Review on ZOFOW Packable Backpack: Your Ultimate Lightweight Travel Companion by Jason Paredes

I am impressed with this backpack, it has many features and functions that you might not expect. What attracted me to this bag is the design style. This one is reminiscent of some tech touring packs and is what I wanted for an urban or outdoor travel pack (nothing serious). It's as compact as a softball and fits easily into its own pocket, which converts to an inner pocket. I managed to fit a lot in the main part of the bag and spread out the rest of the items in my pockets. I love the stretchy mesh pockets on the sides and the large one on the front. The large inner pocket makes it hydration bladder or laptop/tablet compatible. The obvious and expected feature is that there is no padding or structure so it can be compressed. I really like how the main compartment closes with a zipper and turns around, fastens with buckles. There are multiple daisies, bungee and straps for attachment points. The chest strap is adjustable and can be removed, but putting it back on was a challenge. The shoulder and waist straps are also adjustable. The back pockets are small, but that's a bonus for small items like lip balm, keys, a flashlight, or a pocket knife. You probably won't be able to install the phone. However, there is ANOTHER pocket on the side AND one of the BEST features is that there is a side zip to access the main compartment! The reason I gave it 3 stars is because the bungee cords broke on the first day. Also, the shoulder straps are a bit rough when I'm wearing a tank top and I felt uncomfortable. An AY/V strap on the top to secure gear on the outside would be a big upgrade. I tried packing most of my base items into 2 other packages to compare volumes and possible configurations. The Ozark Trail 40L felt bigger. (g1) The Matator Beast 28L seemed to work almost as well in a smaller package. I didn't have much room for food, utensils and extra water in all three. Super/ultralight enthusiasts might pack it better. Hopefully Zofow will consider some improvements. Overall, the packable Zofow backpack is the best value (under $30).