Impressive backpack, I hope Targus will redo the small bag, or, is my hand too big... Well, whatever it may be, in the meantime I'll give them only 4 stars, once they improve this product they will have 5 stars of excellence.
My husband purchased the Drifter II for me to use for my real estate business. Love all the separate pockets, but not very durable. Within 6 months of purchase, the backpack separated from the laptop pouch zipper for approximately 8 inches. Very disappointed because I like all the pockets, makes it easy for me to organize my files, laptop and personal items. If this was made in leather, would be much more durable.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
Response from TargusBy Targus Customer Support, October 30, 2020
Thank you for your purchase. Hope to see you again soon. Please feel free to contact one of our customer service agents at 877-482-7487, Monday through Friday, 10AM EST to 7PM EST. We will be happy to assist you.
I've owned a Drifter Laptop Bag for the last 13 years; it's traveled over three continents with me through tens of thousands of miles on the road and on a plane. It truly lives up to its name; I only purchased a second one so that my child can have the same laptop protection as I have, and I'm almost positive I will hand my original down to one of my future grandkids.
Getting my 3rd bag in 6 years - I over use and stuff them. I pack them with 20 to 30 lbs of gear for daily use. It also has ample room for when I travel. No other bag lasts as long and has the convenient pockets or space. It's a bag you'll use every day for school, work, or take it hiking.
The biggest flaw--to echo other reviews--is the durability of the straps. One reviewer commented that there is no need for the elastic in these straps. I disagree: they add to the comfort of the pack as you walk with a heavy load as they act to soften the bounce of the pack as you walk. However, the ends seem to unravel almost instantly if there is a heavy weight to the bag. I believe the engineering could have been a bit more solid in the construction of these bags. Stronger, or more elastic may be needed to ensure durability in future models.
Now, fix the straps, and you have an AWESOME bag. It is well compartmentalized giving me plenty of storage options. (I do find it odd that the bottom of the two main pouches connect. I didn't know this was the case until I lost something I put into one, and found it in the other. ) The padding on the back rides smooth on my back, and the shape and comfort of the straps are great for a smooth carry. There is room to carry a laptop in one pouch, and a 19" single-rack-unit device in the other.
Pros: storage, comfort
Cons: elastic on the straps
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
Response from TargusBy Targus Customer Support, January 21, 2021
Thank you for your purchase. Hope to see you again soon. Please feel free to contact one of our customer service agents at 877-482-7487, Monday through Friday, 10AM EST to 7PM EST. We will be happy to assist you.