For over a decade, I have not owned anything larger than a carry-on suitcase, and traveling with only a carry-on remains my preferred method for several reasons. First, all my belongings stay with me, meaning if something goes missing, it is my responsibility. It also saves time upon arrival since there is no waiting at baggage claim. Additionally, with more airlines charging extra fees for anything beyond a carry-on, sticking to one leaves more budget for experiences at my destination. Over the years, I have experimented with various packing techniques, from rolling clothes to folding them flat and building capsule wardrobes. For a while, I relied on packing cubes, which helped compress and contain more items within neat rectangles. I appreciated the structure they provided, allowing me to sort everything into categories: toiletries in one cube, socks and underwear in another, and outfits in a larger one. This system ensured I always knew where everything was and could quickly grab what I needed upon arrival.
However, to my surprise, the Solgaard Venture backpack has shifted this habit, eliminating the need for packing cubes and streamlining the packing process further.
Effortless Unpacking
The backpack, which I have now used on several trips ranging from five-day road trips to weeklong flights, is designed with organization, accessibility, and efficient packing in mind. Its clamshell, suitcase-style opening allows the bag to lie flat, making everything visible at once rather than buried under layers as with a top-loading backpack. This eliminates the need to empty the entire bag just to find a single item, which was my default approach before. Built to seamlessly combine work and travel, the backpack features the Workzone, a built-in system for keeping work gear organized on the move. Fleece-lined sleeves accommodate up to a 16-inch laptop and a 12.9-inch tablet with keyboard folio attached, plus a large organizer panel with pockets for tech and small accessories like pens, notebooks, portable chargers, and cables.
Innovative Organizational Panel
The signature feature of the backpack is a removable organizational panel designed to function like a hanging wardrobe. It sits within the Lifezone section of the backpack, the main compartment. The system uses a structured internal frame with layered shelves that keep folded clothing in place, allowing items to be packed into three clearly separated sections. These sections remain visible and accessible without digging through everything. Besides clothes and toiletries, I have even packed sneakers and hair tools in the compartments. Two compression straps on either side help cinch everything down for efficient packing. Upon arrival, I simply remove the internal frame, release the compression straps, and hang it on a closet rod. Unpacking is completed in under a minute, eliminating the need to pull out packing cubes one by one, unfold clothes, and find drawer space and hangers.
Additional Features
The Solgaard Venture backpack includes several extra features that enhance its appeal as a convenient travel option for those who prefer a structured, carry-on-only system. At the top, there is a scratch-resistant zippered pocket for sunglasses, while two expandable side pockets accommodate water bottles, snacks, or other small essentials within easy reach. A sternum strap helps distribute weight evenly across the shoulders, and three hidden pockets are built in for valuables like a passport, keys, or wallet. If you choose to bring luggage, a suitcase-style trolley strap allows the backpack to slide over it for easier transport through airports or stations.
User Testimonials
See what other users have to say about why they reach for this backpack trip after trip:
- Michael: "Excellent product, just went to Florida with it, it was the perfect 2nd carryon bag that fit perfectly under the seat in front of me. All my electronics, charging wires and cubes, needed paperwork and a full day's change of clothes was no problem for this well thought out Backpack!! Outstanding buy!! I HIGHLY recommend this Backpack!!!!"
- Enrico: "I now own 4 matching pieces! Have been traveling a lot and I now pack in minutes! So many compliments already. Light and Functional!!"
- Ben: "This backpack is the best! I did a LOT of research before deciding on this bag and I'm so glad I did. The storage space is amazing, the extra internal pockets are well thought out and every one of them is useful in several ways. On top of all of these great features the backpack is very comfortable to carry when fully loaded. This will be coming round the world with me over the next year and I have no doubt it will become my most valuable piece of kit."
- Francois: "Why didn't I get this before?!? It's built strong, it's functional and fits my lifestyle i.e. I don't travel much but do several 2-3 days stays and the included closet is simply fantastic! I have storage for every single item I need and can access everything in no time. And that's not counting when I simply need it to go to the office. Bravo Solgaard."
$265 at Solgaard
