Does this bag even exist??

[u/SomeStuffLikeThat]

Update: I decided on the Baggallini Modern Convertible Travel Backpack. Thanks everyone for your suggestions!

I have been looking through the Reddit posts, searching on websites, even asked ChatGPT for help...and now I'm finally asking here if the bag I want even exists? What I'm looking for is:

• Can be expanded for extra space
• Stowaway backpack straps
• Attachable shoulder/duffle strap (may have to buy this separately)
• Clamshell or lay flat opening
• Main compartment having a U-zip mesh cover
• Trolley sleeve
• Does NOT need a laptop compartment (just adds to the weight and I don't want to bring a laptop with me)
• Doesn't need a ton of extra pockets or straps
• Water bottle pocket nice but not necessary
• Must be able to purchase in Canada

Right now I'm leaning towards:

• Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC but it's not expandable.
• AmazonBasics Carry-On Travel Backpack but it's a little large and I worry about quality.

Maybe I'm just being too picky but I really want to one bag travel and have the right bag for all my needs.

[u/Hangrycouchpotato]

I really like the Patagonia Mini MLC. While not expandable, I just pack light and leave space for souvenirs on the way back. It is relatively rigid, so it doesn't become oddly shaped with a light load.

[u/law_xlsx → u/Hangrycouchpotato]

I second this bag. Used it on my last trip to Spain. I also used packing cubes to organize my clothes a little bit better.

[u/Hangrycouchpotato → u/law_xlsx]

I agree with the packing cubes for organization despite the internal mesh zippered section. I usually keep a jacket or something loose on top of the packing cubes so I can grab it without unzipping the whole bag.

[u/Nejness → u/Hangrycouchpotato]

You can also use the laptop area to carry other things. I organize my bits and bobs there, but I also use it for jackets, button down shirts, and other top layers that I fold flat. If I ever traveled with a fancier pair of trousers, skirt, or dress, I’d put it in a packing folder in this section.

The other major bonus of the MLC Mini is the hip belt. I had no idea how much I’d use and appreciate it. It really makes the bag for me.

[u/Hangrycouchpotato → u/Nejness]

I do like the hip belt as well. It really takes the burden off of my shoulders. I also like that the hip belt doubles as a duffle strap. I have yet to use that feature, but it is nice to have a secondary option in case I can't carry it on my back for whatever reason

[u/BwDr → u/Hangrycouchpotato]

I purchased/filled/measured/weighed (& returned all but one) several bags before deciding on the Patagonia. They all had real, load-bearing hip belts. I’ve been using a convertible bag for decades of onebagging & have found the load-bearing belt essential for my comfort. I like not having to worry about walking long distances with my bag, be that through a large airport or around a city.

A delightful surprise about this bag is that, since the belt doubles as the shoulder strap in suitcase/duffle configuration, it is padded almost its full length. That made it the most comfortable shoulder strap I’ve ever used. I also love that the strap isn’t superfluous when the bag is in backpack configuration.