I am super picky about my backpacks. I wasnt sure if this would be large enough because I like a lot of pockets and compartments. My usual backpack is functional but very busy looking, so I bought this one to replace it for work because it's much more professional looking. Its very lightweight...it surprises me every time, even when full. It has the hard compartment which is a must-have for me as a quick grab compartment for lipbalm, mints, glasses, thumb drives, etc... the shoulder straps are surprisingly comfortable. I fit my standard work laptop (14? 15"?) in the back pocket with room to spare, my headset and various small gadgets fit inside. My 24oz Owala fits snugly in the drink pocket. I really like it! My only complaint is I'd like one spot inside each compartment to clip something to for easy access, like my wallet which has a carabiner, or the little gear bag that's included with this....And maybe one on a shoulder strap for easy access. I've managed so far without it...you could clip something to a zipper pull I suppose. Photo is next to my usual Swiss Gear for size reference. It's quite a bit slimmer. I still use the Swiss Gear for travel because functionality and capacity can't be beat, but for a day at the office, I'm able to fit everything I need for the day in this Thule and it looks more business-appropriate and its really lightweight and comfortable and Im also happy with the quality so far.

Quick back story how I got this was when I asked my wife to have a quick visit at Bestbuy. I didn’t know that they also sells backpack back then, so I’m a bit surprised. Anyway, going back to the story, I initially didn’t like this backpack for one reason, the ‘Thule’ branding for me is huge. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t hate it but for a minimalist guy like me, I’m not a fan. I was choosing between two backpack from a different brand. If the other backpack has a black color I would definitely end up buying it because of the look, price, and quality. The other one is a bit pricey that’s why I ended up buying the Thule backpack. This is just an initial review because I haven’t really used this backpack that much because I intended to use it this coming Spring 2024 semester but here are some PROs and CONs: PROs: - Aesthetic-wise, this backpack looks pretty good (except the branding on the backpack). Black color is my bias, so yeah, this one looks great; - Craftsmanship is good but then again I have to test this in the coming weeks to see if it can hold through time; - I really like the mesh cloth for the water bottle; - There’s a removable hard shell for sunglasses/eyeglasses, which is nice; - Aquamarine color for the material used inside the backpack which makes it more easier to see your valuables inside the bag; - The straps were designed in a comfortable manner. There’s tiny holes covered with mesh cloth to make it more breathable for your side chest; - I like the chest straps making it more secure for a long commute; - I can use this for school, work, and urban travel; - and of course, there’s a freebie Thule pouch for your cables and other things. CONs - This is just a personal liking, would be better if they just put the branding on the straps and that’s it; - It would be nice if they have a strap on the side for tall water bottles to make it more secured; - More breathable cushion for the back; That’s it for now. I’ll be writing more after couple of months. Disclaimer: This review is based on my personal experience and perspective.

[Employee of bestbuy] This is one of the best all around use backpacks I’ve bought. Solid stitching, nice grip (not flimsy) or plastic looking like other bags made of 100% recycle and you can feel how sturdy glass compartment is. Blue tray is removable for other functions. The mini accessory helped me organize and have a quick grab and go, so I’m never forgetting a charger.

This is my two-year long-term review of the backpack I purchased on July 22, 2022. I've been using it daily for 23 months, traveling 75% of the time. After my previous backpack's shoulder strap broke on a trip to Jacksonville, Florida, I bought this one, and it has since accompanied me on six flights a month, every month, across 46 states and seven countries. The materials are top-notch, as shown in the photos where the pack looks almost new despite the heavy use. The only drawback is the lack of bottom protection for the laptop compartment and the pack overall. I wish they would design a rubber insert to better protect that area or perhaps the entire pack. One of the great features is that this backpack doesn't attract or retain odors and shows excellent resistance to discoloration, even when using disinfecting sprays like Lysol periodically. I plan to continue using it until next year before looking for an upgrade, primarily for better laptop protection or more volume. However, I'll likely return to Thule due to the overwhelmingly positive experience I've had with this backpack.

Very durable and functional. It large enough to carry all essentials and still fits underneath plane seats with ease.