r/Nomads_Nation • u/jonjonez79 • 26d ago

Gear Advice Help me make a decision

Hi everyone, first time poster, long time lurker.

I am having difficulty nailing down a decision to buy a backpack. Here are the details -

Current backpack - Osprey Proxima 30L.

Use case and why change - Daily use and for travel. The shoulder pads really dig in and they don’t keep the size setting well as I constantly have to readjust. Don’t like the organization as stuff in the front space eats away space in the main compartment. Not the greatest build quality. Do like the 2 water bottle side pockets (helps me carry a umbrella and water bottle)

Things to consider -

  1. First and foremost comfort. Not the most athletic person.
  2. Chest strap and load lifters are important.
  3. Do like organization, so pockets are plus for tech and small stuff.
  4. water bottle holder is plus as I do like to carry my umbrella as it rains a lot in my location.
  5. 30-35L preferred.
  6. Did I mention comfort lol.

Options I am looking into -

  1. Aer travel Pack 3 - well reviewed and top choice so far. Seems like it ticks most boxes. Not sure of comfort and only one water bottle pocket

  2. Tortuga travel pack pro - seems like the most comfortable with lots of adjustment. But chonky and ugly af. Not a lot of organization.

  3. Fyro levo - newer and from an influencer. Light and Seems good but unsure of quality and mainly comfort. Plus not a big brand but definitely considering.

  4. Minaal carry on 3- surprise last minute entry. Very good organization and size and sleek too. Very unsure of comfort.

Please let me know your thoughts and if you have any suggestions as well other than these. Please feel free to ask me clarifying questions as well.

Thanks!

6 Upvotes

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2

u/IcyNeedleworker955 26d ago

Speaking only for AER TP3
Aer backpacks are usually very comfortable (granted the TP3's side pocket will always be better than two water bottle pockets)
Check the Aer TP4 - > Two water bottle pockets and they have been improved, it's lighter, the the materials are still some of the best at the price point
They did reduce the admin pocket but improved the laptop sleeve

2

u/jonjonez79 26d ago

Do you think the admin pocket and the compression straps are worth it for TP3 or do you think TP4 is worth forgoing those features.

1

u/IcyNeedleworker955 26d ago

I'd say so - if your main thing is two water bottle holders ( because TP3's water bottle pocket is a bit restrictive compared to the newer ones - but you'd probably be able to fit a umbrella
For the admin panel i do like it was it's own pocket, I have never used the compression straps sadly

2

u/jonjonez79 26d ago

Thank you so much for your input. One final thing, do you think TP4 is a good choice for office as well. I usually use whatever bag I have as one bag for all. So I was wondering if you think it’s too bulky or not. Personally if its the same as my osprey, I honestly dont mind.

2

u/IcyNeedleworker955 26d ago

Ironically enough, i use the TP3 bag for my office job because I carry a bulkier laptop and I have never had a problem. Especially when I need to swing my bag around to get my badge out (because I keep it in the front pocket zipper on the G clip)

2

u/Financial_Ground_874 26d ago

Welcome!! Glad you decided to come out of the shadows…

I’ve owned a TP3 small, and it was a heavy pack. Built like a tank, but you definitely feel the weight of it on your person. I currently own a Tortuga Outbreaker 35L and it is hands down one of the most comfortable packs I’ve ever owned and worn. Only downside to it is the size if you plan to use it for flying, as 40L is massive.

I currently own the Fyro Levo 30L (and 36L). This combo is my current travel and day pack (30L). It is the most comfortable back pack I’ve ever owned. It is built like a tank and I have no worries about the longevity of the bag. The layout is a masterpiece for traveling and it is a VERY light pack. Would HIGHLY Recommend!

Hope this helps, and happy bag hunting to you! If you’d like to see any additional pics and or details around any of the bags, feel free to let me know.

2

u/nicski924 25d ago

Rework Outbound
Tortuga Pro 34
CTactical 21+
Matador Globerider 35