Tortuga Expandable Backpack Review

More on the Tortuga Expandable Backpack

What I like

• Expands about 20%, all on one side of the clamshell, so you can keep a day-bag side and a packing side
• Compression straps all around keep it usable as a daily carry when it's not expanded
• Very comfortable back panel and straps. Just right, not overkill like some older Tortuga bags
• Flat front pocket only goes partway down, so your stuff stays easy to find
• Huge, simple laptop compartment. My 16 in MacBook Pro fits with room to spare
• Gushy, textured handles that feel great
• Hip belt is easy to take off and stow, and the shoulder straps tuck away for overhead bins
• Simple, dense and coherent. An excellent travel bag

Watch for

• Tall frame, so it's just okay as a daily bag in town
• No tablet or business paper sleeve in the laptop compartment
• Soft sided, so pad any camera gear
• Load lifters don't really do much

Specs

• 630D Cordura nylon, water resistant
• About 3.2 lb without the hip belt
• Clamshell with about 20% expansion, hip belt included

Where I've covered it

• EXPANDABLE: Tortuga's New Travel Backpack at 0:00 (full review)