There’s not much use for suitcases, with so many of us choosing to only go away for a few days of a staycation or choosing day trips instead. With this in mind, we decided to check some backpacks out there, which could double up as overnight bags, laptop bags, hiking bags and pretty much anything to pop a few essential things inside without having to dust off the suitcase.
Here at Luxurious Magazine, we’ve been familiar with the OGIO brand (more about them a bit later), who are known maestros for building bags with functionality in mind. Their bags, from gear holdalls to backpacks, are engineered to solve niggly problems such as modular organisational design, quick access Fidlock system, reactive suspension and durable waterproof construction. So, we decided to review their brand-new Alpha+ range, which they brought to life recently.
New Alpha+ Range
On first impressions, this bag is rugged, tactical, and ready for whatever and wherever you need to set off on an adventure. The fully loaded backpack has space and organisation for pretty much everything you need from a backpack.
The backpacks are available in 20L and 25L sizes and are said to be able to cope with pretty much any challenge. They utilise a sturdy recycled Ballistic nylon construction base for ultimate protection; in addition to this, it has a selection of separate zipped compartments to keep everything organised and a 17″ laptop and tablet space together. So, of course, I had to put it to the test and have been using it to lug around my laptop, essential sports kit including trainers as well as using it for a weekend away.
Having used the expandable backpack for a month, I was able to make a few observations. It’s robust, waterproof, and comfortable to wear on the back with its adjustable shoulder straps, sternum straps, reflective trim, webbing, zipper pulls, and padded comfort for the top handle. It’s not small, however, I can’t recall ever thinking it was overly heavy or bulky.
It is a versatile bag and ideal for those short breaks away from home. It is also perfect for more regular activities, such as outdoor sports and even a shopping trip if you fancy carrying a load. My laptop was well protected with the dedicated 17″ laptop pocket with a padded tablet sleeve.
The technology it uses is a reactive suspension system, which means if I accidentally dropped my bag, my laptop would bounce up and not touch the ground. I didn’t want to put that to the test (just in case), but I have faith that should such an ‘accident occur, all my work will be safe.
Finally, as a super organised and busy person, I was impressed with all the various pockets available, so I could arrange my goods accordingly and find them at ease.
About OGIO
For those of you who might not be familiar with the brand, OGIO is owned by Callaway Golf Company. It’s a premium active lifestyle company alongside a portfolio of global brands, including Callaway Golf, Odyssey, Travis Mathew, Jack Wolfskin and Top Golf.
OGIO’s expertise has been put into a vast range of expertly constructed luggage, bags, backpacks and accessories, which ensures it can cope with even the most testing of environments.
The brand has been with us since 1987 and since then has become well-established thanks to the quality and the clever design of its products. This has helped to make them a preferred choice across a wide variety of sports.
Verdict
The bag is most definitely built to last, is technologically advanced and created as a long-lasting premium product in mind. The big, bold colours are a step away from the brand’s usual tone, which even they admit is new to them. So, if you’re not into such bright, bold colours, you may want to go for the less out-there backpacks OGIO do. Other than that, there’s little else to complain about and plenty to pack in one.
OGIO Alpha+ Range Backpacks – Where and How?
Available in a 20L (£79.95) and a 25L (£99.95) capacity, the Alpha+ Range can be viewed and purchased from www.eu.ogio.com, where you will find a full range of other bags for pretty much all your travel needs.
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