Hey there, pals! So, I wanted to share my experiences testing out four backpacks that I recently used as carry-on personal items for flying. These packs are also awesome for everyday use. I spent a lot of time scouring Reddit for advice when deciding which backpacks to try, so I thought I’d pay it forward by sharing my own reviews. I’m a petite gal, standing at 5’4″ and weighing 120 pounds. My main concerns were comfort, organization, and making sure the backpack fit snugly under an airplane seat. Here’s the lowdown on each pack:
1. **Patagonia Black Hole 25L ($149)**: This pack was top-notch in terms of comfort. The shoulder straps were soft yet supportive, and the back panel molded perfectly to my back without any bouncing or digging in, even when fully loaded. The organization was minimal but effective, with quick-access and front zip pockets. It sits high and close to my back, compresses well, and fits like a dream under a plane seat. I went for the Seabird Grey color, which is stunning. Verdict: This is my go-to pack for future trips.
2. **Osprey Proxima 30L ($100)**: Almost as comfy as the Black Hole, the Proxima excelled in organization with dedicated compartments for tech gear and mesh pockets. It sagged a bit on my petite frame when fully loaded, but still managed to fit under most seats. The Nightshift Blue color was a winner for me. Verdict: Keeping it as a backup due to its comfort and stellar organization.
3. **Osprey Daylite 26+6 Expandable ($100)**: This pack didn’t quite hit the mark for me. The straps started to dig in after a short while, and the organization wasn’t as great as the Proxima. It was compressible and airplane-friendly but ultimately lacked the comfort I was looking for. The mustard color scheme wasn’t my jam either. Verdict: Sending it back.
4. **North Face Borealis Women’s 27L ($105)**: Unfortunately, this pack was a miss in terms of comfort. The shoulder straps were stiff and uncomfortable, outweighing its excellent organization features. It fit under the seat but the shoulder discomfort was a deal-breaker for me. The Luxe version in black with copper accents was gorgeous, but I had to return it. Verdict: Not wearable