Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
VERDICT
This bag creates order out of chaos. Designed to work perfectly with Peak Design's "Packing Cubes," it allows you to fit 5 days of clothes plus a full camera kit and a laptop into carry-on dimensions. The build quality is weatherproof and practically indestructible. It's an investment that pays off every time you breeze through airport security.
The Big Picture
Most backpacks are black holes where stuff gets lost at the bottom. The Peak Design 45L opens flat like a suitcase, giving you total visibility. It features magnetic straps that hide away when not needed, keeping the bag sleek and snag-free. It can expand to 45L for big trips or snap down to 35L for daily use.
🎒 The Ecosystem
Integration: Tetris for your stuff.
How it works: The bag is sized exactly to fit Peak Design's Camera Cubes and Tech Pouches. They slot in perfectly with zero wasted space, ensuring your expensive camera gear doesn't bounce around.
💻 Tech Access
TSA Friendly.
Design: The laptop and tablet compartment is separate from the main cargo area. You can slide your MacBook out for security checks without exposing your underwear to the whole airport.
✅ The Pros
- Access: Dual side zippers allow you to swing the bag around and grab gear without taking it off.
- Durability: 100% recycled 400D nylon canvas shell is weatherproof and abrasion-resistant.
- Comfort: Stowable hip belt helps distribute heavy loads.
- Warranty: Guaranteed for life.
❌ The Cons
- Weight: The bag itself is heavy (2.05kg) even when empty.
- Straps: Shoulder straps are a bit thin compared to hiking backpacks.
- Price: The bag is pricey ($300), and adding the cubes makes it even more expensive.
🤔 Should you buy it?
YES if you want one high-quality bag for all your travels and carry tech gear.
NO if you are a strict ultralight hiker (get the Osprey Farpoint 40 instead).
See the showdown: Peak Design vs. Aer Travel Pack 3 Comparison