So, I recently got my hands on the Peak Design 45L backpack for my trip to Europe, and let me tell you, I am absolutely loving it! I used to rely on my Tortuga 40L Pro bag, which I also appreciate for its excellent organization features. However, when it came to packing, I found it a bit challenging personally. I prefer a deep bag where I can simply toss in my packing cubes without worrying too much about organization. The Peak Design bag offers just that – a spacious bucket-like interior that accommodates all my packing needs.
One feature that really stands out to me is the flexibility in adjusting the bag’s depth by unzipping the divider to create even more space. The stow-away shoulder straps and hip harness are well-designed, although the magnets on one side of my bag are not perfectly aligned, affecting their strength slightly. The hidden zipper pockets behind the bottle holders have proven to be quite handy, especially for keeping my passport safe.
I also carry a 16L Matador packable bag for day trips, but I’m considering upgrading to the 22L version for extra space. While some may criticize the Peak Design bag for its weight, I don’t find it any different from my previous Tortuga bag, which was already quite hefty. I’ve also purchased an Osprey Farpoint 40L to test out on my next adventure, intrigued by its zip-away harness system and hip belt.
If I could make a few tweaks to the Peak Design bag, here’s what I’d suggest:
1. The pocket for stowing the internal divider should be wider to accommodate it more easily.
2. I wish the front of the bag unzipped all the way to the bottom, similar to the back, for easier access.
3. The front stuff pocket doesn’t serve much purpose for me, and I would prefer a larger, zippered pocket in its place.
4. The hip belt could be more secure and comfortable, resembling the quality of brands like Tortuga or Osprey.
5. While the side handles are functional, having them centered would be more convenient.
Overall, I’m thrilled with my Peak Design backpack, but I wonder if others share my sentiments. Have you also experienced the Peak Design bag, and do you have any suggestions or comparisons with other popular options like Tortuga or the Osprey Farpoint 40L? Let’s chat about it!