Retiring My Trusty Old Pack — And Upgrading to a Max Backpack

The Max Backpack from Able Carry is big, sturdy and stylish. This 30-liter workhorse has been my savior this summer as I travel overseas.

In The Loop Travel Gear Review

I'm the type of guy who will use an item until it essentially turns to dust or shreds. My wife will readily attest to this.

I'm frugal and don't like waste things, so that explains a lot of it. Also, when I find something that works, that I'm completely comfortable with, I really don't like to change.

This is a story about my backpack.

I have used the same style of backpack to travel around the globe for the better part of the past four years. It was fantastic. Spacious, pretty durable, plenty of pockets.

It was everything that I thought I wanted. Plus, I had found my rhythm with it; I knew just where everything was, how each pocket, zip and compartment played a role in my organization and travel systems as I traveled -- through airports and on boats and trains.
But, in recent months, it had begun to show its wear, with a few stitches busting on the main shoulder straps. My reinforcement efforts included adding an eye-catching crosshatching of duct tape.

It seemed that it was time to look for a new backpack companion, but I wasn't going to make the commitment until just the right rig came along. Fortunately, I found the perfect fit when Able Carry asked me to try out its new Max Backpack.

Repacking my gear from the old reliable into my shiny new pack from Able Carry.

At first glance, I knew that this 30-liter backpack would be the right size to get the job done. It's plenty big enough. But would it be durable enough or offer the compartment space that I was looking for?

Well, I have been using the Able Carry Max Backpack for more than a month (running back and forth to Greece on various trips this summer) at the time of this review, and it has far exceeded my expectations. The process of my conversion to a new backpack began with me emptying out my old pack and working out just where I would organize my electronics, toiletries, chargers, cameras — and all the other necessary sundries -- into this new space in the Max Backpack.

It has a large main compartment that easily fit my Sony RX10 camera and GoPro cameras as well as all the accessory bags. I also can fit my toiletries (liquids) bag in there as well as my snacks bag. Plus, I still have extra space for my stainless steel water bottle and sunglasses case.

The compartment and the variety of zippered pockets easily hold my computer, chargers, cords, backup power blocks and all the extras. The backpack has a stiff backing and "A frame" suspension to distribute the weight and relieve your shoulders.

I also like the numerous hooks and loops available on the exterior of the bag. These are great for hanging bottles or other items with caribiners or rope pieces. The bag also has lockable zippers and a chest strap that easily snaps closed with a magnetic clasp.

First impressions: "This is going to work!"

Able Carry uses durable materials, such as an XPAC shell for lightweight strength, a Cordura nylon base and ripstop lining. I really load up the backpack, and it has been holding strong so far, especially the stitching on the shoulder straps, which have given way on my prior backpacks.

Here are the other specs and details, as highlighted by Able Carry:

Everything within reach: Dedicated work compartment fits up to 17-inch devices; Spacious main compartment with organizer pockets and external pockets on all sides for flexibility. 
First-class comfort: Max provides ease in motion with foam shoulder support, and ventilated pads to keep your back cool. Magnetic chest straps snap easily in place for enhanced stability in motion. 
Built to travel: Luggage pass through, hanger hook and lockable zippers. 
Made to last: Engineered to handle the rigors of travel with durable, water-resistant fabric, quality hardware and backed up with lifetime warranty.

My new Max Backpack is making my travels as smooth as ever. Now, let's see how long I can make this great piece of equipment last.

Happy travels, all!

Thanks for reading,

JR