Need a backpack for air travel. Maxpedition, or??

[EotS]

I need a small pack to suppliment my carry on luggage. Something I can store under the seat in front of me, so size is somewhat of an issue. Big enough to hold a change of clothes, toiletries, and a few other odds and ends.

I have abt 4 other packs, 2 are old Maxpeditions, which are fantastic. One is nearly 20yrs old, and I use it daily. (Pigmy Falcon II) I've noticed Maxpedition has nearly doubled in price since I last bought one. I also don't want something that screams "TACTICOOL! SEARCH ME!" so, something toned down. It won't be a full time air flight bag, so something useful outside that role.


Thoughts?

 

[cjs88]

Sounds like you need just a regular backpack.

 

[carbonbased]

I need a small pack to suppliment my carry on luggage. Something I can store under the seat in front of me, so size is somewhat of an issue. Big enough to hold a change of clothes, toiletries, and a few other odds and ends.

I have abt 4 other packs, 2 are old Maxpeditions, which are fantastic. One is nearly 20yrs old, and I use it daily. (Pigmy Falcon II) I've noticed Maxpedition has nearly doubled in price since I last bought one. I also don't want something that screams "TACTICOOL! SEARCH ME!" so, something toned down. It won't be a full time air flight bag, so something useful outside that role.


Thoughts?

Vans Free Hand Backpack - Women's | REI Co-op

Say hello to your new go-anywhere bag, the women's Vans Free Hand backpack. This classic tote gets a versatile upgrade with backpack straps and a front-zip organizer.

www.rei.com

 

[carbonbased]

But seriously, anything at REI will work.

Or are you looking for something tactical inside but business outside? Sorta like a mullet? Business in the front, party in the back?

 

[Modoc]

I am partial to my Kelty Redwing, My personal Cary-on and work go-bag, even though my bag is a 50L.

 

[EotS]

Something more durable, and useful than a Jansport.

 

[mlpkhl]

Mystery Ranch Rip Ruck 15 or 24. Also their Urban Assault pack isn’t bad.

 

[Flintdog2011]

I got a Eberlestock Little Trick on sale a couple of years ago and it’s been great. Good size and doesn’t scream tacticool.

 

[J. W.]

I like Maxpedition in general. Their build quality is generally good for the price, and they have a couple of lines of bags that don’t look like military or police bags. Prepared Citizen and Entity, I think. I don’t own anything from those lines personally, but the Legacy and AGR stuff has been good for me so far. I’d expect the same from the other two lines. If you watch their website, they run 40% off sales pretty often.

 

[BLEE]

Wisport Sparrow for under the seat. Comes in several sizes. I toted a Sparrow 20 and a ZipperFox 40 around central Europe for 2 1/2 weeks in 2018 and used it regularly, since. The ZipperFox 40 is exactly max carry-on size. Both are made of heavy Cordura and super durable. Haven't had the first issue with either. Made in Poland for their mil.

 

[Modoc]

I was off on my link earlier. I had two of the Redwing Tactical in 45L and 50L. The have both handled the abuse of being in an active Scout Troop, Civil Engineer responding to damage situations, Travel, and my son absconded with the 45L in the 8th grade for school. For a “Tactical” bag they don’t really look like it.

 

[EotS]

These 2 look near what I'm going for.
Gallagator and Urban Assault 21

Gallagator 20 Pack | MYSTERY RANCH Backpacks

From town to trail, sometimes you need a little extra room for the day’s escapades. The GALLAGATOR 20 has just the right amount of space to hit the trail to your favorite destination hike or carry as a trusted travel pack.

www.mysteryranch.com

Catalyst 22 | MYSTERY RANCH Backpacks

You don’t have to compromise with this tough yet eco-friendly backpack. The CATALYST 22 can be used both in the office and on the trail.

www.mysteryranch.com

 

[Fig]

I wanted something small that would hold my Stribog and that didn‘t look tactical or military at all.

Grey Ghost Gear Scarab Day Pack Up to $10.88 Off w/ Free S&H — 5 models

Shop Grey Ghost Gear Scarab Day Pack | Up to $10.88 Off Be The First To Review Grey Ghost Gear Scarab Day Pack + Free Shipping over $49.

www.opticsplanet.com

Its cheap, small, padded, nicely made, and holds the collapsed gun, six 30 round mags, and the suppressor (off the gun) in a package that would never cause a person to look twice.

 

[Fig]

That second one is pretty big. I don’t think they’ll fit under an airplane seat.

 

[EotS]

That second one is pretty big. I don’t think they’ll fit under an airplane seat.

Quite right, thanks!

 

[W54/XM-388]

I carried this one around on flights and hikes and cites.

https://www.osprey.com/us/en/product/porter-travel-pack-46-PORTER46F20_221.html

it has very comfortable backpack and waist straps that can be stowed back inside quickly & it has more importantly wide padded handles in 2 directions for hand carry. It can pack down small or expand a lot.

It fits perfectly for airline travel.

 

[cjs88]

I use a Pacsafe Quiksilver for when my wife I go on vacation overseas. They have anti-theft measures like locks, cut proof straps, etc. I am able to stuff my laptop, ipad, change of clothes, a hoodie, some toiletries and snacks in it as well. I always carry-on a change of clothes just in case lol.

Carry-On Backpacks

Traveling with carryon luggage has only become more common in recent years. The Pacsafe carryon backpack ensures your valuables remain safe and secure while providing enough room to transport all of your luggage. Our backpacks are all designed to be within carryon size restrictions for most of...

pacsafe.com

 

[Simonsza1]

Mystery ranch rip ruck 15 is exactly what your describing. I bought one for my wife for Christmas and it’s a very nice pack for the money.

 

[K80/6.5]

Kifaru shape charge

 

[Dobermann]

Kifaru shape charge

While that's a good pack, it does have PALS/MOLLE.

I think the better option is the Checkpoint: https://kifaru.net/store/packs/day-packs/checkpoint/



In grey, it looks downright boring, and doesn't attract as much attention as other bags.

 

[brianf]

get a non tactical hiking back pack, north face, REI etc

they are lighter and dont have all the straps and crap hanging off

walk into a meeting or hotel with a rambo pack.... is for 12 year olds

 

[Bantam1]

I use a DaKine brand backpack that literally has over 600k airline miles and used since 2013. I use it for local events I have to work and a lot of other things. The model I have is discontinued, but zero issues with any of the others. Holds everything you listed, plus more. I am more than happy with their backpacks.

 

[kurtispalu]

Just bought this for the same purpose: https://hillpeoplegear.com/Products/CategoryID/3/ProductID/136

 

[pineoak]

almost certainly too small but if you want to fit in with the general public the Kavu brand sling bags which I find small, heavy, and uncomfortable will fit the bill

If you're carrying light, any lightweight cheap backpack without hard parts will do great. clothes, puffy, toilet paper, and these:

Amazon product ASIN B08SC7K1RT

 

[simpletoms]

Vertx Gamut/Gamut 2.0 is a solid choice. Very versatile and doesn’t scream tactical. Wish they still did the old colors though.

 

[96C]

@EotS

I love a good, simple, practical, well thought out pack... I am on a quest for the ultimate backpack... It is a never ending problem.

In 2017, I got a 'Trail 40' pack from REI and it has been nothing short of outstanding. This has been my main go-to bag for work, weekends, walks and general getting about and they are still available, for only $129. You could buy Kifaru, Eberlestock etc but you're looking at $$$ and they will still draw potentially unwanted attention. I am heading to the US again in a couple of months, this will be my travel bag.

REI Co-op Trail 40 Pack - Men's | REI Co-op

Built for comfort, the REI Co-op Trail 40 pack holds plenty of gear for day hikes, overnights and travel. It gives you easy access to your stuff and has tons of handy organizer pockets.

www.rei.com

 

[lr123]

For a standard backpack I have an Ogio that’s lasted 15+ years and been bulletproof.

 

[strikeeagle1]

I air travel all the time with either Blue Force Gear Jedburgh model or the Vertx EDC model. No external tacti-cool broadcasting. Both have velcro lining to fix gear so it doesn't fall about when in use and when they do double-duty for real kit its easy to reconfigure them. Both fit under the seats with room to spare. The Condor model has the MOLLE so I don't air travel with it.

 

[One1Bravo]

I have a Mystery Ranch Coulee 25 that always flys with me. Plenty of space inside and fits under airline seats no problem.

 

[Pav67]

Look at the max expedition Sitka.It’s a single sling pack.Good pockets and layout.It’s worked well for travel

 

[EotS]

Mystery ranch rip ruck 15 is exactly what your describing. I bought one for my wife for Christmas and it’s a very nice pack for the money.

Definitely moved that into the choices. Thanks!

 

[Jigstick]

Tad Gear fast pack is nice. Has the beaver tail to stuff a rain coat or fleece jacket in. Not overly tactical looking and is built extremely well. Kifaru Has some options for you as well

 

[gac700]

Checkout The North Face duffle bags. They are available in various sizes and colors. They have removable shoulder straps which are nice when you want to check your bag.

I have an extra small and medium. Extra small is good for overnight/weekend. I traveled for 10 days using the medium.

They are tough and discreet.

 

[atomic41]

I'm really liking my Osprey Porter 46. Great ability to cinch it down tight and get it into overhead bins.
So far the only time I wish my backpack had wheels was when wandering through the airport on a long layover. I do have an Eagle Creek backpack with wheels, but I find I can pack more into the Osprey, which ends up being more useful, more often, than having wheels.

I carried this one around on flights and hikes and cites.

https://www.osprey.com/us/en/product/porter-travel-pack-46-PORTER46F20_221.html

it has very comfortable backpack and waist straps that can be stowed back inside quickly & it has more importantly wide padded handles in 2 directions for hand carry. It can pack down small or expand a lot.

It fits perfectly for airline travel.

This bag looks perfect for my needs. I travel on a lot of 3-4 day work trips and currently use a Gray Ghost Gear Griff pack which is an amazing EDC bag but I need just a little bit more room for a 4 day trip. The 46 Porter looks perfect for work travel, if it had a velcro panel it might be the perfect bag.

Two questions-
Did you guys have trouble fitting the 46 in overheads if it was packed full?
Can you remove the hip straps or just tuck them?

 

[greentick]

Not at all tactical. I get most of my hiking packs from these folks. They started making some travel packs a few yrs ago.

Dragonfly

The ULA Dragonfly is a pack that will take you flying through your travels! Designed with a quick weekend getaway in mind, this front-loading bag is quick

www.ula-equipment.com

Camino

Meet the ULA Camino, the most versatile panel loader on the market today. Designed to meet standard Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations for

www.ula-equipment.com

 

[Bigfatcock]

I use a Northface Borealis. Fits what you want, and you don’t look like a 5.11 tactical fag.

 

[W54/XM-388]

This bag looks perfect for my needs. I travel on a lot of 3-4 day work trips and currently use a Gray Ghost Gear Griff pack which is an amazing EDC bag but I need just a little bit more room for a 4 day trip. The 46 Porter looks perfect for work travel, if it had a velcro panel it might be the perfect bag.

Two questions-
Did you guys have trouble fitting the 46 in overheads if it was packed full?
Can you remove the hip straps or just tuck them?

If you fill the 46 to the very maximum where you can't stuff anything else in, it will still fit in the overhead bins, but it will be a bit of a tight fit.
You can use the built in compression straps to shrink it down unless you are like already sitting on it to close it.

The backpack straps can be completely hidden inside the back panel as can the shoulder straps.
Tuck both those away and you'd never know it's a backpack.

I'd actually recommend tucking the straps away inside the back before getting on the airplane as then it's a nice bag with no straps hanging anywhere to catch on anything and it has 2 big padded handles for easy carry onto the plane and getting in / out of the bins or under the seat.

 

[Baron23]

I need a small pack to suppliment my carry on luggage. Something I can store under the seat in front of me, so size is somewhat of an issue. Big enough to hold a change of clothes, toiletries, and a few other odds and ends.

I have abt 4 other packs, 2 are old Maxpeditions, which are fantastic. One is nearly 20yrs old, and I use it daily. (Pigmy Falcon II) I've noticed Maxpedition has nearly doubled in price since I last bought one. I also don't want something that screams "TACTICOOL! SEARCH ME!" so, something toned down. It won't be a full time air flight bag, so something useful outside that role.


Thoughts?

Not sure how much you are willing to spend but would this suit?

HiSpeed II

The X41 HiSpeed II is the newest generation of our HiSpeed pack. Designed to be highly functional, minimalist, lightweight tactical packs, the X41 has a unique contour shape that tapers at both the top and the bottom, giving the pack an excellent close-to-the-body ride. The packs are fully...

eberlestock.com

They are $90 more expensive than when I bought mine Nov 2020

Or something like this? Gregory makes very good stuff for the hiking/back country crowd. I have one and its bullet proof quality, holds a metric ton (well, they come in diff sizes), and has shoulder straps. Def good for going under a seat.

Alpaca 45 Duffel

Durable and expedition-ready, the Alpaca 45 is the ideal adventure carry-on.

www.gregorypacks.com

 

[Kline]

If you want something more discreet but still very well made and rugged. I personally love the Hill People Gear packs. They have the most comfortable harness system I’ve personally used. Their packs aren’t covered in molle, and they also have colors such as their teal/black and new grouse that are very “urban” friendly.

 

[utvolsfan]

These 2 look near what I'm going for.
Gallagator and Urban Assault 21

Gallagator 20 Pack | MYSTERY RANCH Backpacks

From town to trail, sometimes you need a little extra room for the day’s escapades. The GALLAGATOR 20 has just the right amount of space to hit the trail to your favorite destination hike or carry as a trusted travel pack.

www.mysteryranch.com

Catalyst 22 | MYSTERY RANCH Backpacks

You don’t have to compromise with this tough yet eco-friendly backpack. The CATALYST 22 can be used both in the office and on the trail.

www.mysteryranch.com

I have the MR urban assault 21 and 24. Both packs fit under an airplane seat and blend in well in most situations.

I prefer the the Urban Assault 24 over the 21 because it has a separate zippered compartment for your laptop, external water bottle pockets and more organization inside the main compartment.

If you haven’t checked the 24 out, give it a look.

 

[Screwball48]

I keep a dedicated air travel bag. It remains "sterile" to avoid any "imperial entanglements". I started with a heavy Pelican backpack and then transitioned to an older design Mystery Ranch Rip Ruck. I generally travel with the backpack and a carry on bag. My backpack contains my electronic devices. As such I have found that having an external laptop compartment very convenient when going through TSA. One item I found the rip ruck was lacking is an external pocket on the top lid of the bag. It is nice to have my headphones and a small usb charger in such pocket so that they are easily accessed while seated on the plane. Currently I am using an Urban Assault 24 pack as it has this added feature. I did choose the hummus color to see how much I liked the bright orange interior. So far I have few complaints.

Urban Assault 24 Pack | MYSTERY RANCH Backpacks

Inspired by our military assault rucksacks, this versatile daypack is the epitome of clean, functional design. Featuring our 3-ZIP closure, it makes accessing pack contents easy.

www.mysteryranch.com

 

[BrVincent]

Mystery Ranch Gunfighter 14 is a great pack.

 

[Wyfox]

I use the Arcteryx Leaf Assault 30, works perfect for a personal bag. Stuffed full it fits under an airline seat and I can pack for a week in it.

Arc'teryx LEAF Assault Pack 30

A weatherproof Assault Pack that is carried when conducting Direct Action tasks that is also combat enabler capable.

www.us-elitegear.com

 

[stanley_white]

I need a small pack to suppliment my carry on luggage. Something I can store under the seat in front of me, so size is somewhat of an issue. Big enough to hold a change of clothes, toiletries, and a few other odds and ends.

I have abt 4 other packs, 2 are old Maxpeditions, which are fantastic. One is nearly 20yrs old, and I use it daily. (Pigmy Falcon II) I've noticed Maxpedition has nearly doubled in price since I last bought one. I also don't want something that screams "TACTICOOL! SEARCH ME!" so, something toned down. It won't be a full time air flight bag, so something useful outside that role.


Thoughts?

LL Bean.

-Stan

 

[redneckbmxer24]

I have the MR urban assault 21 and 24. Both packs fit under an airplane seat and blend in well in most situations.

I prefer the the Urban Assault 24 over the 21 because it has a separate zippered compartment for your laptop, external water bottle pockets and more organization inside the main compartment.

If you haven’t checked the 24 out, give it a look.

This. urban assualt 24L is my personal bag too. Fits perfectly under the seat stuffed to the brim with gear and I too like the laptop sleeve for my computer.

 

[adubeau]

I use this:

Eberlestock Switchblade

 

[Aussieusa]

I’m glad I came across this thread. I’ve been looking for something for an upcoming trip where I need to have all my kids crap with me, along with a few iPads, laptop etc. I’ve really only found this in the under $200 range that “might” be suitable. I’ll probably purchase it it the next week or so unless something mentioned above perks my interest when I look into them further.

5-Day Mule 55L Bag - Military | Roark

Roark’s most versatile purpose built pack has increased storage and accessibility while providing stability through a stowable hip belt. Grab the carry handle when looking for an exit route or to catch your next flight.

roark.com

 

[Halfnutz]

I've been dragging around an Oakley for about 5 years. I carry 2 laptops and other shit and its held up great. Not tacticool looking, and plenty of pockets for organization.

 

[kriller134]

I have the Mystery Ranch Rip Ruck 15 and the Gunfighter 14 that I use daily. Either one would be a good choice for what you need.

 

[adubeau]

I’m glad I came across this thread. I’ve been looking for something for an upcoming trip where I need to have all my kids crap with me, along with a few iPads, laptop etc. I’ve really only found this in the under $200 range that “might” be suitable. I’ll probably purchase it it the next week or so unless something mentioned above perks my interest when I look into them further.

5-Day Mule 55L Bag - Military | Roark

Roark’s most versatile purpose built pack has increased storage and accessibility while providing stability through a stowable hip belt. Grab the carry handle when looking for an exit route or to catch your next flight.

roark.com

Thats actually a pretty cool...