshah4153]

Liked the awesome review. Agree that there is not much advantage to have the backpack or the sling (especially) pack into its own pocket. Loved the fact that you gave the Aer Go Pack 2 as an alternative. Love that bag. And also the Wandrd Veer - that one makes so much sense with the inflatable back panel and the camera insert - for a true packable day pack. I have both and absolutely love them.

[@Nomads.Nation]

Hell yea!

[@jonuiuc]

I had one of these but ended up giving it to a friend, she loves it. It was too small for me, it felt more like a 13-14L pack. My replacement for it is a 16L Cotopaxi batac, which feels like 30% larger, but more importantly has more height and longer shoulder straps, so fits my frame more. The batac is tougher too. I used that matador on a weekend trip and ended up with a run on the stretch mesh. Seemed fragile to me.

[@Nomads.Nation]

Good call on the size, probably a little less capacity than advertised

[@indyglemaud8502]

I agree! I only unfold my packable once- the first day I use them… then, always lay flat in my luggages… yeah ! Totally unnecessary unless you’re hiking.

[@Nomads.Nation]

you get me lol

[@arlencarlson]

I agree-I’m lazy to pack up bags like these. I have a Zomake from Amazon that does that. Preference for packables is the Aer Go 2. Considering the Tortuga as an option. Also have used the Pakt 15L-but find it size limited.

[@Nomads.Nation]

I understand the laziness haha

[@everyweekcarry]

I have the Waterfield Packable backpack. I do keep it stored in pouch form. I find it more manageable in my larger backpack. Especially since I travel with a camera cube and often get stopped by airport security for inspection. I have to open the whole travel backpack and they rummage through. Best to have everything organized and in pouches!

[@Nomads.Nation]

Ah that makes sense, cheers!

[@RobertChavez-td3op]

i love this bag. it serves as my disneyland backpack (local pas holder) and when i travel i throw it inside my EG CTB26.

[@Nomads.Nation]

Perfect combo!

[@KelvinHew7]

Dude check out packable Travel Daypack at 18L by Thousand Miles. It's a travel gear brand from Malaysia. Pretty solid for it's price point. No doubt Matador is one of the best in the business when it comes to packables. They set the bar for sure. I really dig the Slate Blue from Matador 🤩

[@Nomads.Nation]

Will do!

[@laknicks]

Best Packable backpack bar none, it has the perfect size, weight and features not found in any other comparable option

[@Nomads.Nation]

its one of the best, totally agree

[@eggtoast]

Packable duffle is so good for traveling somewhere you may be accidentally over buying a lot of souvenirs and need an emergency bag to bring everything home lol.

[@Nomads.Nation]

I’m not much of a souvenir guy but can totally see how it’s useful for that

[@vpr5555]

Would you be able to do a review for the Nemo Equipment Backpacks, they have 2 the Vantage (20L, 26L, and 30L) and the Resolve (15L, 25L, 35L in both Men's and Women's versions)? I'd also love to see a review on the Alpha One Niner Chio-X.

[@Nomads.Nation]

we'll add to our wish list, cheers!

[@BoricuaFez]

Packable backpack, interesting!

[@Nomads.Nation]

💪🏻

[@Meh-ru3ex]

Hey Aaron I was actually just looking into this bag and Your video popped out of nowhere! Do you have by any chance, recommend any other alternatives that are foldable not necessarily packable but, it's flat when not packed so it can fit in 20-25l bag?

[@Nomads.Nation]

Check out our most recent upload - all those bags should interest you and fit your criteria

[@Meh-ru3ex]

@@Nomads.Nation Ha I feel so spoiled by you. Thanks mate!

[@kevinmcauley3847]

What jacket have you got on here, Aaron?

[@donmclachlan2163]

I was looking for this too!

[@AleB177]

Unbound Merino Jacket, also their shirt and travel pants

[@Nomads.Nation]

correct, fully decked out in Unbound Merino, best hoodie I've ever had

[@kevinmcauley3847]

@@Nomads.Nation thanks. Loving that red