Still the best travel backpack? - REI Ruckpack 40 Update
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- Опубліковано 3 лип 2024
- After a few trips with the Ruckpacks we have a list of pros and cons about the bags.
REI Ruckpack 40:
Women's: goo.gl/1wYE18
Men's: goo.gl/w4QDYA
Our gear: kit.co/uatw
Instagram: / uatw_
Music:
Broke for Free - Juparo
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#travelbackpack #onebagtravel #review #REI #backpack #travel
Just got back from a 2 week trip to Europe. My wife and I both had the REI Ruckpack 40. We flew RyanAir, Veuling, and Easyjet. We had NO problems with any of them including the return flight on Norwegian air that measured and weighed our bags. Absolutely LOVED the Ruckpack 40. It even fit in the lockers at the Louvre. We would not have been able to go to the louvre the day we left with anything bigger. The published measurements are actually a bit smaller than what I measured with the pack full. Thanks for the tip.
I was super worried about size regarding this bag with budget European Airlines. Are they very strict about size and weight? I will take Ryanair and Vueling. Also did you check the bag or carry it on?
It would be awesome if you do a what's in our REI Ruckpack 40. Would love to see how you actually use it.
We have a trip planned in a couple weeks and we'll do exactly that! Stay tuned!
@@UsAgainstTheWorld Where can I find this video? Thanks! :)
@@UsAgainstTheWorld did you make this video?
UATW,You are great! Big fan, literally! I am a heavier person and definitely not built like the typical backpacker, but I am taking up a more active lifestyle and this was a way that excited, inspired and motivated me to do more. I will admit that I was originally focused on the Osprey brand of bags. When I went to fit them at my local REI, I realized the hip belt did not fit around my waist. The REI associate helped me and showed me alternative ways to carry the Osprey bags. Honestly, what is the point of spending $150 for a bag that you can't fully utilize. I was frustrated. I was about to leave when he showed me the REI Co-op Ruckpack 40. I tried it on and it fit like a glove. The waist straps extend to 46 inches. I loaded the pack with 30 pounds and walked around the store. It felt great. I wanted to check it out online and found your videos. I bought the bag and am so happy. Thank you. Update: I have lost over 45 pounds and can now fit into an Osprey, but no one is taking away my REI Ruckpack 40. Cheers!
That's awesome! Your story is so inspiring and we're glad we could help in your bag search! Keep it up and safe travels!
Congrats!! Happy travels 🏞️
I had almost the exact same experience and waistline. The Osprey Farpoint 40 has really short hip straps that will not fit a larger gentleman. They do have extensions if you call them, but that really seems like a bandaid solution (oddly the larger farpoints have longer straps). I too was getting frustrated and then put on this pack. Fit perfect first try. I am worried about taking it on a plane due to the slightly oversized nature of it but hope it works out. Have you had any problems with being forced to check it on a flight?
Congrats!!!
thank you so much for the great Review!!! Me and my girlfriend were looking for a travel backpack for a while an got so hooked, thank you again you guys are great too watch
I bought this bag a week ago for a upcoming trip to Costa Rica after watching your last video. Glad to see the follow up, I can't wait to use it!
Awesome! Enjoy your trip!
Looking forward to yours as well Janell. :)
I did the same thing! Where are you going in costa rica, how long will you be there? I'm still planning out my trip...
Watched both of your vids on this pack. I can’t wait to pick mine up on Sunday and take it on my first trip next week to Atlanta! Thanks for the great videos and helping me decide on a new minimalist travel pack 🙌🏼
I bought this pack since watching your initial video. Thanks for all the info
Thanks again for sharing your experience!
Thanks Guys, you and Janell motivated me to get this bag. I will use it on my upcoming trip to East Africa. Thanks for the detailed review.
Great feedback! Just got the bag for Christmas and will be taking it for a 2 week trip to Japan. I’ll report back on how it went for me, but so far, absolutely love the bag.
Have a great trip! We're looking forward to hearing about it!
Hey y’all! Just found your channel while looking for a good travel backpack. Thanks for your input. This looks like a winner for my upcoming 6 week trip to New Zealand. I really appreciate your review.
Really helpful and well done video. Clear audio, Great shots of backpack, and insightful after action review of bag. Nice to have review and meaningful feedback on a travel bag that I couldn't find much about any where else. Also sweet that your video wasn't 1/2 hour long. I would like to see a little video of what you guys packed on your trip, how you packed it in, and what kind of packing cubes you used. Thanks!
Thanks! Yeah we tried to be more concise this time. We have a plan to make just such a video, but right now we're prioritizing our huge backlog of travel videos. Look for it in the relatively near future!
Thank youuu! I just got this backpack today--at a yard sale--xoxo re-using stuff!!! and when I saw it lying there, I knew it was the bag for me (I used to have a Cotopaxi 28L that I sold because while I
I just bought this pack from REI for 119 USD in burnt orange. I love it and will be traveling with boyfriend to Nederland.
😉
Subbed because you guys are fun and informative.
GREAT FOLLOW UP! Thanks for posting. I agree on all of your points, positive and negative. the lack of standing was the only negative that I would add to the REI wishlist. I would venture to say that even having to prop it was manageable - until the inside top pocket was weighted down. it's where i stowed my back up batteries, converters, cables..etc. and weight seemed to always pull it over to the front.
i weighed in at 23-25lbs preflight, including a spare pare of shoes. since most of my clothes were drifit/technical/polymade , they were easy to rangeroll and stash. i had enough room to bring back 3 bottles of wine from Italy.
it's a bag that i definitely plan to keep and would recommend.
That's awesome! We're glad the bag is working as well for you as it is for us! Happy travels!
Thank you for this.
I’d done so much research on the perfect bag. I just couldn’t pull the trigger on the Osprey Farpoint. Having watched the prior video, I did order your REI recommendation and am looking forward to putting it to use. Thanks for pointing out the work arounds as well, super helpful to know out the gate!
Farpoint /Farpoint? 🤷🏻♀️🤣
I'm leaving for Europe in 10 days for 3 months and I'm bringing this pack. Thank you so much for your review it definitely helps
Awesome! Glad to hear we helped your decision and that sounds like an amazing trip! Do you know where you're going or are you just gonna let the wind take you? Safe travels!
i'm going with the wind and hoping for the best but I've watched some of your Europe travel vlogs so thats defiantly help to
Hope you had a great trip! I bought the bag after watching your review, and am taking it on a trip to Sri Lanka in a couple of days! I watched a lot of other reviews on other bags too, but decided on this one bc of the sleek look/no compartments/good back padding. I think that's a unique combo versus other bags. I live in Europe and was even obsessed enough to pay the important duties to send it over bc I couldn't get it out of my head. No regrets, really love it so far! Happy holidays!
I guess when you gotta have something you'll do anything to get it! 😉
Our trip was great! A few of our friends went to Sri Lanka recently and loved it. Definitely let us know how it is. Safe and happy travels!
Had a great time in Sri Lanka, and loved the bag! Bag + packing cubes = killer combo. Keep posting, I love how natural you are!
Thank you! We're glad you had a great time in Sri Lanka and the bag is working well for you!
I live in Europe as well, so I was wondering how high the extra cost are? Thanku
@@minalovis sorry Mina, I only just now saw your comment! Shipping itself was free because I spent over 150 USD (Not sure if that was permanent or a promotion). I had to pay 54 euro to DHL to get it released from customs! Still ended up cheaper than some of the alternatives :).
Thanks for the update! I wish MEC made something similar!
definitely not an issue at all for me. This is really great bag. Gonna get one soon ! Thanks guys for the sharing! 😀
I just bought one from REI for 119 USD. What a steal!
@@KingofgraceSARA nice!!! i wanderig thru Amazon and only found price in the rangr of usd140. *sigh
I bought two of the same bags, one for me and the other for my wife. We're finally going to use them on a quick trip to San Francisco. I'm so looking forward to using mine!
Hi Macario! Glad you could get your hands on the bag! Let us know if you need any suggestions for places to see or things to do in San Francisco! We'd be happy to suggest some things! Have fun & safe travels!
I just purchased this backpack. I have been working in Mexico and travel every 21 days. I like the looks of it
I was struggling to find a bag that fit what I wanted as far as size and comfort level.. And I saw your first video and went to REI this kast weekend and tried it on along with the osprey bags and I loved this one more! This video was perfect timing as I plan on buying it after the holidays. I'll be backpacking through Thailand for a month in February and finding this bag has been a dream!
Awesome! Enjoy your trip!
Kill frogge how did the backpack work for u in Thailand I'm deciding between this one and the Fairview 40. I'm going to Thailand as well so I'd love to hear your opinion.
Great video guys! I'd like to see in what bags you compart your stuff when packing! Thank you!!
So thankful for a petit female reviewer! i'm 5'2 and am very concerned about how the bulk/height of the bag would lay on me, especially when buying an expensive bag that I'm gonna have to wear for weeks I don't wanna jump in blindly!
How was bringing back souvenirs? I'm also worried about keeping creaseable/breakable items in a soft, rugged backpack.
I’m an REI employee, I train staff in how to fit backpacks. Thanks for a fair and honest review! If you have pack specific questions feel free to ask. For those asking if this bag is suitable for a carry on, the answer is yes with an asterisk. We use the measurement of 9 x 12 x 22. 40 liters is around the max you can carry on, but check with your airline for specifics.
@Brett friedman , do you have those messaurements in centimeters aswell ( guess what you put there are inches ? )
I fall in love with this bag, and wanted to buy if tor my travels, but I was shocked when I realised that I can only buy it in the US. (I'm in Europe) This is so so so so sad!!!! You guys should do something about this, because this is the best bag I found so far, after searching for hours and hours.... :((((((
24 x 13 x 10 inches Is the measurement posted under the dimensions for this bag on REI. I guess it depends on how strict the airline is, but this bag would exceed the carry on requirement for several airlines.
according to the latest changes for carry-on this backpack in my country won't go through requirements. But as far as i understand it perfectly fits at least for RyanAir
This does not quite fit the specs for a carry on bag. I like it much better than the Osprey Farpoint 40L. Did you guys have any problems with using the ruck pack as a carry on in Europe etc...?
Ok, I will be buying this for my trip to Laos in February, but I will also be buying a smaller, foldaway Osprey to pack inside for a short time I'll be staying an a tree house in the jungle with only zip-line access. Thank you for a great review!
Are either of you ever satisfied? No, I'm kidding because you didn't have any real complaints on the REI rucksack. Thank you for the reviews. I'm looking for a good bag and it is tough to find the right one for all travel needs. New subscriber here.
Never satisfied! And to be honest, we've been looking at the Tortuga Setout pretty closely and are going to do a comparison between it and the Ruckpack soon. Safe travels!
I love your videos - was about to jump on the bag but perchance there's a video on how you both pack for different climates/countries? You mentioned packing cubes and stuffing in each other's personal storage...thanks!!
We haven't had a chance to film a "what's in our bag" video for any of our trips since we're usually packing last minute and the added stress of trying to put that together would be too much. Also, so far we haven't had to pack for wildly varying conditions during a single trip with these bags, but we have packed them for a variety of individual trips with different conditions.
Generally we pack a maximum of 4 "days" worth of clothes, and we plan for layering. For example, on our trip to Europe in Sept. of last year the weather was mild to chilly (~50-70F) so we each brought a pair of pants or 2, 1-2 pairs of shorts, 2-3 short sleeve synthetic blend t-shirts, 2-3 long sleeve Uniqlo Heattech shirts, 1-3 sweaters/cardigans/light mid-layer jackets, and finally a rain shell. We've found this setup gets us through most climates with plenty of options and very few repeated outfits, save for those on the far ends of the spectrum.
As for how we pack them, we both carry the majority of our clothes in our own packs "ranger-rolled" (ua-cam.com/video/so93nqxZLjM/v-deo.html) in 1-2 medium sized cubes along with any extra shoes in a separate bag (usually at the bottom of our packs), but will shift jackets and more bulky items between the 2 packs as needed. Derek carries all the electronics (laptop, camera gear, cables, etc.) which take up about a third of his pack so shifting the bulk is crucial. Derek now carries a shoulder bag as his "personal" item for all the electronics and other things we might need on the plane. Not only does this make boarding/deboarding much easier and helps in the rare case he'd have to check his bag because the overhead bins are full, but also frees up some space in his pack for bulkier jackets and such for colder climate trips.
Anyway, I hope this helps! And safe travels!
Hi! I bought this back after watch your first video on the topic. I like it, it looks kind of big. I'll go on my first 2018 trip on January 7th so I'm excited. I hope it work for me.
Awesome! Where are you going?
Us Against The World Ayacucho, Perú! :)
Sounds fun! Safe travels!
Thanks for the video. It's one of the only in depth videos for this bag. My husband and I are going to Thailand for a month and I am agonizing between this bag and the typical Osprey Fairview 40. The Porter was out immediately because of the bulky side padding. I just cant decide between the Ruckpack and the Fairview. I think the Fairview is slightly more comfortable for my body type as far as the back frame but I really love the look and organization of the ruckpack.....oh decisions, decisions!
Yeah we were in the same boat. Not really finding anything that was quite good enough until we found the Ruckpack. We were very close to getting the Farpoint/Fairview so no judgement if you decide on that. All of them are great bags. Safe travels!
OMG I'm trying to decide on the exact same thing and I'm also traveling to Thailand, what did u decide on?
Going to Thailand Next week can't wait it's either my brother in laws Swiss Gear laptop bag with some extras, or this lovely REI bag which I actually did an ill-informed purchase of the Eagle Creek garage sale hybrid bag with wheels and straps but did not realize the updated Carry On restrictions, newbie to traveling My Bad! I am going to get this bag because I already have an REI backpack for hiking an I love it, but there is too much staps hanging out to travel to Japan and then Thailand I can see an X ray machine malfunction as my metal clamps jam up the conveyer belt LOL I am considering using this pack as a shuttle between stayovers in north and south Thailand different stops, suitcase in condo back in Bangkok and a day bag for the beaches and hikes.
I, too, can't decide between the Ruckpack and the Fairview. I'm slightly leaning toward the Fairview only because it has a lip at the top end whereas the Ruckpack seems as if items will tumble out the top end when open. Did you have any issues with items falling out of the Rucksack when you opened it?
Yes! This. I wish it opened like a more traditional suitcase style. Also the osprey seems to sinch down more, which I guess isn't too big a deal, but would like to have the option t
Nice job, guys! I had not seen these ruckpack videos before today. After looking at a lot of packs and trying several, I bought my REI Ruckpack 40 in early May for a three-week June trip for work and play in Switzerland. I liked the low-key and secure profile. My other bag was my camera bag, and I was able to carry both on the flight. I also packed an REI travel daypack (packs down in its own pouch) for side trips and would have used that as my underseat item had I not been packing the camera gear.
Thank you for the update! What do you think about Osprey Farpoint 40? For me it looks like a better organized inside.
Matador makes a backpack strap pocket that velcros on near where the sternem strap is. If you are wishing you had waist belt pockets, it might scratch the itch. You can easily remove it and pack it away too if you prefer a sleeker experience
Thanks so much, would love your thoughts on the Signal 40 from REI. Looks like a great everyday work then gym bag. What do you think?
Looked at this bag pretty hard. My deal breakers were the lock issue with the side pocket that you mentioned, as well as the top carry strap seems hidden (in a bad location) when you zip up and cover the shoulder straps. I would have liked to see them duplicate the side handle somehow on the top and maybe bottom. Lastly, the front of the back seems like it's begging for a mesh pocket or bungee grid. I also think the front has a double fabric space that could easily be turned into a compartment with a zipper, maybe a vertical or diagonal zipper. And perhaps make the water bottle pockets a bit deeper. I might still get it but leaning towards one of the Ospreys.
Yeah we hear you. There are definitely a few minor things they could've added or changed that would've truly made it the perfect bag. Safe travels! And let us know what you end up getting!
What color are your Ruckpacks? Thank you so much for all the info on the backpack. Your videos helped me narrow down my decision on my luggage option 🙂
You didn't mention the compression straps on the outside only cut the bag in half and don't compress the contents of the bag. Which is another issue because there are no compression straps in the inside the bag to hold your clothes in place. Because of the way the bag opens it's hard to pack it compared to a clamshell opening bag. Just my opinion. Glad it's working for you guys.
Traveled the world for 40 years now. Never have locked a backpack, never been robbed. There is no Goldielocks bag but the Trail 40 is really close if you can get over it looking like a "backpack".
I like my osprey porter 46 works really well for me but I like the bag you guys have too
Bill Hickman can you carry on the porter 46? I’m torn between this big and the porter
AsakuraClan yes you can I also have the far point 40 which I like
Great in depth reviews! But could you talk something about how it fares compared to Tortuga Setout or Thule Subterra 40 maybe? That would be really helpfull. Thanks!
Thanks! Thanks for the suggestions, we'll see if we can get our hands on either of those and do a comparison.
I see what you did there! The Thule looks plainly beautiful and is a huge competition to the REI 40. Now I am caught between the two.
Would you recommend this over the 40L Fairview osprey for travel in South East asia??
Id like to know what packing cubes you used and recommend???
I realize it’s been awhile since you shot this vid but I am looking seriously at this one, so would you still give this bag a thumbs up ? And would this be a good bag for a trail hike? Thanks
Do you think it would fit underneath the seat in front of you when on the plane? I only ask because I am looking for a bag that would just fit underneath the seat since I usually buy the cheapest plane ticket where I can't check a bag. I have a Patagonia 45L Blackhole bag and it fits perfectly but looking for another travel bag that has better support straps.
THANK YOU for this video so much great info.Q: wasn't sure if you checked your bag in on your trip to Europe or carried on. I'm going to Croatia this summer and was hoping to carry on because I have a layover and possibly flight change. can this bag be used as a carry on at airport?
can you please share with me the packing cubes you used?! i bought this bag for my two month trip to india. i’m really excited to use it!
Thanks for the review and follow up, there isn't a lot about this bag ... question : what about the build quality, zippers fabrics etc.
Thanks! And yeah that's exactly why we made the videos. The build quality is great! The fabric is incredibly durable, the zippers smooth and robust, and the straps/handles/belts/daisy chains strong. The only real criticism we have regarding the build is more related to the design. That is, when the bag isn't packed full (or at least mostly full) it's sometimes a little difficult to zip the main compartment closed because of how the zipper turns as it gets to the top of the pack.
Hope this helps! Safe travels!
thanks! ... have a nice day !... and life ! :)
Please tell me about the purse you used during your trip! I imagine it wasn't a tiny crossbody yet it probably wasn't a huge bag? Hoping to get some suggestions on a purse to use for our trip to Spain!
This bag looks slightly bigger than than the Fairview 40, do you find that it has more capacity?
Great review! is this bag a carry-on sized bag or did you have to check it in?
are you saying you were able to use the TSA lock for both the main zips and side compartment zip? it seems like the TSA isn't long enough to do that? Also, have you tried the EC global companion..I trying to decide between these two bags. thanks and keep up the good work! :) jazz
I think Blaqbags out of Portland has slip on bag/pockets that slip over the pack belt. Seriously looking at this bag. thanks!
Thank you guys. I have narrowed my pack search to this and the osprey 40l. Were you guys able to carry this on without any issues? Technically it measures larger than than international carry on specs but I know with backpacks you can get away with it usually. Thank you again.
@DJ Ness The problem I have had with the farpoint 40L is the computer is in the front, and inaccessible with out opening the bag, it also is a bit heaver, which can be a problem, which is why we are looking at this bag.
Thanks for the review. I enjoyed both videos on the REI rucksack. But, before I buy. I would like to know if it fits up under the front seat on a plane. Some airlines are now charging for carry on’s. Last flight I took was a 40.00 charge. If it fits under the seat in front of you, it would be ideal. Looking at your full packs on the video I’ll say it’s a no. But, I was just curious. Thanks!!
I would think that depends on what and how much you pack. Many times I can put my Osprey Fairview 40 woman's Travel Pack under the seat, and it is larger.
I bought this pack solely on your really good review, and recently used it for a sort of bag-and-a-half travel to Amman, Jordan and the lost city of Petra with my wife, I am in the middle of writing a review of how I used it in concert with a 10L pack as a personal bag, and intend to comment on the inability of the bag to stand up on its base, as well as the lack of a horizontal length of webbing below the top pocket zipper (to assist in handling the bag when you need to get into it). Have you had any contact with REI over that design wrinkle? I’d like to speak with someone there and hear what the design philosophy was during the development of the pack, because I think that inability to stand up can be easily remedied with a simple design update, and a $5, 30 second stitch mod to add that handle. Has REI indicated that the Ruckpack 40 might receive such an update? Thanks!
To clarify, I know there is a handle inside the strap compartment, but the space needs to be unzipped in order to deploy it.
Point me to a video if you already covered this... Can you describe your trip - how many destinations over how many days? And how were you getting from EU destination to destination if you were city hopping? And was the bag ‘carry on able’ on any airline? I’m guessing at 40L it’s pushing the max but if the bag is overstuffed it may not fit in smaller / shorter commuter jet style overhead bins.
Thanks for the review! My husband has decided on this Rucksack. I need a daypack to use as my Personal item. I'm bringing a wheeled case as my carry on but I really want a daypack for my personal item that I can then use for hiking when we arrive and back home. Any ideas of what pack would fit the bill? BA states the Personal item must be no bigger than 16X12X6. I really like the REI Trail 25 but the specs state it's larger than those dimensions :(
We generally use this backpack for our day pack: a.co/fVRJzhU The best part is it can be rolled up and put into one of our main backpacks when we don't need it.
On trips where we don't need a day pack Derek just has a similarly sized courier bag he uses for our camera gear and anything else we'd want easy access to on the plane. Safe Travels!
I like the REI Flash 22 for my daypack. I use it as a personal item on planes and it’s been great...for warm places I have brought only the Flash 22 and it was great, very comfy and super lightweight.
Very informative. Next time, I think it would be better if you hold and show the backpack as you talk about it. Thanks for this guys. :)
Thanks for the tip!
Have you used this bag as a carry on? Or only for checked baggage when using planes for travel?
I have, and once an airline employee had doubts that it’d comply with carry on size limits and the sizing was impressively precise! Maybe with some wiggle(mine is the man’s version)
Great info!.. thank you so much for sharing with us. What camera and mic do you use to record this? regards.
The travel footage was all captured using a Canon G7X mark II (a.co/akz1Kfq) and the built in mic. At home we use a Canon T4i (a.co/eD8BVJX) with a Sigma 17-50mm f2.8 (a.co/bUy8PuC) lens and a generic shotgun mic from amazon (a.co/bQQ1rSg).
We just got a new travel camera that we're going to test out on trip this week and we'll be sure to make a video about our impressions. Speaking of which, you can follow our trip on instagram: instagram.com/uatw_ Safe Travels!
Is this tsa approved under the seat in a plane? Will it even fit? Thanks
For me, it seems that the only reason why I'm not getting this backpack is that it doesn't have a side computer compartment. Very else is 10/10 it seems. Do you have any other recommendations of similar backpacks with a side laptop compartment? Thanks a lot. :)
We've actually been looking very closely at the Tortuga Setout (www.tortugabackpacks.com/products/setout-travel-backpack). It looks to be exactly what you're looking for.
One thing I would like to offer, there is a benefit to “knowing your bag”. When you have traveled with a bag long enough to know its’ quirks you get more freedom to enjoy the trip in my opinion. I don’t think there is a perfect bag just ones that we get used to using.
any suggestions for bags to place under the plane seat, ie personal item bag? i already have a carry on wheeled luggage
Andrea got a Ruckpack 18 a while back that she uses as her commuter bag, but it would work equally well as a "personal item." Large enough to carry a 15" laptop but small enough to fit under the seat. Safe travels!
I bought the REI Ruckpack after seeing your review but I can't figure out how you locked you the side zippers. Can you tell me how you locked it make it secure? I can't figure out how you finagled it.
At the top of each of the side zippers there's a small fabric tab/loop. We use a lock with a flexible "arm" and loop it through that fabric loop and the hole in the zipper pull closest to the zipper (if you can get your lock through the actual zipper that's even better). That keeps each of the sides pretty secure. Also, if you move the main and top compartment zippers over to one side, you can snake the lock through 3 sets of zippers to lock them all together and eliminate the need for 2 extra locks. Hope this helps! Safe and secure travels!
REI no longer carries my favorite. It is very similar to this REI 40, but is a model or two earlier. It was the REI Vagabond 40. Why did I like it better than the later models? 1. It two easy to access side pockets, both zipped. In one, a water bottle, and in the other.... I always carry a power strip. 2. A big useable 40 liters, with a zippered mesh full length sleeve in the flap side of the bag. Perfect for carrying a bunch of small stuff, like electrical adaptors, medicine, etc.
It fits me well. With packing cubes, I can go indefinitely if I have access to something to wash my stuff every 4-5 days.
The only downside to my Vagabond 40 is that it did not come with a rain flap. So, for me, not much of a deal breaker.
I managed to snag 2 more for my sons. They use them all of the time, as do I. Too bad that REI can’t bring back the old Vagabond 40.
Hey guys I'm doing a 3 month euro trip 1st time I've ever traveled and it's in winter would this bag work for me
Do you find this bag better than the Osprey Fairview 40? I currently have the Fairview, but am envious of all the organizational pockets the ruckpack has...
Emmanuel Trujillo thank you very much for your reply. Any particular reason you prefer the Osprey for travel?
can you do comparative review vs osprey ozone 22/55?
For your trip to Europe, did you check this bag on your international flight or use it as your carry-on? Liked the review and the features look nice. We're taking off to France in two weeks and doing carry-on only so I want to make sure it's small enough!
Thanks! Yeah, we carried it on for all our flights.
christaaileen Hey there! Wanted to see if you ended up going with Ruckpack and, if so, any issues with using it as a carry-on? Love this bag, just worried about having to check on my Delta flt to Europe.
Insight/reply appreciated!
@@UsAgainstTheWorld Curious which airlines you traveled with?
Great video guys! I Will be travelling to Europe for a month and Im planning to pack clothes for about 2 weeks or so. Do you think the rucksack has enough capacity for those purposes? Thanks a lot!
Our guess would be no. We usually pack about 4 days worth of clothes and the bags are pretty full with just that. If you were to pare that down to around a week you could probably make it all fit, but you probably won't have much room for anything else. We go by the rule that if something would be "nice to have" it doesn't come with. Also, we try to gather a set of complementing clothes so we can effectively wear different outfits every day of our trip without needing to bring that many discrete outfits. We hand wash our clothes in the sink every couple days and we stick to quick drying fabrics (synthetic or wool) so we always have options. Challenge yourself to stick to those guidelines and your travelling life will be so much more enjoyable! Safe travels!
Us Against The World
thanks a lot for the info guys. Love the channel!
Hi! Many many thanks for your review! Really grateful! I wanted to ask you, i am interested in this bag as a 'one bag travel bag' so that it works as a carry on n i dont have to check any bags in. Have you experienced any issues with airlines in terms of carrying it on the plane? Particularly european airlines can be very strict. Also its not just the size thats limited, its the weight too. Im looking for THE best 1 bag travel bag that is carry on! Many many thanks!
We've carried it on many airlines and haven't had any issues. The only time we've had to check it was one time when we were one of the last to board and there wasn't any overhead bin space left. As for the weight it depends what you pack. Derek carries all the electronics/camera equipment so his bag is usually 2-5 lbs heavier, and we haven't had any issues even when they weigh it. So yes, so far this is the best 1 bag travel bag we've found in our opinion. Safe travels!
That looks like San Diego airport!
Thanks for the helpful video! Just bought this bag for myself! Can anyone tell me if the Ruckpack 40 fits under the seat of an airplane?
We don't believe it would, and even if it did there would be no room left for your feet. This is definitely an "overhead bin" bag. The max size for an under seat bag is usually around 25 liters. Check with the airline though, some of them have incredibly strict policies for cabin bags. Safe travels!
Totally agree with 3:18. Not everyone has the same needs as everybody.
Hi there, I just bought the male and female version. Your video recommendation was one of the first I watched. After hours of videos and reviews of this and other competing backpacks, I came back to sticking with your recommendation!
What packing cubes (preferably compression?) do you recommend to fit this bag? Or at least dimensions that work well based on your experience?
Glad to hear we helped you decide!
As for packing cubes, we really like the Eagle Creek Spectre Clean/Dirty cubes (bit.ly/EagleCreekSpectreCleanDirtyM) they're a good size for the bag and have a built in barrier so you can separate your laundry. We also use the REI packing cubes (bit.ly/REIPackingCubes) -- the medium one more specifically -- when not expanded it holds about 2 days of clothes, and when expanded it holds about 4 days of clothes and fit pretty perfectly sideways in the Ruckpack.
Hope this helps! Safe travels!
Would this pack be good for traveling Europe in the winter for 2 months ?
Yes. Since you know it's going to be cold you'll probably we wearing all your bulky items so they don't necessarily need to fit in the bag. As such you should still be able to pack 4-5 days worth of complementary colored clothes (so you can mix and match without wearing the same full outfit more than a couple times), just with long sleeve shirts instead of normal T-shirts. We've found that UniQLO's heattech line has some amazingly thin and lightweight items which are surprisingly warm. If you do need to pack away your bulky items, you can always stuff those items in a packable day pack (like this one: amzn.to/2C9p9RM) which you can wear on your front. Hope this helps! Safe travels!
Am debating between the ruckpack 40 and the Cragsmith 45l large. Could you please provide your thoughts?
Shhhh! We're going on a trip in a couple weeks and were planning to do a comparison between the two. Initial thoughts though are that the Cragsmith looks like it could possibly dethrone the Ruckpack. Stay tuned and safe travels!
Looks too big for international carry on.
@@UsAgainstTheWorld any updates on this!? Looking to purchase a bag and both of those look like the best option
******* Sorry for posting. Just read the comments below and you've answered more than once. Were you able to carry on in European planes? This is the only issue deterring me from getting this bag. Thanks
No worries! Safe travels!
Are these actually carry on compliant. Seems like they are around 24" long?
Diane Stredicke
Not at all . Its too big for daily carry
Thanks for this review, I am deciding in between the Ruckpack 40 and the Trail 40, my wife and I are going to Europe but there are some airlines that are very strict with size, I figure out the weight but as far as sizing, AirBaltic is one of the worse in those terms have you had any problems on the airlines? Can you mention some of the airlines that you have flown with?
Thank you.
We haven't had any issues with the size of the bag on any US or international airlines. We haven't flown any of the "budget" European airlines (Ryanair, easyJet, etc) with these bags ourselves, but others have had success with them. The soft sides allow it to squeeze into the bag sizers no matter how full you pack it. The only issues we've heard are people who packed their bag too heavy. Safe travels!
Us Against The World Thank you so much.
Have you taken the backpack on a American Airlines flight as a carry-on? I consider getting a rei ruckpack 40 for my usa-trip, but the bag wouldn't fit in the official American Airlines sizes. Do you have any experience with that?
Yes, technically the bag is larger than their official max allowable size, but the bag is soft sided so, in the rare case you get pulled out, it'll squeeze in to the bag sizer just fine. Most US airlines aren't incredibly strict about carry-on size unless it's obviously too large, and even then they often won't bother. You shouldn't have any problems with American Airlines unless you've purchased one of their "basic economy" fares that often don't allow carry-on bags in the first place.
Us Against The World Thank you so much for answering my question and for letting me discover this backpack. I am pretty sure I'll get it, even though it's a bit expensive for me as a teenager. I think it's going to be worth it!
It’s between this bag and the kathmandu litehaul 38L.
So I looked on REI's website and the tech specs state 22x13x10 and 4lbs 3oz. However some Q&As were answered by REI staff stating the bag is actually 22" tall x 11"wide and 3lbs 6oz.... Could you verify this so I will know if it complies with the 45inch limit and 15lb maximum I'm allowed when traveling to Thailand? Thank you!
Technically it doesn't, but you shouldn't have any problems with the size. We (and many others) have taken this bag on such budget airlines without issue. I would be careful of the weight though. While we haven't had any issues, others have mentioned it's pretty easy to go over the 15lbs limit. Safe travels.
Have you had any issues with airlines? It seems to be right at the carry on limit. Thanks!!!!!
No issues whatsoever with any airlines (US or International)! Safe travels!
Thanks!
Looks like you guys are avid REI customers. Did you ever look at the Osprey Porter 46? Im taking a trip to Thailand in a couple of months and have been looking for bags exactly like these. I have not gone to look at them yet but would be interested in getting your opinion as well.
Yeah we are! We find a lot of REIs products are a good balance between price and performance. As for the porter 46, it was one of our top choices until the ruckpacks we're released. Or biggest gripe, and the reason we ended up not getting it, was the lack of usable/easy access external pockets. We find the water bottle pockets on the ruckpack crucial, and the top pocket is excellent for quick access items like a rain shell. Also, when we were first looking for a bag the porter was a little more bulky than the new version. Which other bags have you been considering?
Thanks for the added information. Honestly, I just started looking into travel bags. From what little I have seen so far those are the two front runners. They seem to be exactly in the style of what I'm looking for. Love your videos. They are awesome. Keep it up.
Doug Ford I’m deciding between these two bad too. Which one did you choose?
Doug Ford super late but if you did purchase this, did you use it as s carry on and if so did you have problems with the dimensions?
Is this bag comfortable enough for a 3 hr up-hill hike?
Yeah, it should be fine for that, the hip straps work really well to move the weight to your hips rather than your shoulders. We've walked around cities for a few hours with our bags on without any issue, though they're mostly flat. Safe travels!
Have you guys had any carry on issues with this bag?
We've been able to carry it on to every flight we've taken with them without any issues. Safe travels!
Us Against The World thanks
I don’t agree with you guys . Its not at all comfortable backpack as far as easy access compartments are concerned . There is no shoe compartment at all . You can put one pair of flip flops . Shoulder straps are very weared as compared to osprey or Gregory or Deuter . To open this pack in public could be fun out of you as everything gets dispersed n chances of things getting lost are high . You May try Thule / Osprey / Cotopaxi / Minal / Kathmandu . REI next version of this pack is still better but I am not happy with their shoulder straps support system at all . That’s my opinion May be you May Try
Smaller, but the Gregory Zulu 30 is another option.
Did you had problems with the this as a carry-on?
We've carried it on to US and international airlines and haven't had any issues. The bag will fit in any airline's sizing box, but be wary of the weight. Others have said they've had issues because they packed it too heavy. Happy travels!
I'm looking for luggage to take to Europe for about 6 weeks. Been there many times with big, cheap, bulky rolling luggage. I'm looking for something different and when I saw your videos I found them really helpful! A few things, what are your names? Maybe you've mentioned them in other videos I haven't seen? 2. Do you have any recommendations for checked luggage? I know you said you like to pack light but just in case, what are some good, sturdy, options for rolling duffels? I wish I could pack light but its also for a longer trip. 3. Is that a picture of Scott Frost on your fridge??? 4. What is your nationality (the wife) I'm stumped. Mexican? Native american? Hawaiian, Asian? Not much of this matters I just think you guys are cool and I appreciate your input. I like Osprey luggage, do you have any experience with that? Also, thank you for not flailing your arms about during the whole video, ugh that is so annoying. Its my number one pet peeve among youtube uses, why can't they put their hands down and just be normal! Thanks again! - Chrissy
Thanks! Our names are Andrea and Derek. Andrea is Filipina, so you weren't far off with Hawaiian and Asian.
Unfortunately we pretty much never check bags so we don't really care what we bring when we do. With that said, challenge yourself to fit everything into a carryon bag, do it once and you'll never want to go back. It doesn't have to be a backpack either, a smaller roller bag works just the same.
In order to keep things light we tend to bring ~4 days worth of complementing clothes no matter the length trip. That way we can mix and match and pretty much never wear the same outfit twice for the entire trip. Obviously for the longer trips you'll need to do laundry every few days. If wherever we're staying doesn't have a washer/drier we just hand wash in the sink and hang dry. There are even companies that sell bags with little silicone ribs on the inside which you can fill with the clothes, water, and soap and scrub in the bag. We prefer synthetic fabrics because they tend to dry faster.
Another tip is to group everything by "absolutely have to have," "need but could buy when I'm there," and "would be nice to have" (and be honest) then immediately get rid most (if not all) of the latter 2 groups. You'll be surprised how much less you'll have. Again, challenge yourself! If it's not working out you can always buy some extra clothes or other supplies during your trip.
Anyway, thanks again and safe travels!
I highly recommend a travel backpack! Way easier to get around. I used a rolling backpack when I went to Europe many years ago, and it was so frustrating on cobbled streets. (Ditto when I went to India seven years ago-the sidewalks and roads are challenging, and possibly filled with obstacles!)
I've since swapped to a travel backpack, usually with a small tote or large purse so I can keep my DSLR, iPad, food,* and book with me.
*I'm gluten intolerant, so I have to fly with food on longer flights! Can't depend on the airline to have my gf meal. If they get it wrong, I simply don't eat if I don't have my own food.
How is this thing better than the venturesafe exp45
Have you tried the Kelty Redwing 44
We haven't traveled with it, but we've played around with it at an REI and didn't like it as much as the Ruckpack. We weren't too fond of the the extra side pockets. Also the main compartment opening is a little smaller than the Ruckpack's. Other than that we just generally didn't like the aesthetic. With that said, we don't think you could go wrong with it, it's just not our favorite. Safe travels!
I haven't bought the bag yet, just curious to hear your opinion trying to decide between the two Thank you for the response
Do you guys carry a laptop?
Yes! We carry a 13", but the bag would easily fit a 15".
Is there a way to hang the bag on a hook in a public bathroom?
Yes, there's a handle between the shoulder straps toward the top that could be used to hang the bag if needed. Safe travels!
you actually use public bathrooms, disgusting
barf
I’m so bummed that REI doesn’t ship internationally....
Have you guys heard of Ethnotek backpacks?
We hadn't, but looking at them we can tell we wouldn't like them because they're top loading. One of the major benefits to the Ruckpack is its 3/4 clamshell that allows you to get down to the bottom of the bag without pulling everything out. We really like the design and emphasis on responsibility, though. Safe travels!
Hi, REI actually ships internationally! :) I had the same issue. I'm based in Europe and have been considering a REI pack so I emailed the customer service and in their email they said that they ship internationally. You need to select your country when typing in your address when you're in the 'my cart' area. Good luck
Did you ever have issues with fitting it as a carry on?
We haven't had any issues carrying it on. Others have said they've had issues with the weight since they packed it a little too heavy, but other than that it should be fine on pretty much any airline.
what size would you suggest I'm 5'6 in height,
Thank You,
Andrea is 5'5" and the Ruckpack 40 fits her pretty perfectly and has plenty of space for pretty much any trip. Safe travels!
Us Against The World Im male by the way,
Thank you,
All the same. I'm 5'9" and right in the middle of the torso range so it should fit you well. The only thing that might not fit is the hip belt. I have to synch it down almost all the way for it to be snug. If you can, go into an REI and try it on. Another option is to order it and return it if it doesn't fit, REI's return policy is 1 year. Safe travels!
Thank You,
Hi! Overall Height doesn’t affect what size you need. You need to measure the length of your torso in order to judge what size you need. If you purchase this at an REI they have measuring tools in order to get you a perfect fit! 👍
Saw the bag the other day and was impressed. Thanks for the review. Why everyone going to Europe? Besides the Louvre and La Segrada ...the action is in South America. Be well.
My dude, there are 44 countries in Europe and you're saying there are 2 attractions...
You know what, don't visit
Aran exactly! I was so confused by this comment 😂