Need recommendations for new rucksack

[mikeatspokes]

Hi there, just wondering if anyone has any experience of small rucksacks of around 30l that can pass Ryanair's carry-on hand luggage sizing, 40x25x20cm? I know many rucksacks larger than this will compress down to fit, but don't want to commit until I'm sure they won't charge me extra at the check-in. Unfortunately the Berghaus bag I used on my last Camino had seen better days and I no longer have it, so need to find a replacement for my next adventure.

I have seen a few possibilities but some of these are not available here (in the U.K.) other than online, hence my request for personal recommendations.

Thanks in advance

 

[Bradypus]

I bought one of these earlier this year. Used it on the Portugues, the Ingles and the Frances. Chosen as it is a very close match to the under seat "free" Ryanair allowance but has a comfortable hip belt. Very pleased with it. It will remain my pack of choice for the foreseeable for main season walks. Not big enough for winter gear though. Go Outdoors also sell them.

Technicals Tibet 25 Rucksack | Blacks

£15.00 | A 25-litre rucksack that offers enough space for your...

www.blacks.co.uk

 

[PiesIrlandeses]

40x25x20cm is only 20 litres.

A 30l rucksack will most likely need to checked in.

 

[mikeatspokes]

I bought one of these earlier this year. Used it on the Portugues, the Ingles and the Frances. Chosen as it is a very close match to the under seat "free" Ryanair allowance but has a comfortable hip belt. Very pleased with it. It will remain my pack of choice for the foreseeable for main season walks. Not big enough for winter gear though. Go Outdoors also sell them.

Technicals Tibet 25 Rucksack | Blacks

£15.00 | A 25-litre rucksack that offers enough space for your...

www.blacks.co.uk

Thanks Bradypus, I was looking at the Technicals Glencoe 28l, though I think this is discontinued. Will have to make another trip to Go Outdoors and have a closer look!

 

[trecile]

I understand that you want to save the checked bag fee, but make sure that whatever you buy is comfortable.

 

[mikeatspokes]

40x25x20cm is only 20 litres.

A 30l rucksack will most likely need to checked in.

That's true on the 20l of course, and this is the Ryanair stated capacity, however a larger rucksack can often be compressed into the smaller size, depending on how full it is. I am specifying around 30l because there are few suitable rucksacks available that meet the sizing and are comfortable. The bag I took last year was bigger, but compressed very well. Unfortunately I no longer have it as it was past it's best.

 

[mikeatspokes]

I understand that you want to save the checked bag fee, but make sure that whatever you buy is comfortable.

Thank you trecile, comfort is paramount of course, but I believe it is still possible to have both as I had last year on my first Camino.

 

[Anhalter]

Some guys over at my ultralight forum recommended this Decathlon bag: https://www.decathlon.de/p/rucksack-travel-faltbar-wasserdicht-25-liter/_/R-p-309863?mc=8560421 (german store, but should be available at other Decathlons as well).
But of course you would need a fairly compact and light kit to make things work... 3-4kg tops.

edit: for my taste its missing a hip-strap/belt. but some seem to be fine without.

 

[Tincatinker]

I appreciate that Ryanair can present challenges to the pilgrim that even a grumpy hospitalero on a wet night on the Meseta cannot match. Nonetheless I think I would devote my energies to finding another airline rather than another rucksack. Or just render Caesar his due and sit back and relax.

I’m sure I’ve wasted more time and money on budgeting “budget” airlines than any sensible adult should.

 

[trecile]

Some guys over at my ultralight forum recommended this Decathlon bag: https://www.decathlon.de/p/rucksack-travel-faltbar-wasserdicht-25-liter/_/R-p-309863?mc=8560421 (german store, but should be available at other Decathlons as well).
But of course you would need a fairly compact and light kit to make things work... 3-4kg tops.

I have the smaller version of that backpack, which I love. I use for day hikes on rainy days because it's waterproof.

 

[Robo]

Hi there, just wondering if anyone has any experience of small rucksacks of around 30l that can pass Ryanair's carry-on hand luggage sizing, 40x25x20cm? I know many rucksacks larger than this will compress down to fit, but don't want to commit until I'm sure they won't charge me extra at the check-in. Unfortunately the Berghaus bag I used on my last Camino had seen better days and I no longer have it, so need to find a replacement for my next adventure.

I have seen a few possibilities but some of these are not available here (in the U.K.) other than online, hence my request for personal recommendations.

Thanks in advance

That's always a tough one. I would never try to 'push' the capacity rules just in case someone decided to be very strict about it.

For our next Europe trip, that is likely not a Camino, I have researched the carry on sizes of all the discount airlines that we might use. It will be a kind of flying version of 'back packing' around Europe for a couple of weeks.

I came to the conclusion that the 'free' carry on with some airlines was just too small to be useful. Ryanair being 20L. We don't want to have any checked in luggage as it will slow us down at Airports, and we'll be hoping on and off public transport and want to travel light.

So I looked at the next best option, which as a 'regular' booking that included a 10 kg 44L carry on bag. This is roughly the same across many other discount airlines. So we are planning on a 40L Osprey Travel Pack. That is designed for carry on travel. It has decent straps, hip belt etc.

Our Camino packs, at 24L and 34L would also fail the free Ryanair carry on allowance. They don't really squash down as they have internal frames.

So I would tend to go for the next level of ticket, rather than compromise on my Camino pack.
Really a case of taking what suits best for a Camino or saving €35 on the ticket (in our case).

 

[David]

Thanks Bradypus, I was looking at the Technicals Glencoe 28l, though I think this is discontinued. Will have to make another trip to Go Outdoors and have a closer look!

Technicals is made by the owner of Go Outdoors group and they still sell them, but only in grey now.

Technicals Glencoe 28L Daysack | GO Outdoors

An active daysack, ready to handle any adventure. The Technicals Glencoe 28L Daysack combines tough fabrics with padding to provide long-lasting and comfortable carrying in any environment.

www.gooutdoors.co.uk

Bradypus's Tibet 25 (there is also a 35) is a great pack at a ridiculously low price. Proof that you don't have to spend silly money for a great and practical pack. Well made and so on, like all Technicals, but I wonder if it would be better with side compressions straps (though I may be wrong, I often am). But the design is right for carry-on isn't it? No frame so easily "squeezable"?

There is also the fairly unknown JAM brand - they do a good looking 25, also silly cheap - but like the Glencoe, it too has a rigid frame ...

JAM Air Rucksack Waterproof Hiking Camping Hydrate Backpack

Take to the trails with the JAM Air Rucksack! Comfortable, waterproof and lightweight. Carries all you need for your next great adventure. Available in 2 sizes and a range of colours. Discover lots more outdoor accessories in stock now!

www.xs-stock.co.uk

Re your beloved but now gone Berghaus - have you thought of looking for a newer used one on Ebay?

and .... I don't fly so don't know about this carry-on and cargo hold thing, nor the prices .. but if you are going on Camino in summer have you thought about using the carry-on backpack problem Ryan Air have gifted you to think "minimalist" Camino? - Like this perhaps? - https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/167057085814

Great time to choose a pack - the January sales are coming!!

 

[TravellingMan22]

If you are in UK and have a Sports Direct near you, have a look in there. My local one had a range of sizes, some which are within the size parameters, and were clearly labelled to indicate that. I think the brand was Slazenger so should be of a decent quality. Good prices too. TK Max may be worth a look too. I should be in my local ones tomorrow afternoon UK time so will try and take a look and advise.

 

[mikeatspokes]

Some guys over at my ultralight forum recommended this Decathlon bag: https://www.decathlon.de/p/rucksack-travel-faltbar-wasserdicht-25-liter/_/R-p-309863?mc=8560421 (german store, but should be available at other Decathlons as well).
But of course you would need a fairly compact and light kit to make things work... 3-4kg tops.

edit: for my taste its missing a hip-strap/belt. but some seem to be fine without.

Thanks, but a little too minimal for me! Think I was carrying about 7kg last time and I only had essentials for the most. Compared to some, I was ultra lightweight lol!

 

[mikeatspokes]

I appreciate that Ryanair can present challenges to the pilgrim that even a grumpy hospitalero on a wet night on the Meseta cannot match. Nonetheless I think I would devote my energies to finding another airline rather than another rucksack. Or just render Caesar his due and sit back and relax.

I’m sure I’ve wasted more time and money on budgeting “budget” airlines than any sensible adult should.

You are of course correct Tincatinker, but Ryanair is the only option for me as the flight out is already booked and the only practical choice on return. I have to buy another rucksack as I no longer have the old one or another that's even close to being suitable.

 

[mikeatspokes]

Technicals is made by the owner of Go Outdoors group and they still sell them, but only in grey now.

Technicals Glencoe 28L Daysack | GO Outdoors

An active daysack, ready to handle any adventure. The Technicals Glencoe 28L Daysack combines tough fabrics with padding to provide long-lasting and comfortable carrying in any environment.

www.gooutdoors.co.uk

Bradypus's Tibet 25 (there is also a 35) is a great pack at a ridiculously low price. Proof that you don't have to spend silly money for a great and practical pack. Well made and so on, like all Technicals, but I wonder if it would be better with side compressions straps (though I may be wrong, I often am). But the design is right for carry-on isn't it? No frame so easily "squeezable"?

There is also the fairly unknown JAM brand - they do a good looking 25, also silly cheap - but like the Glencoe, it too has a rigid frame ...

JAM Air Rucksack Waterproof Hiking Camping Hydrate Backpack

Take to the trails with the JAM Air Rucksack! Comfortable, waterproof and lightweight. Carries all you need for your next great adventure. Available in 2 sizes and a range of colours. Discover lots more outdoor accessories in stock now!

www.xs-stock.co.uk

Re your beloved but now gone Berghaus - have you thought of looking for a newer used one on Ebay?

and .... I don't fly so don't know about this carry-on and cargo hold thing, nor the prices .. but if you are going on Camino in summer have you thought about using the carry-on backpack problem Ryan Air have gifted you to think "minimalist" Camino? - Like this perhaps? - https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/167057085814

Great time to choose a pack - the January sales are coming!!

Thanks David. I guess I was really hoping for a recommendation from someone who has actually taken a similar rucksack through the check-in. Framed rucksacks are as you say more of an issue when it comes to compressing them, but there just aren't that many options for frameless, as my Berghaus was. Whilst that particular bag worked fine for the Francés last year, it wasn't ideal especially in the heat and rain, and I wouldn't want to use one on another Camino. The JAM I hadn't heard of, but again, I don't want to order online something I haven't seen in person or can be certain of. Going 'minimalist' isn't an option as I am doing other things other than the walking on my trip to Portugal, and I'll be away for some time. Time to peruse the sales definitely.

 

[mikeatspokes]

If you are in UK and have a Sports Direct near you, have a look in there. My local one had a range of sizes, some which are within the size parameters, and were clearly labelled to indicate that. I think the brand was Slazenger so should be of a decent quality. Good prices too. TK Max may be worth a look too. I should be in my local ones tomorrow afternoon UK time so will try and take a look and advise.

Yes, once the xmas holidays are out of the way, I'll have to trawl the Sports Direct, Go Outdoors and Decathlon stores! I'm wary of the cheaper brands that Mike Ashley's group have re-invented as they are often made to meet a price, not necessarily quality. Some of the brands I have been looking at are only available (other than online) in the EU or US, so I am unable to check them in person, e.g. Millet, Lafuma, Finisterre, MLD, etc, I don't mind paying more for the right bag, In the end it may just come down to me forking out the extra to take a larger bag on the flights, I just don't want to pay Ryanair more than I have to!

 

[TravellingMan22]

Yes, once the xmas holidays are out of the way, I'll have to trawl the Sports Direct, Go Outdoors and Decathlon stores! I'm wary of the cheaper brands that Mike Ashley's group have re-invented as they are often made to meet a price, not necessarily quality. Some of the brands I have been looking at are only available (other than online) in the EU or US, so I am unable to check them in person, e.g. Millet, Lafuma, Finisterre, MLD, etc, I don't mind paying more for the right bag, In the end it may just come down to me forking out the extra to take a larger bag on the flights, I just don't want to pay Ryanair more than I have to!

Sure I tend to shop at the cheaper end as I travel light so maybe nowhere near the quality you require. I will have a look though.

Re Ryanair, well I travel on them at least ten times a year and have been for ages, and I find them to be very good. I can only recall 1 delay over >1 hour and their punctuality, regularity and baggage stats are pretty much up there with pretty much all the European carriers.

 

[mikeatspokes]

Re Ryanair, well I travel on them at least ten times a year and have been for ages, and I find them to be very good. I can only recall 1 delay over >1 hour and their punctuality, regularity and baggage stats are pretty much up there with pretty much all the European carriers.

I have no problems with them as an airline, just find their sales practices too pushy for what should really be a relatively simple booking. Then again many online stores do the same things, utilizing 'dark patterns' to get you to spend a bit more on things you don't need!

 

[Bradypus]

I have no problems with them as an airline, just find their sales practices too pushy for what should really be a relatively simple booking.

That is annoying but I find it an acceptable price to pay for some remarkably cheap travel. In November last year I flew from Bristol to Gran Canaria to walk the Camino there. The fare for the 4 hour 3,000km journey was about the same as my travel costs from my home in west Wales for the 160km to the airport in Bristol.

 

[Hans-Georg Goebel]

Hi there, just wondering if anyone has any experience of small rucksacks of around 30l that can pass Ryanair's carry-on hand luggage sizing, 40x25x20cm? I know many rucksacks larger than this will compress down to fit, but don't want to commit until I'm sure they won't charge me extra at the check-in. Unfortunately the Berghaus bag I used on my last Camino had seen better days and I no longer have it, so need to find a replacement for my next adventure.

I have seen a few possibilities but some of these are not available here (in the U.K.) other than online, hence my request for personal recommendations.

Thanks in advance

You spend hundreds of pounds to walk the Camino and scrimp to save a few pounds instead of not having to give up the backpack that really suits you and is comfortable to wear

 

[1man2dogs]

Hi there, just wondering if anyone has any experience of small rucksacks of around 30l that can pass Ryanair's carry-on hand luggage sizing, 40x25x20cm? I know many rucksacks larger than this will compress down to fit, but don't want to commit until I'm sure they won't charge me extra at the check-in. Unfortunately the Berghaus bag I used on my last Camino had seen better days and I no longer have it, so need to find a replacement for my next adventure.

I have seen a few possibilities but some of these are not available here (in the U.K.) other than online, hence my request for personal recommendations.

Thanks in advance

I have a decathlon 30L Quechua MH500. I've used it with RyanAir, EasyJet and Vueling as carry on without a problem.

 

[Bothydave]

Hi there, just wondering if anyone has any experience of small rucksacks of around 30l that can pass Ryanair's carry-on hand luggage sizing, 40x25x20cm? I know many rucksacks larger than this will compress down to fit, but don't want to commit until I'm sure they won't charge me extra at the check-in. Unfortunately the Berghaus bag I used on my last Camino had seen better days and I no longer have it, so need to find a replacement for my next adventure.

I have seen a few possibilities but some of these are not available here (in the U.K.) other than online, hence my request for personal recommendations.

Thanks in advance

I use a 40ltr Alpkit bag that fits in overhead lockers on all flights. Alpkit now make this as a 45litre bag so worth checking the dimensions
Reputable dealers always provide the dimensions

 

[Bothydave]

That is annoying but I find it an acceptable price to pay for some remarkably cheap travel. In November last year I flew from Bristol to Gran Canaria to walk the Camino there. The fare for the 4 hour 3,000km journey was about the same as my travel costs from my home in west Wales for the 160km to the airport in Bristol.

That’s Rip Off Britain for you!

 

[trecile]

I have a decathlon 30L Quechua MH500. I've used it with RyanAir, EasyJet and Vueling as carry on without a problem.

Does it fit under the seat?

I use a 40ltr Alpkit bag that fits in overhead lockers on all flights. Alpkit now make this as a 45litre bag so worth checking the dimensions
Reputable dealers always provide the dimensions

It sounds like @mikeatspokes is looking for a backpack that will fit under the seat to avoid Ryanair's overhead bin or checked bag charge. Correct me if I'm wrong @mikeatspokes.

 

[RibbonRomanceAuthor]

I understand that you want to save the checked bag fee, but make sure that whatever you buy is comfortable.

Yes to this. If it doesn't work on the Camino, it will matter little that you didn't have to pay fees to get it there. I recommend getting measured for fit and going from there. In the US, I was fitted at REI and found a 26L Deuter.

 

[mikeatspokes]

Does it fit under the seat?

It sounds like @mikeatspokes is looking for a backpack that will fit under the seat to avoid Ryanair's overhead bin or checked bag charge. Correct me if I'm wrong @mikeatspokes.

Yes that is correct, though I may have to just bite the bullet!

 

[TravellingMan22]

Have you booked your flight yet. It’s quite cheap for baggage if you buy at purchase point. Make sure you avoid the screen that offers a higher bundle fare, and progress thru to the ‘ I just want additional baggage and not pre board and reserved seat’ screen. Unless you want those as well of course!!

 

[mikeatspokes]

You spend hundreds of pounds to walk the Camino and scrimp to save a few pounds instead of not having to give up the backpack that really suits you and is comfortable to wear

It's a fair point, but I didn't say I was looking for a cheap backpack, just one that wouldn't be rejected as oversize on check in. I have been on many long trips with minimal baggage that qualified as carry-on (under the seat), and did so when I walked my first Camino. It has been pointed out that comfort is essential, and I fully concur, but I already had a comfortable (if not perfect) rucksack of an ideal size last time, and I am now looking to do the same again, just with a new backpack. If I am unable to find something similar, then I accept I'll just have to go for comfort and pay what I need to.

 

[mikeatspokes]

Have you booked your flight yet. It’s quite cheap for baggage if you buy at purchase point. Make sure you avoid the screen that offers a higher bundle fare, and progress thru to the ‘ I just want additional baggage and not pre board and reserved seat’ screen. Unless you want those as well of course!!

TravellingMan22, I am quite used to booking flights having done so many times, I am no newbie to travel. I have already booked the outward flight and haven't booked extra baggage as I just don't need it. Even though I might be away for several weeks, I always travel minimally, in the region of 5-7kg, which has always fit easily into the allowed hand luggage. If I need extra whilst away, I just buy it!.

 

[Celtic]

Hi there, just wondering if anyone has any experience of small rucksacks of around 30l that can pass Ryanair's carry-on hand luggage sizing, 40x25x20cm? I know many rucksacks larger than this will compress down to fit, but don't want to commit until I'm sure they won't charge me extra at the check-in. Unfortunately the Berghaus bag I used on my last Camino had seen better days and I no longer have it, so need to find a replacement for my next adventure.

I have seen a few possibilities but some of these are not available here (in the U.K.) other than online, hence my request for personal recommendations.

Thanks in advance

Deuter futura 32 litre..
Or Deuter Trail 30.litre,
That's what I've used on the Camino's I've done ,and they've done me good..

All the best Paul

 

[BarbaraW]

If the overall dimensions of the pack are smaller than the Ryanair dimensions you could squash together the pack and everything you want to take into a stout bin bag and see if you can bind it up with duct tape into a 40 x 20x25 cm package. If it fits you could travel like that, then repack when you arrive. Repeat when going home.
I walk with a 20 litre pack, but I'm a small woman, pack minimally and have super lightweight/compact kit eg down quilt and silk liner. I have only met met a couple of people with similar packs. A dry bag will compress everything soft as much as possible. I don't fly so don't have those airline restrictions, but have never managed to go home without a small extra bag, bought from a Chinese shop.in Santiago, for presents, Compostela tube etc.

 

[dagomez]

Hi there, just wondering if anyone has any experience of small rucksacks of around 30l that can pass Ryanair's carry-on hand luggage sizing, 40x25x20cm? I know many rucksacks larger than this will compress down to fit, but don't want to commit until I'm sure they won't charge me extra at the check-in. Unfortunately the Berghaus bag I used on my last Camino had seen better days and I no longer have it, so need to find a replacement for my next adventure.

I have seen a few possibilities but some of these are not available here (in the U.K.) other than online, hence my request for personal recommendations.

Thanks in advance

Hi strongly suggest Osprey.

 

[drgalvin]

Hi there, just wondering if anyone has any experience of small rucksacks of around 30l that can pass Ryanair's carry-on hand luggage sizing, 40x25x20cm? I know many rucksacks larger than this will compress down to fit, but don't want to commit until I'm sure they won't charge me extra at the check-in. Unfortunately the Berghaus bag I used on my last Camino had seen better days and I no longer have it, so need to find a replacement for my next adventure.

I have seen a few possibilities but some of these are not available here (in the U.K.) other than online, hence my request for personal recommendations.

Thanks in advance

People at your local backpack/outdoor store are probably a resource.

 

[1man2dogs]

Yes that is correct, though I may have to just bite the bullet!

To be honest, I'm not sure. I've just shoved it in the overhead bin.

 

[mikeatspokes]

If the overall dimensions of the pack are smaller than the Ryanair dimensions you could squash together the pack and everything you want to take into a stout bin bag and see if you can bind it up with duct tape into a 40 x 20x25 cm package. If it fits you could travel like that, then repack when you arrive. Repeat when going home.
I walk with a 20 litre pack, but I'm a small woman, pack minimally and have super lightweight/compact kit eg down quilt and silk liner. I have only met met a couple of people with similar packs. A dry bag will compress everything soft as much as possible. I don't fly so don't have those airline restrictions, but have never managed to go home without a small extra bag, bought from a Chinese shop.in Santiago, for presents, Compostela tube etc.

Thanks Barbara. I normally use 2 or 3 dry bags inside a pack, even if waterproof, as like you say, they compress the contents and are also quick to remove for access, as well giving some order to make finding things easier. This is how I traveled last year, so even though the rucksack was oversize, with everything inside compressed, the whole thing could be squeezed down. People I met last year along the way were often a little amazed at the size of my pack compared to theirs, and I was often asked if that was all I'd brought, but actually had enough. I also do long distance cycle touring, so am used to packing panniers with everything I need and at the same time keeping the weight down.

 

[mikeatspokes]

Hi strongly suggest Osprey.

Already on my list of possibilities though most have frames which make things more difficult.

 

[mikeatspokes]

People at your local backpack/outdoor store are probably a resource.

The specialist ones yes, but there is only really one place left in my local area. There are branches of larger outdoor chains within traveling distance, but the staff in those are mostly just there for sales IME. Still it's a good suggestion.

 

[stewinyvr]

Hi there, just wondering if anyone has any experience of small rucksacks of around 30l that can pass Ryanair's carry-on hand luggage sizing, 40x25x20cm? I know many rucksacks larger than this will compress down to fit, but don't want to commit until I'm sure they won't charge me extra at the check-in. Unfortunately the Berghaus bag I used on my last Camino had seen better days and I no longer have it, so need to find a replacement for my next adventure.

I have seen a few possibilities but some of these are not available here (in the U.K.) other than online, hence my request for personal recommendations.

Thanks in advance

According to Ryanair's website the carry on dimensions for overhead lockers are 55x40x20, the dimensions you have mentioned are for the underseat personal item. I had the 33l Osprey Talon which easily fists within the overhead bin dimensions..

 

[henrythedog]

According to Ryanair's website the carry on dimensions for overhead lockers are 55x40x20, the dimensions you have mentioned are for the underseat personal item. I had the 33l Osprey Talon which easily fists within the overhead bin dimensions..

I think the OP is looking for something which conforms to the ‘free’ under-seat size..

 

[BarbaraW]

Just checked the dimensions on my Osprey Tempest and the structured part of the back is exactly 45 cm high in women's s/m size. There's another 5 cm above that which you could conceivably strap down. Then spent a ridiculous amount of time window shopping looking at backpack websites!
From what I hear about Ryanair I'd be worried that they'd find a reason to object to the straps. Perhaps you could compress your pack with cling film, like some people do with suitcases. Aerolite do a backpack which is designed to fit their under seat dimensions, but it doesn't look at all comfortable for long distance walking.

Good luck with your search and bien Camino.

 

[PiesIrlandeses]

I think Doctor Who may have solved this problem.