Nice bag. Love the magnetic clips. My issue is being able to open it from two opposite ends. It is too easy to leave one side open and losing all of your equipment when you pick up the bag.
I bought this so I could have my hands free to carry other people’s bags too on family trips. It’s an excellent bag with just enough space, a few good quick access options, and the usual PD quality materials. And it’s helped me enter a whole new world of one bag travel.
I recently used this bag on a trip to Italy for a week and a half. It has plenty of room. It is also very sharp looking. With 3 compression cubes I already had, I was able to bring everything I needed. It was very sturdy and compact. I did have to expand it on the way back but the European airline didn’t even bat an eye. My only issue was that the straps were uncomfortable for me. It’s not a deal breaker, but if I had to walk far with it it would have been. I also think the waist strap should be included in this design. I tried on the 45 liter but it was much too big for my 5’3” frame. I would also have liked compression straps inside the bag or outside. I also didn’t see the purpose of the tiny side pocket, or the flap on the back without closure. It was confusing to me.
I have been searching for the perfect business/pleasure travel backpack for years. For the last several years I have been using a 28l PacSafe which has held up very, very well, but it is only a top loading bag and was too small for 2-3 day overnights packing a computer, charger, shoes and clothes. So far, the PD 30l seems to be the one. Clamshell opening, easy access, not too many straps and pockets, the shoulder strap system is fantastic and I love the expansion zipper. I looked for a long time, tried all of the bigger brands, Patagonia and the like, and settled on this bag. Looking forward to many years of use.
The design is great. Two things are bothering me: 1) There is a severe lack of quick storage. I get the clean aesthetic but the sleeve for the luggage handle is just wasted space. I wish the top compartment just went all the way down or at least closed with a zipper. Don’t have any interest in putting a backpack into luggage personally.
The second thing is the sternum clasp is hard to use so I don’t use it much. Would prefer something more typical, I know buckles break but the hook is challenging.
Other than that it’s a beautiful bag, durable, lots of space.