Heya ladies/girlies
I've been a long time lurker, I usually don't like to post or comment on Reddit just because I think I usually can't add anything meaningful to a conversation.
I do think I might be able to add something meaningful here though. Apologies for the poor writing and format. I'm waiting at a train station writing this.
A bit of context: I decided to take a year off from my job and go travelling. I'm 29, and it's my first big trip abroad. I'm not from North America or Europe so apologies if this confuses anyone. I have been overseas plenty of times but not for anything longer than two weeks, so I'm potentially looking at 6-8 months abroad depending on how well I budget. I'm currently in Europe. I arrived with a 30l hiking pack (please don't ask for the logic, hindsight is my lil bitch ) and a roller suitcase of about 40l. I like the split set up for manoeuvrability, regret the choice of bags but love the set up. I stayed with family for three weeks and then did a stint of travel by myself before realising what I was doing wasn't going to work and I dreaded having to repack my bags each time I moved. Which was like twice before I knew I had to make changes fast! I decided to go back to my relative's place and leave my bags there and do Europe with a carry on. Cheaper, easier to do last minute planning, and less to worry about. Downside was a I didn't have a suitable carry on. Leading us on to the next the stage of this strategy...the considerations for a bag.
What I needed:
A decent, protected laptop space. I know I don't need a laptop but I'm away from home for months and I like to research cheapest travel routes and I can justify it to myself. Downside, my laptop case was too bulky so I wanted to remove it but can't without a proper sleeve
I want to be able to see what I've packed. So something with structure but I can flip it open and just grab what I need.
Reasonable harness. I'm only walking around airports and probably no more than an hour at a time with this thing on
Justifiable price. This is different for everyone but taking into consideration, price, quality, setup. Essentially, could I afford it and was it worth it at the price point? I broke it down to, how much more could I see while paying less cos I would be travelling carry-on and not paying for checked luggage so I could afford to pay a little more.
The contenders:
Cotopaxi Allpa 35 or 28
Forclaz 40l
Patagonia MLC 30 or 45 Btw theres nothing wrong with any of these bags I just am listing my opinions so if they are perfect for you, yay!
Cotopaxi:
Found the harness a little flimsy
Colour scheme wasn't guaranteed and an ugly palette would drive me potty if I'm staring at it for six months
laptop sleeve didn't feel protective enough
I didn't like the packing capsule space things. I wanted a bit more freedom in how I pack (I really wanted to like these bags but just couldn't bring myself to)
Forclaz:
similar reasons to those above
I liked the compression straps
Patagonia MLC 45:
too large for budget airline carry on size. Think Ryan air.
again, like the compression straps
I liked the empty cavity spaces for shoving your clothes into and the admin pocket
Patagonia MLC 30: the winner but not perfect
So I was on a bit of a time crunch. I had about three days to head across Europe by train (got stiffed by SNCF) and fly to Portugal so the window for physically getting the bag wasn't big. The decision to ditch my checked luggage to flying with carry on was about 4 days. It was a quick turnaround.
I did a lot of research on this bag. I was already eyeing it up prior to my trip but couldn't justify the price until I hated repacking and decided to switch up my luggage. I read all of the posts on r/Onebag, Pack Hacker, Tiktok, and blog posts. Deep dive googling to find videos and images on sizing and how to pack. And r/heronebag posts, obviously. The only downside was 90% of the in depth reviews were done by men which there's nothing wrong with but we ladies pack a little differently and are sized a bit differently too. So here's my two cents and hopefully someone can take away some nuggets of gold.
Me: 5 ft 5in or 166cm. Short torso. If you have an osprey bag I sit right on the border line between S/M and M/L. I also have about two inches between the top of my hip and my bottom rib - its short compared to my friends who fit a whole palm width between theirs.
The trip: I've been with this bag for two weeks now. Portugal and Morocco and across three budget flights.
The Harness: I've done a lot of hiking so I feel like I can spot a good harness when I see one. I've owned several hiking dedicated bags for 3-4 night trips. The chest strap sits quite high for my liking. So for long torso girlies you'd be good! I like my boobs smooshed in regards to the placement But the straps are solid. It's comfortable but I wouldn't wear it for long periods but don't forget if I'm walking for more than an hour straight something bad has happened because this is not what I brought the bag for. One hour max. Shoulder straps, comfortable but sit a little wide for me. Weight in the bag helps, but I fear they might slide off a little without using the chest strap. My shoulders are quite sloped so finding singlet tops that fit but don't slide off my shoulders is the same kind of issue. The waist, comfortable but I fear if you err towards very wide hips this bag might not be ideal for you. My hip line is usually about an M in pant sizing in Europe, for reference. The back length of the bag is good, any longer would be uncomfortable. I fold the hips straps away to create a little lumbar support as the bag bulges slightly when they are tucked away. With a laptop the back plate is a little rigid but I don't wear this bag for long periods so no worries! I haven't used it as a duffel style yet with the waist belt turning into the shoulder strap. Also I love the grab handles. The bag isn't too difficult to carry around by just those.
The Exterior: the loops anywhere are great for carabiners. I usually clip my cap when I'm not wearing it, or my sandals at times to the exterior. So really useful. The drink bottle pocket can fit a decent sized drink bottle while fully packed but you might have to sacrifice some packing space to allow a bigger bottle to fit. Material wise, it's held up to Sahara dust and can be brushed off easily. I have a black bag so every bit of dirt shows...joy. It's pretty durable. I'm not easy on my bags. If I'm paying 200 Euros for it, I expect to be able to thrash it - within reason.
Easy access pocket: I don't use this because it takes up space in the main cavity, but I also take my Uniqlo sling with me so anything that would go in the pocket is in my Uniqlo bag. It is useful for random knickknacks to keep them out of the way.
Laptop/Back Pocket section: I like that it unzips vertical. It means when fully packed and standing upright, unzip it slightly and and just grab something quickly. What I pack in there: Laptop 15" HP but you could pack larger, journal, pens, kindle if I'm not planning on using it, sometimes I'll stash my jandals/thongs in the pocket just in front on the laptop if I'm flying and have to compress the packing a little. When I'm not flying I rearrange and little and relax about packing. Passport, and cash. I stick a wired padlock through the zips when I'm in a hostel that doesn't have lockers.
Main cavity: I can pack and compress two bagsmart medium packing cubes side by side while the bag is laying down flat. And they fit perfectly while compressed. I can usually layer more items on top and just try to fit layers that can pack into spaces. Downside of this cavity is unless its fully packed and you unzip the main zip while it's vertical, things will slide around, so better to pack it out fully.
The Zips inner and outer: I think are what make the 'black hole' part of this bag. I have filled the bag more than what I thought it could handle to be surprised that it can still close. A bit like a compression cube - can I squeeze in another shirt? It's also in part due the flexible structure of the bag
Lid Pockets: I am still trying to figure out how best to utilise these. They are handy and I do like the size, especially for toiletries and little pouches of things.
Packing for flight: budget airline edition I take a foldable 18l backpack with me. If I'm just heading out I take my Uniqlo sling bag but if I need more I take my backpack. Specifically for planes too because why not make the most of the personal item space if I'm going to have a small bag with regardless
Wearing: T shirt Bra Undies Linen pants Socks Running shoes
Backpack: Uniqlo bag goes into backpack but I use it as a pouch.
headphones
kindle
wallet
passport
tissues
bits and bobs
power bank and cord
earplugs - when I'm tired and running on last dregs of energy, noisy places tip me over the edge. It just helps take the edge off
Toiletries because of liquids. I just prefer to have it in my personal item so if I need to grab it out and inspect it I'm not digging through the big bag.
drink bottle
snacks
jumper but I might wear this depending on temperature
cap
Teva hurricane sandals, as they don't quite fit. If I'm not packing to fly I usually just clip them to the MLC loops with a carabiner
adaptor plug
phone charger
Main cavity:
Big towel
Packing cube 1: 2* sports bras 1* tshirt bras Bikini 2* socks 7* underwear Small microfibre towel Pj shirt Pj shorts
Packing cube 2: Linen pants Skirt 3* tshirt 2* singlet Long sleeve Linen shirt
Jandals
Laundry soap
Split between the Lid Pockets
medicine/everything else pouch
door wedge
shower toiletries that aren't liquids
tech pouch
Laptop Compartment
laptop
journal
notepad
pens/pencil
sketch pad
spare sanitary pads
mini gorilla pod tripod and phone clamp
spare cash
Logic: I try to prioritise function and then fashion but at the end of the day I'm a tourist so who really cares what I look like. Three bottoms worn minimum twice each is 6 days worth of clothes before needing to wash. Three wears each if you're not picky, four if you're desperate. I sweat more on my top half so I change my tops more regularly. Two pairs of underwear for each bottom, plus two more as spare. Bras, we all have our own guides so to each their own. Three pairs of shoes are excessive but jandals for showers, beach and hostel. Sandals for warm days and not intense amount of walking. Running shoes for sturdier options like hiking and 20k + steps per day.
This list isn't perfect. Neither is the review but I hope this gives someone a little bit to think about and go away with. Especially more oriented towards a female audience.
Verdict: I like the bag! It's not perfect but you can't mass produce a bag and expect it to fit every single human being. It's definitely geared towards a more male figure just judging by some of the thought process gone into the design. It's got enough adjustments for the majority of the population to fit it. And it's a comfortable size to carry. I'm not overwhelmed carrying like I would be with a 45l, part of the reason for a second day bag. In short, I get the hype.
Also link to the packing cubes https://www.amazon.com/BAGSMART-6-Piece-Packing-Cube-Set/dp/B09KN3FMY7?ref_=ast_sto_dp&th=1&psc=1
This is a bit of a rant. Sorry.
I have been wistfully looking towards the patagonia MLC bags for almost three years now. I see everyone singing their praise here, and on paper, this seemed like the perfect bag for me.
Yet. It's expensive. And for a long time, I was still hoping i'd be able to find the dark redbeaurdeux coloured one that I fell in love with, even though it's been out of print for years now.
Like, *really* expensive for what it is, considering that the Quechua NH500 has almost the same features and size, and costs about 1/5 of it. And yet, I could never quite stop thinking about the MLC --- something just really spoke to me about it.
This autumn, I will be leaving to Japan for almost two years, and finally decided that it was time to splurge and treat myself. My old 50L Quechua backpack has seen better days, my NH500 is fine but didn't spark joy and I saw that the pufferfish gold variant of the MLC is being liquidated, and I couldn't stand the idea of missing out on another pretty colour.
I actually ordered both the MLC and MLC mini to really compare and contrast, and make an informed decision between not-too-bulky and uses-every-last-inch-of-my-luggage-allowance.
And boy, those bags are beautiful. The colours are amazing, no screen has been able to show that properly, the materials feel good to touch, I LOVE the way the laptop compartment opens like a clamshell for the MLC bag, too, but ----
They don't fit me. Neither of them.
The shoulder straps always stick out a little bit from my chest in an awkward angle, the sternum strap is way too long, even at the shortest setting, and the hip-belt reminds me that I oughta loose a few pounds but definitely doesn't keep the bag where it should be or puts any weight onto my hips.
They are both just so uncomfortable -- even with minimum load.
It's probably just me and my body, and not any fault of the bag. I'm a weak 5'8 woman. No big harm done, I am just going to send them back. I feel like this would be a fine bag to take from my home to a car, and take from a car to the hotel, and then from the hotel back to the car to my home. It's not going to be fun to carry around from an airport through the city while waiting for 4-5 hours for my hotel to open up my room. And that's just not worth the premium price, if my decathlon bag does the same thing AND is more comfortable for a fraction of the price.
I am honestly writing this because I am a little sad. I was really looking forward to owning these bags. I finally convinced myself to spend a little bit more on them, after thinking about them for years. They look so good and I read so much about them. Pufferfish gold is such a wonderful colour, too!! Now I gotta look into finding a different bag -- and will most likely have to settle on some sad, boring, normal black-grey-olive colour or splurge on a Cotopaxi and look like a clown.
Videos
Hi! I’m writing this post because I’m planning to travel more across Europe during shorts periods of time and with this desire comes across the necessity to have a backpack that airlines can consider as a personal item and I don’t need to worry about the dimensions.
After reading a few post here, I came across the Patagonia MCL MINI 30L, which is my go to option, however the dimensions describe in their website (Dimensions: 50,8 x 30,5 x 17,8 cm) does not seem to be compatible with airline companies like Ryanair (40x20x25cm) or EasyJet (45x36x20 cm).
Other possibility is the Osprey Daylite 26 + 6, which seems to be a perfect fit given the dimensions, but seems to have other downsides that I don’t like. Also, it seems to be unavailable everywhere.
I would like your recommendation on this topic. If any of you have experience with the Patagonia MCL MINI 30L, and if you recommend.
https://weareexplorers.co/patagonia-black-hole-mini-mlc-30l-duffel-bag-review/
The promise of a do-it-all travel bag sounds too good to be true — but what if it isn’t? Ever the optimist our Content Editor Jess packed her life into the 30L Patagonia Mini Black Hole Duffel for three weeks overseas to test it out.
I got a new Patagonia Micro MLC yesterday and I’m going to share some initial notes.
This bag is similar to the old Patagonia Tres. It feels about 20% smaller than the MLC Mini. I don’t think the official numbers are out but it’s about 25l or 26l. It’s got a large front pocket that covers the front section of the bag that easily swallows a 32L water bottle.
I packed it with a Thule organizer, a toiletry kit, and 14” MBP and electronics cords. In the Thule are 2 pants, 4 shirts, socks and underwear and a pair of shorts, and a fleece jacket.
Anyone own both able to help me decide and put me out of my misery? I've spent hours reading/watching reviews on both bags (inb4 Patagonia Mini MLC is the 🐐 guy).
I currently have the Osprey 26+6 but have a week left to return it and get a Patagonia Mini MLC. Price difference would be about $100CAD(~$70USD).
I have an Aer CPP for work (love it) so this would be just a travel bag. Most of the time it'll be carry-on but sometimes personal item.
I never travel with a laptop so not sure if the admin panel would be a waste for my use case. My old travel bag was the Decathlon NH Escape 500 32L and while I loved it, I felt it couldn't pack much due to the separate laptop compartment.
I find the Osprey okay comfort wise but haven't taken it on a trip yet (took to work on bike). The bag feels super light in comparison to my Aer CPP.
Patagonia Mini MLC likes:
hip belt/better comfort if I want to walk around for longer duration
overall aesthetic
duffle mode
better build quality
great company/warranty (potentially BIFL?)
could be used for work+travel
Patagonia Mini MLC dislikes:
no front pockets
nearly double the price
laptop compartment won't often be used as intended (could shove a daypack in there)
may not fit a few personal item sizers if called out (unlikely)
loud logo/branding (not a big deal but might try to remove)
Osprey 26+6 likes:
price
lightweight
grab handles on top/side/bottom
packs a ton, expansion can be used to compress bag down or carry extra stuff on the way back
front pockets/ dual bottle holders.
minimal laptop compartment
fits most airlines personal item sizers
Osprey 26+6 dislikes:
not the prettiest/turtle shelly
not as comfortable/thinner straps
no hip belt
luggage passthrough flap noticable when wearing
okay build quality
Might have to walk down to the Patagonia store on my break and test the bag out..
Thanks!
Last year I spent 8 weeks travelling with my 30L Patagonia Mini MLC, and loved the whole experience of one bagging so much I'm back for round two. Link to previous post here.
I'll first go through my packing list, and at the end go through what I learnt from my last trip and what I've changed this time around.
Clothes
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T shirts x2 (wearing one)
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Long sleeve button up x1 (wearing)
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Short sleeve button up x1
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Singlet tops x5 (wearing one)
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Underwear x5 (wearing one)
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Socks x5 (wearing one)
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Sports bra x1 (wearing)
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Bralette x1
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Bikini set x1
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Cargo pants (wearing)
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Everyday shorts x2
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Exercise shorts x1
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Sleep shorts x1
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Birkenstocks
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Sneakers (wearing)
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Puffer jacket x1 (wearing)
Electronics
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Headphones
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Earbuds
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Portable charger
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Kindle
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Switch
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USB-C cables x2
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Smart watch cable
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Wall charger + adaptors
Miscellaneous
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Journals x2
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Pens x3
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Fan
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Earplugs
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Sleeping mask
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Wipes
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Tissues
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Hand sanitiser
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Sunglasses
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Lip balm
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Passport + card holder
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Hat
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Daypack backpack
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Wallet
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Snacks
Not pictured:
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Water bottle
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Neck pillow
Toiletries
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Toothbrush
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Brush
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Flossers
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Hair ties + clips
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Nail files
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Shampoo + conditioner + soap bars
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Toothpaste
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Sunscreen
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Deodorant
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Skincare
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Basic makeup
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Lip balm
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Ovira device
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Medication
The Backpack
The Patagonia Mini MLC is either 26L or 30L, depending which website you believe. I've had mine for over a year now, and use it regularly for weekend trips and domestic flights. I also took it on my 5 country, 12 flight, 8 week trip last year, which it handled remarkably well (it was about 7.2kg when I left, but I swear it was close to 11kg by the time I got home).
The only problem I'd say I have with it is that I feel the need for one more zippered compartment in the tech panel. The large zippered compartment is perfect for my switch, and I stash my wallet in the velcro tabbed sleeve, but I usually want one more secure area to store small loose items. There are the two zippered compartments in the front section, but I usually use the larger for my toiletry bag, and the smaller for hat/sunnies/daypack. Other than that, I love it.
I've noticed one area of wear at the base of the water bottle sleeve, I'll have to see about fixing that before it tears beyond repair.
What I've Learnt
The main thing I found on my last trip was that I was always slightly too short on socks and underwear, I was having to find places to run a load solely because I'd run out of those two things. I took sandals but ended up wearing sneakers for the entire 8 weeks, which meant three pairs of socks was really not enough (I didn't do any sink washing). This time, I've packed some more, so I can comfortably go four days between having to find a washing machine.
I also found that there were some clothes I'd packed that I didn't wear at all. I've been more intentional this time about packing things I know I will always be comfortable wearing, rather than taking a dress just in case.
I bought a fan on my travels last year, which was honestly a life saver on non-air-conditioned public transport. It's a must for summer travel from now on.
Last time I took two pens and they both ran dry during my trip. I've packed three this time because I know one is almost empty so I can chuck it out when it does run dry and still have backups.
I took my cream New Balances last time too, and walked ridiculous distances in them - they held up incredibly well. I think the London subway has permanently greyed them and there's definitely some wear spots, but when you consider the miles I walked in them, they're still doing well. The sandals I packed last time got worn exactly twice, to the hotel pool. I've packed my birks instead this year, even though the sandals are super comfy, I like how sturdy my birks are and I already know I can walk all day in them with no problems.
Something else I've changed is my personal item bag - last time it was just a bag I picked up last minute at Aldi, but this time I have the Crumpler Clam Chowder. I found last year that the personal item bag was too bulky for me to want to wear as a daypack most days, but at the times when I did need to carry a water bottle etc with me, it was too small to be useful. This time, I hope to solve that problem by having my cross body Clam Chowder for everyday, and my small folding backpack for days I need to carry a bit more (I've been "borrowing" the foldable backpack from my father for about five years at this point.... sorry dad).
Closing
The backpack comes in at 8.5kg, and the cross body bag at 0.7kg. I plan to repack anything I'll need on the plane into my daypack, so I don't have to access the overhead lockers during the flight. Always a nightmare from the window seat.
I wish I could leave behind the warm layers, but it's winter here down undah so I'll need them for the day of travel before my flight, and also for the plane. Ideally I would be cosied up in a long sleeve shirt and jumper, but I've picked the most light-weight layers possible so there's a chance I might actually be able to use them in Europe.
I have 43 hours of travel from my house to my first destination so that will be funnn.
Like many of you I'm searching for the perfect travel backpack to suit my needs. You may ask yourself: why does he have all of these bags simultaneously? Well yeah more on that later.
However in this comparison I want to help out the people in this sub to make an educated decision. You can always find all the specs online, but a direct comparison between these bags isn't very common. Since I now have all of the three laying around I figured it might be helpful to compare them.
I'll go over the features, comfort, pockets, what they fit and ultimately how I use them.
The way I normally travel is fairly simple. I often go for a maximum of three weeks, where I'll visit different hotels, bed and breakfasts and a camping trip from here to there. I'm not a digital nomad and won't be gone for months. I need a bag that I can use as (kinda) a daily carry while also big enough to bring stuff for two weeks (sometimes three). Also occasionally I carry a camera set with me, which also must fit in the bags.
Packing list
Above you see my full packing list. I don't go into too much detail but this is what I'd usually pack. Depending on the trip I need different clothing or more/less like more underwear, less shorts, more long sleeve shirts and a camera or not.
Anyway, let's get to the bags!
Design
This is probably the most subjective part. Everyone has got a different taste. In the image above you can see the bags next to each other. The size difference is there especially with the Thule. Later on you'll see that this is also the pack that can fit the least amount. Personally I like the Aer the most. I'm using the Thule as my work, gym and weekend getaway bag because of it's size its a perfect EDC for me.
Side profile
On the image you'll see the side profile of all the backpacks. The Aer being 35L is obviously the biggest, however you can make it significantly smaller using the 4 side compression straps which I really like. You can see the Thule hanging down quite a bit more. This is especially something I noticed when packing it. It just doesn't feel as comfy. Talking about comfort ->
Back panel
Here are the back panels of the bag. They're very similar but feel very different. Comfort can also be subjective depending on height, weight and even things like a sour back. I'm 1,86m or roughly 6 ft. Funnily enough I found the Mini MLC the most comfortable. It's got a very long and soft back panel. It's followed closely by the Aer. The load lifters of the Aer help quite a bit, but when fully loaded the straps and pack just feel a bit tight somehow. Also the extra 500 grams doesn't help the Aer. The Thule is comfortable as an EDC bag but not when fully loaded. Especially not when using the expansion zipper from 28L to 32L. It bulges outward creating an even more hanging profile like the side profile shows.
Back profile
Here you'll see them on my back. Again I think the Aer is the best looking one but obviously a bit bulky. The Mini MLC looks great as well with the added paracord. Thule is a bit blue-ish.
What do you think?
Main compartments
Okay, let's get into the main compartment. The place where almost all travel backpacks show what they're worth. It's a bit hard to show on the pictures but the Mini MLC was by far the deepest main compartment of them all. The Thule is very shallow and the Aer sitting right in between with a bit more width to it. What I don't like about the Aer is that the front admin panel and especially the laptop compartment eat up a lot of the space in the main compartment. That's what I absolutely love about the Mini MLC. It fits just as much in the main while being smaller and 5L less backpack space.
The compartments are quite similar. The Thule features an extra TPU pocket which is water sealed. Wet towels, nasty underwear or some trash can easily go in there without spilling in the main compartment. THhis also divides my work laptop from dirty gym clothes. The divider would've been useful during my trip to Mexico where my towel just didn't dry quick enough and moisturized my whole clothes.
The Mini MLC has a separate netting over the main compartment making you able to split it kinda. It prevents things from falling out and you can use the rest of the space well. The lid itself has got one other mesh and one closed compartment for some flat items like a book, wallet, passport or cables.
The Aer has got one zippered compartment in the main as well as an hidden Airtag pocket beneath the flap (quick acces top pocket). On the lid it's got a long pocket which goes all the way across the lid and the black mesh pocket above it.
What does the main compartment fit?
Likely the most important part is what these bags can fit. Above you'll find them below each other. You can already see the extra depth of the Mini MLC the way the grey peak design cube fits under the zippers. Like I said before, funnily enough I was able to fit exactly the same things in the Mini MLC which is quite a bit smaller than the Aer. The Thule was not able to fit everything. One packing cube had to go out and even the rest was a tight fit. On the Mini MLC and Aer the camera cube is below my toiletry. By the way that's my PGYtech camera cube and it's great and the perfect shape for these bags.
Admin panels
Another thing I prefer in a backpack is having a quick access admin panel. Here I stow batteries, chargers, cables and even my tablet. This is probably the biggest difference between these bags. On the left you'll see the Thule which only goes halfway, However it's a decent pocket with enough going for it. It does eat up a bit inside or bulges outward. In the middle you have the Mini MLC which combines the laptop compartment with the admin panel. You have 4 big sleeves for chargers etc, a pen slot and a zippered compartment below. The Aer is by far the most versatile admin panel, however for me it's a bit overengineered. Personally I'd never need so many pockets although it's nice to have. In the mini MCL I put my travel towel in the laptop compartment and my tablet in front of it, same as with the Aer. The Aer has still got plenty of room to take a big shirt, jacket, rain cover or hipbelt which is nice. That pocket goes all the way down.
Top pocket
All of the bags contain a top quick grab pocket. While these are not very exciting, it's a nice to have and doesn't sit in the way too much. The Thule is the smallest. The Aer and Mini MLC are similar but the Aer has got very soft materials inside while the Patagonia is just the same inside material. The Aer again does eat up more space because of that.
I often put sunglasses, airpods and a powerbank inside of these. Or my passport.
Water bottle pocket
Last but not least a water bottle pocket. I always travel with a thermosflask. Mine is 600ML so big enough to fill up and use for half a day. All the bags fit it perfectly. The Aer can fit a 1L or 32 oz easily but the other two couldn't. Maybe if you try hard enough. Also the Aer's tucks away with a zipper which is clean!
Verdict
These are all great bags, and to be hones I think I'll only keep two of the three. Like I said before, the Thule is being used as a gym, work and EDC bag wherever it goes. I get a lot of miles out of that. Also it's perfect for weekend getaways of trips less than a week.
When I wanted to pack for more than a week I couldn't fit it all in the Thule so I searched for a bigger alternative. I bought the MLC from someone in this sub for a very good price and I bought the Aer new. They basically fit the same things, but in a different way... I think the Aer is looking the best, most badass and it can compress down more making it look more like a daypack sort off. However it's heavy and a lot of space which has been designed for a laptop or lots of tech I would never use. That's where the Mini MLC came in. It's quite a basic bag but very satisfying to have organized. It does tick all the boxes of what I want in a pack, apart from being able to compress when everything is out.
Lastly, I love that the Mini MLC can be carried around like a briefcase or just tuck the straps in and have this cute small suitcase thing.
I'm very curious what you think about this post and I hope it helps some of you guys! If you've made it this far, thanks a lot!
TLDR;
I compared some of the most popular bags for travel. Compared all their features and talked about how I would use them in day to day life
I currently run a 25l black hole backpack with the 40l black hole duffel, but have been wanting to get something a bit larger to size up the backpack. I have my eyes looking at the 30/45l MLC bags and they seem to have great tech storage based on photos, but am curious to see if anyone has feedback? I typically carry the following in my backpack when on the road:
Surface laptop
11” iPad pro
14” Dell portable monitor
2-3 days worth of clothing (frequently flying on RJs and get forced bag checks)
Wallet, keys, passport, couple of pens/pencils
Sony XM5s and airpods
Snacks (very important as travels often exceed 5-6 hours and like… snacks?)
I prefer to keep the dual bag setup when traveling 1+ week as I tend to have to carry additional equipment in the duffel (thank you IT) but think the MLC will be a perfect candidate for shorter trips where I don’t need it. Also hoping someone could recommend 30 or 45 based on experience, the most I can repurpose a bag the better and I find that lacking with the 25l Black Hole Backpack
Hello Everyone!
My boyfriend and I are going on a two week trip to Vietnam and this will be our first times one bagging internationally woohoo!
We know we want the Patagonia Black Hole MLC bags but are stuck between which size is the best option. The reason for hesitation is a worry of being told the 45L is to big and having to go through the process of checking it in. I've had my bags / luggage get lost too many times to want to go through that again. We'd like to just use them as a carry-on on and have done some backpacking trips so we do have experience carrying light and only bringing what we need. I dont think we will over pack and I will also be bringing the Fjallraven high coast tote bag as a back up personal item if needed.All that aside when I look at the dimensions for all our flights ,the 45L is 0.33inch to big for one of the airlines and 1inch to big for a separate airline , I know I know not much but it still makes me wonder if it will cause issues.
Does anyone have experience with the 45L as a carry-on on? Did you have any issues/ did they ask to measure your bag ?
Thanks so much for taking the time to read and for comments !
Make quick work packing for quick trips with the easy organization of the Patagonia Black Hole Micro MLC Pack. It's designed to be configured 3 different ways and to fit under your plane seat.
22L
https://www.rei.com/product/249338/patagonia-black-hole-micro-mlc-pack
Just received this in the mail today. Another user posted some images and I don't have more to add right this moment unless there's something specific you'd like to see. Just wanted to give a few impressions in case anyone wasn't sure about trying out/getting the bag to hopefully help them decide.
I did previously have a mini MLC and gave it up since it wasn't what I needed/wanted, so I will speak a bit to the two compared.
Regarding the Laptop/Admin Panel - this is not part of a separate space, it is in the main bag, not at all like the Mini MLC. There is also less space devoted to it and less organization from what I remember. Additionally:
The laptop space isn't super secure for a 14" MBP. It will definitely slide around and move within that bag panel, but it is padded on both flat sides. The back panel has some padding that doesn't exist on the front of the bag & the cover over the top of the laptop has a bit of similar padding behind the admin panel. I don't really see any 'false bottom' existing in this space, but that's likely since the bag is intended to move around into different orientations.
While the laptop is 'loose' as a 14"MBP, there is enough space that I can get a laptop sleeve into the space for more padding - though this does take up more bag space of course (I have to bend it a bit to get it in, but it fits). This also prevents the laptop from sliding around so much.
The sleeve I use is a Cotopaxi 14" laptop sleeve which opens on two sides, put in upside down, it fits perfectly and still allows access along the two open sides of the Patagonia
The laptop cover/admin panel is attached with a normal nylon strap - that corner strap is NOT stretchy at all (I thought it was something with stretch to hold the laptop more securely/hold the panel down - it is not), material/padding on both sides is flexible, so it's easy to manipulate this area if needed, but that piece is not going to stretch.
*without any sleeve* I can fit my laptop & portable 15" monitor into the laptop space, but it does star too get a bit snug and deform the back due to the thickness.
I didn't notice this in images before, but on the admin panel that sits on top of the laptop there is actually a fair bit of organization:
Two pen pockets
One very slightly stretchy slip pocket (can hold a power bank and mouse)
One top zip mesh pocket (able to hold a 3m USBC + 1m USBC)
large zip pocket that sits behind the two mesh pockets (this one I didn't see at all).
Bulky items in any of these pockets will push out into the other side.
The main Space is very similar vibe to the Mini MLC in terms of a giant open space held down by an inflexible mesh that zips around 3 sides. however, the corners are more rounded/spherical than I remember the mini MLC being and the entire mesh can be rolled and ticked away with a built-in strap. At a quick try out I was able to fit the following items. This bulged out the pocket when it was zipped closed. But even bulging into the laptop side, I was able to zip the bag pretty easily without removing anything. Items I put in, with zero planning/tetris, just shoving:
half-loaded 3L sling bag
Two ultralight canvas/tote style bags
one normal canvas tote bag rolled up
small EDC carry cube, roughly 7"x4.5"x2", fully stuffed
a random woven throw blanket (from Ikea, laying around)
a Cotopaxi Yermo jacket
The front outside pocket is the entire length of the bag and as someone else said, it does seem to expand outward a bit, so it is fillable even when the main pocket is fully loaded. Though it does get snug since it can't expand inward if the inside is loaded up. I got a bunch of items (listed below) in there without it seeming to have any space issues when the main space was pretty empty, but once the main space was loaded, it was a push and shove situation.
Normal 32oz Nalgene (fits better standing up/lengthwise by the zipper than on it's side - but does fit both ways)
liquid stevia in a 3oz glass bottle from TJ
Small leave-in conditioner/travel size
small folding brush/comb
two key rings with lanyards and about 5 keys each + id cards
There was definitely still pace here, but again, it was a shove and take against what I had loaded into the main space
The external lash loops end up on the bottom of the bag when held as a messenger/duffle, and on the left side when used as a backpack. When I saw the item listing, I wasn't sure where to attach these to avoid blocking a pocket, but seeing it in person you could either go across the front panel and block zippers using one of the the two carry handles, or go across the back panel and connect to the luggage passthrough strap. The back option wouldn't block any zippers, but it would leave you feeling the bungie cord a bit (YMMV) and there won't be much space - though for a quick jacket, but not much more). I don't see this as super usable, but it's something.
Backpack shoulder straps are very similar to the mini MLC and seem pretty comfortable.
There is space at the bottom to pass through an aftermarket hip belt for some extra stability (or pretty much any waist pack). I don't see this doing much of anything to distribute weight, but it could make things more stable & you might be able to pass it off as part of the bag if the color ways match well.
Messenger strap has zero padding or anything. it's a basic strap like an old style seatbelt. it works, but it's not going to win any awards.
The two short sides (top and bottom when worn as a backpack) are made of a more rubberized material than the front. The front and long sides have a material that feels the same as the Mini MLC & most of the BH bags I've seen recently; but that top and bottom reminds me more of the front of a Cotopaxi Allpa front, but less dense/thick. not sure if this will help at all with waterproofing as that material flanks the main zipper which doesn't look to have any water proofing...odd choice.
Seeing it in person, I do think they missed one huge mark - the two small handles to hold it as a briefcase aren't necessary on this size bag. it's actually awkward for my hand size to even use both handles at once, and I'm sure if the bag is super overloaded it would be even more awkward if not impossible. Instead, they should have put an expanding cup holder in place of the front handled and just kept the back one.
I mostly work from home, but plan to use this for a week or two and see how it goes, then save it likely to be a personal item on more strict flights overseas/etc. I got the noble grey color way and it's a really nice balance between subdued & some color so it's not boring. The Logo is big, but not a super contrasting color so it's not as in your face as some of their bags.
If anyone has any specific questions or wants to see any specific part closer, let me know and I'll do my best to assist; I know the images online are super lacking on this bag.
Image description: Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC 30L
I used this backpack for a thurs-mon trip in the summer that involved one semi formal dinner and lots of walking around otherwise. I was so happy at how easy it felt to not have a rolling carry on at the airport.
On the plane, the bag fit under the seat in front of me in economy though I did have to squash it in there.
For plane attire, I wore: tennis shoes + socks, bra, underwear, jeans, t-shirt, light jacket, hat
Inside bag: 1 collapsible baggu tote some assorted makeup in a mesh pouch prescription medicine 1 laptop + charger 1 book 2 snack bags 3 pairs of socks 5 underwear 1 bra 1 sweater 1 shawl 1 silky dress (this packed very well) 1 pair of collapsible sandals that could be styled for day and evening 1 tank top 2 T-shirts 1 pair of leggings (in case I got my jeans dirty) 1 pajama set 1 small TSA compliant toiletry bag 1 set of headphones 3 ziplocks 1 plastic bag for separating dirty clothes 1 emergency detergent set since I didn’t anticipate needing to do laundry for a 4-day trip.
I brought a small crossbody purse to have my ID easily available when checking in + going through security at the airport, but it was packed away in the backpack for boarding. I also purchased a small tube of sunscreen when I arrived to my destination; TSA didn’t give me a hard time bringing it on the return flight.
Wow Patagonia truly design a perfect bag that fit all my travel need. This bag fit everything I would ever need for a quick weekends fly away trip to or a week cruise trip. It is so easy to pack and the electronic compartment fit all my electronic need. The electronic compartment is a game changer for sure as alot of travel bag are so focus on their carry on clothes compartment that they completely neglect electronic or barely put much thought to it. Patagonia didn’t chose that route and equally focus on both compartments in their design
For a long 2 weeks vacation, this bag help me eliminate my worries about potential lost luggage headache as it able to pass by as a personal bag for big national long haul airlines. I would still check in my luggage since I usually need space for souvenirs and gifts from my trip but I put all my clothes and toiletries and electronics inside my MLC. At maximum capacity, it was able to fit everything I needed for 2 weeks trip AND still able to snug under airline seats. So I basically check in an empty luggage and board my flight with the full MLC bag filled with my clothes and essentials.
Quality is extremely durable and well built. I have no concern that the bag will be damage in any way or form. Even it me stretch it to it utmost capacity, I never once feel that it might break or the fragile electronic inside will be harm
Love this bag so much that I was crazy enough to get a 2nd MLC mini. They literally got me with the 30% discount, cant say no when they throw the price tag of $140 for the bag. Can’t believe there is a day where I actually say that price tag is a massive bargain for a backpack lol
https://youtu.be/J4z4YBN0IYI?si=-RtGufYDWVr2P8Ob
I recently got the Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC 30L, and I absolutely love it! I can't wait to take it on my flights.
I'm curious: if the bag is fully packed, would it be considered a personal item or a carry-on? If you own this bag, have you had any issues using it as a personal item?
Also, I'm a big fan of Peak Design and I'm thinking about getting their packing cubes. How many packing cubes fit in the bag?
Thanks in advance for your help!
Hey everyone,
in one of my last posts I asked for advice to decide between two bags; the Osprey Farpoint 40 and the Eagle Creel Tour Travel 40l.
I ended up sticking with the Osprey. However, in spite of my decision I also decided try a much smaller bag, just to see if I could make it work as well. And because I found a pretty decent deal for the Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC, I decided to get that one too to try it out.
But now I’m in a new dilemma situation. I think, with a bit of cramming and packing a bit less clothes etc., I could also make the 30l bag work. The main advantage of this being that I won’t have to worry about having to check my bag at all since it’s obviously quite a bit smaller than the Farpoint. I also like that it’s got a bit more organisation, for cables, adapters etc.
However, I’m also fairly certain that the Osprey will probably be more comfortable to wear, and I have that extra space in case I need it.
Now, I can see the Osprey being that much more comfortable especially since I’m going to Vietnam, where it’s going to be hot and humid, so I feel like that Airscape back panel could really come in handy.
Does anyone have any experience with either of these bags in hot, humid countries like Vietnam?
I would enjoy having the peace of mind of not having to worry about my bag being too big, but I’m not sure if it’s worth the higher price, the worse comfort and having to cram with what I pack.
What would you guys do? Any advice? Honestly, I’d love to just keep them both since they’re both such great backpacks. I just can’t decide what’s best.
Thanks in advance everyone!
I received the Patagonia Black Hole MLC (45L) in the mail today. I intend to use it as a carry-on for international travel. Did I make a bad choice, or is it a decent or good purchase for my intentions?
I pack light on electronics (usually just a laptop and charger/phone charger). I feel I pack heavier on medicines (several prescriptions/other medication bottles) and toiletries than the average person. I normally try to pack 3 pairs of shoes (usually 1 sandal). With this bag, I'd hope to bring at least 1 week worth of clothing.
I am going abroad soon for nearly 2 weeks. I want to bring it as a carry-on. I plan to stay abroad longer (possibly move abroad for the long-term) so I may check a large suitcase but that is undecided. Regardless if I do check one or not, can the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L fit my needs for international travel as a carry-on? I hate returns so would love your opinions.
Any alternative recommendations for those who argue against the bag?
Thanks!