I've been thinking about using a backpack for an upcoming month long trip. Looking for any feedback on this eBags model. I've ruled out some others including: Tortuga - top rated but too pricey, RS Convertible - similarly priced as eBags (with sale) but no structure.
I have a full size eBags and it is very well constructed, excellent zippers. The one trepidation I have with this bag is two compartments vs one full size that could be more accommodating.
I have this bag and love it. The key for maximum fit is packing cubes.
I liked it so much , I bought each of my children one for Christmas.
I was thinking because of the compartments that packing cubes were probably unnecessary. But you think different?
When you say "two compartments", are you talking about the thin barrier in the middle of the main compartment. I think it is removable, if that matters. The bag has a smaller pocket in the front, but you don't have to use it.
Not the shelf in the main compartment but the front compartment. It looks to me that it's permanently divided off.
I have had this bag since 2014 and it has been well used and loved! I love the compartments and the way I can organize things. I usually end up shoving my "plane stuff" like my book, snacks and my 311 bag in the smaller outside compartment for easy access along with other odds and ends if I have room. Then I use packing cubes to organize my clothes in the main compartment. I still HIGHLY recommend packing cubes both to compress your clothes and also to organize everything so it doesn't turn into a big jumbled mess. (maybe others don't have that problem, but I do!)
This bag has been with me to Israel, Scotland (twice!), New Zealand and it was my bag of choice for the RS Eastern Europe tour, plus it's traveled around the States a bit too. I do find that it's a bit too big for shorter trips, like a week or less, so in 2016 I bought a Tortuga to solve that problem. (Got it during a clearance sale before their new model came out.) I've talked about my ebags backpack so much over the years that I now have 4 friends who also own it. My dad also has it, but he prefers using it with the duffle strap. It's a very versatile bag.
I also have this bag and love it. I use the farthest outside pocket for travel documents, the small pocket at top for 3-1-1 bag, and the outside larger pocket for my flat pack toiletries kit and sometimes my coat folded flat. I don't bring a laptop, so I carefully removed the laptop sleeve and use that pocket for storing my emergency back up tote bag and other items I don't need all the time (spare ziplocks, luggage belt). I find the main part roomy for my needs. The only issue I've ever had with the bag is the plastic clips for the backpack straps have come undone with a very heavy bag load (on way home). I solved this by adding small carabiner clips for extra strength.
Note that the bag now comes in two sizes - both the same width but the junior version 2.5 inches shorter.
Full size: https://www.ebags.com/product/ebags/mother-lode-tls-weekender-convertible/143101
Junior size: https://www.ebags.com/product/ebags/tls-mother-lode-weekender-convertible-junior/241465?productid=10395044
OK, thanks all, placed my order.
I bought the jr version and returned it because the support straps are pretty much non-existent. Think bicycle Helmut straps. I want something a bit more substantial but still opens like a suitcase. My current backpack has great straps, but it opens from the top and narrows at the bottom. I hope it works for you. I've been looking at the Osprey Fairview 40. I love using a backpack because I have my hands free and it feels more secure than a suitcase (I use locking clips and ties).
I had a larger size Osprey Porter 46, and I own several of their other backpacks. They are great packs, well built. The thing that bothered me with the Porter was the odd shape and the bulge of the center portion. It;s easy to "violate" carry-on width dimensions.
Just got my eBag and loaded it up with my things. I love this bag! It will serve the purpose very well.
