Alpaka Elements Tech Brief Pro Review (EPIC 3-in-1 bag)
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- Опубліковано 3 лип 2024
- 🎒 Get this bag 👉🏼 go.nomadsnation.com/alpaka (**Use code ARN_15 to get 15% off your order!**)
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00:00 - Intro
00:20 - Gist of the Alpaka Elements Tech Brief Pro
02:10 - Outside
08:22 - Inside
11:50 - Pros and Cons
12:33 - Alternatives
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Join our email list to get a behind-the-scenes look and to be able to vote on key features of the bag.
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WAIT A MINUTE...
BACKPACK. BRIEFCASE. MESSENGER. IN ONE?! 🤯
Yes, you read it right!
The Alpaka Elements Tech Brief Pro is another hybrid bag that offers awesome versatility on how you can carry it. This is made with weather-resistant and sustainable exterior fabric so you can have better tech gear protection from rain and any spillage. This bag is also perfect for your everyday commute to work as it can fit up to a 16-inch MacBook Pro and a couple more office essentials.
It's always important to note that getting hybrid bags surely has its cons, but this tech brief is still ambitiously innovative and eco-friendly!
To learn more about our honest thoughts about the Alpaka Elements Tech Brief Pro, watch our video for an in-depth review!
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Get the Alpaka Elements Tech Brief Pro if…
✅ You want a 3-in-1 bag. The versatility is a huge pro!
✅ You think that you'll get the most out of the quick access front compartment.
✅ You love that they incorporated a hidden front pocket.
Updated link - get the best price here 👉🏼 go.nomadsnation.com/alpaka (**Use code ARN_15 to get 15% off your order!**)
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DO NOT get the Alpaka Elements Tech Brief Pro if…
❌ You love the 3-in-1 concept but this is too small for you. Below's another alternative... 👇🏼
🎒 Black Ember Forge
✍🏼 This 3-in-1 pack is way bigger as it expands and compresses depending on how light or how heavy you're packing with you.
👉🏼 Watch our review: bit.ly/3XfMTv7
👉🏼 Check the best price: go.nomadsnation.com/black-emb...
❌ You don't think 3-in-1 bags are for you so you just need a simple and lightweight briefcase. Check below for another great option… 👇🏼
🎒 Bellroy Via Work Bag
✍🏼 This briefcase is a perfect choice for you if you're not a fan of slightly complicated / hybrid bags. This is simple yet perfect for your daily commute to work.
👉🏼 Watch our review: bit.ly/3tWztvg
👉🏼 Check the best price:
❌ You love the Alpaka brand but you're not into messenger bags and briefcases. Here's another recommended option for you… 👇🏼
🎒 Alpaka Metro Backpack
✍🏼 Since this is not a hybrid bag, you'll get a better deal out of it, especially regarding comfort and its overall style.
👉🏼 Watch our review: bit.ly/3NXasHo
👉🏼 Check the best price: go.nomadsnation.com/alpaka
🔖 Use code ARN_15 to get 15% off your order!**)
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Specs/Features/Summary
To get the best price, use this link 👉🏼 go.nomadsnation.com/alpaka (**Use code ARN_15 to get 15% off your order!**)
• Capacity: 15 liters
• Color: black and army green
• Soft-touch fleece-lined laptop & tablet sleeve
• Hidden integrated hand-carry handle
• YKK Aquaguard zippers
• Fits a Macbook Pro 16"
• Ultra-wide zip opening to accordion-style compartments
• Weatherproof, eco-friendly fabrics
• Multiple carry styles: Crossbody / Shoulder, Briefcase, Backpack
• Detachable padded shoulder strap with magnetic buckle
• Hidden adjustable and padded backpack straps
• Luggage pass-through
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Looking to have YOUR backpack reviewed? Contact Aaron at aaron@nomadsnation.com
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Affiliate Disclosure: We hope you enjoyed our Alpaka Elements Tech Brief Pro review! To support our channel, we use affiliate links in our content. Clicking on these links and making a purchase helps us keep creating great videos (at no extra cost to you!)
Free Gear Disclosure: We often receive free gear for our reviews, but this does not influence our opinions. We always provide honest reviews-if a product isn't up to par, we'll tell you. - Навчання та стиль
Do you want to help me build a game-changing backpack? 👉🏼 nomadsnation.com/building-a-backpack
Aaron, the side handles can stow in the small front and back pockets when you want to use it as a backpack.
Ahh makes sense
Finially! Been waiting for a review since they announced it! Thanks!
Hope you like it!
Love the review, very informative. I have been looking at this bag for a while for purchase.
Glad it was helpful! If you pick one up be sure to let us know what you think of it
hell of a review. i was watching and had to remind myself that you hadnt even made into the interior of the bag. i love this type of in depth review. Bravo!
Cheers!
Great review. The handles stow inside the magnet pockets👍
Right on!
COngrats on the WIN, Aaron!!!!
cheers Mark!
I have been looking for a new breifcase for awhile and this has been a game changer. I needed briefcase for meeting with clients but I also needed a backpack for more comfort at the office. This looks very professional. I love it.
It’s an awesome bag, glad to hear you like it!
I just found you on UA-cam and I absolutely think you have the greatest reviews. Thanks, just signed up for the email list.
Welcome aboard and thanks so much!
I like it. If they make one with high-vis interior and maybe get down with some X-Pac or similar premium exterior materials, I may pick one up. Love that they provide two tech slots (Surface and iPad both in the house for RTO). Thank you for another thoughtful review.
Glad you liked it!
Funny thing, 20 years ago I had a Samsonite bag with very very similar look and features, messenger/briefcase/backpack. I still have it somewhere in the closet if you are interested to see the photos. It was very convenient, and you could hide briefcase handlers when in backpack mode in small velcro pockets, just like those magnetic ones on Aplaca.
The only thing I actually hated about that bag was that it was from the mainstream brand Samsonite😄I always appreciated less branding and smaller manufacturers, but they have made an excellent bag I must admit. Eventually I got bored with its black business look and color started to pale due to the aging.
Samsonite - the true innovators 😂
Great review
The top pockets you love so much are there to stow away the handles:)
Got it!
I bought this on Black Friday and enjoy it a lot. It’s techy and sleek. All my gadgets fit in there so I use it as storage at home too.
The handles can slide into the magnetic pouches and then the backpack mode looks really nice!
I don’t like the messenger mode at all, though. It’s uncomfortable and makes the bag feel heavy.
Some days I use it as a brief, makes me look more professional, but I prefer to use the backpack mode.
Agreed that messenger mode is the least comfy of the 3 options
Awesome review, as usual… Bellroy’s Tokyo Work Bag would be a nice addition to “Alternatives” 😉 Keep it up Aaron!!
Thanks so much - and good call!
Thanks for reviewing this!
Been waiting for a great review, and Aaron never disappoints 👆👍🤟
Had this for a cpuple of months now (in green), and its amazing value for its price. Transforms in 3 carry ways quickly, and while a 'minimalist pack' still fits a ton of stuff.
(quick tip, the brief case handles stows away into those pockets just right below it for a much more streamlined backpack carry 😉)
thanks dude!
We like it mate. After a few mods it will be the goat.! Cheers cobber from Australia.
🤠
Own it, and really like it. Can’t say I love it yet, but it may grow on me. Bought it purely for brief mode, but the backpack straps are handy if I find myself with some unplanned additional stuff to carry in my hands. This thing is great quality, and I expect it to be a staple in my office life for a while.
Thanks for sharing. what don't you like about it?
I’d like it to be a little smaller, and I think its size is a result of it trying to be too many things. I was in the market for a laptop brief with room for basic accessories (charger, mouse, pen, iPad) to comfortably and quickly move from meeting to meeting in different concourses of an airport (airline manager here). My office EDC bag is the Evergoods CPL24, but I wanted something more nimble to serve as my interoffice carry for just the essentials. This bag definitely does that and I am, overall, happy with it; it’s just a shade much for my use case. Problem was, I couldn’t find anything that better suited my needs: everything was either a messenger or full brief with way too much going on, or the equivalent of a laptop sleeve with a strap.
@@QRS10 got it - thanks for sharing!
great review. just fyi you can stow the handles when in backpack/messenger mode
Thanks and good to know!
I like that magnet pocket can double as a quick access pocket
💯
@@Nomads.Nation can't wait to see your Go Sling review XD
@@PhuongHo4ng will be live in a few days!
I wish this had the organization of the bravo totepack...or the bravo tote pack with the elements brief esthetic.
Can’t have it all sometimes
Hmm. Like it. Don't need it. Definitely keeping it on list for someday. Thanks for the great review for sure.
Thanks for watching!
You can slot the brief handles into the pockets right below to hide them :)
Got it 💪🏻
Great review! I bought one recently, but I was hoping to get your review before it arrives. I will try to use it like a sling crossbody by attaching the shoulder strap in one of the backpack fixing points. Hoping to be a comfortable way to carry it 😅
be sure to let us know what you think of it after testing for a few weeks 💪
@@Nomads.NationI let you know once it’s in my hands and I tried this setup
@@rogerioaugustofonseca6011🎉
@@Nomads.Nation it didn't work out, Aaron. The best way for crossbody is using the shoulder fixing points. It would work if the padding was placed differently. It's still a nice bag. It would be perfect if it had a 13" size.
@@rogerioaugustofonseca6011 thanks for keeping us posted! Agreed that since it's not a designated messenger bag, you have to make some sacrifices (like the shoulder fixed points you mentioned)
Can you review the uniqlo functional backpack? It looks good for 40 USD. Its the one that looks like a regular backpack
I’ll add to our wish list (but it’s a very long list lol)
Another great video, thanks Aaron. It was between the Aer Pro Brief and this one, ended up getting this one as I am in New Zealand and shipping is cheap from Australia.
How about a video on your business and the journey to Hong Kong. Its strange hearing an American talk about Pocari Sweat in one video and Nascar/Bud in another, it gets a bit confusing (yes I also lived in Asia for a bit), would be great to hear about the backstory of Nomad Nations. Those early videos look interesting, its like your office-less at the start!
Be sure to check out this video where I tell my 'origin story' haha - ua-cam.com/video/Yun-cCPyDsI/v-deo.html. Yes, the early videos were more scrappier days, but very fun to look back on :)
Would this fit the evergoods cap 2 in the main compartment?
I think so but I’d recommend double checking with Alpaka customer support - be sure to let us know what they say!
I may pick this one up, but I’m gonna wait awhile and see what other colors they will release for it.
Green just got released this week - looks nice
A medium heather gray with brown leather accents would be killer
what`s your opinion on sole premise sneakers backpack for carry-on backpack
Never heard of it so can’t say but I’ll def check it out
Nice review, but I think you were a bit too kind, though I'm obviously in the minority given the comments. I wanted a pack like this because sometimes my Timbuk2 Classic can be too heavy as in crossover/messenger mode--neck, back, and shoulder begin to feel it--so I wanted that backpack option. But as soon I got the Alpaka, I knew it was a mistake. As you noted, those backpack straps are NOT good backpack straps. Yes, the connectors are uncomfortable, but as with all stowable straps, those guys were just too thin. As you also noted, the strap for messenger/crossover not only slides but is severely underpadded compared to the Timbuk2 and just about anything else that might hold 15L and be held onto you with just one strap. (And the padding strap is so SHORT, too.) Finally, it just looked and felt "cheap" to me, which I guess is an aesthetic preference. Love Alpaka in X-Pac but not Avoflux. Anyway, returned this one right away and opted for a Pleatpack Slim One, a really cool (primarily) backpack that can morph from holding 7L to 16L. Looks and feels premium, and the straps are extremely uncomfortable. Looks like the company might not make it because of the war (they're in Ukraine), but that pack deserves some reviews! I love it--truly unique.
great breakdown, and I def agree with some of your points, but overall I stick to what I said in the review. I'll also be sure to check out Pleatpack
Ooo when are we gonna get that Grip sling review?
A week or two hopefully
I'd like to offer alternative 4: The Aer Flight Pack 2 (although the 1 and 3 could probably do the job as well).
Same 3-way configuration (backpack first and a brief second), lovely Cordura exterior and decent waterproofing, and it's roomier so can easily double up as a weekend bag. The only issue is that it's a little roomy, but if the very expensive Black Ember Forge made it into the list, so can the Flight Pack!
Aaron (or anyone!), any suggestions for a backpack first and a brief second that's on the smaller side? The Black Ember and Aer are huge and look very slightly silly as a briefcase. This is a niche that I've seen tackled well, but not enough. I can't speak for the Black Ember, but the Flight Pack 2 is the reigning champion in my opinion for now.
This bag, the Flight Pack 2, or Black Ember Forge I'd say are the best options
@@Nomads.Nation Damn it Aaron you're not making it easy to spend more money on bags I shouldn't buy :P
@@Ophius 😂
I’m sorry, but I love the look and feel of X-Pac. Great review, thank you!
It’s growing on me - it depends on the use case. I’m a big fan of it on slings at the moment
Agreed! LOVE Xpac! Ver lightweight and feels/looks very premium
Great review aaron! Just a question: can it fit a acer nitro 5 gaming laptop 15.6in. Its dimensions in mm are: 390mm x 266mm x 26.75mm! Cheers!
Thanks dude! Unfortunately I don’t have one so I can say for sure - I’d recommend reaching out to Alpaka customer support and seeing what they say 💪🏻
Is the new mod keychain and tether compatible with the hub system?
90% sure that's a no, but I don't want to give you the wrong answer so I recommend double checking with Alpaka
My favorite bag for last few months. CUT OUT THE BACKPACK STRAPS. It will leave you with a huge compartment that fits any water bottle/hoodie etc. Great bag
Ooooh getting very crafty there - I love it
Great idea. I see no use for those straps. I might cut those out in my bag too
@@rogerioaugustofonseca6011 do it!
@@rogerioaugustofonseca6011 I’m not one to tell anyone what to do with their money but if you’re following Aaron I assume you have a backpack for when you need it. The straps are useless (for me) but removing them creates a great storage pocket (that doesn’t affect the laptop compartment that much).
No worries! I will try it out before I do anything to it 😉
I almost bought this bag, but I felt like forcing it as a 3 in 1 was a miss. I ended up getting Alpaka's tote instead.
3lbs is just way too much for a polyester 15L bag. A leather or waxed canvas bag, and the extra durability/style they bring, sure. And there's too many compromises with all the straps. I would've been better if they had left off the backpack straps and kept the extra compartment, while also upgrading the shoulder strap that comes with it. Then it would just be an excellent brief/messenger bag and it would probably weigh closer to 2lbs.
It wouldn’t be as versatile, but def would be a more focused product
How bad is the shoulder strap slippage? Does it only happen when its lighter/heavier?
In messenger mode the shoulder slippage is noticeable, but I don’t find many messengers that have a great solution to this problem.
Does a 16" Mac M1 MacBook Pro fit well in the laptop sleeve section? It looks like it might based on what it looked like when you put a 13" in there
Not sure, I’d recommend reaching out to Alpaka customer support. Be sure to let us know what they say!
@@Nomads.Nation I actually went ahead and ordered it so I’ll give you my firsthand feedback on that haha 👍🏻
Did Alpaka take it off their site ? The link doesn't take me to the bag and I can't find it on their site
Just checked - it’s there!
does pakt 15ltr backpack holds 16-inch MacBook pro?
Not sure - I’d recommend asking Pakt. Please let us know what they say
Which would you personally prefer to use? Comparing the alpaka with the alternatives you mentioned + the aer flight pack?
Sorry, what’s your question?
@@Nomads.Nation Wow i made no sense lol, sorry. Edited..let me know if that makes more sense?
im a backpack guy@@j0404t so probably the AEr Flight Pack - more comfy
We need a best briefcase comparison video
Added to our to do list
I really like the features of this 3-in-1. But the fatal flaw is the use of those gatekeeper clips for the various straps - too difficult to open and close. If they only used D rings for the straps.
They help keep the straps very secure, but agreed that they are annoying to open
This Alpaka brief DOESN'T hold a lot of stuff. If you use it for TRAVEL, you'll need a second bag for your clothes.
I only use one strap and carry it over my left or right shoulder like a tech sling.
This FREES up my hands to comfortably CARRY a second bag.
So this Alpaka brief is actually a great 4-in-1 (brief, messanger, backpack, and tech sling) bag.
yes, its very small, so you will def need to pair it with another bag or suitcase
Link to your measurement tape please aaron! xD
I can't find the exact brand but something similar to this - www.amazon.com/dp/B09VDJ5P2Q/ref=sspa_dk_detail_5?psc=1&pf_rd_p=0d1092dc-81bb-493f-8769-d5c802257e94&pf_rd_r=9KD4W0QSGM8TMR07H2JR&pd_rd_wg=RuGxC&pd_rd_w=jNCTl&content-id=amzn1.sym.0d1092dc-81bb-493f-8769-d5c802257e94&pd_rd_r=766d38ea-3d94-4c90-96c8-5908aaa0187c&s=industrial&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9kZXRhaWwy
It’s like a Tumi replacement if you don’t wear blue oxford shirts with khakis.
True haha
Couldn’t you hide away the brief handles in the magnetic pockets?
Yes
Double yes
Not liking the top grab handle in backpack mode. Looks like it can easily snag onto something when not in a wide open area.
They should have included a mechanism where you can push it down to stow away like a luggage handle
good point
Top handle of briefcase mode can stow away in to the magnetic pocket right beside it (where has hiden zippered pocket, it has 2 magnetic pocket for 2 handle) when use in backpack mode for stop dazzling around
@@PhuongHo4ng appreciated!
How much it is cost?
1:39
You are also 4’20”
Im a towering 5’8 thank you very much
Quick note: you would have to be an asshole to put such a slim bag into the overhead compartment of an aircraft.
🤔
In 1 video you said F*** at x10, and S*** x4 times. Seems like a trend in your video. You also speed up the last part of your sentences especially if its 3 syllables or more.
fascinating observations, thank you
Brief backpacks just look awkward to me maybe it’s the look of it but what is more off putting is the zero ventilations that’s just baaaad for back packs
Still a great video great work nomad nation 🫡
Thanks so much!