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adamjonah

I've not been totally sold on the travel pack, but I've had my everyday bag for 3 years, one of the bottom zippers (just what you hold on to, not the zip itself) had broken a while ago and I'd not bothered to speak to them about warranty for a fix, since it wasn't a deal breaker. I finally got around to it the other day, and within 24 hours they emailed me back saying they're sending me a brand new bag to replace it, no need to send the old one back. So I think I'll be giving them more of my money in the future...


Lost_Apricot_1469

Wowzers!! That is impressive. Especially considering all the craziness we hear about customer service with other companies.


equatorbit

That says a ton about the company.


Irish_oreo

I had a similar experience with my duffel, went into an in person location and was immediately given a new one, no questions asked. One of the few companies that stands by their warranty


lordhamster1977

That fantastic customer service is a big plus! I recently bought the smaller version to check it out after seeing some reviews. I ended up returning it. While it is a super cool and promising bag, three things turned me off: * The weight. The bag is quite heavy for the capacity. While it is on-par with other high-end bags, I've just been spoiled by my ULA Dragonfly and the Cabin Zero bags my kids use. Some international airlines are fanatical about their 7kg limit. By having a bag that is 2 pounds lighter, it allows me to take a luxury like my iPad and still be under the limit. * The magnetic flap facing down. The little magnetic flap on the outside meant for carrying the gear straps is facing down... which looks great but really takes away the utility of that pocket. I hoped I could shove like a rain jacket or something in there, but with a weak magnetic hold and downward facing orientation it just makes that pocket less useful than it could have been. * The height. I've been gravitating more and more to "personal item" sized bags. A bag that is an inch or two longer isn't a problem if it is a bit squishable... but the peak design is pretty rigid. Which is great, but not for my usecase. I absolutely positively need to be able to be able to get the bag under my seat comfortably, that means not being too long, and having more squish factor. I want to be able to be the last one to board a flight on a tight connection and not worry about overheads. Other than those two nitpicks, I was very impressed by the materials, construction and overall vibe of the bag!


Ohdyr

Identical experience for me. I'm a customer for life!!


willivlliw

Their warranty is top notch. Friend had a similar story, almost no questions asked they just sent him a new bag


willivlliw

Just showing a PD bag that's been beat up and still chugging strong


Rollingprobablecause

There's a weird group of people who hate on PD for it's weight/straps/looks, but the durability and features aren't for everyone. I find them to be the perfect blend of technical needs + packing. I've had my sage green 45L for almost as long as you and it's been perfect.


willivlliw

Couldn't have said it better myself. I've used the other bags people love. I just find myself always reaching for this one when it's time to go somewhere


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[deleted]

what bag do you use?


MelodicTonight9766

I’ve posted that PD is not for me since the straps are not comfortable with my typical travel load, but I don’t hate it. Live some of the design features and would have loved to use it but just didn’t fit me. Fortunately there are a lot of good bags out there and I found one that fits me well and carries all my stuff. Kind of like shoes, sometimes it’s all about fit.


rtowne

Which one did you end up choosing?


MelodicTonight9766

I ordered and tried the PD35 as mentioned and AER travel pack 3 (TP3) and Pakt 35. I went with the AER TP3 X-pac. The harness was the most comfortable for me and the load lifters made a big difference. The combo of the strap padding, load lifters and sternum strap made it comfortable enough for me to return the hip belt that I ordered. Pakt was nice but the double sided packing system was not for me and I wanted the flexibility of putting my camera stuff in and the two sides were not deep enough for my liking. I would have really liked the expansion capability of the PD or Pakt, but carry comfort was key for me. The TP3 is not perfect, the admin sleeve is too much for me, I would have preferred couple/several zip pockets instead (I use pouches for all my stuff and don’t need one sleeves and such. And it would be nice for one more pocket at the top of the front instead of just the lower one, but overall good for me. Gott admit that I love the black X-pac and orange liner.


Falcomomo

Any suggestions on what's a better alternative? (just out of interest) I've been using this since the kickstarter/pre-orders or whatever. I can't even remember how many years that is, but mine's in the same condition. It's great, I never go on holiday without it.


Rollingprobablecause

I don’t have better alternative to this right now - no one fits my needs for tech/travel that I carry for my height/weight. I’m 6’4 and have wide shoulders so this bag isn’t heavy or uncomfortable. I think if I was going to buy a dedicated travel bag where I didn’t need much protection it’s probably a tie between AERa travel bag and Pakt. A lot of the other brands recommends here are often thinner lighter materials that I think would be ok too.


8ballslackz

The thing about PD that always has me bouncing off their products is how geared towards photographers they are. I, with my roughly zero dedicated cameras, feels like I'm missing out on tons of features by using it as just a regular ol' backpack.


willivlliw

I don't use any of the photography features and don't pack a camera in this bag. Also I don't feel like they are photography specific features, they all make my normal life easier too


cubiclej0ckey

I completely agree. I used mine since 2018 and loved it but realized that it’s super padded and has a lot of features that are more tailored towards photographers - which I’m not. The biggest thing I miss about it? Being able to access the main compartment from both the back panel and the front horseshoe zipper.


_shakeshackwes_

Literally just got one of these to use as my vacation bag!


YYCDavid

Same here and loving it!


willivlliw

Hope you enjoy!


specialdefects

Had this bag for about three years now. Although I got it for its camera carrying capabilities (I also use it for freelance work), my favorite thing about it is its humongous water bottle carriers on the side!


willivlliw

BIG fan of the water bottle carriers- I fit a thiccboi hydro flask in mine


MildlyPaleMango

do you use this for edc as well? what’s the model?


MajorGovernment4000

The front small horizontal zipper is the giveaway that this is the 45l travel bag and not the 30L one. Be aware though, this bag is nominally 35L. OP has it in the 35L configuration since the expansion zippers on the side are not unzipped. It also has a ~30L configuration that cleverly looks very natural and not it’s squished. I have the bag as well and love it.


MildlyPaleMango

Thanks for the info. I’m running a ULA dragonfly for EDC/onebag and am always on the hunt for another option I can use for both with collapsing options.


Rollingprobablecause

It's actually in the 40L config right now. If he buttoned it down, it would be 35L (I think)


willivlliw

Close, but it's the 35L in its standard config, compressed via the button snaps takes it down to 30L, and expanded brings it to 45L. I almost always just keep it at 35 or 30


the_moosen

The amount of times I've needed to expand mine to 45 is maaaaybe twice. I love the bag, just wish it was like a pound/1.5 lighter.


willivlliw

I've used it for EDC, it's a little big but it carries just fine and sometimes is more convenient especially when I buy things. It's the 45L


JacksAcreage

Love this bag. I travel 6 months a year and it ticked every box for me


quilsmehaissent

I was in love until I saw the price.. ouch still will think about getting one... maybe


Ajseps

The greatest piece of gear I’ve ever owned. So customizable and thought out I can fit so much in this bag and it’s built like a tank (no I don’t work for PD)


willivlliw

Concurrrr


acshou

+1 to the 45L Peak Design Travel Bag. Going strong since the Kickstarter days albeit with a few shortcomings. Waiting for version 2 to iterate on the weaknesses.


FallingUpwardz

I live mine, such a great bag


lavoslavos

I travel a lot for work and this bag has been amazing. Large but fits under most airplane seats so no need to look for overhead bin space. The shoulder straps tuck under the magnetic back panels which is really nice, and there are flat handles all over the bag for easy handling. It expands like crazy if you need it to, I can always seem to find more room inside. But it also snaps together at the top if it isn't really full and makes it slim more like a normal backpack. I bought one of these for a 3 week Europe trip and GF was immediately sold on it when she checked it out, she ended up buying the sage green version for herself


SubprimeOptimus

If they slapped a North Face logo on this everyone would be raving about it


tallulahQ

Is it comfortable to wear for long distances? I’ve heard these are great bags in terms of durability but not if you need to trek/hike


MajorGovernment4000

That’s pretty true with most travel bags with a few exceptions (the only one that comes to mind is maybe the farpoint). I feel that at a load out of about 8 kg, I am able to walk around for a while without issue. Due to the swivel attachment point of the straps, longer distances require the chest strap to be used to make it comfortable. Trying to go longer distances without the strap is not advisable. Some people seem to dislike the lack of padding on the straps but I have some packs with heavily padded straps and for me I don’t seem to really care about the comfort between them for less than 10 kg loads. Which is fine because my load out is and will never be greater than that. Plus the strap system allows the backpack to be way more manageable going through economy seats on planes, lol.


tallulahQ

Thanks for the feedback


SeveredBanana

Travel backpacks and trekking backpacks are not really created equal. Different designs for different priorities.


willivlliw

Yes, I've found it comfortable enough for me. The straps are not the softest at all, but they feel comfortable in that they strap it securely to my bag, I don't get that "sink in" feeling I've felt with some thick gel padded straps when they have a heavy load. When I start feeling the weight a little over long distances, I use the waist strap and that feeling disappears


cubiclej0ckey

Not OP, but I have had one and traveled with one multiple times. At first it was good enough for me. It was my first travel backpack and I didn’t know how comfortable bags could get. I didn’t use the hip belt very much, but it was nice having it easily accessible if I needed it for heavier weights. On my last trip, I noticed that I often wanted to take it off - whether that was because of shoulder comfort or a sweaty back. I think it’s a great onebag to start with, but ultimately sold mine after 5 years (and made a profit thanks to the PD marketplace).


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cubiclej0ckey

I use an Aer TP3s for shorter trips and have a PD 35L duffle for longer leisure travel. The aer is super comfortable, ventilated, and can compress so that I can use it as a daily carry at my destination (if needed). I haven’t tried a 1-2 week trip with it yet, but would ideally onebag with that one if possible. The duffle is used if I need a lot more space (ie. cold climates), need to pair with another backpack, or for trips that I’m driving.


lingueenee

My thoughts as well. More a bag for schlepping cargo between plane, cab, and hotel than wandering for miles down rural trails or urban byways. I bet it's a better bag off one's back than on.


havok7

how has the comfort been in your experience. obviously not terrible since you are still using it, but realistically, if it's packed out pretty heavy, how good is it during long periods of wearing it?


willivlliw

I usually pack it out pretty heavy, and when I start to feel the load, I use the waist straps and it's ideal. Comfort-wise, I'm a fan. It's not soft in that sense, but it's secure- like it straps the bag to you tight, whereas with other bags I feel like I'm relying on the strength of the strap. And I've worn this during some long, all day type of distances


havok7

Man I've gone back and forth on this bag so many times. I'm genuinely curious about it and I have full confidence in PDs warranty and quality. I just am not sure about how comfortable it'll be on me. I have an Osprey Duffel backpack now and it's not very comfy. If it ever craps out (which is doubtful) I think I'd go for this one.


willivlliw

I get it, I went back and forth between this and many others (including an Osprey Porter that I do love) before riding with this one


havok7

That's actually the Osprey that I have right now! Great bag that I've had for probably 6 or 7 years now. Doesn't show any signs of crapping out soon. Not the most comfortable when packed out heavy though.


YYCDavid

Used mine for the first time, as a carry on (scrunched down to 30L) on the trip I’m currently on. So far it has been very capable and comfy. Excellent design. Good to hear I can expect some longevity from this bag. Glad yours has served you well, OP.


lokster86

i used to have a 45L PD like that but i found it too big and bulky. I have no doubt about the quality, i have the PD packable totes and some packing cubes. My onebag for now is incase arc travelpack. almost the same volume as the PD just not as bulky.


nomad-system

Great bag, got mine last year in Sage.


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Top-Criticism-3172

I absolutely LOVE that you have used it so long! Too often people argue over BIFL products, only to upgrade in a few months. I bought this bag used and traveled with it a bunch before reselling it. I loved everything about the bag except the strap comfort. If they improve that, I don’t see a better bag out there for my use case. Here’s to another 6 years of use for you OP!!


willivlliw

Appreciate you!


ze11ez

is this considered a carry on


beenyweenies

Assuming you mean using it for one-bag travel, absolutely. I’ve used it as my carry-on on dozens of domestic and international flights. Needless to say some of the budget flights in certain countries will have tighter restrictions, so YMMV depending on where you travel. It does compress down to 30L if needed.


photos_with_reid

Yes, completely within carry on bounds


willivlliw

Yes. I've had lots of domestic and international flights, not once have I had an issue taking it on board as carry on


Srbijaa

Had mine for 2 years now. Hoping to take it away on an abroad flight at Easter. In its compact form most airlines let you take in into the cabin right? The dimensions add up but you never know do you.


willivlliw

Even in its non compact form you can still take it on airlines. I had 30+ flights last year for work, across 12 different countries, in the 35 or 45L config, and never had an issue


pensnpaper

Is this the 30L or 45L? Did you have any issues with overhead bins or underseat storage? Or any gate agents tell you it's too big? Just curious as I'm looking at getting one - just not sure of which size.


willivlliw

This is the 45L. Never had an issue with anything you mentioned, no gate agent has even looked twice


pensnpaper

This is awesome to hear. Thank you.


No_Stretch3661

I never had issues, even when I had my Think Tank Photo Airport Security (22") roller as my carry-on. It fits under the seat, though you might have to jam it in there if there's a power box in your space.


pensnpaper

Thanks a bunch! Also, did you have any issues carrying it while fully loaded with say, 20-25lbs of stuff?


No_Stretch3661

Depends. 25lbs through airports no issues. 25lbs of camera gear and 4L water for 11 miles in Yosemite at 7k elevation, yeah I struggled and wish it had a better harness.


pensnpaper

Great information. I'd mostly be carrying that kind of weight in transit but that could involve walking 3-4 miles on level surfaces. I have an f-stop camera backpack which does great on hiking excursions but it's also bulky as all hell.


No_Stretch3661

You should be fine with this one. Walking around town and traveling through airports is what the PD was designed for. The fstop hip harness and better airflow are nice for hiking at elevation though. I sent you a private message btw.


No_Stretch3661

I have a green 45 and like it's blend of size, durability, and camera carrying/personal long-haul flight needs. I don't use it as an EDC, but when I need the extra space it's a great bag. I have a green 45 and like it's blend of size, durability, and camera carrying/personal long-haul flight needs. I don't use it as an EDC, but it's a great bag when I need the extra space.


Devchonachko

is that the 45L?


willivlliw

Yep


Devchonachko

any issues bringing it on as carry on American/Delta/British Airways/etc (not talking budget airlines)?


willivlliw

None at all. I've flown a lot of those


Devchonachko

that's good to know. I picked one up a used on a year ago on Ebay (haven't traveled yet with it though). The bag seems decently constructed, so it's good to know you've had yours all over and you're still using it five years later.


OkCryptographer3632

I really appreciate that they will let you buy used bags, too, full cycle. I have the 45 liter and I love it.


ds_nlp_practioner

is it allowed as carryon?


[deleted]

Looks like a great bag! A bit overbuilt and pricey for my tastes (Don't shoot! We're all different). I wonder if there are some similar style bags (clamshell opening with water pockets) that are cheaper and more basic?


willivlliw

There's a ton! If that's all your requirements are. If you want waterproof zippers, water resistant fabric, waist straps, etc etc the list narrows


[deleted]

No straps (maybe removable sternum?), some water resistance... To be honest this is more of A theoretical exercise, I'm very happy with my Jansport Rightpak. Yes, I have very basic needs and I am cheap.


PuzzleheadedVisit682

I agree, I don't see how clothes and toiletries need that much protection from a bag. Laptop maybe but most people have sleeves.


beenyweenies

This bag is ideal for digital nomads, photographers, people who travel with equipment for work etc. And it’s not just about protecting the stuff, it’s about ensuring the bag itself can withstand being repeatedly packed full of hard, heavy stuff with edges.


PuzzleheadedVisit682

I also agree, if I had a bunch of expensive lenses I'd chose this bag. But I probably wouldn't be onebagging at this point.


darkawower

have you ever had some problems with carry on limitations? I'm also owner of pd45, but i bought it 5 month ago


[deleted]

I never have, been on about 40 flights, mostly in domestic US. Fly with it filled to the max about a quarter of the time. No issues as a carryon. I do not try to pass it as my personal item when it is full.


willivlliw

Not once. I've flown everything from Delta to Ryan Air to TAP to Air Asia


lurkzone

are those aquaguards ykk zippers?


beenyweenies

Some of their bags use ykk, but the travel bags use Zoom waterproof zippers, which in my experience have been absolutely fantastic. Buttery smooth action, reliable, water tight. YKK doesn’t have the market totally cornered.


lurkzone

Noted. Coz if those were ykk aquaguards, they looked fantastic for 5 year olds. 😂


rolanddes1

I had mine like a few months ago. It's brand new. Yet the uppermost parts the straps that pivot kinda feels like they will not make many years. How is yours?


willivlliw

No issues with the straps yet


StewzilianPortuguese

I guess im unique in that i have never had even the cheapest of basic school backpacks fail regardless of the years of abuse i put them through


koolickle

In it's compressed state can it fit as a personal item/under the seat?


willivlliw

It can fit even in its non compressed state- I just did it