Overall, the combination of thoughtful compartment design and durability earns the 5 stars. Because this is my everyday backpack, it remains constantly loaded (heavy) with work computer, cell phone battery packs, and more. The Aion has no stress marks near the yokes or base, has lots of storage and room for gear, and still fits under a plane seat. Thanks for making a quality product.
I wanted to love this bag; its design makes so much sense to me. Love the clamshell and the two ways to access the main compartment, and I really liked the idea of the water-resistant liner. Love the multiple grab handles. Love the dual laptop and tablet compartments. The problem was that the straps were extremely uncomfortable and almost felt like rigid plastic; they have no flex to them. And the bag itself was very firm and not squishable. Finally, I felt it was too large for my 5’6” frame, and the fact that the straps attach an inch and a half below the top of the backpack made it rise awkwardly above my shoulders.
I am glad I did the research, this bag has all the features that any traveler would want and the bonus of it being comfortable to carry. Purchased and took on a 12 day international trip to Spain from the US. Easily fir under the plane seat of larger international flight, smaller regional flight, and high-speed rail. The pack easily transitioned to a daily pack (I carried 8-10 miles per day) for our snacks, sunscreen, waters, etc. and found it very comfortable. I was impressed with amount of clothing, toiletry bag, and misc. items this pack could carry for this 12 day trip. This pack plus a small international flight carry-on spinner was more then enough for everything I needed for this trip. My girlfriend using a traditional backpack even said she wished she had a travel pack like this. I highly recommend this travel backpack.
Wanted to love this bag, but unfortunately the harness. system is quite uncomfortable. I like more padding in the straps. Had to return bag to REI. I recently purchased a PAKT bag returned for same reason, lack of padding. Perhaps, if I were much younger it would be fine.
This is exactly what I’ve been looking for. Very thoughtfully constructed with both traveling and everyday use. Big side pocket for water bottles, perfectly placed zipper compartments - like for passports, wallets that is easily accessible. The strap on the back to slip over the handle of luggage is a plus.
Sadly, the pack was not adjustable to my petite frame - 5'3", short torso, slim. I'd chosen it because I could add a waist belt in the form of the fanny pack AND there is a luggage sleeve. However, the "sling" fanny pack is challenging to take in and out of its sleeve - so you'd end up just keeping it there permanently which is wasteful for such an expensive add-on. I was hoping you could slide it around and use it while wearing or at least pull it off to wear while on the plane. It also adds a ton of bulk and weight to an already bulky awkward pack. Also, using the waist belt lifted the pack about 5" above my shoulders with the shoulder straps pulled as tight as possible. I realize someone my size should be seeking out womens or even teen backpacks, but there are no other options with both a waist belt and a luggage sleeve. I wouldn't purchase this if you're <5'8" or have narrow shoulders or a short torso. If you're not, it's a good quality backpack. The back isn't ridged and uncomfortable like other internal frame bags. The straps are wide and flexible.
I carry a backpack 6 days a week due to my commute. Typically go through a bag every 3 years. This is my first Thule Backpack and I love it. It will also double as a great carryon bag.