Airline travelers have long engaged in a delicate dance with luggage restrictions. Nothing is more frustrating than arriving at the check-in counter with a carefully packed bag that barely exceeds weight limits, only to face a hefty $75 fee. Similarly, budget airline passengers often find their carry-on bags failing the dreaded size test. Frequent flyers have thus mastered the art of maximizing every liter and square inch. When a bag like Target's Open Story 35-liter travel backpack emerges, promising to hold an astonishing amount of gear, it warrants attention.
Target's Open Story Brand
Target's Open Story line is celebrated for stylish, functional travel accessories. Previous favorites include a hardshell suitcase reminiscent of Away and an indispensable luggage scale that prevents overweight baggage fees. This generously sized backpack continues that tradition, boasting a stunning number of five-star reviews that testify to its supreme functionality. It has earned a 4.6-star rating from 795 reviews, with 643 of them being five stars.
Design and Features
The 35-liter capacity bag features a clamshell closure that opens completely flat, making packing and unpacking a breeze. An exterior zip pocket reveals multiple slip pockets for passports, reading materials, and other small essentials. Inside, two zipper-protected sides are equipped with various compartments for clothing, toiletries, and more, ensuring scientific precision in organization. The rear laptop sleeve accommodates machines up to 17 inches. One reviewer noted using packing cubes, but the bag's internal structure may make them unnecessary. Adjustable exterior closures compress the bag, and padded backpack straps, a side carrying handle, and a luggage slip for rolling luggage enhance convenience.
Customer Reviews
While not every review is stellar, some criticisms focus on the bag's size—19.25 inches tall, 13 inches wide, and 8 inches deep—which may be larger than a traditional banker's box. Some found it too heavy, but the majority embraced its capacity, stuffing it for trips up to three weeks. Here are highlights from informative reviews:
- Lg: "Took this as my sole bag for two weeks in Europe. Fits neatly under the seat and holds a ridiculous amount. Very sturdy zippers and seams. A little uncomfortable on shoulders when loaded heavy but manageable."
- Jayme: "Used as a personal item on Spirit. Straps to condense it helped. Perfect for weekend trips."
- RebF: "Worked great for my long flight. Computer pocket and small pocket were great for easy access. Suitcase in backpack form."
- LFTravels: "Single greatest luggage purchase. Size perfect for avoiding carry-on fees. Wears like a backpack, stores like a suitcase."
- skb324: "Used for Europe trip with compression packing cubes. Held a ton. Protected laptop spot and easy-access pockets."
- Mia: "Must-buy for Spirit or Frontier. Squished down to fit in the metal bin. Buying for my dad and brother."
- kbskate: "Amazing for a 3-week solo trip to Italy. Sturdy, comfortable, and convenient compartments. Only complaint: zipper handles too thin for locks."
- Kat: "Purchased for my boyfriend's bachelor party. Fit everything for 4 days. Spirit had no issues."
At $50, this backpack is a worthwhile investment for travelers seeking to maximize space and avoid fees.
