Max Backpack

I needed to upgrade my mobile office setup, after a change in lifestyle and the need to travel frequently for the first time in 5 years. The technology has evolved (of course) and now I carry a second monitor, an incredible compact keyboard, spare battery pack capable of powering my Lenovo Carbon X1... and my array of other electronics (sat phone, headphones, etc).

I've been a pack/bag/luggage guy for decades, with a background in mountaineering but also wildland fire and 30 years of business travel globally. I've got a method, and it was time to upgrade and revise. I wanted to 'two strap' it to avoid problems with my back after years of slinging it, and wanted a single bag that met 'personal item' size requirements (I often have a carryon with clothes). A setup my criteria with about 12 variables, including weight, durability of material, interior sizes (my 2nd monitor is unusually large but light), and other factors made significant by my prior experience.

Over 45 bags made it into my spreadsheet. The Max Backpack had a few close competitors with a similar rank in my analysis, but with a few subtle differences that nudged it to the front: reinforced stitching at key load and wear points, waaay understated branding, and "structure" so it would appear the same whether the main compartment was empty or full.

I pulled the trigger, and as far as I'm concerned, Able nailed it. Now that I've used it for a week on a trip, I'm delighted with a few unexpected benefits: the water…

In my initial search for a new bag (around 25-30L), I spent hours researching popular brands like Peak Design, AER, Nomatic, etc., but got turned on to Able Carry after watching a backpack review on YouTube. After looking at all of my number one picks for each brand, I spent a few days deciding on which bag to get. I decide to pull the trigger and the Max and have not regretted it once. I purchased this backpack a few weeks before my wife and I moved from the US to a different country, and have been using it every day for about two months. It is a great every-day-carry if you are looking to carry a little more than a typical EDC. I can fit a change of clothes, a binder, laptop, my tech pouch, keys, 32oz Nalgene, and some other items, but it never feels too bulky or looks too bloated. It also doubles as a great weekend bag and is incredibly comfortable walk with and lug around town. It may be a bit large if you plan to fly with it as a personal bag to stow under your seat, but I pair it with a small fanny pack and simply tuck the bag into the overhead storage when I fly. Overall a fantastic bag, and I will be revisiting Able Carry when it comes time to purchase another backpack.