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Aer travel pack 3 review | my hands-on, travel-tested thoughts.

I test the new Aer Travel Pack 3 while on the road in Italy to see how it performs in the real world.

Product Reviews

If you follow The Savvy Backpacker, you know I’m a travel backpack dork so I was excited when Aer recently released the latest iteration of their popular AER Travel Pack. So how does the new Aer Travel Pack 3 compare to the older Aer Travel Packs I’ve reviewed in the past (read my Aer Travel Pack 2 Review and Aer Travel Pack Review ) and is the new Aer Travel Pack 3 still one of the best travel backpacks on the market? Let’s find out!

In this Aer Travel Pack 3 review, I’ll cover everything you need to know to help you decide if this is the right travel backpack for your trip.

How I Tested The Aer Travel Pack 3

I believe the best way to test a travel backpack is to actually use it while traveling since you can see how it performs in a real-world environment.

So to review the Aer Travel Pack 3 I hit the road for a two-week trip through Italy—mainly Rome and Naples where I took trains, used public transportation, and stayed in hotels and Airbnbs. For this trip, I also used my Aer backpack as my only piece of luggage so I have a good idea of how this backpack performs when fully packed out.

For reference, I’ve also continued using my Aer Travel Pack 3 on a few shorter domestic trips since this is such a versatile backpack.

Overview Of The Aer Travel Pack 3

Aer is well-known in the luggage community for making well-designed, high-quality backpacks that have a modern design aesthetic—in fact, the Aer Travel Pack 3 is sold at the NYC’s Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Design Store so it has some designer street cred.

The Aer Travel Pack caters to travelers who want a premium quality carry-on size backpack that is functional and has a sleek, urban vibe.

And the Aer Travel Pack 3 delivers. It’s comfortable, has a ton of smart organization, and the build quality is some of the best I’ve seen. In fact, Aer offers a lifetime warranty on their bags so they obviously believe in their products.

Aer Travel Pack 3 vs. Aer Travel Pack 2

On the surface, the Aer Travel Pack 3 and Travel Pack 2 look very similar but they’re quite different once you dive into the details.

The Aer Travel Pack 3 features multiple design and functionality improvements that make this bag much better than the older Aer Travel Pack 2 (which was already a well-regarded backpack). The most notable improvements are the updated harness system with load lifters (which was my main complaint on the v2), a slight overall size increase, and a few upgraded materials.

The TP3 ditches the old built-in shoe compartment (which I’m glad to see go), and it features new beefed-up hardware, added zipper pulls, a few pocket adjustments, and better cinch-down straps.

Aer Travel Pack 3 Specs

Here are the specs of the Travel Pack 3 ( via the Aer website )

Size and Weight

• Volume: 35 L
• Weight: 4.12 lbs
• Length: 21.5″ (54.5 cm)
• Width: 13″ (33 cm)
• Depth: 9″ (21.5 cm)
• $279 (X-Pac sailcloth exterior version)

Featured Specs

• 1680D Cordura® ballistic nylon exterior
• YKK® zippers
• Duraflex® plastic hardware
• Padded, suspended laptop pocket (up to 16″ laptop) 
• Lay-flat main compartment
• Compression straps with magnetic fasteners
• Quick-access top and side pockets
• Load lifters for support and comfort
• Handles on all sides for versatile carrying
• Expandable water bottle pocket
• Hidden smart tracker pocket
• Internal framesheet for structure & support
• Luggage handle pass-through
• Lockable zippers for additional security

My Hands-On Aer Travel Pack 3 Review

I’ve come to really appreciate the Aer Travel Pack 3 after putting it through its paces while traveling through Italy.

Is it perfect? No. But it’s certainly one of the best travel backpacks I’ve personally tried.

So let’s take an in-depth look into all the details and features of the Travel Pack 3 to see what makes this bag excellent and where it comes up short.

Looks and Aesthetics

The first thing you notice when looking at the Aer Travel Pack 3 is its minimalist, streamlined, and utilitarian aesthetics. It has a sleek, urban techy vibe. The fabric is heavy-duty and all the hardware feels sturdy.

I’m a fan of the look Aer Travel Pack 3 because it feels more refined and modern than other travel backpacks. The bag has a more elevated vibe so don’t feel like a typical twentysomething “backpacker” when I’m wearing it. I also appreciate the backpack’s subtle branding—there is a small “Aer” logo on the side of the bag and a tiny one on the shoulder strap.

I prefer the black color option but it also comes in Grey and Olive—personally, I’m not a fan of the gray color but the Olive is interesting. But, I’d always choose black.

The Aer Travel Pack also comes in a slightly more expensive black X-Pac sailcloth exterior that’s more water-resistant and lighter. The X-Pac sailcloth material has a bit of a sheen (I prefer the look of the regular version) but the extra water resistance of the X-Pac sailcloth is certainly nice.

Materials, Hardware, and Zippers

Like all Aer bags, the Travel Pack 3 is a premium product so the materials and finishings used to construct this backpack are high quality—this is also reflected in the $250 price tag. The backpack’s exterior is made from heavy-duty 1680D Cordura® ballistic nylon, the zippers are all YKK®, and the buckles, fasteners, and other plastic pieces are made from durable Duraflex plastic. The padding on the shoulder straps and pull handles are thick for added comfort.

The entire bag weights in at 4.12 lbs so it’s not the lightest bag I’ve tested (for reference, the Travel Pack 3 is 35L and the 42L Cotopaxi Allpa weights roughly the same) but that’s one of the tradeoffs when using sturdy materials.

In short, you can tell they didn’t cheap out on the more minor details on the Travel Pack 3 so this is a sturdy backpack that will withstand plenty of abuse (and it’s all backed up with a lifetime warranty).

Harness System and Comfort

The harness system (i.e. shoulder straps) of the Aer Travel Pack 3 is a huge improvement from the previous generation Travel Pack 2—in fact, the old bag’s harness system was a big disappointment for such an otherwise well-designed and premium product.

Looking at the photos above, you’ll see how the Travel Pack 3 now uses a hiking-style harness that curves to fit your shoulders. This helps keep the weight of the backpack square against your back and up on your shoulders so the weight of the bag doesn’t pull away from your body (which causes added stress to your body. The Travel Pack 3 also has load lifter straps that help the steps confirm to your shoulders so it keeps the bag close to your back.

The shoulder straps are well-padded with about a quarter inch of high-density foam which helps disperse the weight of the load over your shoulders. There is also a good amount of mesh padding lining the back that adds more comfort while wearing.

The Travel Pack 3 also features an internal plastic framesheet that runs along the back of the bag for added structure & support.

NOTE: Aer sells a detachable hipbelt for $20 that can be added to the Travel Pack 3. I haven’t tried it but I assume it would make the bag even more comfortable—especially if using the bag for extended periods of time since a hipbelt distributes the bag’s weight from the shoulders to the hips.

Is The Aer Travel Pack 3 Comfortable?

The Aer Travel Pack 3 is a comfortable backpack but any bag will become less and less comfortable as you add weight—the Travel Pack 3 is no exception. That said, the bag’s hiking-style harness system makes it a great option for point-to-point city travel.

External Design Features

The Aer Travel Pack 3 features multiple smart design features that I truly appreciated after putting some miles on this bag.

The bag has three well-padded grab handles (top and both sides) which are great when you’re grabbing your bag from overhead bins, carrying your bag through train aisles, and other times when you need to carry the bag but you don’t want to throw it over your shoulder. The fact this bag has three grab handles is amazing since most bags only have one or two. The bag also has an unpadded strap on the bottom of the bag.

The bag has multiple types of zippers—all of which are high-quality YKK zippers.

The zipper on the laptop compartment has a weather-resistant coating so that will help keep your laptop safe if you get stuck in a rainstorm.

The other zippers on this bag aren’t weather-proofed but they’re still robust and the action on the zipping/unzipping is smooth.

The main zippers have lockable loops that can be secured with a small luggage lock. The zippers also have nice pulls to help make it easier to use the zippers. The previous version of the Travel Pack had zipper-pulls that made a lot of noise but this version has fixed that issue.

One tiny complaint is that the zippers of the main compartment and the front flap look so similar that it’s easy to confuse the two. I wish Aer put different colored zipper pulls to help quickly distinguish the two zippers.

The Aer Travel Pack 3 has redesigned magnetic buckles on the bag’s four cinch straps. These magnetic buckles are pretty genius because you can buckle/unbuckle them instantly, but the magnets are strong enough to keep the straps securely closed.

The cinch straps have also been moved in this latest version so they don’t obstruct the zippers—unlike the previous version where you have to unbuckle the straps to unzip the bag (it was very annoying).

Internal Pockets and Organization

The Aer Travel Pack 3 is loaded with internal pockets and organizational compartments to help keep all your stuff secure and easily accessible. In fact, it might take you a minute to remember where you put your stuff since there are so many places to stash your gear.

Let’s start with the front panel pocket which is full of multiple compartments and dividers. There’s a deep pocket in the back for documents, a zippered pocket for smaller valuables like your passport, and multiple elastic compartments for electronics accessories, pens, and other small knickknacks.

There’s also a good amount of room in this front panel so there’s space for a light jacket, etc.

On the very front of the bag, there’s a small pocket that has a weather-resistant zipper. It’s not a very deep pocket so I use this mainly for thin objects like paper documents, backup phone cables, snacks, etc. This pocket does have an internal key clip so you won’t lose your keys.

There is a super handy quick-access pocket at the top of the bag that I ended up using all the time while traveling with this backpack. The pocket is also lined with a soft and fuzzy fabric so it won’t scratch up your phone or glasses.

The pocket is large enough to hold a wallet, sunglasses case, passport, and phone (or other small items you need to easily grab while on the go).

The laptop compartment, which is protected with a water-resistant zipper, is located on the back of the backpack and it is comprised of a few different pockets.

The padded laptop sleeve can easily hold my 16″ Macbook Pro and the sleeve has a false bottom so your laptop is protected from hitting the ground.

There’s another large sleeve that can hold flat items like papers/folders, etc.

The compartment also contains a small hidden zippered pocket that offers an extra layer of security for your valuables (passport, phone, wallet, etc.).

On one side of the bag, you’ll find a small zippered pocket that can hold something like a passport and the other side features an expandable water bottle pocket. I don’t typically carry a water bottle so I haven’t tested this pocket but it looks to hold a standard disposable water bottle (not sure it can hold a large Nalgene-style bottle). Alternatively, you could put a small travel umbrella into that water bottle pocket.

Main Compartment

The Aer Travel Pack 3 has a lay-flat, clamshell-style opening, and features a single large cavernous compartment that zips completely open—which makes packing quick and easy. As you can see, it’s super minimal so I highly recommend using packing cubes to keep all your stuff organized.

There’s a small zipper pocket in the sidewall of the main compartment and then another small mesh pocket on the flap—so most of the organization is found on the outer front flap that I covered earlier in this article.

Aer rates their Travel Pack 3 as a 35L backpack so this bag can fit a solid amount of stuff but you still need to be selective in how much you pack. In my opinion, this back is geared towards people who want to travel relatively light.

If you’re a heavy packer, I recommend a 40L+ backpack or you could pair the Travel Pack 3 with a smaller suitcase.

Final Thoughts On The Aer Travel Pack 3

So is the Aer Travel Pack 3 a good travel backpack?

Yes. I honestly like this backpack and I found that it suited my travel style very well. I wouldn’t call myself an ultralight traveler but I certainly travel lighter than most. Through smart packing, I was able to fit enough stuff in my bag for about 7 days (including an extra pair of sneakers that I probably didn’t need) so had to do a wash about halfway through my two-week trip.

However, if you can’t pack reasonably light then this Aer backpack probably isn’t right for you since its 35L size is a bit smaller than similar travel backpacks. Check out my guide to the Best Travel Backpacks for my other top picks.

I love the minimalist styling of the Aer Travel Pack 3 since so many other travel backpacks have a “hiking” style that I don’t love.

I found the back to be comfortable so I had no problems hauling it around for extended amounts of time. I also thought the bag’s organization was smartly designed so I was able to access whatever I needed without much hassle.

The Aer Travel Pack 3 is also extremely durable and well-made so I have no doubt in its ability to withstand being thrown around.

But the quality of the Aer Travel Pack 3 comes at a price—it’s $249 for the standard version and $279 for the water-resistant X-Pac version.

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Home » Gear » AER Travel Pack 3 Review: Tried and Tested (2024)

AER Travel Pack 3 Review: Tried and Tested (2024)

I consider myself to be somewhat of a bag connoisseur. After 60+ countries and over half a decade of non-stop travel I’ve come to one sad realisation… there isn’t a ‘perfect’ bag, but there are some that come damn close!

Wanna know why the perfect bag doesn’t exist, well, we all have different needs and wants when it comes to organisation, storage solutions and ultimately style. It’s near on impossible to cover all bases for everyone but there are times when you come across such a well-designed piece of travel gear that you have to just take a pause and appreciate the thought that’s gone into it.

That’s where the AER Travel Pack 3 comes it. This bag might be aimed at the carry on crowd, but its versatility means its adaptable for all sorts of different needs. Its sleek and stylish design, cleaver organisation solutions combined with its tough exterior and secure pockets for valuables make it a super flexible option.

Whether you’re jetting off for a long weekend in Paris, needing a bag for the office that can carry your extracurricular gear or you’re just a super lightweight traveller looking for an epic organisation for your longer-term trip. This might just be the bag that meets all your needs and more.

The AER Travel Pack 3 skirts dangerously close to the holy grail of backpacking needs, it’s got heaps of storage, it’s incredibly organised and it’s not too bulky either.

Want to know more… of course you do! Well, let’s get this AER bag review going! 

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Quick Answer: AER Travel Pack 3 Specs

• Price : $230.00
• Volume : 35 litres
• Weight :  3.7 lbs
• Material : 1680D Cordura Ballistic Nylon Exterior
• Laptop Compartment : Yes (Padded, Suspended, fits up to 16″ Laptop)
• Carry-On Compliant : Yes

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Aer Travel Pack 3 Review: Key Features and Performance Breakdown

What I love about this bag (apart from the organisation features that I’ll mention later) is just how versatile it is. The 35L storage covers so many different applications and that’s where this bag excels.

With its suitcase-style opening and storage for things like a laptop, its primary design is to be used as a carry on bag that can easily facilitate one bag travel. With its compact design that’s deceptively roomy and secure compartments, it can easily replace an unwieldy suitcase and backpack combination. It means you can move quickly through the airport and keep all your gear in one place.

Given its slightly high price tag, you’ll be please to know the uses for this bag don’t end there.

The lowkey sleek exterior means it fits whatever situation it finds itself in, all without making a fuss. Whether you’re hitting the office or trying to keep a low profile in a South American bus station, the tough but stylish exterior fits the bill.

The carry on use kinda cuts through the middle of the extremities that this bag can be used for.

On the one hand, if you’ve got a job where you need to carry around a lot of gear, think cameras, laptops, hard drives etc etc then you can fit a mini office in this thing without looking like a bag lady! If you’re planning on hitting the gym after the office then you can easily fit a change of clothes, trainers and other gear alongside your laptop and documents.

Digital nomads carrying a decent amount of work gear to and from all those Canggu cafes before the obligatory yoga session will find this bag particularly useful as an everyday carry backpack . Hell, you can even be one of those people who brings a printer to Starbucks with this thing!

Those looking to go super lightweight when it comes to backpacking might also be interested in this bag. If you get minimalist on your kit then there’s no reason you can replace your massive pack with this more compact number. Whether you combine it with a smaller day pack or travel purse, its space and organisation mean unless you need any specialist equipment, you could easily backpack around South East Asia with this thing!

The Interior

This bag is a lot like me! The simple, compact and unassuming exterior hides a myriad of complex features and stores a whole load more baggage than it would appear. But unlike me, this bag has got its shit together and is organised af!

The interior isn’t just one compartment, in fact, one of the features me and my OCD love about this bag are the different and divided sections, each of which has a particular use and features.

One of the major criticisms I’ve had of my other large packs before, including my Osprey Fairpoint that I’ve used for years, is that it’s pretty much just one massive area with very little in the way of internal organisation. Well, now my bag in shining armour has come along to settle my crazed OCD mind!

So, I’ve broken things down into sections to make it easier to explain!

Laptop Compartment

The first section comes right at the back with a water-resistant zippered laptop compartment. This area opens just at the top to make the compartment as secure and covert as possible.

It’s actually freaking massive, I’ve honestly never seen a laptop compartment as big as this one! In the past, I’ve travelled with a 15″ Macbook inside a Thule case and it’s been a tight squeeze in most bags. Here my new 14″ laptop in a slightly smaller case fit easily, like with so much room to spare! What I love is that my laptop isn’t right at the top of the compartment where it could still get banged or make it easier to grab.

The laptop section is also divided into two with the back section being padded and held up from the bottom of the bag. This means when you set the backpack down your laptop won’t hit the floor.

The division also means this space is super versatile too. You could easily fit in two laptops in here if you’re super fancy like that! If you’re travelling with a tablet or a designer on the road with a graphics tablet, you can fit those in here too! Otherwise, it’s an ideal spot for a magazine, documents or a full-sized notebook.

Another possible use for this massive space is things like hard drives and cables, it’s perfect for keeping all your tech in one place.

Safety is paramount here too. The zip is pretty heafy and is lockable too meaning you can throw the bag in the overhead compartment with no worries. Inside this section is a pretty covert zippered pocket that is the ideal place for your passport, wallet and keys too.

Laptop Compartment Score: 5/5 stars

The Main Compartment

The large main compartment keeps things pretty simple and easy to manipulate to your individual needs. This section is also lockable with some pretty beefy looking zips!

Opening like a suitcase in a clamshell fashion you can really make use of the massive space offered by this bag. Rather than a top-loader where you feel like you’re just shoving your gear in, here you can really organise your stuff and have much easier access when you get to your destination too. With the strategic use of an AER packing cube or two ( sold separately ), the large open area can be easily organised to keep all your gear well organised.

The large section provides a lot more storage than it looks especially if you’re strategic. I packed 5 t-shirts, a pair of shorts and 5 pairs of underwear and socks as well as a toiletries bag. Well enough for a weekend trip, or, let’s be honest, a longer-term trip if you’re pretty a minimalist traveller . It’s possible to double these up and then fit a small camera bag in there too but it would be a bit tight. be careful not to pack this section out too much as it makes the other areas hard to use.

The only thing I would love to see here inside the Travel Pack is internal straps to keep everything in place and to aid compression.

Other features on the inside include a small stash pocket on the sidewall. It’s primarily designed to be used to hold a hidden smart tracker in case your bag does walkabout. But in real terms, it’s ideal for smaller items you don’t want floating around in the main compartment like wires, hair ties, medication etc.

Now, I love pockets, like, I’m a proper fiend for them! So for me, I would love to have a few of these pockets dotted around on the inside just to keep things tidy. I always carry extra cables, wires and bits of crap I think I need and these would be an ideal out-of-the-way spot for them! It’s one of the features of this AER travel backpack I just love.

It doesn’t end there though. The large flap of the main section includes a mesh pocket on the front. It’s a great spot for sanitary products, wires or maybe a torch. Again, I would love it if there were another couple of these on here, and there certainly is room, but I appreciate it being there!

Behind that is a full-length vertical pocket that covers the whole of the flap. It’s a bit of an odd pocket that is maybe too big for small items that would just slide down to the bottom. It’s perfect though for those documents you need to carry don’t always need access to like travel insurance policies or dive journals. At a push, you could fit a small accessories pouch like a toiletries bag in here, but be sure to make sure you don’t bulk it out too much.

Main Compartment Score: 4/5

Front Storage Compartment

If I thought I could do with a few more pockets on the larger section, then my worries were over once I opened this front storage compartment. I bloody love this compartment!

Here you’ve got a myriad of different pockets for epic organisation! You can use the zippered section to store your passport, wallet and keys if you like. The small elasticated pouches are ideal for Airpods, chargers and cables. The larger areas will easily fit things like portable battery packs and hard drives whilst you can put things like journals in the bottom. There’s even a pocket for a pen!

Behind all that is a large area where you can actually easily fit a laptop. Personally, I wouldn’t store mine here as you’ve got the dedicated and better-protected area, but it goes to show what you could store here if you were feeling a bit funky! In practice, it’s ideal for full-sized notebooks, magazines or documents.

Better still, this section is also lockable!! Yeah, that’s three sections of this bag that you can lock, pretty sick!

Front Compartment Score: 5/5 stars

The Exterior

The exterior is pretty stylish, sleek and adaptable. It’s a pack that will fit right in on the plane, at the office or on Khao San road just as well. The pack doesn’t draw too much attention which is always great when it comes to keeping a low profile when you’re travelling with valuables. Ok, so I do like a bit of colour but the design does mean it’s great for a whole heap of different scenarios.

Pocket wise for a bag so lowkey it does actually have quick a few features.

On the front, there is a large pocket with a clip inside. I imagine the clip is designed for keys but I’m not sure I’d want my keys right on the outside of my bag. I would have prefered to have this feature in the front compartment.

However, the pocket is actually pretty big and you can fit a decent amount of stuff in there. I’d highly advise against storing anything valuable here though. It’s perfectly suited for storing a book or items like tissues and sanitary products so you don’t have to open the other sections, which you might have locked when you nip to the bathroom.

There’s a side pocket too which isn’t massive but again, great for a pack of tissues, pens, spare change etc. Things you want easy access to but that aren’t valuable.

The top fleece-lined pocket is great for things like headphones, mints or your sunnies so they don’t get scratched.

On the other side, there is an expandable water bottle holder. It’s not massive but it’s plenty big enough for most standard-sized refillable water bottles . There’s a hoop too so you can clip your bottle with a carabiner to keep it secure. You could quite easily fit a small tripod in this pocket too and clip it on.

Another useful feature is the compression straps. There are two on each side so when the bag is full you can flatten things down, or when it’s empty and you can reduce unsued space. They also come in useful if you’re carrying a tripod or want to easily attach something like a travel towel or a lightweight jacket to the outside.

In addition, the pack features a pass-through strap so you can attach it securely to the top of a rolling suitcase. Personally, I don’t use a suitcase when I travel but it’s always nice to have additional features and functionality especially when they don’t add extra bulk or weight.

Exterior Score: 4/5 stars

Sizing and Fit

The AER Travel Pack 3 at 35L offers great storage without feeling too bulky. Despite being a bit boxy, it still feels like it fits nicely on your back. I’m generally used to carrying around a much bigger bag for long term travel so it feels quite liberating to have such a compact bag on my back.

For such a compact feeling bag you can really fit quite a lot in not only the large main compartment but the other sections too. It’s also designed to be carry on compliant which is super useful, just be sure not to pack it out too much and check with your airline before you fly.

However, in terms of everyday backpacks and day packs, I think if I was just heading to a cafe to work then it wouldn’t be too bad, but for walking around all day it would certainly feel too big, but then again, that’s not the primary use that this bag is designed for.

Another thing worth noting is that the design of the laptop compartment means that it doesn’t feel too rigid against my back when my Mac is in there as it does on some other bags.

The sternum strap is great for keeping the bag close and stopping it from moving around too much, especially when it’s full. But for me, you need more support when it’s packed out fully and the additional waist straps (sold separately) would be a welcome purchase if you plan on carrying a decent load.

Padding wise the shoulder straps are pretty chunky and feel super comfy even when the bag is packed out. The back padding offers enough support whilst still moulding to your body. The breathable material is also great for those warmer climates.

Sizing and Fit Score: 4/5 stars

Carry Options

The bag comes with not only traditional backpack straps but handles on the top and each side. The makes carrying the bag in all sorts of different ways really easy. Sometimes it’s just not convenient to have your bag on your back, you’re on busy public transport or you want to look a bit more professional when you turn up for a meeting.

It also just makes generally handling the bag better, when you’re picking it up from the scanner or pulling it down from the overhead compartment. Having straps on each side makes it easy wherever and however the bag is placed.

Carry Score: 5/5 stars

Weight and Capacity

Quick Answer:

• Weight : 3.7 lbs
• Capacity : 35 litres

The bag certainly isn’t the lightest when it’s unpacked and when it’s maxed out it can start to feel a little on the weighty side.

But in all fairness that’s partly in testament to the strong and hard-wearing material the bag is made from and its deceptive storage for a pretty compact backpack. With the padding on the shoulders and the added hip belt we mentioned earlier, it’s still pretty comfortable.

It’s also not the heaviest bag out there either, it manages to perfectly balance functionality, durability and storage.

There’s also no getting around the fact that 35L of gear with a laptop and all the associated accessories are going to feel heavy after a while even if the bag was made from feathers! It’s the design that’s gone into things like weight distribution and padding that make it easier to handle and that’s where the AER Travel Pack 3 does a great job.

Weight & Capacity Score: 4/5 stars

Toughness and Durability

The 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon material the bag is constructed from is super strong and water-resistant to boot. It’s pretty heavy-duty and it makes the bag have a real quality feel to it. You really get the sense that this thing will go the distance and will stand up to some abuse!

The YKK zippers are pretty heavy duty and don’t feel flimsy in the slightest. All three of the main compartments have pretty beefy lockable zippers and the laptop compartment has additional weather sealing along the zip to give you that bit more confidence when storing your electronics.

The bag isn’t totally waterproof but it will certainly help keep the elements out if you’re caught in a shower and the exterior will fend off the scrapes and scratches that come with travelling.

A rain cover would be a welcome addition to the bag but there is one available as an additional purchase for that extra peace of mind.

Toughness Score: 4/5 stars

As we’ve mentioned before, the bag has three compartments with locking zips! That’s pretty huge if you ask me and it makes this bag a great option for those travelling with quite a few valuable items that can’t all just go in the one section. Whether you want peace of mind whilst you’re having a snooze on the plane or you’re commuting on busy trains on the daily, this bag takes a lot of the stress out of carrying expensive gear.

The addition of zippered pockets inside of the locked compartments, some of which are pretty well hidden too, also adds an additional level of security. There are plenty of places within this bag where you can store things like your passport, wallet and keys without a worry.

Security Score: 5/5 stars

Aer Bag Aesthetics

Bags with this level of functionality, organisation and storage sometimes end up looking a bit, well, geeky! Aer however seem to have got the balance just right by keeping most of the important features on the inside whilst keeping the outside of the bag looking pretty minimalist and sleek.

The look of the bag is quite lowkey which helps once again to aid the versatility of the pack. It’s not going to look out of place wherever it finds itself, from the board room to a hostel dorm. When you’re carrying some expensive gear you don’t want your bag to shout about it and the AER Travel Pack 3 does just that whilst retaining a stylish and understated vibe.

Aesthetics Score: 4/5 stars

What I Liked About the Aer Travel Pack 3

• 3 Separate compartments rather than just one big main compartment
• huge amount of organisation features!
• The separate and huge laptop compartment
• Lockable zips
• Good array of external pockets for easy access
• Clamshell opening on the main compartment
• Covert internal pockets for valuables
• Tough and durable feel

What I Didn’t Like About the Aer Travel Pack 3

• Can feel bulky when empty
• Hip belt needs to be bought separately
• Similarly, the rain cover is an additional purchase
• Straps inside the main compartment would be great
• Would love to see this bag in a larger version too

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

AER Travel Pack 2 Vs AER Travel Pack 3

As the game suggests, this is the 3rd generation of the AER Travel Pack and it replaced the 2nd version about 18 months ago now.

Here’s a summary of the key differences and improvements in the Travel Pack 3;

• Updated Harness System with Load Lifters : This is a significant improvement for comfort and ergonomics, especially for those who found the previous version’s harness system lacking. Load lifters can greatly improve how the weight distributes on your back, making the bag feel lighter and more manageable, even when fully packed.
• Slight Overall Size Increase : A bit more space can make a significant difference in travel backpacks, providing extra room for packing without needing to resort to an additional bag. This size adjustment suggests that Aer listened to feedback from users who needed just a little more room for their travels.
• Upgraded Materials : Improvements in materials can affect the backpack’s durability, weight, and feel. Upgraded materials often mean a bag that lasts longer, withstands travel rigors better, and possibly even lighter than its predecessor.
• Removal of the Built-in Shoe Compartment : While some might miss this feature, its removal could indicate a prioritization of space flexibility and overall bag compactness. It seems to align with a design philosophy favoring versatile main compartments over specialized pockets.
• Beefed-up Hardware and Added Zipper Pulls : These updates likely contribute to the bag’s durability and ease of use. More robust hardware can withstand the wear and tear of travel, and added zipper pulls make accessing compartments quicker and easier.
• Pocket Adjustments : Adjusting pocket designs or configurations can significantly improve a bag’s practicality, making it easier to organize and access your belongings.
• Better Cinch-down Straps : Improved straps enhance the bag’s versatility, allowing users to compact the bag when it’s not fully packed or to secure additional items outside the backpack.

Aer Travel Pack 3 vs the Competition

Truth be told, the Aer Travel Pack 3 is pretty unique in terms of the features it offers for the carry-on market. You’re just not going to get features like the clamshell opening, three compartments and organisation levels in many other bags on the market. Aer really does seem to have thought of everything!

In terms of the main competition, it’s going to come in the form of the Nomatic Travel Bag which is slightly larger at 40L. This is an epic bag for many of the same reasons I love the Aer Travel Pack 3 and has many similar features such as clamshell opening, tech compartments and laptop storage. It’s a touch more expensive but you do get more space.

Personally, though, I still prefer the Aer Travel Pack 3 for a few reasons. Firstly is the dedicated laptop compartment, I’m not a fan of the way the Nomatic has it on the main opening flap. Secondly is the larger compartments for tech storage and in my opinion, the superior organisational features. Thirdly, the lockable zippers make it feel much more secure.

For more information, check out our more in-depth Nomatic Travel Bag review .

Here are some other Aer backpack competitors:

Aer Travel Pack 3

• Liters > 33
• Laptop Compartment? > Yes
• Best Use? > Everyday use, weekend + international travel

Nomatic Travel Bag

• Liters > 40

Osprey Farpoint (40 liter)

• Best Use? > Weekend/international travel

Osprey Fairview (40 liter)

Osprey Stratos (33 or 36 liter)

• Liters > 33 or 36
• Laptop Compartment? > No
• Best Use? > Hiking

Tortuga Outbreaker (45 liter)

• Liters > 45

LowePro Pro Tactic 450 AW (45 liter)

• Cost > $$$$
• Best Use? > Photography

REI Co-op Trail 40 Pack

• Best Use? > Hiking/travel

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

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The Ultimate Aer Backpack: Our Verdict on the Travel Pack 3

Right then, we’ve come to the point in our AER travel pack 3 review where we’ve got to wrap things up!

Overall, I bloody love this bag and find it to come very close to perfection!

The sheer amount of organisational features packed within such an unassuming exterior is the real winner here. The large storage capacity is well managed across the three main compartments in a way that’s clearly been well planned and thought out.

The sheer versatility of this thing means that you’ll get your money’s worth when it comes to usability in heaps of different scenarios. I can easily see this suiting digital nomads, office commuters, weekend warriors and even long term travellers.

On a personal note, the only issue I have with using this for one bag travel is that I travel with a large mirrorless camera and accessories. I think I’d struggle to fit my camera gear inside along with enough clothing for more than a couple of days. My partner who only tends to use his phone or a compact camera would have no issues at all in this respect and I think most travellers would be the same.

I could imagine combining this bag with a dedicated camera bag or shoulder satchel and using it as an alternative to my larger, more bulky and less organised big backpack that I’ve used before for both long and short trips.

Overall I am super impressed with this backpack and can’t get over the organisational features that really are great for those of us with OCD!

Did our AER backpack review cover all your questions? Let us know if you have any more below.

What is our final score for the AER Travel Pack 3? We give it a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars !

Bonus: Day Sling 3 & Travel Kit 2

But wait! There’s more! The AER travel range comes with a super useful AER Travel Kit and Day Sling too.

What more organisation, of course, you do!! Even if you’re dedicated to the one-bag travel movement, there are another couple of bags that are needed to keep everything in check! One goes inside so it kinda doesn’t count and the other is a handy travel purse for keeping your documents close at hand.

Day Sling 3: Keep Your Valuables Close

One of the main issues with one-bag travel is where to keep valuables like your passport, wallet and phone when you’re not in possession of your bag. So you’ve thrown your AER Travel Pack under your seat or in the overhead locker, but can you really sleep soundly on that overnight bus?!

A travel purse/ sling/ manbag if you’re from Liverpool, is the ideal solution. This neat little bag can be carried across your chest whilst wearing your larger bag and keeps everything close at hand and insight. It’s the perfect place to keep things you need easy access to like your passport and boarding passes without having to root through your pack.

The Day Sling 3 unsurprisingly offers epic levels of storage and organisation for such a small bag. It’s got a zippered section for your passport, elasticated pockets for things like AirPods and cables, a quick access front pocket with a keychain and all in the same premium material as the larger pack.

3 litres might not seem a whole lot, but in here you can easily fit all your most important items and for me, I’d throw in one of my super small SanDisk Extreme SSD with my laptop and photos backed up too so you’ve got every base covered.

Travel Kit 2: Perfect Toiletry Bag

Another neat accessory is the Travel Kit 2 .

This 2.5l pack is primarily designed to be used as a toiletries bag but in classic Aer fashion, it’s actually a pretty versatile piece of kit that could be adapted to carry all your cables, wires, chargers and hard drives if you like or even as a first aid kit.

However, its primary function is to carry your toiletries and it does that with maximum levels of organisation too… obviously! There’s a stowaway hook so you can hang this bad boy up in the bathroom as well as dedicated toothbrush storage and heaps of different zippered and elasticated pockets.

The exterior is the same 1680D Cordura Ballistic nylon so it can take some heavy use and it comes with a convenient carry handle and additional pockets. The interior is treated with an antimicrobial coating to control bacteria and odours which is a welcome feature.

Nic Hilditch-Short

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Why would you not consider the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L in the competition? It offers organization, dedicated laptop storage and clamshell opening as well? Plus it comes with a stowable waist belt and appears to be more weather resistant. It also expands to 45L from 35L and can even be compressed to 30L. Just curious as I am comparing the Aer and PD as final choices for me.

Actually I have really come to love the Peak Design Travel Backpack and it is indeed, a worthy rival to the AER. I may update this post when I have the capacity in order to reflect this.

I just had to drop a comment after reading your fantastic review of the AER Travel Pack 3! It’s so refreshing to come across someone who’s as passionate about bags as I am. The struggle to find that elusive “perfect bag” is real, and your insights resonate with my own experiences.

The way you described the Travel Pack 3’s versatility is intriguing. It’s like the chameleon of backpacks, seamlessly adapting to different situations without making a fuss. And that laptop compartment sounds like a dream come true! No more squeezing my precious laptop into a cramped space, hooray!

That said, I wonder if it might be a tad too big for everyday use. I know that AER tends to offer smaller versions of their bags, and that could be the sweet spot for daily use. What’s your thought on that?

Cheers, Femi.

I enjoyed your post. I’m considering buying this backpack, but I still can’t make up my mind! Thanks for sharing, btw! Cheers. =)

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• > Backpacks

Aer Travel Pack 3 Review

As 2022 wound down, for many of us, opportunities to travel arose with much greater frequency than they had over the past couple of years. For a great many of us that meant we needed new travel bags to schlep our stuff in style as we resumed our domestic and international wanderlust. Looking for something new to try this past year, Aer had notified us about their upcoming updates to the Travel Collection and it was the perfect opportunity to both resume travel and try out a new bag. As a softgoods company, Aer takes an iterative approach to their designs. Rooted typically in real-world user feedback, they strive to refine their silhouettes with each generation, without throwing out what’s worked in the past. That’s an aspect of Aer that I have always appreciated because it means they listen to their customers and are always striving to evolve their products in collaboration with their users.

The  Aer Travel Pack 3  (TP3 from here on) is the latest revision in this line and has seen a number of updates over the previous generation which we will get into later in this review, but the gist of it comes down to a more adjustable harness, a more flexible main compartment and of course, magnets. I’ve had the opportunity now to travel multiple times in the past year (primarily in road trip format) and over the past several months I’ve been utilizing the TP3 as my clothing and tech carry on these trips. Professionally speaking, I’m a designer; personally speaking, I’m a new dad, so my experience with the TP3 is informed by these realities. So without further delay, let’s dig in and take a look at what it’s been like to live with.

Specifications

• Name: Travel Pack 3
• Format: Backpack
• Measurement: 21.5″H (54.5cm) x 13″W (33cm) x 9″D (21.5cm)
• Capacity: 35L (2135.83 cu. in.)
• Weight: 4 lbs (1.81 kg)
• Zippers: YKK
• Material: VX42 X-Pac, 1680D Ballistic Nylon or 700D Cordura
• Price US$249-275

BUY THIS ITEM

Who It Suits

Tech-focused travelers looking to live the one-bag life are going to be the primary audience. It would also suit anyone who needs sufficient space and organization for a lot of gear. Photographers would likely be able to configure this into a viable camera bag.

Who It Doesn’t  

Anyone bothered by lots of built-in organization will likely be frustrated by the layout. If you want colors other than dark neutrals you are out of luck, unfortunately. If “sleek” and “tech” are not aesthetic terms you are drawn to, I would recommend looking elsewhere.

Aer’s design language is decidedly in the tech space, which is an aspect they’ve never really wavered from. Their typically clean lines and choice of materials lean heavily into that aesthetic, which is going to be a very personal decision as to whether or not that works for you and your tastes. For me, I tend to lean towards bags that follow more of a “heritage” look and feel so this isn’t my immediate cup of tea. Despite that, I can appreciate the look for what it is and I don’t find it garish or overly complicated. Exterior branding is fairly minimal which always gets bonus points in my book but gosh Aer bags just have an abundance of zippers and very jangly pulls on them, which I find to be a significantly distracting aspect. Fortunately, if it bothers you as it does me, this is super easy to remedy by either removing the tabs and pulls altogether and installing something custom or just making simpler paracord pulls in place of the Aer branded ones. 

The TP3 is positively loaded with pockets throughout every compartment, some of which are very discreet and almost hidden which affords you tons of opportunity to stash items throughout the entire bag. In fact, when I first received the bag I swear I found a new hidden pocket every time I opened it! Fortunately, though, this multitude of pockets doesn’t wind up looking like a jumbled, confusing mess as they’re all pretty cleverly layered throughout the interior.

Aesthetically you have three different material choices to work with. One is a robust  1680D Ballistic Nylon  available in three distinct-yet-neutral colors which feature a neutral grey interior, the second is a  700D Cordura  and the third is a much more tech-forward  VX42 X-Pac  which features a bright orange liner. Each look is distinct without changing the lines or design of the pack in any significant manner. 

Construction

Aer designs their bags from their studio in San Francisco but has them manufactured in China, and though people are quick to criticize products made outside of the United States, I’ve experienced several bags from Aer over the past few years and they’ve all been very well finished. The TP3 has not been an exception to the rule. As I mentioned I’ve been using this bag for several months now for travel applications, usually being tossed in and dragged out of the various compartments of my truck on road trips with no sign of real material degradation. The extent of “wear” that I’ve observed thus far has been in the manner of a loose thread here and there. 

This is a great opportunity to bring up the fact that Aer feels very confident in their products and offers you a lifetime warranty at no extra cost. If your bag were to develop a fault, simply reach out to them and they will repair or replace the bag. While I haven’t had to utilize their warranty service myself, I appreciate knowing that it’s available to me. 

Materials & Hardware

My sample is finished in black VX42 from Dimension Polyant with a vibrant orange ripstop nylon liner and YKK AquaGuard zippers throughout. The VX material saves a small amount of weight over the Ballistic Nylon variant at 3.9 lbs over 4.12 lbs and is only slightly heavier than the 700D Cordura option (3.89 lbs). All of the touchpoints feel like they’re of a high quality, for example, all plastic hardware is from Duraflex which is a reliable manufacturer that can be depended upon. I’m also particularly fond of the top and side handles which feel so plush and easy to grab onto (a must on a travel bag). 

If you choose the Ballistic Nylon or 700D Cordura version you’re still getting all the same hardware and quality, just with a different material finish. 

The first time you take the TP3 out of its packaging you’ll quickly come to realize that it is stacked with features for streamlined travel. For instance, I love that it lays flat and zips all the way open with its clamshell design to make packing the bag very comfortable and easy. The updated harness allows for better adjustability on a greater range of body types thanks to the reintroduction of the load lifters. I appreciate all of the options for carrying my essentials securely along with my clothing. The suspended laptop sleeve is very accessible and there’s still a lot of extra space for other items in that area of the bag should you need to carry a second laptop or other similarly sized items. 

The external compression straps have been reconfigured over the previous generation to now not inhibit access to the main compartment at all, and they’ve shifted to magnetic buckles for these straps. This was a huge quality-of-life update which I am certain was based on customer feedback. I love that there is a semi-secret space to stash a small sling or day bag in the main interior so you can lighten up once you get to your destination. I often would toss the Day Sling 3 into this space when packing and it was really handy to have available once arriving at my destination when I most certainly didn’t still need a 35L pack. Speaking of hidden spaces, you’ll also find buried within a stash spot for an Apple AirTag (or similar tracking device) which is a welcome addition for peace of mind when you’re away from your bag. 

Performance

Space & Access

The redesigned main compartment of the TP3 sees the removal of the previous shoe compartment of the last generation but this omission really optimizes carry capacity and access for packing. Now for context, I’m 6’2″ and broad-shouldered, so you can imagine my clothing is not at all small, yet despite this I was able to pack very comfortably into the space provided. Generally speaking, 35L packs can be a bit tight (for me) but my go-to Peak Design packing cubes fit easily in the main cavity while still leaving me full access to the rear laptop compartment and the front tech panel for things like my laptop, chargers, a plethora of cables and perhaps a book or two. 

I do have to comment on the zippers once again though as there is an issue related to access due to them. The front and main compartment zipper paths are very close together and since each one has dual zippers (YKK #10 on the main compartment and #8 on the front), if they happen to be zipped closed on the same side, it becomes a jumbled nest of zipper pulls and I found myself frequently opening the wrong compartment when I wasn’t looking closely. This can be mitigated by intentionally making sure you close each compartment on opposing sides, but I found this small bit of extra cognitive load to use a bag to be slightly frustrating.   

Anyone who knows me knows how relentlessly picky I am about bag fit and comfort, which stems from harnesses and back panels that often don’t work well for my tall and broad frame. I am completely pleased to report that the TP3 harness is perfectly comfortable even when fully loaded. The straps are wide enough and have sufficient padding to help distribute the load evenly on your shoulders. The inclusion of the load lifters also is a very welcome feature for me as it lets me dial in the fit of the bag exactly where I want it (I prefer the top of the pack to not pull away from my back). The back panel is comfortably padded, and though I don’t typically love mesh-style panels, this one is just fine. 

A small but welcome comfort feature I’d also like to mention is the top and side grab handles. I found them to be pleasantly padded and perfectly placed on either side so that when I swing the bag off my shoulder, the side handle is exactly where my hand naturally would be in that motion and removing the pack becomes a very smooth and seamless motion. Lastly, and while I don’t have it with my pack, Aer does offer an optional padded hip belt that will attach to the bag if you want some additional weight-bearing support.

Weatherability

Now considering I spend the majority of my time in the state of California, it’s a known fact that I am unlikely to experience weather any more adverse than oppressive sunshine or persistent wildfires, so I sadly did not have any rainy days during my months of testing. However, we can extrapolate what we know about these materials and paint a very realistic expectation of how this bag will behave in wet conditions. VX42 is a highly weather-resistant material and based on my experience with it in other packs it will hold up remarkably well in the rain. To top it off, we have some very stout YKK AquaGuard zippers to seal off any openings so I feel very confident in saying that your contents are going to be just fine within the TP3 in most environments. However, if you need a bit more, Aer does offer an optional rainfly which can be deployed to fully cover the pack from the elements. 

• • Lots of clever pockets and hidden features
• • Comfortable harness with load lifters for fine-tuning adjustments
• • Improved compression that no longer obstructs front compartment
• • Improved capacity in main compartment
• • Nice grab handles throughout the pack

Not So Good

• • Too bulky and complicated to be considered a daily carry 
• • Too many jangly zippers
• • Some pockets become difficult to access when the bag is full

Aer is a brand I associate with slick designs and killer value and the Travel Pack 3 does not deviate from this formula. It is heavily feature-laden yet still sleek in its exterior appearance, available in three distinct material choices, comfortable, spacious, with a lifetime warranty, and all for under $300. We are in an era of carry where bags frequently break past that $300 barrier (in some cases, well past) so I find it refreshing that Aer is able to provide so much functionality in their bags and yet keep them at attainable price points. I really enjoyed my time with the Aer Travel Pack 3 and found it to be a worthwhile companion on the road despite some small complaints (no bag is perfect, after all). I think if the aesthetic suits your tastes, this is a great option in the 30L+ travel bag space. 

The Breakdown

Geek (performance), space & access, organization, style (design), look & feel, build, materials & hardware, stoke (experience), warranty & support, brand experience, reader's review.

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Aer Travel Pack 3 Review

The Aer Travel Pack 3 is tough, compact, and packed with pockets and features. It’s ideal for anyone who travels with a laptop or other tech.

The Aer Travel Pack 3 is a durable, streamlined, and compact carry-on backpack for those who need to keep devices and tech organized and protected.

At 35L, it’s larger than a daypack but smaller than many other travel bags which can range from 40-45L. It fits all US domestic carry-on size requirements and most international requirements.

The Aer Travel Pack 3 has a well-designed laptop sleeve and a ton of pockets that make carrying smaller devices, tech, and accessories really easy. Plus, the professional aesthetic is right at home in the office, or on city streets.

After testing and reviewing backpacks for nearly 15 years, we’ve learned there’s no such thing as the perfect bag for everyone. After all, what works for me may not work at all for you.

In this Aer Travel Pack 3 review, I’ll talk about everything I loved, the things I didn’t, and where I feel it really differentiates itself. I personally love this bag and have a hard time not recommending it, but ultimately, that’s a decision you’ll need to make for yourself.

We are a team of gear junkies, product engineers, international travelers, vanlifers, and travel photographers. We aim to create the most helpful gear reviews possible because we know how important having the right equipment is for travel.

While travel certainly isn’t all about the stuff you bring, gear can make or break your trip.

Because of that, we hold ourselves to a very high standard when it comes to creating review content that provides real value and helps you make the best purchasing decisions possible. That requires in-depth research, testing, and years of expertise, but the result is worth it.

We never allow corporate incentives to sway our recommendations; we only recommend products that we are happy using ourselves. We do earn a small affiliate commission if you buy a product using a link from our site, but only if you don’t return it, so it’s in our best interest to help you find a product that serves you well.

We’ve put a lot of effort into figuring out how best to do that. We travel extensively and constantly evaluate the products we use in real life. We spent months devising, testing, and refining a rating system that lets us compare competing products more objectively and find exactly what makes one better than another.

We did this because we weren’t satisfied with making recommendations purely on personal preference and gut reactions. We wanted to understand what makes a great backpack and help travelers like you make truly informed purchasing decisions.

We have a soft spot in our hearts for a great backpack. Most members of our team have lived out of a backpack at one time or another, whether doing one-bag travel around the globe or long-distance thru-hiking.

We’ve been testing backpacks and travel gear for the better part of the last 15 years, and we’ve tested and rated over 200 bags from many of the best backpack brands .

In actuality, we don’t believe the perfect backpack exists, but we do believe that some backpacks are better than others—for certain people. We want to make sure you understand exactly what you’re getting and the exact trade-offs you’re making. If you’re happy with the gear you buy, we’ve done our job well.

I traveled with this bag as a single carry-on item for a two-week trip to Costa Rica to test it out. Yes, I lived out of just this bag for two weeks, which included a couple of long airport days, hopping between hotels, and lots of packing and unpacking. 

I loaded this bag up with enough clothes for a week, sandals, shoes, a packable daypack, my laptop, toiletries, chargers, and a total of eight chocolate bars.

I’m usually pretty hard on gear, and while testing this pack, I made sure not to take it easy. I dragged it across concrete, left it on sandy beaches, and packed it to the bursting point with pokey gear.

Living out of this bag for a week or more won’t be for everyone, but it worked for me. I am a textbook minimalist traveler so if you tend to overpack, the 35L capacity will be more limiting.

I scored this bag using our proprietary backpack scoring methodology which includes both objective and subjective assessments for 39 different metrics across 9 different categories. We use this methodology to rate and score every backpack we test in order to create the most objective comparisons and reviews possible.

Type: Carry-On Backpack

Use: Travel

The Aer Travel Pack is one of our highest-rated backpacks with an outstanding score of 9.5. The Aer Travel Pack 3 is an incredible backpack purpose-built for carry-on travel, finding the perfect intersection of durability, functionality and value.

9.4 and Above: Best in Class  – It is very hard to earn this score. These packs perform well across every category, and we recommend them universally. These are the best of the best.

8.9–9.3: Highly Recommended  – These are excellent and high-performing packs. Depending on your specific needs, one of these may be a better fit than our best overall picks.

8.3–8.8: Great for the Right Use  – We typically recommend these packs for more specific use cases, because their outstanding performance in one area may have other tradeoffs.

7.5–8.2: Good with Some Compromises  – These are still good packs that we generally recommend. There are some compromises to be aware of depending on your use case.

7.4 and Under: Not Recommended  – We generally don’t review or recommend packs that score this low, except possibly as a budget pick. They typically have significant issues with quality or function.

9.7 Build Quality

Accounting for 25% of the Overall Score, we believe that Build Quality/durability is the single most important factor when it comes to rating and scoring a bag. It’s not the end-all-be-all, but we believe it should earn the highest weighting in our calculations.

We rate backpack build quality on six objective and subjective attributes. A backpack gets a 0-10 score for each attribute based on a standardized scale. Then we use a weighted average to calculate an overall Build Quality score. The six attributes we use to calculate the score are:

• Main Fabric
• Zipper Type
• Reinforcements
• Stitch Quality
• Manufacturing Origin

8.5 Comfort

Accounting for 20% of the Overall Score, we believe Comfort is the second most important factor when it comes to assessing, rating and scoring a backpack. Because comfort is a subjective experience, we believe it would be unfair to score it subjectively based on such a small sample size.

Therefore, we rate backpack comfort on eight very specific and objective attributes. A backpack gets a 0-10 score for each attribute based on a standardized scale, and then we use a weighted average to calculate an overall score for comfort.

When scoring a backpack for comfort, we look at the following eight attributes:

• Shoulder Strap Padding

Shoulder Strap Shape

• Hip Belt Type + Padding

Sternum Strap

Load Lifters

• Breathability & Ventilation

9.2 Ease of Use

Accounting for 15% of the Overall Score, Ease of Use is our third most important score.

Unlike most rating categories, our ease of use scoring metrics are different depending on whether the backpack in question is a travel backpack, hiking backpack, or everyday backpack.

Because there are different metrics for each backpack type, the percentage breakdown is also different for each backpack type.

Ease of Use refers to whether or not the bag is easy to use. Depending on the bag type, this ultimately comes down to varying combinations of the following attributes:

• Subjective Testing Score

Main Opening Style

Water Bottle Pockets

Number of Grab Handles

• Laptop Accessibility

Luggage Handle Pass-Through

• On-Body Access
• Stow-Away Harness

Front Pocket

9.5 Functionality

Accounting for 10% of the Overall Score, our backpack Functionality rating is based on a combination of subjective testing and specific objective metrics.

A Functionality score answers the question of “how well does this bag do what it’s supposed to do?” This is primarily a subjective score. It’s based on:

• Subjective Functionality Testing
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio
• Laptop Protection (When Applicable)

6.1 Water Resistance

Water Resistance accounts for 5% of the Overall Score. It’s an objective metric based on the following three attributes:

Water-Resistant Fabric

• Water-Resistant Zippers

4.6 Brand Impact

It is important to us to recommend brands that we believe are doing good in the world. Because of that, we rate every brand we review based on their global impact. This rating incorporates elements like sustainable design, carbon reduction, ethical manufacturing, and fair working conditions for employees.

The Brand Impact score is an objective metric which accounts for 5% of the overall score and takes into account:

• Funding Source
• Usage of Sustainable Materials
• Participation in Emissions Reduction Programs
• Certified Carbon Neutral
• Certified B-Corp
• Regular Impact Reporting
• Fair Trade Certified

6.4 Buying Experience

We value companies that implement specific policies to reduce the stress and risk of buying a product. We give higher ratings to companies with free shipping and no-nonsense satisfaction policies.

Accounting for 5% of the Overall Score, the Buying Experience score is an objective metric based on the following attributes:

• Shipping Cost

Return Cost

Return Window

• End-of-Life Trade-In Policy

7.0 Warranty

It’s always a good idea to buy from companies that stand behind their products with solid lifetime warranties.

The Warranty score is an objective metric based on the brand’s warranty policy which accounts for 5% of the Overall Score.

9.1 Price-to-Performance

We rate products based on the bang for your buck they provide. We measure that using a Cost-to-Performance ratio, which enables us to evaluate whether a higher-end product is really worth the extra cost or whether it’s better to save some cash.

We calculate the Cost-to-Performance ratio by comparing the MSRP to the testing and scoring of all the previous categories. A product that performs well at a lower cost has a higher Cost-to-Performance ratio.

This is an important data piece to look at if you are on a budget but still want the best quality and design possible.

• It functions well for one-bag travel
• Durable material brings peace of mind that the bag will not fail you when traveling
• Functional smart compartments that keep you well organized
• Lay-flat main compartment makes accessing your belongings easy
• Sleek design and minimal design
• Attachment points for extra gear on the outside
• The lack of hip straps limits comfort. I’m not a fan of add on options for features that I deem necessary 
• No rain-fly. Probably not the biggest worry but a little extra rain protection wouldn’t hurt
• Lack of larger size options. I'd love to see a 45L version of this bag as well

21.5" x 13.0" x 9.0"

800D+ Cordura or ballistic nylon

• Expand to view all specs

YKK #10 coil zipper

contoured S-shape

flexible frame sheet

removable with light padding

Breathability

spacer mesh with air channels

panel loader

Laptop Protection

suspended and padded sleeve

thinner internal PU coating

Water-Resitant Zippers

uncoated zippers

pay for shipping

limited lifetime warranty

• Collapse specs

Why It Got This Score

Aer is known and well-loved because they use incredibly high quality materials in all their bags. The 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon exterior is super tough—it’s one of the most heavy-duty fabrics I’ve ever seen in a carry-on backpack. Because of this, the Aer Travel Pack 3 has one of the highest scores we’ve seen in the Build Quality category—an impressive 9.7 out of 10.

It’s an incredibly functional bag, too. The laptop sleeve is well-padded and easy to access, the pockets make it easy to stay organized, and the compression straps let you adjust the size to whatever you’re carrying. Because of its versatility, this bag scored another impressive score of 9.4 in the Functionality category.

One of my favorite parts about this bag is how intuitive it is to use, which is why it scored a 9.2 in the Ease of Use category. The backpack opens flat, which means packing is like filling a dresser drawer rather than stuffing a tube. It has handles on multiple sides, so grabbing it from any angle is easy, and the zippers slide smoothly, making access on the go hassle-free.

It’s not perfect though. The internally-coated fabric and unsealed zippers resulted in a Water Resistance score of 6.1. Still, it’s rarely been an issue in my travels. It handles a light drizzle just fine, which is enough for dashing into hotels or airports.

The price-to-performance ratio, where this bag scored an almost unbelievable 9.9, makes this backpack a seriously smart buy. It’s not a cheap bag but it’s a heavy-hitter that delivers serious value for what you get.

Scoring a 9.5 overall, the Aer Travel Pack 3 is one of the best carry-on backpacks our team has ever tested.

First Impressions

When I first got my hands on the Aer Travel Pack 3 I let out an audible “whoa!” I’ve never touched a bag that felt so extremely well-made. The 1680D Cordura nylon felt heavy-duty, and the chunky YKK zippers felt extremely secure. These are the best zippers on the market, so I was glad that Aer didn’t skimp.

The quality of this bag is something you have to feel in person to appreciate. It feels tough and almost overbuilt, yet the details are all very refined. I didn’t find loose threads or crooked stitches anywhere.

The bag did feel quite heavy even when empty. This could be a downside if you prefer ultra-lightweight travel options, but it’s a trade-off for the durable materials and extensive features. I personally prefer well-built packs, so the weight didn’t bother me.

I immediately loved the sheer number of pockets and compartments on this bag. There are pockets for phones, pens, headphones, sunglasses, travel documents, and more.

I’ve used other backpacks with lots of pockets that seemed randomly scattered around the bag, and I kept forgetting where I put stuff. The Aer Travel Pack was nothing like that. The organization system of this bag just makes sense, and as I started packing the backpack, I noticed how everything I wanted to pack seemed to fit just  perfectly . Many bags have oddly shaped pockets, but it’s clear that Aer paid very close attention here.

There are a few well-placed external pockets, and the rest are laid out in a sort of grid pattern in the front admin panel. Because of this, even though there are many pockets, I didn’t ever feel overwhelmed or confused. It’s a smart design.

When I put the pack on my back, the S-shaped straps curved comfortably around my shoulders, and I love the thick, plush padding. It felt comfy, but I was pretty disappointed that this pack doesn’t come with a hip belt. You can buy it separately, but I really think it should be included.

I also tried sliding my laptop into the laptop sleeve and was very happy with how easy it was. Some backpacks have a simple straight zipper for the laptop sleeve, but the Travel Pack has a big, curved zipper that wraps around both corners. This made it so much easier to pull the laptop sleeve wide open and slide my device in and out.

Aesthetically, the Aer Travel Pack is pretty understated. It is very professional-looking (especially in black) and isn’t going to stand out in a crowd. If you like more classic or adventurous backpacks, this isn’t the one for you, but if you like a sleek, modern, techy vibe, you’ll love the look.

Who It's For

The Aer Travel Pack 3 is a Swiss Army Knife carry-on bag for people on the go who need something large enough for multi-day trips, but compact enough for business travel or short jaunts.

• Weekend Warriors: This bag is a champion of short trips. It’s sized just right to skip the check-in lines and head straight to the gate.
• Business Travelers: This Aer Travel Pack is ideal for traveling for work. It looks professional enough to wear with a suit, and compartments for tech ensure that your laptop and tablet are always ready for the next Zoom call.
• Digital Nomads: If you travel with your office on your back, the Aer Travel Pack is a perfect tool for carrying your gear. It fits everything you need for working on the go and has room to pack clothes and travel essentials.

Who It’s Not For

While the Aer Travel Pack 3 is a fantastic bag, it definitely won’t be ideal for everyone. Here’s who might want to pass on this one:

• Ultralight Backpackers: If you like to keep the weight on your back to a minimum, this bag might feel like a bit of an anchor. It’s built tough, which means it’s also a bit heavier than more featherweight packs.
• Long-Term One-Bag Nomads: If you’re living out of your backpack, wandering from one country to another, this bag’s 35L capacity might feel cramped after a few weeks. If you’re traveling for longer, consider a 45L bag like the Matador GlobeRider 45 or the WANDRD TRANSIT .
• Outdoor Adventurers: If your travels take you off the beaten path—think hiking in the Himalayas or camping in the Rockies—you’ll probably need a hiking backpack that’s built specifically for the outdoors.

What We Liked

For me, the Aer Travel Pack 3 was perfect as a carry-on backpack for air travel. Its design ticks all the boxes for managing the hustle of the airport. The dimensions fit comfortably within most airline carry-on standards, which means I could breeze past the check-in lines straight to security. Plus, I could easily slide out my laptop without having to unpack anything else, speeding up the whole TSA process (unless you’re a Pre-Check junkie, like me).

The handles on the top and both sides made it simple to pull the pack from overhead bins or squeeze it under the seat in front. Its robust build meant I wasn’t worried about it getting damaged by the lady trying to forcibly stuff a guitar case into the overhead bin.

The Aer Travel Pack 3 also made my inner OCD organizer very happy. There are plenty of pockets inside and out, and the organization panel is awesome for keeping small items from getting lost in the bottom of the bag. I typically travel with a small tech pouch for my cables, earbuds, adapters, and USB battery bank, but I didn’t even need it with this bag—there were enough built-in pockets to keep my stuff plenty organized.

The comfort level was another pleasant surprise. The padded straps and back panel made it feel like I was carrying less than I actually was. I’m glad Aer included load lifters in this version of the Travel Pack. These little adjusters definitely helped me dial in the fit and reduce the strain on my shoulders and neck.

Durability-wise, the bag passed with flying colors. Despite brushes against rough surfaces and many trips through bag-shredding security conveyors, it looks as good as new; not something I can say about some other carry-on backpacks I’ve tested.

What We Didn’t Like

One afternoon, I was caught in a sudden downpour. While the pack handled light rain well in the past, this heavier exposure allowed some moisture to seep through the zippers and fabric. This pack is still decently water-resistant, just know that it isn’t as waterproof as something like the Tortuga Travel Backpack .

I know that I mentioned comfort as an upside of this bag, but that’s only true as long as you aren’t overloading it. On a particularly heavy packing day, I could feel the shoulder straps digging in more than usual, despite the padding.

The hip belt goes a long way toward making this bag more comfortable, but you have to buy it separately! I’m not a fan when companies make near-necessary features cost extra. I get that not everyone wants a hip belt, but I really think they should just include it!

The 35L capacity was just right for my two-week trip to Costa Rica, but it would’ve been a tight squeeze to fit any more stuff. I like the compact form factor, but I definitely had to be conscious to avoid overpacking.

Our Favorite Features and Specs

Just like most carry-on backpacks, the Aer has plenty of features to make it well-suited for travel: a wrap-around zipper opening, lots of pockets, and multiple handles. None of that is very special in and of itself.

What is special, though, is the way in which they built and executed key features of the bag. A backpack can’t really have too mind-blowing innovations these days—a bag is just a bag, right? But while the Aer Travel Pack’s features look fairly typical on paper, the way those features work in the real world is not typical at all.

The burly Cordura nylon fabric is much thicker and tougher than what you typically find in a travel pack. The organization panel and laptop compartment are very well designed and make this pack awesome for tech-heavy travelers. The shoulder straps are well-padded and comfy. Even the expanding bottle pocket is unique and very functional.

When you’re picking between high-end travel backpacks, the details make all the difference. The Aer Travel Pack nails it on the details, which is why it’s one of our most recommended carry-on backpacks.

1680D Cordura Nylon Construction

The 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon on the Aer Travel Pack 3 is probably the most durable fabric I’ve ever seen on a carry-on backpack. This material has faced rough airport conveyors and gritty city streets without showing any signs of wear. It’s tough enough to resist scuffs and tears, and I don’t go easy on my gear. This beefy material is one of the reasons the Travel Pack scored an impressive 9.7 for build quality in our rating system.

Yet, despite its durability, it doesn’t sacrifice style or comfort; the fabric is surprisingly sleek and manages a professional look that fits in seamlessly from airports to business meetings. Despite the “ballistic” name, it doesn’t look tactical or military at all.

External Compression Straps

The external compression straps on the Aer Travel Pack 3 are essentially adjustable straps on the sides of the backpack that you can tighten or loosen depending on how much you’re carrying.

On shorter trips, I packed light and there was plenty of empty space inside. By tightening these straps, I could pull the contents together, preventing them from shifting around while I’m on the move. This proved especially handy when I was rushing through crowded stations or navigating busy streets—it keeps the load stable and easy to manage.

They’re also great for slimming down the bag. I’ve used the Aer Travel Pack a few times for daily commutes, and cranking the compression straps all the way down made it less bulky and cumbersome.

Organization Panel

Nestled in the front compartment, the organization/admin panel is outfitted with a variety of pockets and slots that each seem perfectly designed for passports, notebooks, pens, chargers, headphones, and more.

I’ve found it incredibly handy, especially during the hustle of airport security or when I need to quickly stash everything inside my bag. Everything has its place, so I never have to second-guess where I’ve stored essential items. This setup not only saves me time but also a lot of travel stress.

Even though there are a lot of pockets here, it never felt excessive or overwhelming to me. Since they’re all laid out in a neat, orderly way, I can see right where my stuff is.

Expanding Water Bottle Pocket

Unlike the fixed water bottle pockets on other backpacks that can stick out or sag, the Aer’s expandable bottle pocket zips up tight when not in use, keeping the pack’s sleek silhouette intact. When I need it, it stretches generously to snugly fit my water bottle, whether I was using a slender, small bottle for a quick outing or a bulkier one for longer excursions.

It’s secure too; I can jog to catch a train or hop onto a bus, confident that my water bottle isn’t going anywhere.

This is a pretty small detail, but this bag is loaded with well-designed details that make it very intuitive to use. This kind of intelligent design played a big role in earning this bag a 9.4 functionality score. Seriously, not many travel packs compete with that.

External Laptop Sleeve

Having an external laptop sleeve isn’t that unique in travel backpacks anymore—so many people travel with a laptop these days. The Aer’s laptop sleeve isn’t wildly different from anything that other bags are doing, but there are a few small details that make it really functional.

First, the massive curved zipper at the top makes it easy to pull out my laptop. I’ve used plenty of bags that have shorter, restrictive zippers that make it hard to get a laptop in and out, and this one blows those out of the water. The sleeve can fit a 16” laptop, and the curved zipper makes that realistic.

There is also a small stretchy compartment inside the laptop sleeve that’s perfect for a charging cable and a mouse. I honestly wish more bags would take a cue from this design. One of my least favorite things about carrying a laptop in a backpack is figuring out where to put the cable. This little pocket gave me an easy-to-remember designated spot for my laptop charger. It sounds stupidly simple, but it made a big difference in my user experience.

Aer Travel Pack 3 Accessories

If you’re gearing up for a trip, a few accessories can go a long way toward making your packing even more streamlined. These add-ons work perfectly with the Aer Travel Pack.

Aer Dopp Kit

The Aer Dopp Kit is a small toiletry bag that pairs perfectly with the Aer Travel Pack 3. I personally like having my gear match as much as possible, and this little bag mirrors the aesthetic of the Travel Pack perfectly. It’s even made of the exact same materials!

The smartly arranged pockets keep my toiletries tidy and easy to access. Plus, the waterproof lining shields my other essentials from any leaks or spills, which, let’s face it, are almost a given when you’re on the move.

Peak Design Tech Pouch

The Peak Design Tech Pouch is another excellent accessory for the Aer Travel Pack 3. It’s the kind of accessory that makes you wonder how you managed without it—every cable, charger, and gadget has its own spot, making it a breeze to grab what I need without any digging or untangling.

The Travel Pack has enough pockets that many people won’t need a separate tech pouch, but maybe you have a device obsession and need to carry all the associated cables, dongles, and batteries for your devices. That’s what this Tech Pouch was designed for.

Eagle Creek PACK-IT Reveal Cubes

The Eagle Creek PACK-IT Reveal Cubes streamlined how I pack with my Aer Travel Pack 3. Slipping these cubes into the main compartment lets me sort everything neatly—socks in one cube, shirts in another, and so on. It’s a practical way to keep things organized and accessible, especially since I can see everything at a glance through their mesh tops.

These cubes don’t just sort my stuff; they also compress it slightly, helping me make the most of the space inside my backpack. They fit snugly within the Aer Travel Pack, and they add almost no extra weight.

Aer Travel Pack 3 Alternatives

While I love the Aer Travel Pack, it isn’t perfect for everyone. Depending on your preferences, a different bag may be a better choice. These alternatives each excel in different areas.

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

The Tortuga Travel Backpack earned our top pick for the best carry-on backpack overall, so it is the main competition for the Aer Travel Pack. It definitely has some advantages, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t also reasons to go with the Aer.

If you often need just a bit more room for that extra outfit or pair of shoes, the Tortuga’s 40L capacity has the edge over the Aer’s 35L. It’s designed to pack a bit more, which is fantastic for those extended stays or cool-weather trips where you need to pack warmer, bulkier clothes.

Both bags open wide and flat for easy packing—the Aer has a full panel-opening design on the front. The Tortuga opts for a clamshell design, which is straightforward and feels familiar if you’re used to packing in a suitcase. Both designs work well, but I personally like the Aer’s panel opening better since I can get into either side of the backpack without laying it down or opening it completely.

If your travels often have you on the move, carrying your backpack for long periods of time, the Tortuga Travel Backpack is going to be much more comfortable and make heavy loads easier to manage. This bag has ultra-thick shoulder straps, load lifters, a plush hip belt, and an adjustable torso size. All these features make this one of the most comfortable carry-on bags I’ve ever tested.

Price-wise, the Tortuga is steeper, but that investment pays off in carrying comfort, making it a solid choice if you’re a heavy packer or a frequent flier. On the other hand, the Aer Travel Pack is more compact and is ideal if you’re carrying a lot of tech.

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

If you’re a photographer, carry lots of tech gear, or just like to be ultra-organized, the Peak Design Travel Backpack may be a better choice than the Aer Travel Pack.

This bag from Peak Design is loaded with bells and whistles that make it incredibly functional. There are zip-away dividers, side access zippers, hidden compartments, stow-away shoulder straps, and attachment points for accessories. The best part is that Peak Design put a lot of thought into these details, so they feel intuitive.

You can load this pack up with Peak Design’s Packing Cubes , Camera Cubes , and Tech Pouches to have the ultimate travel organization. It’s a no-brainer if you ever travel with camera equipment.

It feels more refined and detailed than the Aer Travel Pack, but it’s also more complicated to use. If you prefer simplicity, this bag may be too much.

The Aer Travel Pack is also made with more durable materials and costs noticeably less.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

If you’re in the market for a travel backpack that balances functionality with distinctive style, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L presents a compelling alternative to the Aer Travel Pack 3. It is a very different backpack for a very different type of traveler.

This bag screams adventure with its vibrant colors and robust build. It’s much simpler than the Aer Travel Pack and has fewer pockets and zippers. This setup makes it better for adventurous, outdoorsy-type travel, but it certainly isn’t as good if you carry lots of tech and gadgets.

Here’s how I see the difference between the Allpa and the Aer Travel Pack:

If you want to get into the outdoors on your travels, prefer a simpler travel setup, and like colorful designs, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is probably a better bag for you.’

On the other hand, if your travels will mainly be to urban destinations and you need pockets to keep devices and tech organized, you’ll be better off with the Aer.

Aer Travel Pack 3 FAQs

Is the aer travel pack worth it.

The Aer Travel Pack 3 is absolutely worth it. It has a durable build and a smart layout, and it scored an impressive 9.9 for price-to-performance.

Is Aer Travel Pack 3 waterproof?

The Aer Travel Pack 3 is water-resistant but not fully waterproof.

Does the Aer Travel Pack 3 fit under an airplane seat?

The Aer Travel Pack 3 is too big to fit under many airplane seats, but the Small version fits perfectly.

Does Aer Travel Pack 3 come with a hip belt?

The Aer Travel Pack 3 does not come with a hip belt; you have to buy it separately.

Is Aer Made in China?

Yes, Aer products, including the Travel Pack 3 , are manufactured in China.

Jeremy Scott Foster

Thanks for the great review. I’ve had this bag as my EDC work bag for 6 months and I’m very impressed with it.

This pack comes in 2 sizes. Any more sizes than that would be completely impractical in the business sense. Every extra size means an enormous extra production cost.

The hip strap and rain fly are sold separately, it’s reasonable to pay extra for these, especially when most customers don’t want it need them.

The 1680d ballistic nylon is extremely strong. You could easily roll it down a granite cliff many times and it won’t tear (sure it will scuff like any material would).

My biggest gripe is not being able to replace the framesheet. I like stiff framesheet so it would be nice to be able to swap it.

I’d also appreciate some anchor zip pull tabs for when I zip up the main compartment (especially when it’s empty).

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Aer travel pack 3 review.

Mar 22nd, 2022

This website is made possible by readers. I may earn a small commission when you buy through the links in this article at no extra cost to you. Learn more .

Please read the Aer Travel Pack 2 Review if you haven't already.

• Price $249 on aersf.com
• Dimensions  13″ (w) x 21.5″ (h) x 9″ (d) / 330mm (w) x 550mm (h) x 215mm (d)
• Weight  1905 g / 4 lb 2 oz
• Material  1680D CORDURA®  ballistic nylon  exterior
• Volume  35 liters

On several occasions, I have reviewed various iterations of the same bags. They give me a chance to see the evolution of not just a product but the way a brand thinks. Like how the TOM BIHN Synapse upgraded to the TOM BIHN Synik for digital nomads. Or the TOM BIHN Aeronaut to the TOM BIHN Techonaut .

Many backpacks get upgrades to get with the times and to keep up with or beat the competition, Aer is no different.

But unlike the TOM BIHN Synapse , the Aer Travel Pack 2 was already designed with the digital nomad in mind. With sleek aesthetics and functional pockets for tech accessories, the Aer Travel Pack 2 , along with similarly sleek packs like the Able Carry Max , is one of my favorite backpacks for indefinite travel.

When I heard that they would release the Travel Pack 3 , I was puzzled. What could they possibly improve from version 2? But if you know anything about Aer, it's their relentless pursuit of perfection that has found their way into my heart.

My expectations with Aer's products are usually sky high, and I am rarely disappointed. While I don't think this time will be any different, it is interesting to see how Aer can top an already perfect backpack.

The Aer Travel Pack 3 , as the name suggests and its predecessors show, is designed for travelers. Not just any traveler, but those who embrace the one-bag lifestyle, traveling indefinitely with just a single backpack.

As a hardcore one-bagger myself, I know what I'm looking for in a backpack like this.

When I travel, I want to attract as little attention as possible. I often leave my pricier accessories, such as my wedding ring, behind and dress down. At the same time, meeting new people during travel is part of the experience, and I want to look presentable and represent myself well.

For a backpack to achieve the above, it should look sleek but not flashy. It should be large enough to hold what I need it to, but not too large that it makes it too obvious that I am traveling.

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But no one likes ads, so I got rid of them. If my articles helped you, I ask for your support so I can continue to provide unbiased reviews and recommendations. Every cent donated through Patreon will go into improving the quality of this site.

or buy me coffee

Aer has always been a master of designing stealthy, sleek backpacks. Aer has got to be in my top three when it comes to product aesthetics. The other two would probably be Able Carry and Black Ember. The Travel Pack comes with minimal branding, a small tag on the shoulder strap, and a larger one on the side.

The Aer Travel Pack 3 comes in black, gray, and X-Pac. Since I already own the Travel Pack 2 in black, I went for that X-Pac version that comes with a subtle criss-cross pattern, a trademark of the X-Pac material.

Apart from the patterns, the biggest aesthetical difference that comes with the X-Pac is the orange interiors. The color does make it easier to spot the stuff I am reaching for, but the black version offers a gray interior that attracts less attention.

Some backpacks can be too large and lack structure, such as the TOM BIHN Techonaut . The Travel Pack has the right balance of size and structure, which helps me look clean and proper. The structure and support are thanks to the internal framesheet and the robust internal organization.

I have no problem carrying the Travel Pack 3 as an everyday carry, but with some luxury of space, I would likely pack a TOM BIHN Daylight Backpack or Tortuga Prelude Daypack as a daily carry.

While it looks fine on my 6 ft frame, those who find it too bulky can opt for the small version of the bag, new with this version.

If you are an owner of the Travel Pack or any Aer product, you'll find the style familiar. It's what Aer is known for and probably one of the biggest reasons to choose the Travel Pack 3 .

The main material of the bag is 1680D CORDURA®  ballistic nylon  exterior. As a reader of this blog, you must be already familiar with the wonders of CORDURA® and why so many brands use it.

I designed a thing.

I found a 100 year old company that would create these heirloom quality canisters for me. They are handmade and will keep your tea leaves, coffee beans or anything that you need dry for years to come.

or read review

If you don't, let me break it down real quick.

CORDURA® is a fabric brand, similar to names like  GORETEX  or Polartec. They are maybe one of the most used fabrics for high-quality bags. Some brands, like the military-influenced GORUCK, even use CORDURA® exclusively.

On the other hand, Ballistic nylon is a type of fabric that was originally developed for military body armor. The word “ballistic” gained popularity because the military used the fabric for anti-fragmentation ballistic jackets during the Vietnam war, where layers upon layers of the fabric were laminated on top of each other to be durable enough to withstand exploding metal, yet at the same time remain flexible for wear.

CORDURA® Ballistic fabrics are made with high tenacity nylon 6,6 filament yarns to be dense and rugged to offer enhanced tear and abrasion resistance.

The 1680d refers to the denier count. This bag has one of the highest denier counts I've seen. Even the  GORUCK GR1 , that design was based on special operations needs, only has 1000d.

You want to note that a higher denier count does not necessarily mean a stronger fabric. It simply refers to the weight of the fabric.

If you want to know if a fabric is stronger, you should look at the “tenacity” or stretch per denier, breaking strength (tenacity x denier), and toughness of a fabric.

This is because stretch and abrasion resistance is mainly attained through molecular manipulation and how a piece of fabric is stretched, spun, or woven.

You also want to note that there is a difference between CORDURA®  ballistic nylon  and regular CORDURA® nylon (which  GORUCK  uses). Generally speaking,  ballistic nylon  weighs more but is stronger and has better tear resistance.

Nylon looks more like canvas, while  ballistic nylon  is a little shiny and has larger weaves.

One brand has a sole monopoly for zippers at this grade of backpacks when it comes to zippers. You guessed it; it's the almighty YKK. You want to note that only the laptop compartment has YKK® AquaGuard® zippers, which gives your $3000 laptop extra protection from the elements.

You can find Duraflex plastic hardware throughout the bag, such as in a D-ring for you to hang things off.

While materials have largely stayed the same as their predecessor, I noticed an upgrade of the compression straps clasps to Fidlock type clasps.

Usage: Aer Travel Pack 2 and Aer Travel Pack 3 Organization & Feature Comparison

The Travel Pack 2 and 3 are very similar packs. You'll find the experience very similar, and I would encourage you to read my review on the Travel Pack 2 if you haven't already.

In this section, I will be going through each feature again but focus more on the upgrades from version 2 and how it affects the experience.

Top Quick Access

A standard small pocket that you can access from the top. This pocket is pretty standard and can be found on most of Aer's backpacks. I keep smaller things, like AirPods or keys, that I access often.

Upgraded from version 2, this pocket is padded and felt-lined in the Travel Pack 3 . You'll feel safe having electronics that might scratch easily here.

If you don't have anything that scratches easily, then you might find this a downgrade, since the padding will cause the pocket to take up more space in the main compartment. I am in this camp, although I don't particularly mind it since the extra space it takes up is neglible.

The zipper in version 3 is also smaller and more subtle.

Front Quick Access

Like its predecessors, version 3 comes with a single zip across the middle of the front. The compartment is non-3D that takes up the bottom half of the bag. I usually have quick-access, non-valuables here, such as a portable fan from MUJI or any loose pieces of rubbish in rubbish bin sparse Japan.

If I'm a pickpocket, this pocket would be, without a doubt, the easiest target for me.

Smart Organization Compartment

The first zipper on the top nearest to you will reveal a compartment full of in-built organization. The organization is almost the same as the Travel Pack 2, except for one small, but very welcomed difference; the two pen slots have been merged into one.

While I bring along my NOMAD Pen when I travel just so that I don't have to fight for shared pens at customs, I rarely bring a pen for any other occasion. Pen slots are so narrow that you usually won't be able to use them for any other purposes. This slightly wider slot is still narrow enough to hold a pen but wide enough to accommodate something like a flashlight.

Some might organize their tech accessories into these slots. The slots are relatively wide to fit a variety of accessories, such as a Magic Mouse or AirPods Pro , but not too baggy that the accessories will move around excessively in them.

I use the Aer Slim Pouch for my tech accessories since I often switch bags. I put the pouch at the bottom of this compartment and filled the slots with my passport, portable utensils set, and flashlight, like the Nitecore MH11 .

Main Compartment

The main compartment isn't anything to shout about, but the way it is accessed in the Travel Pack 3 is nothing short of revolutionary. I've always been a fan of compression straps on one-bagging backpacks since they let you make the backpack less bulky for everyday carry.

The big issue with compression straps is that they hinder the zippers of the main compartment, like on the GORUCK GR3 and the Aer Travel Pack 2 . The Aer Travel Pack 3 has compression straps between the zippers, so you don't have to undo them to unzip.

There is a mesh zippered pocket on the inside of this compartment.

No more shoe compartment

One compartment that went away was the shoe compartment. It was a compartment, accessible from the bottom, that could fit up to size 13 shoes. The compartment separated your dirty shoes from the clean clothing in the main compartment.

I agree that it wasn't necessary.

Most one baggers would bring a pair of shoes and a pair of open footwear, like the Xero Shoes Z-Trek . Because shoes take up quite a bit of space, I usually wear them when I fly and change out to a pair of sandals after check-in. For my sandals, I would keep them into a TOM BIHN Stuff Sack . It gave me more versatility in packing, rather than an in-built organization that takes up more space than I need. For a one-bagger, every bit of space counts.

Laptop Compartment

In this digital age, multiple devices are the norm, allowing you to bring along a laptop and a tablet. Aer knows this and added a slot in here, something that was not in version 2. The slot is padded, so you won't have to worry about your devices rubbing against each other as you are on the move.

While I would only bring a single laptop, the slot helped when I had documents that I needed to carry along. I am allergic to paper, but it's hard to escape them living in Japan.

Another difference I noticed was that the zippers opened less on the Travel Pack 3 than version 2. In version 2, you could open it down half the bag, while in version 3, the zippers go down to about a quarter down the side.

I thought a quarter was just right for you to reach into the compartment and would prevent users from mindlessly and unnecessarily opening it all the way, wasting that wee bit of time.

There is a hidden padded pocket in here that I nearly missed. It's great for cables and chargers, like the Satechi Wall Chargers , that you need to pull out with your laptop.

Update: Brought it to Seoul with two 16-inch Macbook Pro in the Aer Tech Folio and was able to fit with no problem. It was a little tight trying to pull it out, but bearable.

Load-Lifting Shoulder Straps

Perhaps the biggest and most obvious upgrade is the all-new load-lifting shoulder straps. These straps are adjustable from straps on the top of the bag. They rebalance the backpack according to the length of your back and the amount of weight you are holding. You just kinda pull both of it while you have it on till you feel comfortable.

The last backpack I reviewed with this feature was the Tortuga Prelude Backpack , and I can say it is something I would look for in a one-bagging backpack.

Like the compression straps clasp, the sternum strap clasp has been upgraded to Fidlock.

The Travel Pack 2 from Aer has long been one of my favorite bags for one bagging. The Travel Pack 3 elevated that experience with a few upgrades like load-lifting shoulder straps and compression straps that don't hinder access to the main compartments.

While the upgrades are excellent, I personally wouldn't get a Travel Pack 3 if I already have a Travel Pack 2. Aer has probably shot themselves in the foot by making the Travel Pack 2 so awesome that it would be hard to justify $249 for version 3.

If you never had a travel backpack from Aer, then the Aer Travel Pack 3 is the one for you. It is $19 more expensive than version 2, but the upgrades are well worth it.

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Tagged aer backpack bag ballistic nylon cordura fidlock review water-resistant x-pac

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thanks for your review. what are your thoughts on the 1680d ballistic nylon of the tp2 versus the xpac42 of the tp3?

In practical terms like abrasion and durability, you will likely not be able to feel any difference between the two. However, X-Pac just looks a bit more premium with the criss-cross pattern. Honestly, I would choose the one the looks the best to me, which is X-Pac in this case.

Strange you do not mentioned nothing about weight of the pack. For this capacity this is quite heavy pack.

I am curious between this Travel Pack 3 versus the Able Carry Max on which you prefer.

Difficult one. The ultimate differentiator for me is that if I need to pack more, I go for the TP3. If not, Able Carry Max. Despite being almost the same capacity, Able Carry has most of its organization internalized, so there is really less space than you think it has.

Hi alex, do you think it could fit a 17 inch laptop in the compartment with the false bottom? Not too many packs can fit my laptop. I’m wondering if this one can

I am pretty sure it can, although I can’t guarantee it since I don’t have a 17-inch laptop to try. Best to check with Aer.

Hi Alex, do you think it would be appropriate to use it as an EDC for a guy who is 6’4 ? On a mission to hunt for something to use it for both short trips and EDC.

I think it is possible, although I personally prefer smaller packs for EDC. You can also try the Able Carry Max , which is more compact and great for short trips.

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Travel Pack 3

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The carry-on travel backpack that keeps you moving

The Travel Pack 3 is a versatile carry-on backpack designed for traveling smart. It features a streamlined design and smart organization so you can skip the baggage carousel and stay on the go. Move Smarter™.

Product Details

• 1680D Cordura® ballistic nylon exterior (bluesign® approved)

• YKK® zippers

• Duraflex® plastic hardware

• Padded, suspended laptop pocket with soft lining (fits up to 16" laptop) 

• Lay-flat main compartment for spacious storage and easy packing

• Compression straps with magnetic fasteners for stability and security

• Quick-access top and side pockets for small valuables

• Load lifters for support and comfort

• Handles on all sides for versatile carrying

• Expandable water bottle pocket

• Hidden smart tracker pocket

• Internal framesheet provides structure and support

• Attachment points for a removable hip belt (sold separately)

• Luggage handle pass-through

• Lockable zippers for additional security

Length: 21.5" (54.5 cm)

Width: 13" (33 cm)

Depth: 9" (21.5 cm)

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Review: Aer’s Travel Pack 3 Is a Globetrotter’s Backpack Done Right

By: Tim Huber Published: May 25, 2022

Roughly a decade ago, Allen Choi found himself needing a do-it-all daily use bag that could go straight from home to the office to the gym. Unsatisfied with the available bags on the market, Choi opted to design his own game-changing backpack that was launched through a Kickstarter campaign in 2014 — a project that would ultimately lead to the inception of the Aer brand. Since that time, Aer has steadily introduced an ever-growing and ever-evolving range of ultra-capable bags that are engineered from the ground up for specific uses.

One such item is the San Francisco label’s latest Travel Pack. Keeping in line with the company’s MO, this third-generation bag is highly calculated, crafted from a spare-no-expense array of materials, and loaded with features that were clearly born out of years of real-world experience and daily-field testing — both at home and abroad. And while there’s absolutely no denying the high-end nature or premium quality of the bag, it can still be difficult to judge whether or not the backpack’s features and construction justify its $249 MSRP. So, with this in mind, we’ve opted to explore the latest version of this purpose-built travel pack firsthand, putting its features and build quality to the test in this hands-on review of the Aer Travel Pack 3.

VIDEO REVIEW: AER TRAVEL PACK 3

To get a better idea of what kind of utility this bag offers, have a look at our Aer Travel Pack 3 video review .

Aer Travel Pack History

Three Generations Of Perfecting Travel Packs

Meticulously developed to be something of the ultimate travel bag, the original first-generation Aer Travel Pack first debuted in 2017. Also launched via a wildly successful crowdfunding campaign, this initial model would eventually be phased out in favor of the even more capable Travel Pack 2 in late 2018. Fast forward to 2022, and after hundreds — if not thousands — of feedback notes from the public, and tens of thousands of miles of international globetrotting, Aer has finally debuted the highly-anticipated successor to its second-gen model with the heavily-revised Travel Pack 3.

First Impressions

Surface-Level Observations

Right out of the box, Aer’s third-generation Travel Pack boasts a premium quality that the user can easily feel, looking even more attractive and well-built in person with its subtle waterproof zippers , ample reinforcements, blacked-out hardware, and ballistic-grade weaved construction. Aesthetically, the backpack sports an incredibly minimalistic design that’s made all the more impressive by how thoroughly utilitarian it manages to be.

And, while it’s abundantly clear that every element of this bag has been thoroughly considered and streamlined, with an inherent purpose behind each feature, its bevy of zipper tracks can be a little confusing at first — though this issue quickly goes away after becoming better acquainted with the bag over the first day or two of use/ownership.

Quality Constructions

Only The Best Materials

Like its predecessor, the Aer Travel Pack 3 features a shell that’s crafted from insanely-rugged 1,680-denier CORDURA . This bluesign-approved, ballistic-grade exterior has been matched by an array of equally premium components such as Duraflex hardware, Hypalon label tags, and waterproof YKK zippers equipped with Hypalon and custom Aer-branded pulls. The backpack’s main compartment has also been treated to a smooth ripstop liner while its dedicated electronics and tech compartments (i.e. the bag’s laptop sleeve and smartphone pocket) have been treated to thick padding trimmed in ultra-soft fleece linings. Sitting beneath a plush, breathable, foam-lined back panel is an internal frame sheet. This internal frame chassis system provides the bag with a semi-rigid structure, enabling it to stand up on its own when packed while also affording additional support.

Third-Generation Design

Third Time's A Charm

Though the newest version of the Travel Pack looks remarkably similar to its first- and second-generation predecessors, the backpack has actually been bestowed with a slew of tweaks and updates that make for an even more capable travel bag. Hugely benefitting from ample customer feedback as well as Aer’s own field-testing, the Travel Pack 3 retains the previous gens’ Lay-flat main compartment, though loses its dedicated shoe compartment. Other revisions include an improved compression design, the addition of all-new load lifters that bolster comfort and fit, and a hidden smart tracker pocket for accommodating Apple AirTags, Tiles, or other smart tracking devices.

And, while it still measures 21.5” in length, the bag’s width has been shortened by half an inch (down to 13” from 13.5”) and its depth has increased by the same amount (going from the 8.5” to 9”). These revised dimensions also result in more volume, with the Travel Pack 3 boasting 35 liters of real estate versus the 2’s 33 liters. The gen-three is also slightly heavier, now tipping the scales at 4.2lbs — up from 3.7.

External Design & Equipment

Minimalist Yet Complex

Despite its incredibly spartan exterior design, the outside of the Track Pack 3’s shell actually packs a surprising amount of attachment points and cleverly-integrated features. This includes a pair of D-rings supplemented by a series of loops on the backpack’s two shoulder straps, a luggage handle pass-through, an integrated zippered expandable water bottle sleeve, and a redesigned compression strap setup that sees the gen-two bag’s plastic buckles jettisoned in favor of FIDLOCK-style magnetic fasteners. This same magnetic coupling fastener is also used to secure the sternum strap that connects the two shoulder straps. There are also heavily-reinforced grab handles at the top of the bag and on either side, as well as an additional grab handle tucked into the back panel between its padding. Lastly, Aer also produces a removable hip belt with built-in zippered pockets — though this item is sold separately.

Internal Storage & Organization

It's What's On The Inside That Counts

Aer’s Travel Pack 3 has been further streamlined for easy one-bag travel. Carry-on-friendly , this backpack features a luggage-style lay-flat main compartment that sits beneath a front secondary compartment that’s outfitted with a generous bevy of organizers, sleeves, and zippered compartments — both of which are secured via lockable waterproof zippers.

Also designed with ample versatility in mind, the third-gen Travel Pack sports a plethora of supplementary pockets and compartments such as a padded and suspended laptop sleeve that can simultaneously accommodate a smart tablet and a notebook of up to 16”, and a padded and fleece-lined easy-access smartphone pocket. Opposite the bag’s expandable water bottle pocket is yet another quick-access pocket, meant for storing passports, wallets, and other small essentials.

Final Thoughts On A Brilliant Pack

Overall, after the time we spent putting this bag through its paces, we went from liking Aer’s latest Travel Pack to loving it. While building on an already industry-leading design is admittedly a monumental task, Choi and the rest of the team over at Aer have managed to do exactly that. A wonderful blend of minimalist form meeting highly-utilitarian function, the newest iteration of this backpack boasts a myriad of incredibly intuitive features that were very clearly derived from real-world travel experience. And, while we honestly have absolutely no idea how Aer will do it, the continued evolution of this award-winning bag makes us extremely excited to eventually get our hands on the inevitable fourth generation of the Travel Pack.

Purchase: $249

The 15 Best Travel Backpacks

While Aer’s third-generation Travel Pack is undeniably one of the very finest travel-specific bags that money can buy, there are other options in this space that are worthy of your consideration. To help shine a light on the latest and greatest the industry has to offer, we’ve handpicked this curated list of the best travel backpacks .

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AER Travel Pack 2 Review

by Kyle Scott | Nov 25, 2020 | Travel , Travel Backpacks

Table Of Contents

Laptop sleeve, comfort and harness system, security and material.

• The Bottom Line
• Organization 70% 70%
• Comfort 70% 70%
• Security 80% 80%
• Laptop Protection 80% 80%
• Weight 90% 90%

Price: $230

Weight: 3.7lbs (1.69kg)

Dimensions: 21.5×13.5×8.5”

Capacity: 33l

Laptop Size: 15”

What We Like: Shoe compartment, slim design. 

What We Don’t: Small size, hipbelt sold separately.

A great addition to the Travel Backpack market, the AER Travel Pack 2 is a highly functional, though slightly smaller, travel pack for modern nomads. The various storage compartments for electronics, shoes, and other accessories are all well plotted out in the pack, and nothing seems out of place. Again, it is slightly smaller than the other packs on the list at 33l, but if you are highly organized this shouldn’t be a problem.

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• Organization 100% 100%
• Comfort 90% 90%
• Laptop Protection 90% 90%
• Weight 70% 70%

Laptop and Electronic Storage Pocket

Harness system, material aesthetic.

Weight : 5.1lbs (1.7kg)

Dimensions : 22x14x9” 

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Tortuga Setout

• Organization 80% 80%
• Comfort 80% 80%
• Security 90% 90%
• Weight 80% 80%

Slim Design

Can accommodate a 17” laptop., looks like a suitcase with backpack straps..

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Eagle Creek Wayfinder

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Zipper Security Systems

Top loading.

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Osprey Farpoint and Fairview

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• Comfort 100% 100%
• Security 70% 70%
• Laptop Protection 60% 60%

Great Harness System

Internal storage, laptop sleeve location.

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Dimensions : 21x14x9”

Laptop Size : 15”

Peak Designs Travel Backpack

• Comfort 60% 60%

Multiple Access Points

Stow away harness system.

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Limited organization.

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Patagonia Blackhole MLC

• Organization 90% 90%
• Security 60% 60%
• Laptop Protection 70% 70%

Internal Organization

Durable material, awkward straps.

Weight : 3.4lbs (1.5kg)

Dimensions : 22.75x18x6.75”

Cotopaxi Allpa

Adjustable hipbelt, good company values, thin harness system.

Weight : 3.5lbs (1.6kg)

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AER Travel Pack 2

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Shoe Compartment

Hipbelt sold separately.

Weight : 3.7lbs (1.69kg)

Dimensions : 21.5x13.5x8.5”

Capacity : 33l

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Water Bottle Pocket

Odd external material set up.

Weight : 4.5lbs (2.05kg)

Dimensions : 21x13x6.5” (expands to 7.5”)

Minaal Carry-on 2.0 Bag

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Included Rain Cover

Laptop suspension system, harness stowing system.

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Dimensions : 21.6x13.7x7.87”

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Mission Workshop Fitzroy 40

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Looks Great

Waterproof material, hard to organize, limited pockets.

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AER is another example of crowdfunding generated projects that have grown into innovative young companies. Beginning in 2014 with a bag that combined a gym bag and an office bag, they have expanded their collection to include one bag travel packs. Aiming to create simple, durable, and utilitarian packs, they have since begun selling everything from slings to totes and briefcases. Their addition to the travel backpack market with the Travel Pack 2 is a well organized and very attractive pack. 

While the AER Travel Pack 2 only sits at a smaller 33l, it has some very great storage pockets that will keep you well organized as you fly through airports and trot the globe at unprecedented speeds. The main pocket opens flat to give great access to all of your cargo. Within this main compartment are two smaller zippered pockets for improved organization.

On the bottom of the pack is a shoe compartment that will fit up to a men’s size 13 shoe or your dirty laundry from a week of travels. Along the top of the pack is a quick access pocket for items such as your passport or wallet. On the front of the pack is a thin slash pocket for documents or books, and along the side is a water bottle pocket that won’t fit a Nalgene but also zips away when not in use. 

On the top of the pack there is a zipper that opens halfway down and allows for access to small valuables. There are organization pockets within this pocket for a camera, pens, magazines, headphones, you name it! The organizational opportunities of the travel packs are always something that surprise me because I like to have everything in “its spot,” and the Travel Pack 2 seems to have a place for everything.

On the back of the pack, there is a zippered pocket with room for a 15” laptop. The pocket has weather-resistant YKK zippers to help you feel a bit more comfortable putting your life’s work in your backpack, because who really understands the cloud?

The backpanel of the Travel Pack 2 has stretch mesh for a layer of comfort. It has a vertical vent system to help with airflow. The shoulder straps are fairly thin and remind me more of an old school bag than of something you would want to wear for a long day of exploring a new city.

There are some loops that will allow for a hipbelt to be attached, but the hipbelt itself is sold separately, which is a negative for me.

I would rather have the option of taking off the hipbelt to keep the pack looking more professional. As a friend once told me, “It’s better to look at it than to look for it.” There is a sternum strap on the shoulder straps, which helps to manage some of the load, but without the hipbelt, all of the weight will be on your shoulders and that can become tiring at the end of the day.

Along the valuables pocket and the main compartment are lockable YKK zippers. The laptop pocket does not have lockable pockets, but it does have toggles that could have a lock looped through them. It is not as secure as you would expect for a pocket that holds the most expensive item in the pack. The compression straps that run along the side of the pack when buckled cover the zippers, which, like in the Osprey Farpoint 40 , adds an additional level of security. These small features help with your sense of well being while traveling busy city streets.

The pack itself is made with a 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon exterior, which is about as tough as it comes. The YKK zippers are burley, and they use Duraflex plastic hardware, which are also tough and reliable. The overall weight of the pack is a comfortable 3.7lbs, which is great for a small pack that is built like a tank.

The Bottom L ine

AER has developed a very modern and well-organized carry on travel bag. It is not as large as most packs and is missing an included hipbelt (though that can be purchased separately), but the organizational options are great and have room for expansion. With the size of the pack, you will never have to worry about not being able to use it as a carry on, which is always reassuring.

At a cost of $230, it is a bit more expensive than I would have liked for a pack of its size and functionality. The materials it uses are high quality, and the durability will likely be lifelong. A small investment in a great pack now is never a bad decision, especially if you are a digital nomad that has a home base but who travels on short and sweet business trips often. If that’s you, I think the AER Travel Pack 2 would be an excellent option for your lifestyle. 

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Aer Flight Pack 3 Review

The Aer Flight Pack 3 offers versatile carry and lots of storage for your gear while cruising at 35,000 feet, making it a great companion for a wide range of trips.

Our Verdict

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• Has an abundance of built-in organization
• All three carry options are comfortable
• Shoulder strap stow pocket is sleek
• Sternum strap can be finicky
• Internal organization is slightly overkill, though versatile
• Reduced handle padding for briefcase carry

Technical Details

Carry-on compliance.

View 126/145 Airlines

Disclaimer: We take the measurements of the bag provided by the manufacturer and compare them to the allowance listed on airline websites. This should be used as a guideline rather than a rule. Bags can change size as you pack them out, and every airline's interpretation of compliance is different. Just because a bag is listed as carry-on compliant here doesn't mean that the airline will interpret it that way.

Like the Look

Polled on Instagram

Weight (lb)

3.4 lb (1.5 kg)

18 in x 12 in x 5.5 in (45.7 x 30.5 x 14 cm)

Notable Materials

CORDURA® Ballistic Nylon, YKK Zippers, Duraflex Hardware, Aluminum, X-Pac, CORDURA® Nylon

Laptop Compartment Size

Warranty Information

Aer Lifetime Warranty

Full Review

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The third installment of Aer’s Flight Pack brings a few new features to the table, but for the most part, keeps most of the staples of previous generations. It comes in at 20 liters, a liter larger than the second iteration, and 3.6 liters less than the first. We can’t help but wonder whether the increase in size and addition of new features are enough to warrant upgrading from the second generation to the third, or if the changes are more for looks than functionality.

We plan to get our hands pretty dirty with this one, so buckle up, and let’s get started.

Materials & Aesthetic

Starting things off with the materials, we see something familiar from the get-go. The pack material is 1680D Cordura Ballistic Nylon, which is par for the course for Aer. It’s now bluesign approved, too, which means that it’s sustainably sourced.

The material is easy to clean with just a wet rag if and when it picks up dirt and dust, which is fairly visible on the black colorway. The corners and crevices of the pack are a little harder to get clean, but a bit of scrubbing or using a brush from the sink does the job pretty well.

The material holds up well when faced with moisture considering it doesn’t have a DWR coating. The material is thick enough that it’s difficult for water to penetrate it, and it held up in 30 minutes of consistent rain snow, and sleet.

We have the Black Cordura colorway on hand, but there are Heathered Gray 700D Cordura and Black X-Pac options, too. The Black is sleek and minimalistic while the Gray is a little less industrial-looking. The X-Pac has a neat diamond pattern throughout the fabric and an orange interior compared to the gray interior of the model we have on hand.

There are YKK zippers throughout the bag, all of which perform well. The front pocket is Aer’s signature #10 AquaGuard zip, and there are loops on either side of the zip to assist in opening. When we mentioned dirt getting stuck in nooks and crannies earlier, this was one of the worst culprits.

The main compartment and accessory pocket zippers are standard #10 models, which open smoothly and are lockable. You need to purchase an additional lock, but the addition is nice for added security. At the end of the day, it’s more of a deterrent than a guarantee, as all zippers will come apart if enough force is applied, but it will slow strangers down if they try to get into your pack.

The water bottle pocket is a YKK #5 and has a Hypalon zipper pull, which can get slippery in wet conditions. The top pocket and interior accessory pocket are both YKK #5 self-locking zippers. There’s not much worse than a zipper that slowly opens in transit, and the self-locking technology in these zips is extremely sturdy.

The front pocket, main compartment, and accessory pocket zipper pulls are a paracord-like material and end with a larger piece of hard cylindrical plastic. The plastic is slippery when wet, but it’s easy enough to grab onto where the paracord feeds into the plastic when the weather takes a turn. The self-locking zippers have a standard YKK hard plastic pull, which is easy enough to use and hides nicely when not in use.

The buckles to disconnect the shoulder straps are Duraflex Stealth models, which are small but very capable—they’re also a change from the clips on the Flight Pack 2 . Sometimes you just want something simple and easy, and these buckles have that in their DNA—they just work.

The sternum strap uses a hard plastic magnetic clasp, which we had a little trouble with. It’s pretty tiny, and we found that we often had to use two hands to clasp and unclasp it. We only got half of the clip on multiple times and didn’t realize it, only for it to come open a few moments later. Once you have it clasped correctly, it works fine, but it is a little challenging to get used to.

External Components

The shoulder straps on the Flight Pack 3 have ample padding and aren’t too wide. They also have aeration, which keeps things dry in hot weather. They’re shaped like an elongated S, which conforms to your body as it works its way from your shoulders downward. They aren’t terribly rigid, so they can be manipulated to suit different body types. The right shoulder strap has a D-ring on it, which is a good place to hang a pouch like the Yakoda Supply Utility Pouch , or a flashlight like the NITECORE TINI 2 .

The straps stash away behind the back panel, which is a great way to enhance the other carrying options we’ll cover shortly. The Flight Pack 2 has a zipper at the top of the back panel to zip the straps away, and this time the system is more like a liner pocket that doesn’t fasten at the top.

When they’re stowed away, the pocket stays flush and looks nice. The zipper on the 2 looks nice when zipped, but a little odd when using in backpack mode since the top zipper stays open.

The back panel has a lot of padding and similar aeration to what we find on the shoulder straps. We’ve found that the airflow helps when the weather gets a little warmer, which is a big plus.

The back panel is broken up into two parts, and the luggage pass-through divides the two. It’s a small nylon strap, but it feels durable and secure. The back panel sides are raised, so the luggage pass-through doesn’t get in the way when it isn’t in use, and the padding ensures that the pack doesn’t wobble around too much once you’ve secured it to your luggage.

The sternum strap is removable and attaches to a rail, so you can make detailed adjustments to ensure it’s in the perfect position for you. Once you’ve picked a position, it stays put and won’t move up or down unless you put a lot of force on the strap.

The shoulder straps and sternum strap both have elastic strap keepers to maintain any extra adjustment material. Although the elastic is very tight, you can fit a ton of strap in there, which is great for those with smaller body types or who like to keep their bag tight on their back.

The water bottle pocket is integrated nicely, similar to the Flight Pack 2. Though they appear to be the same size, the Flight Pack 3 is better at fitting larger bottles like a 32 oz Nalgene . This is an excellent upgrade for those who like to stay hydrated, and we’re happy to see the small adjustment. This spot also works for a BlueTooth speaker like the JBL CLIP 4 for those who can’t go without music.

Coming in at 20 liters, you can fit a ton of gear into the Flight Pack 3. However, with a ton of gear comes a lot of weight, and even with the comfortable shoulder straps, you may want to switch up how you’re carrying the pack. On the opposite side of the water bottle pocket are two handles that make the transition from backpack to briefcase smooth.

There are two handles, one on each side of the zipper. A small piece of nylon with a button on it keeps the two handles together, which is comfortable enough. You can push the piece to the side and hold the two handles, which is even more comfortable. After about 10 minutes, it starts to get uncomfortable. This is great for heading through the airport security line if you choose to use the Flight Pack as your carry-on, as it’s quick to go onto the belt and quick to grab it off again. It also works well for public transportation when you can’t keep the pack on your back.

The Flight Pack 2 has a larger piece of material to hold the two handles together, which adds a bit of comfort during longer jaunts with the pack in briefcase mode. However, while this is a bit nicer on your hand, it blocks the zipper track. You can unclasp the button and take apart the handles to get to the zipper, but you don’t want to do that every time. With the Flight Pack 3, there isn’t as much material to get in the way, so you can easily access the zipper without removing it. That said, you do lose a bit of the comfort.

If you want to open the pack all the way, you’ll need to undo the button and separate the handles. However, for grabbing something quickly while carrying it in briefcase mode or while using it as a backpack, you can get away without undoing it. We think this is an excellent change, as it increases the pack’s functionality without taking away a lot of comfort.

On each side of the handles are rugged plastic D-rings. This is where you can attach the included shoulder strap to go into messenger carry mode. If you don’t like the included strap, you could use any strap that you wish so long as it fits on the D-ring. It’s easy to attach and detach from the D-rings, so switching from backpack and briefcase mode to messenger mode is quick.

The strap is padded and has the same aeration as the back panel and shoulder straps. It stays surprisingly cool, even when the pack is heavy. The zipper goes all the way to the bottom of the pack on the side where the strap attaches, so you can access things from the side while carrying it.

Inside The Pack

Moving to the pack’s interior, we’ll start with the front slide pocket. This one has the classic Aer YKK #10 Aquaguard zipper, which offers a bit of weather resistance. Flat like books, notebooks, and tablets items do well here, as there isn’t a ton of depth to the pocket. You’ll probably be able to fit more oblong-sized items, but they may be noticeable from the exterior.

Moving into the accessory pocket—which is the name we’ve given the second largest compartment—we have a zipper that runs about as far south as it’s able to. This makes it so that you can open it extremely wide, which is a perfect way to see all the gear you have stowed inside. The Flight Pack 2 doesn’t have as much access, so we think this is a move in the right direction.

There are two big elastic pockets on the bottom of the organization panel. The elastic on all of the pockets is tight and capable of stowing any item that will fit inside, so long as it isn’t too top-heavy. Above the two elastic pockets we just mentioned is another big elastic pocket, a pen/stylus pocket, and a smaller elastic pocket with an additional elastic pocket on top of it. As you may have noticed, we just said pocket eight times in a row. There are many storage options in this compartment, and we promise to limit our use of the word that starts with a P from here on out.

Above that line of…areas that hold gear…is a small zippered area, which is a great spot for smaller dongles or gear you don’t want to risk falling out. Behind the zippered area is a large liner pocket capable of holding a tablet, notebook, or anything that is about the size of a standard sheet of computer paper.

The Aer Flight Pack 2 has similar organization in this compartment, though without a large liner pocket. We like the addition, as there wasn’t a cemented home for notebooks or tablets before its existence.

Moving into the main compartment, the zipper doesn’t open quite as wide as our last stop. The water bottle pocket stops it on one side, but the other goes all the way to the bottom, so it sort of opens at a diagonal angle.

On the flap side of the compartment are two liner pockets with elastic tops. The Flight Pack 2 has the same pockets, but they’re capped by a hook and loop fastener. This change isn’t a huge deal for us, as we can see pros and cons for both. Having a fastener on the top ensures that whatever you stow inside doesn’t come tumbling out in transit. On the other hand, having a hook and loop fastener inside a pack you may stow clothes in is a dangerous game as far as the health of your attire goes.

There’s a large liner pocket on the back panel side of the compartment. The elastic isn’t as tight as other places on the pack, likely because of its size. This is a snug spot for a laptop charger or other cords and cables you want to keep segregated from the hubbub of the main compartment.

The laptop sleeve is behind that, which has a comforting black fuzzy material coating and fits up to a 16″ device. There’s plenty of padding as well, which adds peace of mind. The other side of the sleeve has padding too—not as much as the back panel, but enough for our liking. The Flight Pack 2 doesn’t have the fuzzy material, which wasn’t the end of the world, but we do like the inclusion here.

Moving from the largest to the smallest compartment to finish things off, we find ourselves examining the top pocket. This is the perfect spot for quick access items like cell phones, wallets, or hotel keys. We also found ourselves putting a BlueTooth speaker here while it was raining because it offers more protection than the water bottle pocket, and you can still hear the music through the Cordura shell.

The pocket has the same fuzzy material as the laptop sleeve, which is great for stowing your cell phone or sunglasses. The pocket shares space with the main compartment, so when the main compartment is packed and you’re ready to head to the airport, it can be hard to get your quick use items into the top pocket. When your phone is inside, you know it has that little bit of padding to protect it from any rugged gear it may end up sitting next to.

Overall, as you probably remember from the pocket debacle, there’s a ton of places to secure your gear inside the Flight Pack 3. There’s enough organization to sort gear you would typically bring a tech pouch and other organizational devices for. Depending on your usage, this can be a good or a bad thing.

If you like to be able to remove a tech pouch and throw it into a sling for a trip to the coffee shop, you’ll want to pack one regardless. On the other hand, not using a tech pouch does save weight and space, which is great for packing for any trip.

Depending on what kind of packer and traveler you are, you may feel like the internal organization is a godsend, or you may feel like it’s overkill. Either way, the Flight Pack 3 is another great offering from Aer that we are excited to use.

Usage Timeline

Condition: Excellent

• Looks similar to the previous version
• Backpack straps’ storage compartment no longer zippered
• Now has a smart tracker pocket
• Material shows no signs of wear and cleans up well
• Top handle is comfortable to carry
• Sternum strap magnetic fastener is marked up, though it’s just cosmetic

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