I purchased this backpack to replace my daily computer schlepping backpack where the zippers blew out. This lightweight pack accommodates my 16" Lenovo laptop, though not in the designated sleeve. I can quickly load and unload the computer and store peripherals like a charger and mouse. The backpack is well-constructed, very comfortable, and straightforward. It gives me the capacity and flexibility I need without a lot of unnecessary pockets, dividers, and add-ons. This is the second Peak Design pack I've purchased, and like my previous travel backpack purchase, it is an excellent product. From my experience, Peak Design makes well-thought-out, adaptable products that can be tailored to an individual's needs and preferences. Highly recommended, even if a bit more costly than competitors!
I have received the backpack today and I am unable to attach my sternum straps because of missing loops on the left shoulder band. for the rest the 25L backpack seems to do what it promises. A guide on how to attach a sling would be nice.
The 1* review on here upset me and I felt obligated to post one. That review stated there's no instructions- there's literally a 30 minute setup guide on the YouTube channel. The bag is admittedly not super intuitive to use at first, but the video explains everything. Not to mention, he and I only have this now because we backed it on kickstarter and received it TWO MONTHS earlier than they originally promised.
Anyway I haven't used this for any serious backpacking yet, but I have used it as a daily bag with as much heavy stuff in it as possible to get a sense of the comfort/sizing and make any adjustments before I take it on a real trip.
If you've had a Peak Design bag before, the features, quality, practicality, etc. are all there exactly as you'd expect. It's light- maybe not light enough for serious ultralight people, but personally I'm one to bring 3 camera lenses I never end up using, so an extra 500g from the bag makes no difference.
The bag is very comfortable thanks to being able to change the strap attachment points. But honestly comfort is purely subjective, no bag is going to be a great fit for every single person. Peak Design or otherwise.
My recommendation is to get this bag if you think you'll like it. If you're an amateur/hobby photographer with a good amount of gear that likes to go hiking/camping and won't be carrying it for more than a day or two at a time, this is an excellent choice. If you're into long, multi-day backpacking trips, or are measuring the weight of each piece of gear down to the gram, there are probably more practical choices (that aren't as cool.)
Love the bag. Build quality is impeccable. Amazing design and intuitiveness. However, luckily this bag will not have to go on a scale. But can imagine once it’s fully packed the combined weight of the bag plus contents may cut your hikes slightly shorter. Not sure what can be done to reduce this weight, but just something worth considering.
Got this 25L through the Kickstarter campaign. Really love the light weight and many adjustments for the bag to expand where and how I’d like. There are TONS of designed functional details, probably many I’m not aware of. It surprises me that Peak Design hasn’t (yet?) prepared for this backpack line’s rollout with a detailed user’s guide and videos. Feels like they’re undermining the potential splash by not providing feature guides. Example: I want to use the ultra lightweight packing bags as modular attachments (maybe even one of the new Outdoor Slings??) but there are only random images of where they attach without specifics about how to attach them and what it would look like on the backpack. I also picked up the optional waist belt but it didn’t come with any instructions on attaching it. (An added nit: Typos on the product card that came with the backpack and also on the website make me wonder about the degree of care that went into this rollout.) I’m hoping these user support misses are not an indication that Peak Design is slipping in their commitment to excellent gear and user experience. Still hopeful, but watching.
Fantastic backpack for everyday use. I’m not a photographer but love all the little well-thought out features. This is replacing a well-loved North Face backpack.
My new Outdoor Backpack with camera cube arrived today and what a disappointment. It took me a full 15 minutes to work out how to open the thing and I still can't work out how to fit the camera cube inside. I searched the website in vain for a video but there's nothing up yet. I just can't work out what it does! There are straps everywhere and pockets but no easy way to access anything. If I do manage to get the camera cube in it, there will be no room for anything else. Not even the smallest of the ultralight packing cubes that I bought with it. I already have an everyday backpack and a travel backpack and I hoped that this retirement gift to myself would replace them both. No chance!
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
Response from Peak DesignBy Erica, Customer Service, November 12, 2024
Hey there! Thanks for taking the time to leave a review and for the feedback. We think the video our team put together, linked below, will help answer some of the questions and shed some light on any confusion you're encountering with the bag. New design innovations can be head-scratching to familiarize oneself with. We hope this video can help you navigate around the bag's features and compartments! https://youtu.be/n6w0kB8nyJo?si=pJLuX0y93HgJsyEd