The first time I “backpacked” I went to Europe for two months. Through ten countries, I dragged around a heavy suitcase on wheels and a very uncomfortable duffel bag that acted as my personal item. While that journey was the trip of a lifetime, I could have saved myself a ton of stress (and money on chiropractic bills) by carrying two manageable backpacks instead. This article explains why Tortuga is the go-to brand for your backpacking needs. We will examine two backpacks that they offer, and why you should buy them.
Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack
Behold the Tortuga 45L Outbreaker Backpack! At $349, this bad boy more than pays for itself as its unique dimensions allow it to fit into the overhead bin as the maximum-sized US carry-on. Think about that: no baggage fees ever! They also offer a nifty 35L option at $299. However, for my extended world travels, I had great success with the larger of the two so that is what we will focus on.
Easy to Organize
With the clamshell opening, the 5.1-pound 45L Outbreaker organizes like a suitcase but travels like a backpack. My hostel buddies were usually quite envious because their backpacks only opened from the top making it difficult to access the majority of their possessions. I witnessed them constantly needing to organize and re-organize their stuff. I never have any problems instantly accessing my items because everything is always in plain sight!
I designate the two mesh zipper pockets for socks and underwear. The spacious main compartment is for shirts, pants, and shorts along with a couple of pairs of flip-flops. There is also a padded compartment built in for 17” laptops and 9.7” tablets. Fortunately, there are two external water bottle pockets on the newest models as well! A smaller separate toiletries bag can also easily pack inside this beauty.
Comfortable
I find that I can wear my Tortuga 45L Outbreaker backpack for long periods of time. Having a backpack like this is critical on travel days especially. Sometimes you can be on your feet for multiple hours, getting in and out of transportation, walking to your accommodation, and even sprinting through airports. It helps to be as comfortable as possible during these stressful transition times.
This bag easily adjusts to your height. The helpful hip belt takes over three-quarters of its weight off of your shoulders. The shoulder straps are composed of a soft padded foam and the back panel is soft and breathable. It includes a convenient removable hip belt and sternum strap as well.
Durable
For reference, I am still using the Tortuga Outbreaker that I purchased in early 2015! This fabulous relic has now been to over 30 countries and is still in great shape. No need to fix what is not broken!
With the current updated model that we are discussing, the waterproof sailcloth doesn’t rip or tear. I love the zippers! They are lockable, water-resistant, and seriously durable. The buckles and clips also excel at their jobs.
As if the above wasn’t enough, the 45L Outbreaker Backpack includes a Common Decency Guarantee. It ships for free and Tortuga promises no-hassle returns. Lastly, the product is guaranteed for life! Plan to buy this many months ahead as they are having trouble keeping it in stock.
Tortuga Outbreaker Laptop Backpack
I can also sing the praises of the Tortuga 27L Outbreaker Laptop Backpack! This little brother of the 45L Outbreaker travels with your laptop or tablet and fits under the seat in front of you. Currently, it is listed at $225 and is absolutely worth your investment.
Easy to Pack
“Spacious” is an understatement! The main compartment has that familiar wide opening for ultra-easy access and organization. It also has a secure electronics compartment and padded fleece-lined sleeves for your laptop or tablet. I love the expandable water bottle pocket as well.
Personal-Item-Sized
If you are carrying a suitcase, it so cleverly includes a built-in luggage handle pass-through sleeve. It has top and side grab handles that are comfortable to hold for longer periods if needed. If I have one complaint, it is that it feels rather heavy at 3.2 pounds, but I feel that what the backpack is capable of makes it worth carrying around those few extra ounces.
Built to Last
The exceptionally durable fabric does not rip or tear. It is waterproof with a helpful assist from the lockable water-resistant zippers. Tortuga backpacks can take a beating and they stay looking classy!
Key Takeaways
You can confidently invest your hard-earned cash in both the Tortuga 45L Outbreaker Backpack and the Tortuga 27L Outbreaker Laptop Backpack. I know that a collective $574 may sound like a lot but these bags more than pay for themselves thanks to their airplane-friendly sizes, incredibly intuitive organization compartments, comfort in wearing, and multi-year multi-trip durability. After your next journey, please let me know what you think of yours!
