Are you tired of struggling with bulky luggage and long waits at baggage claim? Look no further than the Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L, the ultimate carry-on backpack designed to make your travels seamless and stress-free. In this comprehensive review, we'll delve into the features that make this backpack the best choice for frequent flyers and digital nomads alike.
Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L Details
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's take a look at the key details that make the Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L a standout option:
- Dimensions (cm): 55 x 35 x 20 cm
- Dimensions (inches): 21.7 x 13.8 x 7.9 inches
- Volume: 40 liters
- Weight: 2kg (4.5 lbs)
- Colour: Black
- Price: US $350 (free US shipping)
- Buy from: Tortuga website
Now that we have the essentials covered, let's explore why the Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L is a game-changer for travelers.
Tortuga Travel Backpack vs Tortuga Outbreaker
The new smaller, lighter Tortuga Travel Backpack. Photo courtesy of Tortuga.
In January 2023, Tortuga released the new and improved Tortuga Travel Backpack. This latest version builds upon the success of the Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack, incorporating significant changes for enhanced functionality and comfort.
The new Tortuga Travel Backpack comes in 40L and 30L options, slightly smaller than its predecessor. This review originally focused on the Outbreaker Backpack but has been updated to highlight the features of the new Tortuga Backpack.
The new Tortuga Travel Backpack has one mesh pocket opposite the main compartment, rather than two. Photo courtesy of Tortuga.
Here's an overview of how the new Tortuga Travel Backpack compares to the Tortuga Outbreaker:
- Smaller: The new backpack is slightly smaller at 40L, meeting carry-on requirements for both international and domestic flights.
- Lighter: It's 10% lighter at 2kg, making it easier on your shoulders and back.
- Rounder corners: The new backpack boasts a softer, more ergonomic design.
- Recycled fabric: The new fabric is not only waterproof but also 100% recycled, lighter, and more durable.
- Improved suspension system: The suspension system allows for easy adjustment to fit your height, providing optimal comfort.
- Fewer pockets: While maintaining excellent organization, the new design has fewer pockets, reducing weight while still meeting your needs.
With these improvements, the new Tortuga Travel Backpack is set to revolutionize the way you travel.
Tortuga Travel Backpack Review
Tortuga Travel Backpack Pros
Tortuga was founded by travelers for travelers, and their expertise shines through in the exceptional quality of their backpacks. Here are the standout features that make the Tortuga Travel Backpack a top choice:
Carry-on sized: The Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L complies with most airlines' maximum carry-on size requirements. Its rectangular design maximizes packing space, especially when using packing cubes.
Durable: Crafted from a durable, waterproof fabric, this backpack withstands the rigors of travel without showing any signs of wear and tear.
Padded hip belt: One of the most sought-after features in a carry-on backpack is a padded hip belt. The Tortuga Travel Backpack delivers on this front, distributing the bag's weight onto your hips and preventing back and shoulder pain.
Perfect fit: With its height adjustment system, the Tortuga Travel Backpack accommodates a wide range of body types, ensuring maximum comfort even for those with smaller torsos.
Front-loading design: Say goodbye to the hassle of rummaging through your backpack. The Tortuga Backpack opens along the entire front, resembling a suitcase, making packing and organizing a breeze.
Laptop sleeve: The fleece-lined laptop compartment, located close to your body, provides excellent protection for laptops up to 16 inches. Additionally, there's a separate tablet sleeve for added convenience.
Organized: With three distinct sections and various compartments, this backpack offers ample organization options. You'll find designated pockets for small items, a spacious main compartment for clothes and larger essentials, and an electronics compartment with pockets for accessories.
Simple design: The sleek, black design of the Tortuga Backpack is both stylish and inconspicuous, ensuring it blends effortlessly with any travel ensemble.
Lockable zippers: Protect your belongings with lockable zippers on all three compartments, providing peace of mind during your travels.
30L version available: If the 40L size is too large for your needs, Tortuga offers a smaller 30L version with the same features but at a lighter weight and more affordable price.
Free Shipping: Tortuga offers free shipping within the US. In case the backpack doesn't meet your expectations, you can return it unused within 30 days for a refund or exchange.
With its impressive list of pros, the Tortuga Travel Backpack exceeds expectations and proves itself as the go-to choice for carry-on travel.
Tortuga Travel Backpack Cons
The new Tortuga Travel Backpack has addressed the main cons of its predecessor, making it difficult to find any significant drawbacks. Here are a few minor considerations to keep in mind:
Expensive: With a price tag of $350, the Tortuga Travel Backpack falls into the premium range. However, considering that your luggage is a crucial investment for your travels, the durability and functionality of this backpack make it worth the cost.
No shipping outside the US: Unfortunately, the backpack is only available for purchase on the Tortuga website, with no international shipping options. However, using a freight forwarder can help overcome this limitation.
Tortuga Alternatives
If you're still weighing your options, here are a couple of alternatives to consider:
Osprey Farpoint 40
I travelled for many years with the Osprey Farpoint 40.
The Osprey Farpoint 40 is a smaller, simpler, and lighter alternative to the Tortuga Travel Backpack. With a capacity of 38 liters and weighing only 1.3kg, it's perfect for those seeking a more compact and affordable option. However, note that it offers less organization and a smaller laptop sleeve located at the front of the bag.
Minaal Carry-On
The Minaal 3.0 is a stylish carry-on backpack.
Minaal's Carry-On backpack is a stylish competitor to Tortuga's offerings. However, with a capacity of only 35 liters (compared to Tortuga's 40L), additional costs for a hip belt, and fewer essential features like a front-loading design and lockable zippers, it may not be the ideal choice for those seeking maximum functionality.
Tortuga Travel Backpack Summary
In conclusion, the Tortuga Travel Backpack is the epitome of travel gear perfection. It combines style, durability, comfort, and impeccable organization, making it the ultimate travel companion for carry-on enthusiasts.
If you're in search of a waterproof backpack with exceptional functionality and an adjustable suspension system, look no further than the Tortuga Travel Backpack. With its thoughtfully designed features and robust construction, this backpack will undoubtedly enhance your travel experience.
To embark on your carry-on only adventures, visit the Tortuga website and get your very own Tortuga Travel Backpack today.
More Carry-On Only Travel Tips
For a comprehensive packing list and everything you need to know about carry-on only travel, be sure to check out our dedicated guide. As always, we strive to provide honest reviews and trustworthy advice to make your travel experiences extraordinary.
Disclaimer: Tortuga provided Simon with the Outbreaker backpack for review purposes. However, his continued use of the Tortuga backpack for a year is a testament to its exceptional quality and functionality.
