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Ask HN: What backpack are you using?

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Re: Ask HN: What backpack are you using?

#52

Post by dgellow »

I currently have a “Daypack”, from QWSTION and I’m very happy with it.

https://www.qwstion.com/en//daypack-washed-black.html

Disclaimer: a family member works for QWSTION

It has a compact (rectangle) shape, one large space compartment, you can convert it from a backpack to something you carry by hand like a suitcase. And it looks really good :)

The company makes high quality products, a bit expensive though (190+€), but I would recommend if you don’t care too much about the price.

Re: Ask HN: What backpack are you using?

#53

Post by pbdiode »

I use the first version of the Direct Action “Dust” - https://us.directactiongear.com/dust-backpack#BLK

My brother liked it so much he bought the mkII.

It is on the small side, but fits a Dell XPS 13 or even a 15” MBP (but definitely not any bigger). Helps me keep the amount of crap I carry way down, and is super tough. Straps are wide and comfy, and the back has padding that helps the back breathe a little.

Re: Ask HN: What backpack are you using?

#54

Post by sethammons »

Might help to state some of your requirements. I need a laptop compartment, a separate document compartment, a large storage area, external water sleeve, and one or more external easy access pockets. Bonus for a electronics or sunglasses hard case. I didn't need to worry about rain.

I got an Ogio (I think at Target). Tried to find the same model on Amazon just now and don't see it, but lots of similar options. I like that it fits my reqs and has a hard top strap (aluminum) for hanging from hooks in stalls. The two large compartments help keep thing accessable for travel. Commuted several years (trains and flights) and still going strong. I wouldn't use it for extreme weather or terrain.

Re: Ask HN: What backpack are you using?

#55

Post by Yetanfou »

Mainly surplus Swedish army packs with external frames, I have both the smaller ~25l as well as the bigger ~35l aircrew versions. They're made of heavy canvas, have a strong external but integrated (the top of the frame is held in a leather sleeve on the bag) frame and are comfortable to carry even with heavier loads. They can be found at military surplus stores for around €15.

Re: Ask HN: What backpack are you using?

#57

Post by ioulian »

I have this backpack:

https://www.amazon.com/North-Face-Laptop-Backpack-Colors/dp/...

I use it mostly when going on a weekend trip or a week trip for work. Is big enough, has a lot of compartments, space for a laptop/gadgets.

Sturdy enough, laptop is safe there, but don't expect it to keep your DSLR camera safe ;) As the biggest compartment is meant for clothes, not for electronics

I see they discontinued it, I couldn't find it on official website (they changed the design, can't tell you if it's still the same quality)

Re: Ask HN: What backpack are you using?

#58

Post by cryoshon »

infiniteseeker wrote: post #2

Goruck GR-1. Benefits: - Padded laptop compartment helps keep laptop safe and easy access - Built like a tank, will last forever (made in USA!) - Outer and Inner organization pockets - Panel loading, can be fully opened by a side zip and easy to pack/unpack - Big enough for multi-day travel. I have used it as a carry on pack for upto 7 days (did laundry on the road). - Discreet enough (black) and fits into a corporat…

i bought a GR2 a few years ago and it's the best backpack i've ever owned. it's a pleasure to use. i promise i'm not a shill, it really is an exceptional product.

it looks attractive, bears weight far more comfortably than any other pack i've ever owned, it's easy to clean, it's waterproof, and the ability to open flat means that it's easy to pack very densely. i was able to live out of my 26L pack for nearly a week, and it goes with me wherever i travel.

the MOLLE straps are functional, and i strap my water bottle to them all the time. gotta be careful to avoid that overly tacticool look though!

i'm a total fanboy since my purchase -- the high price point was definitely worthwhile.

Re: Ask HN: What backpack are you using?

#59

Post by majewsky »

stirfrykitty wrote: post #44

Deuter Speedlite 20. Fantastically made, light, holds my stuff.

Not the same model, but I gotta back Deuter on this one. My Deuter Giga Office has seen some heavy use over the last 12 years and it's still going strong.

The fabric below the notebook compartment ripped open a few years ago (probably because I used to carry two heavy notebooks, a private one and a work-issued Thinkpad), but my mother sewed a patch over it and the backpack is still going strong.

While we're at it, I strongly advise against Wenger. I got one of their backpacks from my employer. Although they're supposedly just as high-quality as Deuter, that particular backpack came apart at all seams within just a year. Total disappointment.

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