17.5.2017

It wouldn't be completely inaccurate to describe myself as a "backpack enthusiast". It's an odd thing for most people to imagine, since these things are merely thought of by most adults as utilitarian things that you use when you have to and are generally avoided when you can get away with carrying some other style of bag. With that bit of background out of the way. I preface the rest of my review of this Thule with the fact that I don't doubt that I probably currently own no fewer than a dozen backpacks of all shapes and sizes and probably have owned and later sold or passed on on at least double that number over the last 5 years alone - it's not that I'll keep any backpack that catches my eye,I regularly cull and add to my "collection" refining it over time to better fit me. My favourite manufacturers are Arc'teryx and Osprey for very different reasons. This is the first Thule pack that I've had the opportunity to use. Does it make the cut?Before getting into specific features and compartments of any pack, the very first things that I look at with packs are the construction and materials quality and almost conversely the weight of the pack. These two things usually live on a sliding scale where one gives up compromise to the other in some fashion and depending on how I envision the situations where I'm likely to use a given pack I put more or less emphasis on one over the other. Because of the roll top design (I love the little magnetic closure on it, even though it doesn't really serve much of a purpose it's a nice touch) it really makes the most of the volume of the pack without being larger than it needs to be dimensionally on the exterior. This pack is fairly lightweight for it's construction and earns marks from me here - a travel pack should not weigh a ton. I'm happy to say that I found every single zipper on the pack was a quality YKK zipper, an area where less expensive packs frequently cheap out on and bad zippers will quickly be the end of packs that are otherwise put together well enough. Even the zippers inside the pack and on the packing cube are YKK they did not pinch any pennies in this department. The nylon material is tightly woven which should lend it some water resistance if it gets caught in a shower, and the roll top again is better than top zipped packs in preventing water from getting in but it will not keep the contents dry for extended periods. Interestingly, I put the pack under a tap to see how the material dealt with water and I was happy to see that it appears the outer material of the pack has been treated with a DWR (durable water repellent) and the water beads right off and doesn't soak in at all. That being said, DWR does not last forever. You can reapply it as needed, but all DWR has limits before it will wet through and I would not consider this pack water proof without a fly. I am not a big fan of the "painted on" Thule logo. They tend to hold up better than they used to, but wear differently than embroidery in that while they tend not to discolour and stain like embroidery does they do all eventually wear away and can become an eyesore after years of rough handling.The Thule being a 34L "medium" sized pack is one that I would use for travel where I would be away from home for one or two nights, such as the majority of business travel that I do. It isn't large enough to be considered a backpacking pack, and lacks any sort of rigid frame regardless. It is a bit larger than I would like for use as an every-day carry bag unless I thought I would specifically need the volume. The name Subterra might be suggestive of an outdoors bag, but I really don't see it in this role. For one, it does not come with a rain fly (a thing that is frequently omitted from a lot of bags, to be fair) and I don't know anybody that takes their laptops camping/hiking/etc. and a fair amount of the internal structure of the Subterra is designed around the idea of hauling electronics around. I feel this pack is just about the right size for somebody between 5'7" and 5'10", I am a bit taller than this and it could stand to be slightly longer for comfort to cover more of my back without letting the top slouch.As an overnight bag, the Subterra checks all of the feature boxes. An internal laptop sleeve/cradle big enough to fit most "business class" laptops which tend to fit into an approximate 15" size envelope - such as my Precision 7510. A particularly thoughtful internal arrangement for portable battery packs to keep things like your phone (or, um your Nintendo Switch) charged up during long waits at the airport which keeps the battery pack and other devices physically separated and cables organized which while simple is surprisingly smart. And finally, the packing "cube" it comes with, purpose built for the pack, takes the show when it comes to packing for an overnighter. My previous go-to bag for this purpose is an Osprey Farpoint which opens up in a clamshell like arrangement. The way the Thule lets you access the contents of the bag is unique in that you can get to the contents of the cube from side openings in the bag so you don't even need to take the packing cube out of the bag to find something quickly. Being a roll top bag (not my first roll top, though I have to be honest that the roll top has not been my favourite configuration) the side access is kind of critical because roll tops can be a bit of a bear to get in and out of frequently in general. Thankfully the roll top is of a design that does not use drawstrings, which I hate, but is similar to an Arc'teryx roll top I previously used which uses snap lock straps which are relatively easier to deal with. The side access is thoughtfully designed with two zippers, one which provides access to the main body of the pack (and packing cube) and a separate compartment that leads to the laptop area so you can pull your laptop out without disturbing anything else in the pack (yay), much easier than accessing the laptop compartment through the top when out. Particularly helpful I imagine going through airport security.The straps are only lightly padded, but I don't expect very heavy loads to really go into this bag so I think this is fine (heavy padding is heavier and tend to be less durable), the shape of the straps and width is comfortable and I am overall satisfied with them for what they are. The back of the pack is also lightly padded, but on the rigid size, which does help with comfort as well as to help the pack keep it's shape when loaded - this is particularly helpful if you plan on using the laptop compartment as you don't want the back of the pack deforming while a laptop is pressed against your back. The laptop compartment is located at the very back of the pack just between the foam and your back so it's located in a good position relative to the rest of the interior. All of the snaps and closures on this pack are plastic, but they don't feel cheap and I can't see them breaking with the exception of perhaps the key ring holder inside which seems a bit of the flimsy side. That being said, I would not want the key holder to be metallic in the area where you may be keeping electronics for the sake of not scratching up your stuff.Here's the bottom line. This pack is made well. It straddles the line between the tending on heavy duty (and heavy) Arc'teryx packs and the lightweight Osprey packs nicely. It suits it's purpose of travel very well and it has earned it's place in my collection. I like the subdued styling over all. I could do without the bright neon yellow interior, but that's a minor gripe. I wouldn't have minded a side pocket on the exterior for a water bottle, either, but it's easy enough to get into the pack from the side to stuff one in there just on the other side of the side zipper so it's workable in this respect in a pinch. The bag is a good value, price wise, compared to my usual manufacturers and I can't really find any glaring problems with the bag so I have no problem giving this guy a full 5 stars.

28.5.2017

I was so excited about trying out the Thule Subterra Backpack (34 L). I fly quite often and am trying to travel light and without checked luggage. The idea that I could pack my clothes and electronics in one bag - no stopping while trying to make connections. - greatly appealed to me.There is a removable packing 'cube' that measures approx.19"x 13"X 5''. There's a pullout hand on the top and a breathable mesh 'cover.'Can you pack enough in there you say? Well, it depends on what you need for short trips. I was absolutely able to - rolling is the key! Then slide back into the main compartment of the backpack. Here's a neat feature - there is a side zipper to access the packing cube without taking the whole thing out.Also in that main compartment is a padded laptop slot. I only travel with my iPad, but it's nice to have a padded place to store it. There is another side zipper to access this padded electronics section as well without opening up the main compartment. With only an iPad, there was lots of room to store charging cords as well. I also tucked a book in there.The closing is similar to my waterproof kayak bag. There are two magnetic strips on the top that snap together. Two rolls of the top exposed the carry handle and snap locks. The snap locks make it impossible to have it unroll, have things fall out or have someone unzipping it without you knowing. The plastic lock unit seem sturdy. The zippers were heavy duty and quality made. The carry handles are also heavy duty and will absolutely stand up to the 34 litres that this bag is advertised to hold. Note that there is a handle vertically and horizontally, allowing you to carry the item as a backpack or as a briefcase.Used as a backpack. The backpack straps are padded, but not overly. Remember this isn't a bag you would take on a trail. They are adjustable and fairly comfortable. First time wearing it, I found them a bit stiff - but hey, it's new and will wear in. There is an adjustable strap that will fit across your chest with a snap lock, again minimizing the chances that you will lose it. This also allows you to have have both hands free. The back itself is padded as well. There are many carabiner loops on the backpackstraps if needed.That's the main compartment and the backpack straps. But there's a whole 'nother compartment in front. A large deep pocket and two more zippered pockets. All are quite large. There is also what Thule calls a PowerPocket. There are channels and loops to hold cords and chargers. As well as a keyring on a small hook. The hook doesn't have a definitive closing mechanism - perhaps one that snapped closed would be more secure. That being said, it's also found inside a zippered pocket. (I only mention this as I tend to regularly lose my keys) And last but not least, there's one more handy, expandable compartment on the side opposite the handle side.That upper handle can also be used to hook the Thule over the handle on my rolling small carryon. While I was trying this out, I realized there was an entire strap across the middle back of the Thule for just this purpose.The weight while empty is 2.8 kilos. The exterior is made of a heavy duty, tough material that will stand up to lots of travel and use. I was unable to determine if it is waterproof - but it looks to be water resistant. I love bright colours, so the neon yellow interior makes me happy. I examined the stitching closely, especially in the corners on the on the zippers. No weak spots - and I tugged.While I initially saw this Thule as a travel companion, on a second look I can see using it to tote stuff day to day. Specifically to work and after work. A change of clothes would be easily packed, all my id and electronics also stowed with lots of room left over to stick in my lunch.Overall, this is a very impressive backpack. I can't fault the construction, the layout or the look. Five stars.

15.6.2017

Both the 18-year-old boy and the 21-year-old daughter love this thing. They both want it—bad.This is not a very large pack, coming in at only 34 liters. As such, this is not a pack for trekking or even camping. And it’s a bit big for an everyday campus sort of bag. The product copy calls this a “travel backpack.” This would be a good pack for a long weekend, or for business travel. This is a soft-sided pack, but is not floppy; there is some modest hard plastic framing inside.It’s got a side handle, so you can carry it like a briefcase.The top opening to the main compartment has the kind of internal semi-rigid plastic-enabled snap closure reminiscent of dry bags,but I can find nothing in the product copy that this is in fact a waterproof pack. The top closure works well, the smooth flat edges flexing tightly together, and three or four easy folds brings the snaplocks to their mates on the pack body so you can secure the edges on both sides. There is no zipper or other form of closure for the top access to the pack.The main compartment is big and easy to get into. The pack comes with a separate padded and zippered packing cube, complete with an integrated nylon pull handle. There is no way to secure this packing cube within the main compartment. There are no other compartments of storage features inside the main compartment. You can also get into the main compartment from outside on one side of the pack. Inside the main compartment you can access the laptop compartment as well.There is a huge internal pouch, padded amply on both sides and accessible from the side, for a laptop. I’ve got a traditional big laptop, and this fits in easily. There is an outside compartment that has all of the traditional computer-type features, with multiple pouches, slots for pens, mesh pouches, one of them zippered, etc. This outside compartment is also very well padded.The shoulder straps are the kind you’d find on a heavier pack, nicely padded and contoured, with multiple nylon loops on each strap, and with a chest connecting strap that you can move for better fit (four positions). The shoulder straps are not removable.There is also a wide nylon band in the back of the pack that you can slide over your luggage handle to integrate with rolling luggage. And on one side of the outside is a zippered deep pocket, which might be used to carry a smaller water bottle, although the pocket is not big enough to zip a bottle inside.Documentation: I received a very nice Thule welcome package with this, with a letter from the Thule Amazon sales coordinator, a nice color Product News sheet on this pack, and a Thule flash drive with more product info promised. Sorry, Thule, but I didn’t plug this thing into my computer. I do cyber for a living, and there’s just no way I’m connecting your flash drive to my computer, regardless of all the cool stuff you may have to tell me about this pack.The pack comes with a couple of product copy cards, which graphically depict the various features of the pack. These are in full color and do a good job of communicating what the pack offers. In terms of contact, you get the big Thule.com URL, and physical addresses in Connecticut, Belgium, and Hong Kong. There is no customer service email address, no is there a phone number to call—not good. Also disappointing is the lack of warranty information on the product.Price: It seems to me that the price of approximately $160 is about right for this pack. It is very well constructed, all seams are tight and very well sewn, and the materials appear to be top-notch. I would expect that this pack would hold up well for some time.Bottom line: This a very well made and good-looking backpack with multiple integrated features for personal items and electronics.

18.5.2018

I travel. A bunch. Like over 200,000 miles. As a heavy traveler, I need things that WORK. Nothing flimsy or cutesie... gimmicky or lame. I need function.This Thule (pronounced toolee) backpack is quite literally the BEST pack I have ever used - and I have tried a TON of them (from Oakley to JanSport to Victorinox to....) in my career.To be fair, I have not exactly used this backpack in its intended usage; I don't use the luggage/clothing insert it came with. I DO use that for my regular suitcase (super handy) but my backpack is all work-related stuff. And I tend to carry a BUNCH of stuff (laptop, iPad Pro, battery back-ups, 1 or 2 LaCie backup hard drives, power supplies, backup batteries,Logitech remotes, countless cables/adapters, international adapters, cameras [Canon 70D and/or Lumix GH5 as well as my Light camera], Bose headphones, as well as one day of clothes for international trips).Like I said - a BUNCH.Even when fully loaded and the top expanded/extended, this fits under airline seats in both Coach and First Class easily (caveat - I usually remove either my iPad Pro or MacBook and Bose headphones for in-flight use before stowing my bag).Here's a quick run-down of the bag. There are 3 loading areas in the bag: Front (flap) and middle; and back/rear.The front (flap) is great for small items such as pens, paper, boarding passes, immigration forms, gum, etc.The middle is quite large and excellent for back-up batteries, hard drives, small cameras, and other such items.The rear/main compartment is for the bigger things such as cameras, cases/bags with cables and chargers, jackets, headphones, etc. Then behind this main compartment is the velcro-flap compartment for your laptop/iPad area. This is a padded area and quite secure.From the side of the bag you have 2 long zippers - one to the main body of the bag (you can quickly grab your jacket, camera, or other item stowed there. The second is for the padded rear laptop/iPad area which is nice should you have to remove your device(s) for airport security.On the opposite side of the bag is a zippered compartment useful for small items, a water bottle, or other items you might need to grab while on the go.Along the back of the pack is a strap which you can use to mount the backpack on a suitcase pull-up handle which is super convenient!Here are some PROS:Outstanding designIntuitive layoutWater resistantSleek lookEasily accessible via roll-top/side zippers/front zippersExtremely roomyCan carry my 15" MacBook Pro AND iPad Pro in the same pouchHeld up extremely well in a myriad of conditions (snow, rain, wind, subways, trains, planes, boats, cabs, etc.)Fully adjustable straps (shoulder and chest)Classic clean lookCONS:OK I'll be super picky here.... The backing is padded and, when wearing with both straps on your shoulders and the pack against your back - it can get a bit warm. There's just not an adequate ventilation channel there - in my opinion. Certainly not a deal breaker!Secondly, the straps could be a bit more robust. I tend to be a 'slinger' and place my backpack only over one shoulder and this has caused some stress on the strap. Sure, if I wore it the 'proper' way 100% of the time I seriously doubt this would happen..... but I just keep on being a 'slinger'.... don't judge..Final thoughts: This is, as I mentioned, quite simply the BEST bag I have owned. I am 100% confident in this bag and its capabilities to keep me organized and my items secure during my most demanding travel. The design is intuitive, smart, and well thought out. I simply LOVE this bag.10+ stars.

8.1.2019

UPDATED:I’ve travelled with this a few times and docked a star after spending more time with it.This bag is clearly bullet proof and will last forever. My only complaint is the front compartment is way too cramped and, as I tend to travel with a lot of tech (Nintendo switch/wireless headphones/cameras/etc) it becomes quite annoying to use and way too small.If this bag had a bigger front compartment, some small item organization in the main compartment, and a small item compartment on the outside, I would give it a 5.That’s my only qualm. Otherwise I love it and especially love it as a day bag! For long trips it gets too cramped.ORIGINAL REVIEW:I've had this bag for a few weeks,and haven't done a big trip with it yet, but so far I'm really enjoying it.This bag has a ton of volume, but when you're just using it as a day pack, you barely notice how large it is. The bag itself is quite light and comfortable to wear, and has a very streamlined look when empty. There are plenty of organizational features in the outer compartment and it's easy to keep everything separate.My three favorite features are the inner packing cube, the side handle, and the side zippers. The packing cube is of much higher quality than aftermarket cubes, and it has a handle so you can easily isolate your clothes. In fact, I have the cube packed right now waiting for my wife to give birth so when it's time to go to the hospital I'll throw it in the bag and be packed in a matter of seconds! With the side handle, it makes it super easy to carry and throw in the car and I love how it feels like a briefcase in that case. Finally, the side zippers make it super easy to access a laptop or the main compartment, and I'm looking forward to breezing through security with it next time I fly.Two things to keep in mind: the bag doesn't stand up on its own, which can be annoying if that's what you expect. I am not bothered by this. Also, if you use it as a day pack when not traveling as I am, you might find you're stuffing everything into the front compartment, which can mean it gets messy in there. I wish there was some organization compartments in the main compartment to avoid this, even a single mesh compartment in there would be nice.I spent a ton of time reviewing bags and watching youtube videos. I found the Subterra to be one of the best values out there: the price is almost half that of other well rated bags, and the materials feel just as strong. I bought another daypack at the same time thinking I'd only use the Subterra for travel, and I quickly returned that one as I realized I already had a perfect daypack with the Subterra.Finally, if you're like me and a little larger, this bag won't look silly on you like some of the small day packs. I really like how it looks on me. I'm thrilled with it so far and will update the review once I do a bigger one-bag trip!

23.5.2017

This is the most innovative and quality constructed backpack that I have ever seen or used.Thule is known for producing high end products and this backpack is no exception. I use a backpack daily for hauling all my effects and a change of clothes, to and from work and because of that, I tend to go through backpacks pretty frequently. This Thule backpack is HIGHLY innovative (I see it as a hybrid of sorts) because of how it compartmentalizes items as well as the fact that it can be used as a backpack or a duffle bag / carry on bag / overnight bag. Carry it like a traditional duffle bag by it's handle after unfolding it in the appropriate manner or sling it over one or both shoulders to use asa backpack.At 34 liters it can carry alot of stuff but it smartly allows things to be stored in various pockets or compartments, including a well padded compartment for a 15" laptop that provides access without having to open up the bag.Construction consists of tightly woven nylon which provides great strength without being too heavy. Zippers are often the down fall of most bags over time but Thule is using top of the line zippers in this bag that will surely stand up for the long haul. The material is also water resistant, having been treated with a water resistant process, according to their website and sure enough, after hitting it with some water, it just beads and runs off. Additional protection would surely need to be reapplied with time, depending on use, with a water repellant spray but it is a nice feature to start with. The top of the backpack features an innovative opening that works with 2 flexible flattened bars inside the material that when placed together, Seal magnetically and allow you to roll the excessive material down and then "fold" or "bend" the bars over the curvature at the top of the bag, to create a surprisingly nice fit for closing. What is the point of this, might you ask? A really nice big wide opening when you want to get into the bag, something a zippered closure just would not allow the way this design does.Finally, inside of the bag, is one of my favorite features that suits me perfectly. They have what is called a "garment tube". Essentially it is a generous sized nylon (zippered) mesh that allows you to pack a shirt, pants, socks and underwear (with a little room to spare for an additional item or two) so that it is kept nice, neat and folded, rather that loose and likely to get all messed up over the course of the day, as you handle the pack. This suits my particular needs - exactly.This is NOT a backpack for hiking days on end during extensive camping trips. It is not a rigid framed pack, Thule has other products in that vein but this IS the ultimate urban bag that is very well made and very versatile. I absolutely LOVE it.

23.1.2020

I got this pack as a one-bag carry-on for up to a week away, and although I haven't traveled with it yet, it looks great.I've test packed it with enough stuff for a (somewhat minimalist) week away without washing clothes (warm/mild climate) including an ultrabook etc. (packed flip-flops but no other shoes)The packing cube works really well and makes packing easy, and the extra side zip access to the main compartment is great for quick access stuff like a jacket outside the main packing cube because opening the roll top for quick access is a faf.The laptop compartment is great for an ultrabook etc (probably not a full-on 15in machine), and the organisation features in the back zip pocket will have me covered for the usual pens,

30.5.2017

The Thule Backpack has added substantial convenience to my everyday routine. Multi-purposeful, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing - this backpack has earned worthy praise from both the young and the old that I have encountered in only the few weeks that I have used it.One of the best aspects of this backpack is it's multi-layered compartments, which are full of custom fitted pockets for items such as pens and calculators and its cushioned pads that protect valuables like my laptop. I have used this backpack for both school and work, and I found it highly effective in holding everything I need from light notebooks to heavy duty textbooks. Coated in a neutral black,

3.5.2017

Dark outer backpack. Bright orange inner. I'm not a big fan of the dark exterior color but that is the color it is available in. Easily remedied with a couple of neoprene colorful handles.I do like the integration of a battery powerpack space. I've been travelling to places like East Africa where access to power is not guaranteed so I can keep my devices charged while in the backpack. You have to supply your own battery pack. I personally like the RavPower 20100mah but you can find others too. Looks like it will take a battery pack much larger than my 20100mah so I would not hold back.34L is a good size for airplane carry on too. Even in places like East Africa that limit by size and weight.

21.3.2018

Wonderful bag, quality is very good and in most case pretty par with Timbuk2 brand quality, I had to replace it since I am looking for something more ergonomically and functional. Awesome compartment setup fits anything in there that carry your daily electronic and extra space for clothes, drinks and etc.This is a great bag for commute and travel seriously. 34L is perfect size for what I need daily. 40L might be too big. This bag is like a size of a human body torso.Laptop fits perfectly from the top drop in, the only thing I am worry is the zippy head inside for the laptop compartment may contact the laptop edge at the top. There is a potential chance to scratch the laptop.

6.11.2020

I have worked steadily on doing more with less without under packing and needing to buy more when i arrive. In the past year, I have gotten into single bag packing as in, as often as possible, only having a carry-on. This bag is perfect. I can get a good 4 days worth of clothes (more in the summer) by being strategic about what I pack (i.e, 1 or 2 pairs of easily collapsible shoes). This bag is both function and looks good. I have enough compartments for my clothing and my electronics. I love that I can access the back from the top and the side and that i can access the laptop pocket from the top and side as well. The compartment section in the front is great for other tech stuff.

31.10.2019

I got this backpack because at 34L it's a little smaller than the max carryon backpacks, which means you are less likely to alert eager gate agents, especially at a budget airline) who are inclined to weigh your bag on the chance you'll exceed a carryon weight limit(usually 7 kg/15 lbs) and pay the gate checkin fee.this bag hits that sweet spot between travel carryon and daily carry bag. For minimalist travelers this means unloading your clothes and whatever else at your accommodation, roll the bag down since it's a rolltop, and use it as daypack while sightseeing. it was also work well as a laptop bag with whatever other tech you need to carry.I have meaty traps/shoulders so the straps are comfortable for me.YKK zippers and Duraflex buckles - the good bags feature this.

11.6.2017

UPDATE: Spent some times in a downpour and the backpack had a puddle in it at the end. Water resistant, not proof.A really good little daypack. Would recommend for a hiking or picnic trip but also as a work-to-overnight-visit commute.Material is tough, strong, water resistant and sleek. Straps are padded and curved for best fit. Lots of straps to adjust comfort.There is 1 pocket in the front that holds the usual stuff with a little cord hole to allow charging a device from a battery bank in a separate compartment.There is also a laptop sleeve built into the inside of the backpack, but I found it too small for my 15.6" gaming laptop.

22.5.2017

THE DESIGN OF THIS BACKPACK IS GENIUS.It is the ideal backpack to travel with, and the sleek and minimalist design makes is so great for women and men. It really is timeless looking. The high price for what is a seemingly average backpack is pretty off putting but its honestly worth it for frequent travelers, because of one specific design, which is the front flap that zips open completely, revealing an organizing compartment without having to dig through the clothes in your carry-on. Seriously, this front flap is amazing. It has pockets, and handles where you can put your electronics and small knick knacks that you may need to access in the airport or on the plane.

6.6.2018

Excellent bag, and from my experience this is above and beyond the normal quality Thule bags. I am addicted to the search for the “perfect” backpack - I’ve tried so many I’ve lost count and I currently have a selection of favorites: my Tom Bihn Synapse 25, Incase Icon Diamond Wire, Peak Design Everyday Backpack 30L, and Tumi Roll Top. With that in mind I can say, this is an impressive bag, worth the money, and a new addition to my collection. When traveling with it, I loved being able to put my normal packing cubes inside the big cube that comes with the bag and then pull it all out on arrival and I was able to use the bag as a day bag anytime I needed to carry extra and it never felt super bulky.

Thule Subterra Travel Backpack 34 L - Reviews

Info

Analysis

Detail