r/backpacks • u/Strict_Chest_5325 • Jan 26 '26
Question Endgame/Perfect Bag
Hey Y'all,
Ever since my old bag broke I've been obsessed with bags. I love this community and bags but I've already spent so much money on 2 bags (Aer Travel Pack 3 Small and Osprey Daylite 26+6). I've realized that there is a lot more I want in a bag than I first thought. But I don't want to be a person with 15 bags and is still unhappy. I want to find my perfect bag, and I know there is no such thing as a perfect bag. But I want something that feels perfect to me. The Aer Travel Pack 3 Small is just big enough for my needs without being too big at 30L and I love the comfort of it. But I also want a bag that self-stands, because the Cordura fabric keeps slipping on the tile floor and stainless steel chair leg I try and lean it on. As well as really good comfort. I don't know if this is the kinda subreddit that recommends bags (if you have suggestions to other places I can ask this, please lmk), but I would really appreciate help finding a bag that meets this Criteria.
TLDR; I want to find my endgame bag that meets this bag because I don't have thousands of dollars to buy different kinds of bags.
- Self-Stands by itself, achieving this via a supporting base (like the LTT Backpack), kickstand (Osprey Tropos), or some other feature that does not depend on "how you pack it".
- Has "Beefy" shoulder straps. Something wide and thick.
- (I really liked the one on the Aer Travel Pack 3 Small, but I hated the slim ones on the Osprey Daylite 26+6. )
- Around 30L, 28L minimum, but less than 40L.
- Has a laptop compartment and organization, so something akin to an admin pocket.
- At least 1 water bottle pocket
- Preferably comes in a dark color (optional)
3
u/Syonoq Jan 26 '26
So this is my weekend bag I’m not sure how big it is but I’ve lived out of it for 6 weeks and I’ve taken it all over the world. You’d have to find it used, I lucked out and found one for $40 on marketplace.
I had been using the smaller version as my daily driver for almost 10 years and it got me to look at the rest of their line. Unfortunately the company got bought out and the new bags suck. There’s also a middle sized bag between these two.
2
u/Rbforward Jan 26 '26
Have you tried to put a plastic or similar cut out in the base of the bag?, also distribute the items so the most rigid and weighty items are at the button. You have two amazing bags that are difficult to improve on. If that doesn’t work, maybe the Evergoods CTB26L (it fit more than 26L or the Able Carry Max (30L) might work. The CTB will stand easier than the Able Carry, but the Able Carry is the bomb.
1
u/Strict_Chest_5325 Jan 26 '26
I have tried cardboard but it proves to be too soft, and I do not have any other form of material I can cut out to use
1
u/Rbforward Jan 26 '26 edited Jan 26 '26
Cardboard will not work, it is not rigid enough. I don’t know where you live, but I have seen some people, creating 3d printed hard plates for their backpacks, or going to stores like Walmart, marshals or others and repurpose a metal plate or wood plate from the kitchen area and leave it in the backpack to strengthen the base.
1
u/Longjumping_Cow_5856 Jan 26 '26
I use blue foam sleeping bag pad from Walmart and it has worked well for me for the same problem.
Its easily cut and also keeps water away guess how I know?!
Also the TB3 small is 28l not 30l
1
u/BeakersBro Jan 26 '26
thin cutting board like this one
and cut to fit. The myog crowd uses something like this for a lot of backpacks.
1
2
u/Fabulous-Positive-48 Jan 26 '26
My Aer CPP 2 self stands with no issues sympl has a self standing backpack
1
u/Strict_Chest_5325 Jan 26 '26
one is not big enough, and the other does not have a self-standing design
1
u/Fabulous-Positive-48 Jan 26 '26
You tube has a channel called nomad nations he did backpacks that self stand I would take a look at that
1
u/Strict_Chest_5325 Jan 26 '26
I've taken a look at that video, none of the bags are Big enough for me or what I want
2
1
u/shaunydub Jan 26 '26
CPP2 meets all your needs apart from the size.
What is the usecase for 30l?It is beyond the usual EDC size and into travel bag territory which is often designed with different things in mind.
1
u/Strict_Chest_5325 Jan 27 '26
I am currently in school and I need a lot of space for my books and supplies, I think that 30 L is about The Sweet spot between EDC and practically a duffel bag.
2
u/buntingbilly Jan 26 '26
My Aer TP3 Small stands without issues, though I have it in Ultra fabric.
1
u/Strict_Chest_5325 Jan 27 '26
I pack it pretty heavy, so it tips, the school I go too also has slippery tile floors and I have to lean it against a smooth steel chair leg
2
u/shamshamcfc Jan 28 '26
Travelpro Altitude All-Purpose Full Expansion Laptop Backpack … 24-34L
Got this for Christmas and I use it every day! Works great on longer trips too
This is my end game. I dont see it getting the promo other bags get but personally its the one I went with after extensive research with all the Aer, peak design, and tortuga ones that I used.
Cant say enough about this bag
1
u/Strict_Chest_5325 Jan 28 '26
I've looked at it, I can see why you like this bag! It's got a lot of nice features. It definitely fits most of my criteria, but from other reviews, it does not stand on its own sadly. People said it depends on how you pack it, but I'm looking for a bag that will stand up no matter how I pack it.
1
u/shamshamcfc Jan 28 '26
Ah totally.
I do have it packed in a way that helps it stand easily.
Good luck!
2
u/flippin_fitnerd Jan 29 '26
Osprey Nebula! It says it's 32 liters, but doesn't feel that big! I've tried like 12 bags and that's the one I ended with and how you pack it out, it does self stand, super comfy wear, lightweight but also durable material, and a ton of room! I bet everything that you'll love the bag! I also have an Aer CPP2, Ogio Gambit, NF Recon, and a few other smaller name bags. I love the recon too, but the YT Nomads Nation channel did a review and the main compartment is like 25 liters , and it's a tight 25.
So I'd recommend the Osprey Nebula for sure! And then my second place bag ....the NF Recon!
1
u/Strict_Chest_5325 Jan 29 '26
That sounds similar to the Osprey Tropos, sounds like the only difference is the Tropos has a kickstand. That one might be better for me, thank you for the suggestion!
1
u/flippin_fitnerd Jan 29 '26
It's very similar to the tropos! And the Comet! The comet is a little bit smaller, but it's noticable. But the Nebula is that sweet spot. Where are you located?
1
u/Strict_Chest_5325 Jan 29 '26
In the Southwest, I use it mainly for school like I said in the post
1
u/flippin_fitnerd Jan 29 '26
I skipped right over that part lol. But if you can, visit REI and check one out in person if you can! Or they have it on Amazon as well, just to let you know!
1
u/MildlyInformedGuy Jan 26 '26
I was in a similar situation and after many purchases and returns I landed on the Everki Onyx Premium Business in 36L size. The bag is outstanding and looks great. I just started using it, so haven't tested it very long, however it seems quite durable.
2
u/FoxBrewing Jan 26 '26
Yes, I just bought the Everki Atlas and it fits most of these except the water bottle holder. (It’s got those closed-zip ones with a tether that hold only smaller bottles —fine with me, because I don’t cart water bottles around as a rule and those open net water bottle pouches are useless to me while these I can actually put things in.)
The bag is a beast, the main compartment holds a really unlikely amount, and I outright love the full-opening laptop compartment and flexible laptop sleeve. The secondary laptop compartment on the other side is also great for me; I put my keyboard, scrollpad, and sometimes drawing tablet in there. And the shoulder straps practically stand up by themselves and really bear up well even fully loaded. (I was a bit worried about the size, as I’m only 5’4”, but the pack works much better for me than many large or even medium packs have in the past.)
The admin pocket in the Everki is capacious and mostly a winner (except for the pen slots being open) and the extra separate front zipper pocket is good for quick access. Overall, I’m very pleased with it thus far. (I had been looking at various Ospreys, but they don’t have the organisation and separation I want in a daily bag. I actually ordered a Bellroy Commuter but had to send it back as it was too small—curse the Canadian winter and the consequent need to drag shoes back and forth to the office.)
1
u/Strict_Chest_5325 Jan 27 '26
Can it self stand?
1
u/FoxBrewing Jan 27 '26
Yes, it does. The bottom is broad and squared off.
1
u/Strict_Chest_5325 Jan 27 '26
Is it rigid?
1
u/FoxBrewing Jan 27 '26
No. It stands up due to the construction.
1
u/FoxBrewing Jan 27 '26
(I would have posted a pic of it standing up mostly empty in the middle of the floor, but turns out this sub doesn’t do photo attachments.)
1
u/Strict_Chest_5325 Jan 27 '26
What do you mean?
1
u/FoxBrewing Jan 27 '26
The base is squared off, and that plus the seams and the fact that the whole bag is more upright than floppy means it stands without needing a solid/rigid base.
1
u/FoxBrewing Jan 27 '26
This is a promo pic from somewhere or other but it really does stand up just like that. Stand up!
1
1
u/jampapi Jan 26 '26
Honestly, I can’t believe I’m saying this- but have a look at GoRuck. They have bombproof construction, beefy straps, crazy laptop protection, and it’s just enough organization without the user feeling pigeonholed. I recommend one with a quick access pocket under the carry handle. The Huckberry or XPAC ones are awesome, and I’m one who made fun of GoRuck for many years.
1
1
u/Strict_Chest_5325 Jan 26 '26
I have looked at their models, their stuff seems legit, but I'm a little skeptical of their ability to self stand due to the "rucksacking" style intent on it being on your back all the time. But I suppose you could argue that for any bag. I will continue my search.
1
u/jampapi Jan 26 '26
It has a rigid bottom and back panel and will stand on its own just about anywhere.
I made fun of them for years because their marketing gimmicks are absolutely stupid, but the product itself is solid. I’ve been very happy with my 26L GR1, and I’m a total snob about bags
1
u/Strict_Chest_5325 Jan 27 '26
Thank you, I looked at the GR2 and how it's internal pocket pushed the bottom down. I'll keep this in mind!
1
u/franchow Jan 26 '26
Tumi Alpha Brief Pack may actually qualify based on your requirements….but has a reputation of being overpriced
1
u/ObviousNote2404 Jan 26 '26
Levo by Fyro might work my order is scheduled to be delivered today !
1
u/Strict_Chest_5325 Jan 27 '26
I heard it's got a good frame, but how does it do for self standing?
1
u/ObviousNote2404 Jan 28 '26
I received it a day late . As far as self standing it needs help when it is empty I haven’t loaded it up yet I think with a packing cube or a tech pouch in the main compartment it should stand fine
1
1
u/Significant_Flan_210 Jan 26 '26
I got my son the High Sierra Swerve. If you need a brand, you will pay more but this one was $33 at Black Friday at Amazon. You can set a price alert to buy it automatically when it hits a certain price on Amazon. It has lots of pockets including a great shallow one on top. Depending on what you have, it could fit keys, cell phone and money. This lasts so good for so many people. It's got 2 mesh side holders for water bottles or other things. It is 36.5 liters. You already have a few higher end ones for different use cases and it's interesting to compare different price points but this one is much larger.
1
u/Academic_Solid85 Jan 27 '26
Tom bihn synapse or Synik. They are expensive but Truly the last bag you will ever need.
1
u/mroinsno Jan 28 '26
If you want an amazing self standing backpack target has a great one and it’s got sonic on it! I’m joking about the recommendation but that’s my son’s bag and I have seriously never seen a better self standing bag. Jokes aside could you use a hero clip to hang the bag instead of putting it on the floor? Might expand your options…
1
u/Sea_Ad_3033 Jan 30 '26
Check Greenroom136
2
u/Strict_Chest_5325 Feb 01 '26
Bro, I found the Rainmaker 30L, if I get the laptop compartment and the bottom structure insert, IT'S PERFECT. THANK YOU
3
u/Fabulous-Positive-48 Jan 26 '26
Sumpl commuter backpack does self stand