Osprey Sojourn 45l wheeled backpack.

So, a while ago I posted about looking for a wheeled backpack option. I have the Tom Bihn Aeronaught 45, which I do like, but sometimes wish it had wheels. I had found three bags that I was interested in, but was having trouble finding any of them in local stores to try out. I did eventually find the Samsonite eco diver, and the Eagle Creek gearhauler
(I think that’s the name). The Samsonite looked pretty good until I pulled out the backpack straps and tried it out. The backpack setup is not even as good as my Tom Bihn bag, and it was very uncomfortable, even empty. I did not like the Eagle Creek bag at all. It’s very square, and the sides are very inflexible, even though it’s not hard sided.

I was not able to find the Osprey bag in a store anywhere, but it was available on Amazon, so I thought I might wait for a sale. Not happening. The I realized I could cash in some air miles points for Amazon gift cards, and use those to purchase the bag. This is what I did, cutting the cost of the bag by 50%, and if I decide it won’t work, Amazon returns are easy.
The bag showed up yesterday, and I spent some time digging into the features. I have to say. I’m impressed. This is a high quality bag that has been well thought out. The backpack harness is very robust, and well padded. It’s also completely adjustable according to your height. There are little details that some of the reviews I saw didn’t mention, such as under the top grab handle I found a spot that was velcroed closed. Upon investigation, I pulled out an adjustable strap that would allow you to attach a jacket. One of the complaints I did see about the bag was that the waist belt must be used when in backpack mode. This is true. The upper straps attach to the waist belt. But, I don’t think you would want to use the bag without the waist belt as it blocks the wheels from sitting directly on your back, and has added padding there, also.
I then did a quick pack of my usual travel wardrobe (3 pants, 4 t-shirts, 4 long sleeve shirts, socks and underwear for a week, toiletries bag and some other odds and ends), and stuffed it all in. I didn’t put anything in either of the inside side pockets, or the pockets in the lid, so the bag wasn’t completely full. Still, there was room left for those odds and ends I usually take such as electronic accessories and such.
The bag now weighed 20 pounds. I threw it on my back, and it was just as comfortable now as it was empty. With the external compression system I think I could cinch it down so that it would not be questioned as a carry on bag. Compared to my Tom Bihn bag, this bag is a bit narrower, and a bit taller. The Osprey has no external pockets, but does have options to attach things to the outside. Wish we could post photos here.
This bag is a keeper!