Tortuga Outbreaker 45L vs targus Checkpoint-Friendly Air Traveler Backpack

Pluses: holds a lot, carries a 17" laptop, 3 locking compartments, load levelling straps really work well, sternum strap is movable! Minuses: hip pad, shoulder pads could be better (very good but not great), mesh back would vent off sweat

I'm disappointed in the quality of this bag and the organization as well. There are not as many inside panels, the small external zipper compartment is too small to fit a pen in easily, there is no padding or velcro strap in the laptop compartment and the side pockets to hold a water bottle are too small for a disposable bottle and overall the materials are very stiff. Maybe I'll get used to it but my first impression was not a good one.

Though the Osprey had a better harness/waist strap system, but for the size of bag, the Tortuga's removable waist straps works just fine. Most times I don't even use the waist straps unless I know I will be walking for over 20+ minutes. Plus, the Osprey is unable to stand upright on its own (due to not having a flat bottom) and the Tortuga can. Thus, making it easy to put the bag down on the floor when not carrying it

My main beef though is the craftsmanship. Within 3 months the seam on the shoulder straps started fraying..

Bag was comfortable and secure, travelled well around the city and doesn’t seem as big as it is. Highly recommend for travelers who want a lot of room but don’t want to check a bag. If you don’t have inserts of your own you might want to buy them to help maintain shape structure but overall highly recommended.

USB flash drives, SD Cards, business cards and more. There's even a soft lined pocket for your iPad or tablet. Contoured back cushions with breathable...