Passenger has launched a new travel backpack for people who pack light on the way out but somehow return home with twice as much stuff (guilty as charged here).
The Boondocker Expandable Travel Pack begins as a relatively compact 20-litre backpack before expanding to 26 litres using a zippered panel that adds 5cm of depth.
That should make it particularly useful for shorter trips, everyday commuting and weekends when you need a little more flexibility than a conventional daypack can offer.
Passenger occupies an increasingly popular space between technical outdoor gear and everyday lifestyle clothing.
Its products are made for people who enjoy camping, road trips and time outside, but may not need the expedition-ready equipment associated with more premium (and hardcore) mountain brands such as Rab or Arc'teryx.
The new Boondocker looks outdoorsy without being overly technical, while the Pistachio and Misty Grey colourway gives it considerably more personality than the usual black business-travel backpack.
Built for the trip home
The bag measures 44 x 30 x 16cm in its standard configuration, which Passenger describes as cabin-size friendly for many airlines.
(You will still need to check the exact allowance for your carrier, particularly when using the expanded compartment.)
Inside is one large zipped compartment with compression straps to prevent clothes and other contents from shifting around.
Two zipped mesh pockets built into the lid provide storage for smaller essentials, while a padded rear sleeve protects your laptop.
There is also a front zipped pocket, an upper tricot-lined pocket with a key clip, elasticated bottle pockets and a sleeve that slides over a suitcase handle.
The shoulder straps can be tucked into a dedicated harness sleeve when the bag is being carried by its top handle or placed in an overhead compartment.
A quilted rear panel should make it more comfortable to carry than a basic suitcase-style pack, while four external compression straps help keep its boxy profile under control.
The Boondocker is made from recycled 600D polyester with a nylon lining.
Passenger has also used YKK zips and Duraflex buckles, which should provide greater reassurance than the unbranded hardware commonly found on cheaper travel bags.
The Boondocker Expandable Travel Pack is available now for £84.95 / €99 / AU$165 (~$114) directly from Passenger UK, Passenger EU and Passenger AU. Every order also contributes towards the planting of a tree.
