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2025 - Backpack Collection

My Backpack Rotation: A Bag for Every Purpose

Over time, I’ve built a small but functional backpack collection tailored to different aspects of my routine—from travel to work, and even document storage. Here’s how each one plays its part:

  • Adidas Foundation V (33L) – Travel companion: lightweight, spacious, thin material that compresses easily

  • Dakine Duel (26L) – Work bag: ergonomic, durable, a balanced blend of structure and flexibility

  • Nike Utility Speed (27L) – Utility/EDC pack: rugged, boxy silhouette with stiff fabric

  • Nautica 18" (28L) – Home storage: discreet and firm, maintains shape well

(1) Travel: Adidas Foundation V 33L

Product Code: EX6630

For travel, I rely on the Adidas Foundation V—the largest in my lineup at 33 liters, yet also the lightest. It’s made from a thin, malleable material that’s easy to pack and compresses down when not fully loaded, giving it a sleek, low-profile silhouette.

It’s accompanied me on multiple international trips and consistently performs well in both comfort and durability, especially in airports and tight overhead compartments.

(2) Work: Dakine Duel 26L

Durability Highlight: Over 10 years old, still going strong

My go-to for daily work is the Dakine Duel. The dedicated laptop compartment makes it easy to move between home, office, and cafés. It’s also the most ergonomic backpack I own, thanks to its well-designed sternum strap and balanced load distribution.

Material-wise, it strikes the perfect balance—offering the supportive structure of a stiffer bag while maintaining enough flexibility for everyday comfort and versatility.

(3) Utility: Nike Utility Speed 27L

Style Code: CK2668-010

The Nike Utility Speed is the most expensive backpack I own, but also the bulkiest. Its stiff, rugged fabric maintains a boxy silhouette, which adds to its durability but makes it less suited for casual, everyday carry.

That said, it excels as an EDC and utility pack. I keep it stashed in my car, prepped with essentials for unexpected situations. Its multiple compartments and solid construction make it a reliable choice when I need gear ready to go.

(4) Storage: Nautica 18" 28L

Item Model: NT-BP-21-BK

This Nautica 18" backpack was a $15 find at Ross, and it’s become my portable filing cabinet. Its stiff material helps it retain a boxy, upright shape, which makes it ideal for holding papers, folders, and miscellaneous documents without collapsing or slouching.

It’s the perfect low-profile solution for home storage, replacing an old Adidas gym bag I used to use in a similar role.

(5) Future Plans -- Northface Borealis

I'm interested in the North Face Borealis and if it works out well may consider getting 2 and standardizing one for travel and another for work.  I'll then move my Adidas to become my file cabinet and the Nautica and Dakine as spare utility general purpose bags.




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