Thule Subterra Travel Backpack 26L, Black

I've used this bag for around 6 months now in both everyday environments and taking lots of flights. Here is what I like about this bag and what I do not like:INTERIORThe overall interior of the bag is very simple and minimalistic. If you like a lot of compartments for different things then this os not the bag for you.It is one of the only backpacks I've ever seen that you can access the main compartment as either a clam shell opening or a top opening. They designed it so that if you want to only access your computer without fully opening it, you can just use the clamshell zip to open it slightly and grab your laptop out. Very clever.I would have liked for there to be padding at the bottom of the laptop sleeve to protect the bottom of the laptop when it is put down, although I've not noticed any problems with this as the bag always tilts forward when it's placed down.STRAPS & HANDLEThe straps, are very slim, and although they are not the most comfortable straps I've every used, they are still comfortable. They do not have any dangling parts from them which I absolutely love. When the straps are not in use. I've had backpacks in the past that have the straps zip/hide away, and although this seems like it would be great for storing in plane overhead lockers, it's actually more hassle than it's worth, because when you get off, you have to fumble around to get the straps out and click them back on. It's much easier if the straps are already there and you can just put it straight on your back.Initially I was disapointed with the grab handle as it is quite small and attaches to the back slightly lower so not easy to grab from the front. After using the bag you will naturally start picking it up differently and will never notice that the handle has to be grabbed from the back.I believe they have done this to create a handle that is minimalistic and not obvious, which it does very well.REMOVABLE PACKING CUBEI love that I can put all my clothing into a seperate area and it keeps them from getting mixed in with my other items. Makes everything extremelly neat and very very convenient for when I am travelling, as I like to take a spare pair of clothes with me.SIDE POCKETSThe side pockets are amazing. They are at the perfect position and shape so that you can sling the pack off one shoulder and easily open and access them whilst the other strap is still over your shoulder. Inside the right pocket they have positioned the sleeve for your phone perfectly so all you have to do get to it is partially undo the zip and its right there at the top for you to slide out. They absolutely nailed it with the side pockets.GENERAL DESIGN/LOOKIt seems that there are two main goals they have aimed for when designing this bag. Making it very lightweight, and giving it a sleek apperance that works well with an office or casual attire.They have done an excellent job at creating a bag that is smooth and free of getting caught on anything whilst commuting. The interior of the bag is outstanding in it's design and simplicity.I love that you can extend the bag. This was a big selling point for me as I like to be able to use it for commuting and also as an urban day pack when I travel overseas.The backpack is incredibly light and it is very, very comfortable for travelling with or for using as a day bag. The materials are hard wearing and the zippers are all very easy opening.The look of the flap on the front I did not like when I first purchased the bag although I have since come to really like it. It looks really good carrying it when wearing casual clothes and wearing business clothing. There are a lot of bags that do not suit being carried when wearing a shirt, but this bag is perfect.Be aware that the backpack doesn't stand up on it's own, regardless of how you pack it. This is a result of the bag being incredibly light. For a backpack to stand on it's own, it requires rigidity, and that comes in the form of heavier materials. All stand alone bags are heavy. For me, I would much prefer a lighter backpack than a heavy backpack that stands up on it's own, What I do when using it is just prop it up against something when I put it down.CONCULSIONThis bag has a very simple design and is one of my most favourite backpacks I have ever purchased. If you are looking for a bag that you want to live out of for a few days, you could definitely do it with this bag as both the packing cube and pack itself are extendable. I absolutely love this bag. It is very well though out and every single part of it is perfect in its functionality. I'm so glad I purchased this bag.

I really like this back pack. It was packed securely. All parts were present. I love the opening and all of the pockets. I plan to use it as both a travel and work bag. I like that is is expandable. The stitching appeared nice. In my opinion it is worth the price.

Nice back but it didn't include the packing cube which was the main reason I got it.