OnePlus Urban Traveler Backpack Review: Versatilely Perfect
Retail Price: $79.00
Buy on OnePlus Website
OnePlus is most famously known for making its smartphones, but did you know they also make some pretty good looking backpacks as well? This is the OnePlus Urban Traveler Backpack and it is one of the most aesthetically pleasing urban bags I’ve seen. While this doesn’t reach the level of a Peak Design bag, can this be the flagship killer of backpacks? With a capacity of 20 liters and sold in two colors, this backpack has been my go-to these past few months while hauling work and other accessories around with me. I’m a huge fan of the functionality and vibes this backpack has exuded, so let’s take a closer look.
An Eye-Catching Backpack
The OnePlus Urban Traveler Backpack sells for $79 and comes in two colors: arctic white and charcoal black. This version that I’m reviewing is arctic white and features a mostly white exterior with a stitched leather OnePlus logo on top. The bottom third of the backpack contains a contrasted diagonal red zipper in traditional OnePlus fashion with a black vinyl-esque bottom compartment. The whole look screams upscale and if I saw this backpack on someone without the OnePlus branding, I would’ve thought this was easily a $150 or $200 backpack. Although the design is subtle, there are just enough eye-catching pops of color to make the backpack look fashionable.
The top of the backpack includes a comfortable padded handle leading to the largest compartment that houses additional space for larger accessories and items including a water bottle, pens and more. The back includes a hidden padded zippered compartment for a laptop protected by a breathable mesh back with two nicely padded shoulder straps. And if there wasn’t enough space already, the pouch also includes an additional secluded storage area for items such as your valuables as well. This space can also store your passport, wallet, or other small pieces too.
Deeper Than Just Good Looks
What’s equally impressive is the functionality behind this backpack. To be honest, I started with some fairly low expectations towards this backpack; not because it didn’t look good, but because I was worried there wouldn’t be enough space or it would get dirty easily because of the white color. I was wrong on all accounts. Despite a stark white color, the fabric on the OnePlus is touted to be “both splash and scratch resistant”. Although I haven’t tested this by pouring water on it or taking it through some mud, it has been easy enough to clean off dirt or surface level smears. I have also briefly taken this backpack out in light rain and it did appear to repel water pretty well. When it comes to build quality, it’s evident that OnePlus has placed a lot of thought into how utilitarian it wanted to create the Urban Traveler Backpack and what its purpose is for.
I’m also just as surprised at the number of hidden spaces that OnePlus has managed to subtly provide within the Urban Traveler Backpack. There’s a total of nine pockets and compartments all with the flexibility to hold just about anything. The front diagonal compartment is usually used for my quick grab items like my Chapstick and masks. The larger main space usually houses a tablet (if I bring one), notebooks, water bottles, jackets and more. The hidden padded laptop space can comfortably hold up to a 16” laptop, while the hidden back pocket will keep your valuables safe. If you’re traveling with luggage, there’s also a stretchy luggage bar so you can place the backpack on your suitcase. Although I wouldn’t necessarily recommend this backpack for hiking or backpacking, its name fittingly suits its functionality and is perfect for a student, commuter or business traveler. This is a great tech carry bag too.
At a size of 32cm x 15cm x 45 cm with a weight of about 823 grams, this backpack is very lightweight and has fitted my needs for an everyday backpack. Although I have not been traveling much due to the coronavirus, I’m looking forward to using it when I travel again in the future. In the meantime, the OnePlus Urban Traveler Backpack has been my go-to when I need to take work (and other accessories) with me. While I am usually a North Face backpack kind of gal, I willingly gave up my previous backpack to my mom in lieu of this modern and clean bag. And with the $79 price point, you simply cannot go wrong with it.
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Lida
Always the number cruncher, the former narrative journalist turned data scientist, can’t help but find herself bursting with excitement with each new generation of tech gadgets. After all, predicting future trends is Lida’s forte. Any gadget that survives Lida’s torturous, adult working woman itinerary of over 700 notifications a day deserves praise!