The Best Travel Backpack? - REI Ruckpack 40 Preview

What is the best backpack for one bag travel? We believe it's the REI Ruckpack 40. Perfect size. Perfect weight distribution. Perfect security. Perfect aesthetic.
REI Ruckpack 40:
Women's: goo.gl/1wYE18
Men's: goo.gl/w4QDYA
Here are the other bags we've tried that didn't quite fit our needs:
REI Trail 40 (Womens): goo.gl/mkVk2c
Osprey Manta AG 36 Backpack: goo.gl/zvdoZr
Hershel Little America Backpack: amzn.to/2EKNx0V
Incase EO Travel Backpack: amzn.to/2RdgYKh
And here's the electronics organizer we use:
Grid-It Electronics Organizer: amzn.to/2CEc9FW
Our gear: kit.co/uatw
Instagram: / uatw_
Music: Broke for Free - Juparo tinyurl.com/BrokeForFreeJuparo
#travelbackpack #onebagtravel #review #comparison #REI #backpack #travel

[@michaelalmassey8616]

Hi! I just need to say that this review convinced me to purchase this bag and use it on my trip to Europe for about two weeks. It worked amazingly well! Thank you so much for your review!

[@nirmallotay8101]

Very practical and simple advice. Brilliant team work too in espousing the different travel challenges. Great job.

[@julionagashima5385]

Loved it! Exactly what I was looking for. Thanks!

[@patriciamamani4139]

I'm definitely getting one. After watching a few videos of backpacks reviews and this is it. Thank You!!!

[@goat3779]

Sending love from the Philippines. Really informative video. What makes this video better than other comparison videos is that each bag was actually used for travelling, not just one day. Nice job!

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Thanks, yeah we really wanted to put them through the paces before giving our full impressions. Speaking of which here's our follow up video after a few trips with the Ruckpacks: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jHvGla2tpdqmr7s Safe travels!

[@loveforink]

Thank you for your review. It helped out A LOT between the 2 packs I wanted to get (Osprey Porter 30 or REI Ruckpack 40) for my 2 week japan trip in May. Same day I saw your video I went to REI in Emeryville and bought my pack! Again thanks guys from your local East Bay traveler.

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Glad to hear we could help! Enjoy your trip!

[@DanielRustad]

You two are a great couple. This video convinced me to get one. It's coming in a week, and I'm taking it to Taiwan this summer. Thanks.

[@cozygamergirl1031]

Thank you so much for this review! I have been googling and researching backpacks for weeks trying to find the perfect one for my year long trip to New Zealand and I haven’t found anything that quite worked for me. I love everything about this bag and will definitely order one!

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

We're so happy to hear this helped you make a decision! And we know you'll love the bag just as much as we do! Enjoy your trip!

[@OmarRamirez-wx9li]

Looks like a good bag. I have the Arcido Akra which is a perfect minimalist one bag travel pack. You can carry it on the plane and you can fit a lot of stuff into it. Plus it has a sleek look to it as well. It's a perfect combination of tech and travel pack. I love it. Good video

[@QTCV]

love your review of the REI ruckpack 40

[@BMkt04]

Very informative video guys! Hope you put that backpack to good use for many many travels! Take care!

[@kimchijeans]

Thanks for the review! Loved it!

[@nedanother9382]

WOW! only 1 video. You guys are naturals - please make more vids. Thank you for the review, couldn't agree more. My daughter is going on her first international trip at Christmas. I will recommend this to her for all the reasons you pointed out. Thanks so much. more please

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Thank you so much! We plan on making many more videos (we have a couple we'll be posting very soon) and hope your daughter has a great time on her trip!

[@johnarsenault1202]

Great interaction, believable dialogue(not deathly serious like so many video reviews) and a wonderful balance of images; not too much narcisism like so many videos that hardly show you the equipment , and not just the equipment. keep it up. your personalities play off each other very well, and that means that playful honestly is conveyed to your audience . (A post script; enough time has gone by that Gregory has come out with a travel pack that may interest you. The Praxus is the men's version; my memory fails me on the name of the women's; Proxy? Just an FYI) Thanks for the great, well informed review!

[@NORAH.PREPPYLOVE]

I just happened to stumble across this video and about fell off my chair. Everything you guys said about the backpack is exactly what i was looking for. I'm going to order it today! Thank you!!

[@jenniferharris7633]

Girl, TY TY TY for this review. I've been looking for 1. a review of a backpack from a woman, and 2. a backpack designed for a woman. You just saved me (literally) hours of time. My REI is 20 minutes away from my house. Off I go.

[@johnkeene9743]

Thanks for the great video. I've been researching for a bag just what you 'tech' reviewed! Looking forward to real use follow up with the bag.

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Thanks! Here's our follow up after a few trips with the bags: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jHvGla2tpdqmr7s

[@TWills-oe7hn]

I plan to check this out at REI! I have had similar problems as you with other bags. I going to view your follow up video immediately. Thanks so much for the effort in doing this video! I have a new pack sitting here that I bought and even before viewing your video, knew it just wasn't going to make it.

[@taylorgilmore9427]

Thank you for sharing, this is really helpful

[@kaym7704]

Thanks for the review. That would have been a nice bag for my Asia trip . I took an Osprey porter 40 but I didn’t really like the strap system after using it for a while. I’ll look into that bag.

[@anavi89]

I'm in love with this backpack. I want it!

[@ameliedionoski5027]

THANK YOU so much!! I ve been watching videos on the best backpack this week and really, I am buying!! It has all the qualities I was looking for! Thanks!!! And have a nice trip!

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Awesome! Glad to hear! Where are you going to take it first?

[@ameliedionoski5027]

I am going to india, Rajastan for January. I love the No strap on the outside, and the color! Wow seaweed, beautiful, it superficiel but it like the cherry on top!

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

That sounds like a fun trip! We're sure the backpack will be perfect!

[@RaulDominguez23]

Great video! I just bought this bag yesterday and packed it for a trip, very surprised by how much room it has, I believe it’s my new best bag.

[@wesammansour1486]

Really helpful video. Thank you guys very much! Getting the REI Ruckpack 40 cuz of you guys. Cheers from Yemen.

[@pcproff]

Keep em comin’! Maybe one of u guys traveling with one bag life. Awesome video.

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Ask and you shall receive! kzbin.info/www/bejne/aF6pfaisgbeni9k

[@richr5874]

Great video; I'm researching travel packs and you guys have put the REI Ruckpack 40 at the top of my list.

[@CurlyViet]

Thanks, great review, definitely gonna get 2 for me and my man

[@alexmcgregor7082]

Great review, thanks guys!

[@smalltalk.productions9977]

thanks for the effort and the sharing. we just went through the same search on a recent trip to tanzania and zanzibar. but we wanted to make sure our one-bag travel was carry-on. we ended up with the osprey transporter 40. large enough to hold plenty. small enough to have no trouble carry-on even with the more restrictive international size regulations. clam shell design. internal cinch straps. it has grab handles on four sides and a hideaway set of decent backpacking straps. tough material. looks good. we were thrilled. thumbs up.

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Thanks! We like the transporter and is definitely looks like an excellent bag. For us though we put an emphasis on the backpack comfort since we knew we wouldn't always have somewhere to drop our bags immediately when we get to a destination, and crucial to that is a hip belt. We can see how the transporter would be perfect for other trips, though. Anyway, thanks for sharing and safe travels!

[@CmanCorporations]

The transporter 40 and similar style packs aren't as comfortable as the osprey farpoint 40 and this ruckpack 40. For backpackers, the transporter 40 just doesn't cut it for comfort. The transporter 40 is meant for just that, transporting. Ie. if I was going to the cabin for the weekend or if I was going camping. For airplane travel or backpacking, the transporter 40 is not good enough.

[@LadyGaladriel]

Great review, but I have to say it: Kitchen goals :)

[@proudlyindian001]

U look like Angel from Heaven 😍😙😙😙😘In my next life a Huge Modular kitchen Only for You done 😙👍

[@Billistac]

I have been looking for a backpack that can serve as a hiking pack and a travel pack all in one. But I struggled to find something that fits both roles and is affordable. I love this video because it really put me on to the REI Ruckpack. Thank you!

[@SShessolovely89]

I just took this on a seven-month trip around Southeast Asia, and sadly returned it when I came back. I give it an A for back support and the straps were really nice, but I needed more of a travel pack; packing was an issue! I always had to lean this on something and keep it upright, otherwise everything would fall out. This pack is great for a week long trip or a trip where you'll have to do a lot of running around with the pack on. However, I had to repack every single time I hit the road because as soon as I pulled out one packing cube, the inside became a mess! I just traded in for a Cotopaxi Allpa 35 because the suitcase style pack appeals more to me for long term travel.

[@CaptSubtidal]

Great review. I appreciated the visual breakdown of the features (although I miss the rain cover :() and your videography was excellent. Please do follow up the review; I'm really interested in getting one of these for an upcoming trip I have.

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Thanks for the kind words! Yeah we've been really busy lately and haven't had a chance to catch up on editing. We have one video in the works then we'll do the retrospective of the bag during our trip to Europe.

[@Djjobless]

THANK YOU!! You are amazing reviewers and I wish you all the best trip! By the way awesome editing and camera working!

[@patbyc1977]

thanks guys great review

[@fanoftoast]

Yo this is the video I needed, thank goodness! 🙏🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼

[@ClayCarlos]

This is awesome. I appreciated the first 8 minutes because it is all the problems I have been experiencing (with bags) in the last few years. I love this video! My only question is, if it is not over-packed, would the REI Ruckpack 40 work as a carry-on?

[@firstactionhero]

I did a 3 month backpacking in Europe with the Manta AG 36 and I often had to carry some kind of extra bag. Loved the AG suspension. Gonna try the Atmos AG 50. If you can fit in the small and remove the brain, it'll pass on a plane

[@marciswelby]

Great, in-depth review. Thank you for the detail and great work :-)

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Thank you. We take pride in being thorough and it means a lot to us that people are appreciating it. Which bags are you comparing?

[@marciswelby]

My wife and I travel from the state's to Australia often to see her family and make a trip out of it. So we like to simplify as much as possible. We are considering the nomadic travel bag as well as the tri 40L.

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

We haven't had a chance to look at the Nomatic, but from what we've seen we feel it's trying to be too clever. We definitely prefer simplicity over "features" you may or may not use regularly. We definitely feel the Ruckpack strikes a nice balance in that regard (plus it's almost $100 less than the Nomatic). Let us know which you end up getting!

[@sirkeg1]

Just came back from a 1 week trip to Norway with mine. Great design.

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Awesome! And we absolutely agree! It was the perfect companion for our 2 week Europe trip. Keep exploring!

[@MrBPM75]

Wicked review! I am sold on ruckpack 40. I rrally wanted size 28L but it doesn't have padded waist belt.

[@wandering.dr3amer]

Thanks for the review! Are there connector points on the front to attach a daypack?

[@smnorth815]

Loving all the reviews and info. Any chance you two might compare the rei Ruckpack 40 and the new-ish Thule Landmark 40/60? Pretty please? All best!

[@RonaldrDeleon]

Skip to 8:28

[@notoriousz.a.c4311]

God bless you

[@dantecampos3667]

RRDL84 you save 8 minutes of my life, thanks

[@hannacapistrano5713]

Thank you

[@floridalife2800]

RRDL84 thanks man!

[@thesingularitywithin6293]

Nah, I like these two.

[@carissaconcepcion1064]

I bought this ruckpack 40 bag for Europe based on y'all's recs and luckily it was on sale at REI. Thanks!

[@jerichojoselito2525]

when is the sale?

[@eligeddes1808]

Does the backpack work as carry on for flight companies like Ryanair?

[@Ashley-ze1sj]

Frances Lewis wondering the same thing!

[@SanguineYoru]

Frances Lewis yes

[@dorinadolotov4010]

Hey! I got The Ruck pack 40 for my husband for his first backpack, and I love it so much I'm going to get myself one too!

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

That's awesome! Safe travels with your new bags!

[@rb391]

Well done review!

[@csoergel212]

You both are so entertaining. Great videos. Any suggestions on packing cube sets that go well with this bag? Cheers in advance. And make your way down here to NZ!

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Honestly any packing cubes will work, even the cheap ones on Amazon. With that said we got a set of REI packing cubes (bit.ly/REIPackingCubes) a little while back and love them. They're expandable which comes in handy. For example, the medium sized one when expanded fills about 1/3 the volume and is almost exactly the width and height of the main compartment when the bag is lying down. The large size in that pack is similarly useful if you want to lay it across your back if you have larger/flatter items you need to pack (it fills about 3/4 of the depth, 7/8 of the width, and about 1/2 the height of the main compartment). Finally the small one is great for toiletries and other small things and will fit in pretty much anywhere in the bag. Hope this helps and yes NZ is on our list, we'll definitely make it known when we're headed down there! Safe travels!

[@vaibhavravichandran]

Can't believe this was your first video! Excellent

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Thanks! No one is more surprised than us! At the time no one had posted a review of the Ruckpack since it was so new and we felt it was necessary to introduce it to the world! We think it's weird that there's still very few videos about it since it's such a great bag! Safe Travels!

[@vaibhavravichandran]

Us Against The World I will definitely check it out when I'm on the hunt for a rucksack. There's an REI 3 blocks from my house :D

[@aghey1011]

great review!

[@trailtrade]

Hi, awesome review! What kind of couch is that?

[@nomap2161]

Those metal zipper tabs would drive me nuts. Looks like you could cut them off with plier cutters and put the zipper pulls back into the zipper body that has the locking rings on it. I've done that with myTom Bihn bags. Looks like REI is stepping up their travel bag game. Having spent the last 2 weeks traveling all over Spain by train, bus, foot and budget planes, I'm extremely happy with my Osprey Farpoint 40 choice, but someone looking for a more backpack oriented bag that's low profile this looks like a great choice.

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

We don't mind the zipper tabs. They're plastic so it hasn't been an issue. Before we found the ruckpack we were pretty sure the farpoint was the best option. Glad to hear it worked well for you. Where did you go in Spain? We're looking to plan a trip there soon and would love some recommendations.

[@claytonscott4033]

Love your passion for bags. New challenge is a one bag travel pack with no check in. Try the Kathmandu Transfer I can do a month with tech and a suit 🤠. All carry on :) Great review

[@Scooter22284]

Great review! I had this as well but traded it for the NorthFace Router Transit backpack. I absolutely love it. You guys should check it out. It’s 41 liters and has tons of compartments for anything you could need. -Chris

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

We did before buying the Ruckpacks, but we didn't like it for the exact reason you love it. Too many compartments. We much prefer one main compartment which we can organize according to the trip. We've found bags like the Router are trying too hard to be everything to everyone but they never quite get any one thing right. Glad you like it though, it certainly is a well made bag. Safe travels!

[@bentimover8095]

That Northface bag looks heavy. NF in general is not good for streamlined backpacking.

[@rpbhagato]

Ben Dover true they are heavy

[@Roman-nu1om]

A more direct comparison between the REI Trail 40 and REI Ruckpack 40 would have been very interesting since you do own both. I'm especially wondering if the hipbelt feels better on the "real" trail backpack since a stow away design usually implies some compromise (hip pockets are obviously missing) I wouldn't be willing to compromise here just to be able to hide the hip belt

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

That's a great idea! We may make that video soon! As for the hip belts, we can safely say that the hip belt on the Ruckpack 40 is just as comfortable as the one on the Trail 40. The omission of the pockets is a bit annoying though, but for us isn't a deal breaker. Keep exploring!

[@cusnaez]

Very helpful video and walkthrough of the features. Do you think it'll fit a 15' Mac? I just ordered mine based on your video :)

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Welcome to the ruckpack family! We know you'll like it just as much as we do! And yes, it'll easily fit a 15" Mac.

[@rinio82]

HI! Seems really nice. Jag wander thought, does the size fit on carry on specifications, for cabin bagage?

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Yes! Even though technically the dimensions are slightly bigger than some airlines allow, the soft sides make it so it'll fit into the bag sizer if you get pulled out. Just be careful of the weight, others have said they've had to check it because they packed it too heavy.

[@taylorsnyder3329]

Great video, super informative! So I looked on REI's website and the tech specs state 22x13x10 and 4lbs 3oz. However some Q&As were answered by REI staff stating the bag is actually 22" tall x 11"wide and 3lbs 6oz.... Could you verify this so I will know if it complies with the 45inch limit and 15lb maximum I'm allowed when traveling to Thailand? Thank you!

[@Andrewolf79]

Nice video and well thought trough choice but i live in Europ and i travel around with the most common airlines here and keep in mind that on some occasion you will be asked to check it in cos is just slightly over the allowed size or you will have to pay more to get it on board, loads more ... look at Ryanair policy and easy-jet the 2 biggest airbus company in EU, shame cos is a gorgeous bag i was looking in to the osprey Transporter 40 or the small duffle bag from north face.. now really considering the Cabin Max Manhattan 55x40x20 Hybrid Trolley Backpack as clothing luggage and Oxford Stowaway Bag - 35x20x20cm a sling back pack for my teck these 2 fit 100% the requirement. dont make me super happy but maximising is all.

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Honestly, it's close enough and unless they pull out the measuring tape they won't make you check it. Most of the time they'll just have you put it in the bag sizer, and it should fit no problem because of the soft sides. I would be careful about the weight though. With the ever tightening restrictions on the weight it's really easy to pack it too heavy and unfortunately you can't force 20lbs to be 15lbs by shoving it in a sizer. Maybe some day. Anyway, safe travels!

[@ileese]

This bag looks really awesome! Really appreciate the zippers behind the head idea (for those urban travels where there are sticky fingers lurking!) and the sleekness of it. Let us know how it works out on your travels. I want this to be married to several other bags ive been eyeing to make it THE bag for me! I'm afraid the Length is 24inches, making it slightly larger than some of the international carry on size requirements. *Maybe i'll just have to slightly underpack it? I hope it serves you both well. xoxo Going to check out your other videos too!!

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

It's worked out great for us so far. We haven't had any issues carrying it on to any domestic or international airlines even when it's over-packed.Check out our follow up video after a few trips with the bags: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jHvGla2tpdqmr7s Safe travels!

[@Czazu1]

Awesome video! I have the trial 40 & the Ruckpack 28. What do you guys think of the Ruckpack 28 for daily commute/daily use?

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

The Ruckpack 28 would be great for commuting. Andrea uses a Ruckpack 18 as her commuter bag and it's pretty perfect for her needs. Safe travels!

[@Czazu1]

Us Against The World awesome. Have fun on the travels. 🌎

[@beeveedee9355]

Wow. Looks like REI has come up with a winner design. Great review.

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Thank you! Yeah it really is the best bag we've found for single bag backpack travel.

[@spellerlittlewing]

beeveedee I own this bag

[@melissalynch77]

Have been looking at this bag and the Osprey Fairview 40. Will you be doing a video on how you packed your cubes inside? The REI in Fresno is limited on bag selection, going to head to the Bay to look there. You guys are great!

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Thanks! We haven't yet, though we've been thinking about making a series of videos showing how we pack for various types of trips.

[@faustovasquez2456]

Hi, the bag look pretty good, but i concerned about the weight.

[@MrBaltazar1234]

Great extensive video, but can you carry it on and does that fit in the overhead compartment fully packed?

[@the_real_greywolf]

Very nice bag. Have you tried the 41L north face router transit, it's worth looking at...

[@jq7215]

Looks like a great pack. Just got back from Europe and am now hunting for something like this for next time. I am not sure how I feel about the side pocket accessing the main part of the bag though.

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Yeah, to be honest it's not something we've ever really used so it would've been nice if they used that side access for something else or just removed it all together. With that said, there is a mesh panel on that side so there's no worry of things falling out or someone being able to quickly reach in and take something from your bag so you shouldn't let that deter you from getting the bag. Safe Travels!

[@mattlyone3147]

Kelty 44 redwing my choice good video

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

We were so close to getting the Kelty but we took a trip to REI and, upon seeing it in-person, didn't like how technical is was. On that same trip we saw the smaller ruckpacks and thought "if only they made this in a bigger size." They must've heard us because only a week or so later we saw the ruckpack 40 on the website and we're sold. The Kelty is a great bag and we're happy you like it! Safe travels!

[@shadowdance4666]

The far point 55 s/m can turn into a 40 liter minus the day pack which is carry on size absolutely. You could also attach the day pack and just not fill up your packs to carry-on. The Osprey quality is impressive with their guarantee

[@johnc1975]

I used the Trail 40 on the El Camino trail in Spain this October and it performed well in this application. I would characterize the Trail 40 as a pack that could be used for travel but was optimized more for long distance carrying comfort than the Ruckpack 40. I saw the Ruckpack 40 at my local REI the other day, tried it on, and felt that this was also a good pack of similar size that seemed more optimized for travel and might be not quite as comfortable on the trail for long distances as the Trail 40. BTW, I had no problem carrying on my Trail 40 which is about the same size as the Ruckpack 40 and saw people carrying on even larger backpacks with no problem. I couldn't carry on my hiking poles and my Swiss Army knife though and had to check them. We flew Southwest and American airlines. Thanks for your review because I am considering the Ruckpack 40 for trips that aren't quite as hiking intense as the El Camino.

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

That's exactly our thought about the trail vs ruckpack, and our trip to Europe confirmed it. The ruckpack was perfect for general travel, but if we were spending time away from the city we would prefer the trail. Glad you enjoyed the video and we're confident the ruckpack would be perfect addition to your travel arsenal!

[@johnc1975]

Keep on posting guys, you have an unusually charismatic style. I wouldn't mind seeing travel vids from you also.

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Thank you! We're having a tough time catching up with the edits. We'll get some of them up soon.

[@kiptukdu]

I like the side pocket for water or shoes as you said which the Farpoint 40 doesnt have

[@nutthrower4415]

this bag is what I looked at here recently at R.E.I. , are you able to take on plane? Is this good for trail hiking also? Thanks

[@CJ_Walks]

The website claims it works as a carry-on. Looks pretty big to me. I still haven't found an answer.

[@kristenpalone8538]

what packing cubes do you use with this bag?

[@TheRam86]

hi thanks for the review. correct me if I'm wrong but isnt the lockable zipper rendered somewhat useless if you can access the main compartment from one of the sides?

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Somewhat. There is a little fabric loop at the top end of the side zipper that can be used to lock that zipper as well. We ended up just moving the main zippers over to that side and using a cable lock to link all the zippers and their lock loops/holes. It was a decent workaround but obviously not perfect. That's pretty much the only poorly designed part of this bag. Which other bags are you considering?

[@TheRam86]

I currently own a Patagonia MLC & a Topo designs travel bag (ballistic nylon). for my next bag there's so many choices out right now; at the moment on my shortlist there are 1) Tom Bihn Hero's Journey 2) Tom Bihn Aeronaut 3) Arcido Faroe 4) Minaal Carry on among others. the Rei ruckpack has also piqued my interest.

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

For us we feel all the "features" and built in "organization" many of those bags provide are just trying to be too clever and detract from making them usable in a wide variety of situations. Not everyone has the same gear, so trying to design to the average user often means it doesn't work perfectly for anyone. As such, we wanted a bag that could adapt to our constantly changing needs. That meant it needed to have one large main compartment and be comfortable to carry for long spans. With packing cubes and other organizers we can achieve that easily with the ruckpack. Let us know which you end up choosing.

[@joyjoky7292]

Awesome video guyz :) Do you know if the size of the bag is allowde in the cabin?

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Thanks! Yes the bag is the max allowable size for a carry-on. If you get pulled out it'll squeeze into the sizer pretty easily, just be careful of the weight, others have had to gate check because they packed it too heavy. With that said, we've never had any issues. Happy travels!

[@johnwigren2497]

My favorite pack is the REI flash 55.😀

[@michaelfingerman7124]

Thanks for the vid...buying a bag today and am between the Farpoint 40 and the Ruckpack...can you post the review after using the bag? Concerned about how the bag gets narrow...thanks!

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

We'll be posting our post-trip thoughts in a few days but overall the Ruckpack was excellent. Plenty of space, good amount of organization, and most of all comfortable. We also like that the laptop/hydration bladder sleeve is against your back since it's much better for weight distribution. Honestly you can't go wrong with either but obviously we prefer the Ruckpack. Let us know which you choose!

[@oOcitizenOo]

I've been looking for a cary-on backpack for a long time regarding value for money. A winner for me will always be Tortuga Outbreaker 35L, but it costs as hell. The next is Aer Travel backpack, but it costs as hell The third is Standard's Carry-on Backpack | Travel Backpack. It looks awesome butimho a bit overpriced (if only it cost around 100-120$ then it would the best option) All in all, i did find a budget and still carry-on BP from AmazonBasics - it doesn't look stylish but still it has lots of space and costs only 50$ :) After your review i was surprised to see how good REI is. And the price is decent. Thnx for this video! )

[@Jasonmascelli]

What is the Amazon budget backpack you found and use? Do you have the name of the bag or a link to it? I am looking for the exact same thing :) Thank you!

[@overreal3140]

You have same taste as me 😀

[@kassgal7213]

great video thank you. I have a question. I have a laptop 15'6. Do you think it can fit? And is the suppport enough for it to be safe?

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Yes, it’ll fit and be protected. Safe travels!

[@kassgal7213]

Us Against The World thank you! I really hope I get to buy it!

[@johna.6725]

Guys! Are these compact enough to be a carry on lagguage? Thanks. Love the vids...keep it organic.

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Thanks! Yeah, we've carried it on multiple airlines without issue. Technically it's a little too large for many airlines, but the soft sides will allow it to fit into the bag sizer if you get pulled out. Just be careful of the weight, a lot of airlines are very strict about that and others have said they've had to gate check because they packed the bag too heavy. Safe travels!

[@grantiwamoto]

I'm between this and the Osprey FarPoint 40. Any thoughts?

[@enavira]

What about Thule Landmark 40? I would like see a comparison.

[@fergyfive]

Nice video, you guys are naturals. Where is the follow up? I’m trying to decide between this bag and the women’s North Face Overhaul 40. I thought the Timbuk2 Wander could work but there is no waist strap and poor reviews on the straps and clips. Wondering how some of the Patagonia black hole products could do, like their black hole MLC. Anyway would love to see your follow up on how it worked for your trip.

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Thank you! Yeah, those are all bags we looked at while searching as well. The Overhaul is nice but a little too compartmentalized to make it useful for our needs. On the other hand, we feel the MLC has too little structure. As for the follow up, we've been procrastinating massively on it. We're way behind on editing our videos. We'll be posting it soon though.

[@VinzOneS]

Very Informative... cool

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Thank you! Which other bags are you considering? And which one are you leaning toward?

[@intranix]

I used to onebag a 40L (farpoint), but it was too big, now one-bagging the TNF Recon.

[@lampshade0100]

Have you had any issues carrying-on the REI Ruckpack 40. The published dimension is 24 inches tall, which is larger than some airlines allow. Just wondering if you have had any issues with Carry-on?

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

We haven't had any issues am any airlines. Though it's technically too big it'll easily squeeze into the bag sizer. Just be careful of the weight. Others have said they've had to gate check the bag because they packed it a little too heavy for some of the more strict airlines.

[@sofiaqadiri7717]

You guys should try out Patagonia’s Cragsmith pack 45l. It has a lot of volume, easily accessible because it opens up like a duffel and has quite a few compartments.

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

You're gonna like the next bag video we post then (hint, hint)

[@d33f15h]

@@UsAgainstTheWorld can't wait for that video. Highly considering buying the cragsmith but not many reviews online

[@michaelnelligan398]

Great content.

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Thanks!

[@gabrielcuello8137]

Wow, not bad. REI does a solid job as usual. Would you guys see this as an Everyday backpack?

[@munimum]

Thanks! Looks like the bag is designed in such a way that it wont stand on its bottom/base ,and you have to lean it?

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Yeah, that's one of only a few issues with the bag, and a very minor one in our opinion. If you need a bag that will stand up on it's own often you're better off getting a roller bag. The few times we've had to take these bags of while in transit there has been some we could lean them so it hasn't bothered us. Which other bags are you considering?

[@vikachu_lavender]

How well did it work as a carry on bag?

[@TanukiParis]

Does the side pocket allow to acces to the main compartment ?

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Yes, you can access the main compartment through one of the side zippers. There's a mesh panel that covers almost the entire opening so things don't fall out and therefore you can really only get to stuff on the "outside" of the mesh or at the top of the bag through the side pocket. It would be a good place to stash a travel tripod for easy-ish access. We don't ever really use it since the top pocket is usually big enough for anything we'd need quick access to. Safe Travels!

[@danielchoi1779]

Ea!! Nice review guys!

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Hi Daniel!! 👋

[@Jv808UHM]

Any ideas on the new RuckPack 65!?!? I’m about to buy the 40... but wanted to see what you guys thought about the 65? What pro’s/con’s can you see since you already have experience with the 40L?

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

We hadn't heard of it, but thanks for putting it on our radar! From what we can see it's definitely compelling option. We're going to go check it out and post a comparison video soon!

[@DanielTojcic]

Just realized that I have a pack obsession...

[@alexserver]

Hey guys, I usually travel for 2 months so I take a big hardshell suitcase. I'm thinking of the alternative of buying a travel backpack like the one you presented, my concern is how about the electronics ? Are you able to bring such big bag in the plane cabin ? I guess you document it, but arent' you worried about the electronics going down in the baggage compartiment ?

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

Yes, everything comes with us in the cabin. Derek carries all the electronics and camera gear usually. Just like with everything else we try to stick to only things we're 95%+ sure we'll use on the trip and are as small and light as possible. For example, we recently replaced the 13" laptop we used to carry with an iPad which does everything we need while on the road including editing our videos. Also, we used a point and shoot (Canon G7x mk II) and a GoPro as our cameras. We've since added a small mirrorless camera (videos to come), but the emphasis has always been on keeping things as small and light as possible. As for carrying it all, we found this set of electronics organizers/packing cubes (a.co/4BmOT6H) that we really like. The large one in that set fits 2 hard drives, a backup battery, all the chargers and cables, the gopro with a floaty selfie stick, and any other accessories we might need (like a small LED light that's come in handy a few times: a.co/e6KGqEm). It even has a sleeve that fits the iPad, though it's a very tight fit if you have a case on it like we do. The best part is it's perfect size to place at the very top inside the main compartment so when we get on the plane he unzips the bag just a little bit, pulls out the organizer, and throws the backpack in the overhead bin. Super simple. And in the rare case the backpack needs to be checked, all the electronics are in the organizer so we don't have to worry about things getting mishandled and thrown around in the cargo hold. Anyway, hope this helps! Safe travels!

[@omarlafif2877]

Hello guys! Your videos are awesome. I am leaving on a 4 month trip in 10 days and unfortunately I can't get the REI shipped on time.. therefore, I am looking for an alternative.. I came across the Eagle Creek Global Companion 40L, any thoughts?? Your advice is highly appreciated! Thanks

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

We haven't been able to test it out but honestly we don't really have any desire. Things like the synch strap going over the water bottle pocket show a lack of attention to detail in the design which has turned us off the bag. If you're in a pinch it'll work though. Also the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview 40 is a good option you should be able to get quick. Have fun and safe travels!

[@kransom739]

Did you end up getting the global companion, and if you did would you mind sharing your thoughts? I can't find one in stores anywhere in my region but I'm interested in getting it if it works well for traveling and potentially could be adequate for backpacking.

[@jadynk8557]

are the zippers lockable? and well is it carry on?

[@dickchard100]

Any thoughts on the BE Outfitters Tahquitz bag? Trying to choose between in and the ruckpack

[@UsAgainstTheWorld]

We like the rolltop + 3/4 zip main compartment, side access, and hidden water bottle holder, but the quick access pocket it a little small for our taste. Otherwise it's an interesting bag and if we get our hands on it we'll definitely do a comparison. Right now though, we'd still prefer the Ruckpack if only because of REI's awesome return policy. Safe travels!

[@CmanCorporations]

If you want style, the BE bag looks a lot better, but what it makes up in design it lacks in function. The ruckpack is just so much more functional than the BE bag, the one zip up on the side is just inefficient as a carry-on replacement. The ruckpack is really the best of both worlds. It looks better than the farpoint 40 and it has more functionality. The BE looks amazing, but functionally it doesn't cut it.

[@allenvasher5358]

Did you guys show the hidden webbing, trek pole holder &, non hidden webbing around the top of the clam shell in 1 of you other videos

[@mrtwinkie0]

What about any of the Pacsafe bags?