Follow up on 3 weeks in SEA with an And Wander Ecopak 30l
For context, my previous post with the packing list and replies in the thread.
Feedback for the backpack, I chose a lightweight hiking backpack because I wanted to stay well below the 7kg airline weight limit I faced. This backpack including all extras that belong to it weighs around 500g.
The functionality of the backpack as a zipper / top loader hybrid worked well, although I would have been fine with a top loader or rolltop due to my packing routine. I expected to use the diagonal zipper more than I actually did.
The rain lid that can also be used as a pouch you have in front of your chest was great for transit as I had all important documents in front of my chest, hands free. In the hotels I unloaded the two packing cubes and my tech pouch, sandals, toiletries in a few seconds and the backpack was free to use (I went hiking as well).
Backpack negatives: I knew the roughly 6kg I carried around were at the comfort limit of this backpack and I was right. I would not load it heavier than the 7kg airline limit or run around with it for hours while fully loaded. The main thing though: I wish the backpack had a large outer storage you can stuff things like sandy sandals/shoes, wet trunks, snacks etc. in. I used the two bottle holders for gear and sometimes wet clothes, but that big flexible space was missing. Many hiking backpacks have this and I found that I miss that feature (my heavier backpack has it), this might be the main reason I replace this backpack for an alternative in the same weight range.
Learnings regarding things I did or did not take with me:
- too much underwear (you guys were right)
- the extra pair of shorts I took for extra outfits did not leave the packing cube. One pair + the multi function swimming trunks (Patagonia Baggies) were enough
- had two lightweight t-shirts packed and wore a heavier one in transit, could’ve managed with only the two lightweight ones
- could’ve left the foldable clothes hanger at home, every hotel had some hangers
- should’ve taken a clothes line, I ended up buying a rope for a few cents
- the zipper bag I took to wash my clothes in and store wet swimming clothes didn’t survive the 2nd week, will buy a washing bag or just wash under the shower
Additional thoughts:
- the snorkel and mask I took were used a lot, I am happy I splurged on that weight wise
- same with the physical book, it was fine
- I wore the EVA Birkenstocks 99% of the time, in the city, at the beach, while jungle hiking. Can still recommend.
- the Muji double sided packing cubes were great, definitely recommended although they don’t have the compression feature as the other Muji packing cubes.
Overall I absolutely loved traveling with a setup this minimal, without many bagging. I am addicted now. It felt great to always be organized, ready to go in minutes and haul a heavy shitload of clothes and luggage around. I still stand by my choice to use a lightweight backpack over a heavier organization feature loaded one.
Thanks to the community for the initial thoughts and feedback.