Commuter Pack 20L

@sympl - "Wish list for next version" -I would prefer a magnet strip and clip button to open and close the water bottle holder pouch on the side, rather than a zipper ( annoying + wear & tear).

After spending several weeks comparing options from so many companies, I chose the Sympl 24L Commuter Pack. The internal organization is extremely well thought out, with easy access to all compartments and designated pockets for tech, making packing and daily use simple and efficient. The material feels very robust and has held up exceptionally well, even after extended use. The harder back panel actually feels nice, I have no issues with it and find it quite comfortable. The team at Sympl have fantastic! They have been attentive and supportive, making the whole experience straightforward from start to finish. This is a bag designed with care, built to last, and perfect for commuting, travel, and EDC. I think I’ve found my perfect bag!

I love the bag! It´s spacious, the high-quality is palpable on every square inch of fabric outside and inside and all the pockets are super versatile and useful. Some people might be scared of the stiff back panel... don´t be, it´s very comfortable! The spacious and well-padded laptop compartment keeps my 16" Legion safe and the theft-deterring loop is a very thoughtful detail. Very weather resistant too, comfortable handles and generally a pleasure to carry.

I think the bag has some small details that could be improved:
- It´s heavy! Not uncomfortable though, as the straps/back panel distribute the weight very nicely, but it could shed some weight.
- Pull tabs to open/close the zippers would be a small but valuable addition.
- The water side/water bottle pockets are okay, but not the best. Two external and elastic ones would be perfect.

I don’t want to collect EDC bags, but I do. I’m constantly looking for the perfect EDC air travel laptop bag. I think I found it. If you like organization, this is the bag for you. The inside water bottle/umbrella pocket is a great feature. I highly recommend!

I waited to review this bag until I had traveled on a plane with it - and now that I have I can confidently say this commuter bag is outstanding. I live in a big city and work in the law, and semi-frequently have to travel for legal conferences. This bag fits a LOT while remaining compact, whether you're commuting on a train or bus, or flying. It also has a lot of useful (and I do mean useful - not superfluous) inner pockets for phones, external chargers, umbrellas, cords, etc. My coffee has never fallen out of the holder on the side, and the zippers stay zipped. It's water resistant and things stay dry when it rains. The fabric looks and feels quality, and the straps are comfortable. My only complaint is that I probably have to adjust the backpack strap lengths about once a week or so - but this is easy to do when standing and a minor issue. I have now compared it with friends who have the Troubadour Apex backpack and the Portland Gear Cascade backpack, and can confidently say that this backpack by Sympl is the superior product, even if those other examples look more stylish. For me, there's no hiding a backpack as a backpack, and the worst that can be said of this bags' style is that it's boring. But its functionality + size more than makes up for that. Definitely recommend.