Appenzell Daypack

I have not used this smaller bag, but have been looking for something smaller than my 20 inch roller. Thanks for bringing it to my attention.

Googling the name of the bag brought up some sources of reviews including this: http://www.practicalhacks.com/2008/10/23/review-2-rick-steves-carry-ons-79-backdoor-classic-vs-39-appenzell-day-pack/

The price is right.

I've used the Appenzell as my main pack for years - not sure how many, but I think since 2010. It's perfect for me. I can pack enough clothes for a three week + trip; actually, probably longer, but three and a half weeks or so is the longest we've been gone. We take several changes of clothes, and launder as needed. The bag is very comfortable to carry, with padded straps and a padded back pocket. I recommend it highly. My husband uses an even smaller bag, and we do just fine. The Appenzell is small enough to meet the carry-on requirements for the smaller European airlines, as well. I've never been challenged with it.

If you're considering it, now's the time to get it as it's on sale for 2 more days (20% off).

I'm going to give it a shot! Thanks y'all!

I have worked for years to limit my carryon volume. In 2009, I returned from a trip to Europe with an Essential Carryon (Campmore), which had served me well for the trip, but seemed a bit to large. I put everything I had returned with in a box of known area and measured the height - 1400 cu in. That's about the volume of a Appenzell bag, so I go one. Everything I had packed before fit in it, but because it is a backpack, and doesn't open like a book, it's difficult to use.

If you can pack this small, the Goodhope bag will contain just as much, but is easier to pack and carry. I used the Goodhope bag for one four-day domestic trip.

Nance,

Although this is a more expensive option, you could also consider something like the Tom Bihn Synapse 19 Backpack (also available in a larger 25L version). These products are made in the U.S. and are exceptional quality!

Thanks for your opinion Lee. I'm hoping I can make this bag work. I love the convertible but feel it is just a little too big. Ken - I'm just not prepared to spend that much on a bag right now. Maybe later if I find I can adapt to this smaller size.

I have also tried to travel with a smaller bag and have been using the Patagonia Transport 26L (1587 cc) and it's worked well so far. It has a handle or single shoulder strap and it will fit in any overhead (even small commuter jets) with no problem. The Patagonia costs about $100 but you can search the internet and get them on sale for alot cheaper. One thing that has helped is I use the Eagle Creek Pack-it Folder for my shirts and pants, this makes these items more compact and yet do not wrinkle when I travel.

Oooh, thanks Donald. Another topic - packing folders vs. cubes. And thanks for your suggestion too.

There is a topic that addresses packing folders. Link is packing system opinions. I have used packing folders for years. They are so helpful. I recently purchased the ultra light version. The weight difference is significant. Plus, I have transitioned to the ultra light compressible packing cubes. I bought Lewis and Clark instead of Eagle Creek, on sale.

Psss, Lewis and Clark might be available at your local Target store.

I've used the Appenzell many times as my main carryon. I've always considered it too big to be a daypack. The longest trip for which I used it was 10 days. I use it particularly when my travels don't involve activities that require specialty clothing. It is definitely doable for a week-long trip.

Okay - I now have the Appenzell and have it packed for my trip. In it I used one large packing cube which contains a pullover fleece jacket, neck warmer, med./heavyweight sweater, one pair pants, 5 shirts, fleece top and leggings for pajamas, slippers, socks, underwear, and one pair shoes in the outer flap. I could fit a little more inside the bag but would need to put the shoes in something different so to not stress the zippers. I could probably fit the shoes inside the bottom of the bag but would have to mash my clothes down and I don't want to do that. Instead I will slip my little hair dryer in the top. So far I like it but will post if I feel differently after my trip.

" Instead I will slip my little hair dryer in the top."

Be sure that the Hairdryer is rated for operation on 220 VAC, otherwise you'll have an "unpleasant travel experience", probably involving smoke and sparks. Most hotels these days provide Hairdryers, so you may not need to pack one. Don't forget the Plug Adaptors.

Nance, I slide my shoes down the sides of the large compartment after I've packed most of my things. Small items like socks, undies, or scarves can go in the shoes. They slide in better toes first, but heels first seem to make more efficient use of the space. Happy travels! When is your trip?

I do the same as Jane re shoes - slide them down the sides (in shoebags).

Lee - using packing cubes really helped getting things in and out of the backpack.

Thank for the advice on the shoes. Just going up to TN/NC on this trip. Renting a cabin and they don't provide a hair dryer. Hubby also has an Appenzell and then we will split a third bag for electronics, raincoats, etc.

Hi Nance,

I use the Appenzell Daypack for domestic travel, and I love it; but I would not recommend for International travel. One exception aside would be if you are only packing clothing and very light extras.

Although clothing and a few extras would fit nice and snugly in the Appenzell, it does not open 180 degrees like other 9 x 22 x 14 bags and does not have as many compartments either. I am going to Europe for my third time this summer, and while I will (try) to pack even lighter, I will likely use my convertible bag and pack less. Using built in compression straps and various compartments smartly, it is not much more bulky than a fully stuffed Appenzell

Peace