I've been looking for this backpack my whole life. I've purchased backpacks from Timbuk2, Bellroy, The North Face, Fjallraven, Patagonia, Osprey, and more, all in search of something I thought didn't exist: a lightweight backpack that stands up on its own, has a reasonable amount of pockets, and is comfortable to wear all around. the day. On a recent trip to Chicago, when I found myself on a backpackless city trip, I dove into REI and decided on the Topo Designs Light Pack. I have been continually impressed ever since.
Some bags are loaded with ergonomics and end up weighing two pounds empty, but this one is super lightweight but has just the right amount of padding. Two expandable bottle slots on either side hold water and travel glasses securely and there are enough pockets inside to keep smaller items organized. There's even a laptop pocket for computers up to 15 inches. The 15-liter capacity is perfect for day trips in the destination city, and will fit a couple of hoodies, snacks, and even some impulse purchases at bakeries. It stands upright when you put it down instead of leaning forward like a sleepy toddler, something other bags do that drives me crazy. The padding gives it structure, and both the 400D (medium-heavy) nylon and the uncluttered design make it feel polished, something I appreciated on day seven of a seven-day trip. – AS
