Abigail Nueve, author of the Tortuga Travel Backpack review, carrying her new Tortuga Travel Backpack in Denver Union Station

Tortuga Travel Backpack Review – Is it Worth the Hype?

👉 Jump to: Quick Summary | Specs | Full Review | Features | Alternatives | FAQs

Tortuga, a small company known for making comfortable backpacks for carry-on travelers, recently released their latest product: the Tortuga Travel Backpack. And I’ve personally tested this product extensively so I could share my honest perspective as a frequent traveler in this Tortuga Travel Backpack review.

This review covers all the pros and cons of the new Tortuga Travel Backpack, plus an in-depth analysis of all its key features. I assure you that by the end of this Tortuga Travel Backpack review, you’ll confidently know whether or not this bag is your perfect match. 

Midway through reading, if you decide that this bag isn’t for you, don’t stop there! At the end of this post, I also share a few other travel backpacks so that you have vetted alternatives to consider if you decide the Tortuga Travel Backpack is not for you. 

Disclosure: Travel Lemming is an independent reader-supported blog. This review was not sponsored, and all opinions are our own. Travel Lemming is an affiliate of the manufacturer, which provided a sample of the product for review. You can support us by purchasing via the affiliate links on this page, which may earn us commissions.

Tortuga Travel Backpack Review Quick Summary

The author sitting inside Denver Union Station holding her Tortuga Travel Backpack
Me testing out the new Tortuga Travel Backpack at Denver Union Station

Overall, I’ve given the Tortuga Travel Backpack 4.5 out of 5 stars. I’m highly impressed by how much this lightweight carry-on backpack can hold. It’s intended to be the “only bag you need,” and is targeted to carry-on only travelers. I was also impressed at how comfortable the Tortuga Travel Backpack feels even at capacity. 

Of course, no bag is perfect. In terms of drawbacks, the Tortuga Travel Backpack offers a fairly basic aesthetic considering its $349 price tag. It also could improve its security features, in my opinion. Still, its value comes into play when you consider that its materials are durable, eco-friendly, and backed by a fair warranty. 

Quick Summary
Tortuga Travel Backpack

The company’s V4 travel backpack is carry-on compliant, features thoughtful organization, and is made with durable, eco-friendly & super comfortable materials.

Pros:
  • A “single bag” solution for carry-on travelers
  • International and US carry-on compliant
  • Lightweight, durable, and eco-friendly materials
  • Simple yet effective internal organization
  • Comfortable even at capacity
  • Covered under Tortuga’s Worldwide Warranty
Cons:
  • Lacks an expensive, stylish look
  • Off-white interior fabric soils easily
  • May not fit all body types

For this Tortuga Travel Backpack review, I tested the 40L model which the company markets as suitable “for trips of a week or more.” The company also creates a 30L mid-sized carry-on model that’s ideal for shorter trips. Overall, these packs’ features are identical otherwise.

Here’s a quick summary of the main features category assessments I made in reviewing this backpack (full explanation in the features section below):

A graph showing the star rating of Tortuga Travel Backpack according to Abigail
Jump to the features section below for all feature ratings & explanations

In testing this product, the main drawback I identified relates to aesthetic quality. Personally, I think the backpack could improve the style department, particularly considering its $349 price.

Looks, though, are subjective, and many would agree that functionality is of greater importance. This is especially true given that Tortuga markets it not as a design backpack, but as a practical and comfortable product.

In that regard, the Tortuga Travel Backpack is a winner. It allows you to skip baggage fees, pack efficiently, and stay comfortable on the go. Despite its appearance and a few other minor setbacks, I’d absolutely purchase the Tortuga Travel Backpack again. 

Technical Specifications 

Here’s a quick table for you to easily compare the 40L and 30L Tortuga Travel Backpacks: 

Travel Backpack 40LTravel Backpack 30L
StyleCarry-onCarry-on
Trip Length1 week +2 – 5 nights
Weight4.5 lbs (2 kg)4 lbs (1.8 kg)
Dimensions21.7 x 13.8 x 7.9 in (55 x 35 x 20 cm)20.5 x 12.2 x 7.5 in (52 x 31 x 19 cm)
Hip Belt 34 – 62 in (86 – 157 cm)34 – 62 in (86 – 157 cm)
Laptop Compartment16” laptop and 12.9” tablet16” laptop and 12.9” tablet
MaterialSHELL200 (recycled polyester)SHELL200 (recycled polyester)
HardwareYKK zippers, Woojin bucklesYKK zippers, Woojin buckles
Manufacturing CountryChinaChina
WarrantyGuarantee against material and craftsmanship defectsGuarantee against material and craftsmanship defects
Table Data Source: data reported by Tortuga. Travel Lemming has tested and confirmed these dimensions for the 40L Tortuga Travel Backpack. However, we have not manually confirmed them for the 30L model.

Tortuga Travel Backpack is best for:

  • Carry-on only travelers looking for a “single bag” solution
  • Digital nomads and frequent travelers 
  • Travel itineraries that involve several destinations (e.g. backpacking in Europe
  • Eco-conscious consumers 
The author smiling during a low temperature carrying her Tortuga Travel Backpack
Even in single-digit temperatures, I’m all smiles with this new pack

Tortuga Travel Backpack might not be a fit for:

  • Adventure travelers and backpacking outdoors 
  • Budget consumers
  • Certain body types, as adjustment features are somewhat limited  

If this pack isn’t your ideal match, check out our Tortuga Travel Backpack alternatives listed below. 

Tortuga Travel Backpack Full Review

Abigail getting ready to carry her Tortuga Travel Backpack
Comfort is one of my favorite features of this backpack

That’s the quick summary of this Tortuga Travel Backpack review. But now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Below, I describe and rate each of the Tortuga Travel Backpack’s key features. 

Features

In this next section, I share an in-depth review of the following Tortuga Travel Backpack features:

Size

⭐ STAR RATING: 5 / 5 stars 

Weighing the Tortuga Travel Backpack using a Portable Digital Weight Scale
Using my Portable Digital Weight Scale, I ensured that my fully-packed bag was under the standard carry-on weight limit

In my opinion, one of the best features of the Tortuga Travel Backpack is its carry-on size. The moment I touch down at a new destination, I want to get out and explore — not wait around a luggage carousel. Nor do I want to pay checked bag fees. 

In this regard, the backpack is a win-win! Plus, the Tortuga Travel Backpack meets both US and international carry-on size limits.

Even if you’re not a minimalist packer, this pack will likely allow you to get away with just a carry-on. In testing the backpack, I was able to comfortably fit all of the following items into the main compartment:

  • 3 t-shirts
  • 2 long-sleeve shirts
  • 1 sweater
  • 1 lightweight jacket
  • 1 pair of jeans
  • 1 pair of shorts
  • 2 pairs of leggings 
  • 1 pair of walking shoes
  • 1 pair of sandals 
  • 3 pairs of socks 
  • 1 beanie 
  • 1 swimsuit 
  • All toiletries

Note that I wear size-small clothing and that my shoes are a size 6 in women’s. Obviously, these factors will affect the quantity that you’re able to pack into this bag. But keep in mind that this backpack features several other pockets for additional storage, too.

Overall, there is plenty of room to put all your carry-on packing essentials inside.

Weight 

⭐ STAR RATING: 5 / 5 stars 

View of the main compartment of Tortuga Travel Backpack when open
When creating the V4 pack, Tortuga minimized storage features to cut down weight. Rather than the previous four pockets, the main compartment now has one.

In improving the Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack (V3), the company wanted to reduce its weight. By creating a more simplistic design, it was able to make each bag size more than 10% lighter. 

The 40L model of the Tortuga Travel Backpack (V4) is 4.5 lbs (2 kg), and the 30L model weighs 4 lbs (1.8 kg). Considering these backpacks’ volume and competing bags’ weight, I think Tortuga met this goal to a T. 

Aesthetic

⭐ STAR RATING: 3.5 / 5 stars 

Abigail carrying her Tortuga Travel Backpack
In my opinion, aesthetic is this backpack’s greatest drawback

Would I call the backpack stylish? Maybe not quite. 

To me, the Tortuga Travel Backpack lacks personality. The pack is only available in solid black, which is fine enough. But it’s more than color that’s one note. Aside from the slight gloss variance of the zippers and the primary fabric, the design lacks contrast. 

Personally, I find Tortuga’s previous carry-on model, the Tortuga Outbreaker Travel Backpack to have a greater aesthetic appeal. Though also solid black, its more noticeable diamond pattern, medallion logo, and the two zipper pockets on the face feel a bit more fun. 

Per the company, customers’ asked that the Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack feature rounder corners and a softer shape. While still somewhat boxy (essential for max carry-on capacity), the Tortuga Travel Backpack does appear less dense. Arguably, its simplistic aesthetic also makes it more discreet. 

Regardless of how you feel about the pack’s aesthetic, function over fashion, am I right? Scroll down and leave a comment with your opinion.

Materials

⭐ STAR RATING: 5 / 5 stars 

Close up view of water drops at the material used in Tortuga Travel Backpack
SHELL200 is the company’s latest fabric innovation

Subjective looks aside, here’s one thing I love about this pack’s construction: its body and lining fabrics are made with 100% recycled materials. Tortuga calls the fabric SHELL200. This unique material is a type of sailcloth, originally designed for racing boat sails. It’s durable, waterproof, lightweight, — and did I mention recycled? Plus, after use, it can be recycled again

Not that you’ll be recycling this backpack anytime soon. SHELL200 impresses when it comes to durability. It’s UV-resistant, meaning it won’t easily fade in the sun. It’s also abrasion-resistant, meaning it will take a significant amount of time before pilling (what causes those tiny fuzz balls you see on older fabrics).

SHELL200 is a laminated polyester fabric, not nylon, which is what’s usually used for most high-end products. But Tortuga tested SHELL200 head-to-head with VX21, the nylon face fabric it uses for the Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack. 

The results? Its latest-and-greatest polyester material has a greater tear strength despite its lighter weight. It’s also just as waterproof but features a more environmentally-friendly C0 DWR

(Durable Water Repellent) finish, free of fluorocarbons and VOCs (volatile organic compounds). 

Hardware

⭐ STAR RATING: 5 / 5 stars 

Close up view of the YKK zippers of the Tortuga Travel Backpack
The backpack features YKK zippers, which are considered the best in the industry

Like the materials, the hardware on this backpack is designed to last. The adjusters feel reliable and sturdy, as do the Woojin buckles, which are well-respected in the industry. 

The same can be said for its YKK zippers, trusted for their long-lasting durability. These zippers are also lockable, though note that a lock is not included. 

Organization

⭐ STAR RATING: 4.5 / 5 stars 

I’ll admit, I’m not the most organized person. But with so many built-in organization features, the Tortuga Travel Backpack encourages users to stay on top of things. 

Abigail putting her laptop on the laptop sleeve of Tortuga Travel Backpack

At the back of the pack, you’ll find a compartment for your electronics. Padded and fleece-lined, it features both a tablet sleeve and a laptop sleeve. A velcro strap comes over the two sleeves, providing extra security. 

Adjacent to the two sleeves near the top of the compartment, you’ll find a mesh zip pocket. This is perfect for storing accessories like chargers, USB flash drives, and more. 

The 40L Tortuga Travel Backpack with travel essentials
This 40L backpack claims to hold a week’s worth of essentials

The spacious main compartment also features a mesh pocket, which spans nearly the entire height and width of the bag. This pocket is ideal for toiletries and other small, thin items, while the adjacent space is great for clothing and shoes. This main compartment also opens up like a suitcase, making packing and accessing your items much easier. 

Abigail putting her passport on the mesh pocket of Tortuga Travel Backpack

This backpack’s front pocket is deep but top-loaded, making access a bit trickier. I’d recommend being judicious with what and how much you store in this compartment. 

However, there are several organizational features here, thoughtfully designed for frequent-use items. Consider storing your Kindle in the padded, fleece-lined sleeve, and maybe your Passport in the mesh pocket. There are also four card pockets, two pen pockets, and a wide zipper pocket.

Close up view of the key clip of the Tortuga Travel Backpack with keys on it

Lastly, there’s a zipped top pocket with a key clip, as well as a deep side pocket on the front face. You’ll also find not one, but two external water bottle pockets that feature elastic bands for security.

Here’s the thing: I knocked off a half-star because I’m a bit wary of the internal color choice. Like the Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack, this latest model features a very light gray/off-white interior. Strangely, the deep front face pocket is the one exception, having a black interior fabric.

Abigail opening a zipper on the side of the Tortuga Travel Backpack

When it comes to the exterior materials, this bag is going to look new for a long time. But inside, after frequent use, I think an overall darker-colored fabric would have been a better design choice. 

Packing Cubes (Sold Separately) 

⭐ STAR RATING: 5 / 5 stars

The 40L Tortuga Travel Backpack with travel essentials
The main compartment without packing cubes

Before I move on to the next feature, I want to go over one other organization tool by Tortuga: its latest packing cubes. They’re sold as a 3-pack, which contains one large packing cube (31.5 x 22.5 x 9 cm) and two small packing cubes (22.5 x 15.5 x 9 cm). 

All of the clothing that you see in the left image fit into these three cubes. The largest was used for my jacket, sweater, and flannel. One of the small cubes was used for my long sleeve and t-shirts, while the other contained all four pairs of pants. 

Though lightweight, the packing cubes did not create additional storage within the bag. However, they allowed me to logically organize my clothing for easy access. The mesh top panel also serves as a reminder as to what’s inside each. 

YKK zippers ensure long-lasting quality, as does the innovative SHELL70RS body fabric. Like SHELL200, this exclusive Tortuga material is 100% made with recycled materials. 

I wouldn’t call these packing cubes essential by any means. However, they serve their purpose, fit well inside the bag, and are made with premium quality. For what they are, I give them a 5-star rating. 

Height Adjustable 

⭐ STAR RATING: 4 / 5 stars 

Abigail adjusting the back panel of the Tortuga Travel Backpack
Velcro the back panel higher or lower to accommodate your height

The Tortuga Travel Backpack is height adjustable in an effort to fit a variety of body types. The company pictures several models wearing the bag on its website. These models range in height from 5 foot 4 inches (162.6 centimeters) to 6 foot 2 inches (188 centimeters). 

Tortuga doesn’t state an ideal height range for the Tortuga Travel Backpack, nor an ideal range in weight. Being 5 feet even and 100 pounds, I was excited to put the pack’s height-adjustable feature to the test.

Abigail carrying the Tortuga Travel Backpack
Me: 5’0” (152 cm) tall, 100 lbs.
Abigail's husband carrying the Tortuga Travel Backpack
My husband: 6’1” (185 cm) tall, 190 lbs.

After much tightening and loosening, I got the bag to fit me near-properly. When adjusting the hip belt circumference, I had to go past the intended smallest size — though, being velcro, this worked fine. Technically, the hip belt should also rest a touch higher. 

But I’m not knocking off too many points, as I realize that my stature isn’t average. Plus, I still found the bag to be comfortable. 

However, I’m giving this feature 4 stars because, in my opinion, Tortuga should list an ideal height and weight range on its website. Many customers will fall outside of an average adult build and should be made aware that the pack may be less than ideal before purchasing. 

In addition, I found Tortuga’s How to Fit a Travel Backpack video to be an incomplete guide. It depicts un-velcroing and reattaching the back panel, but no instructions on how to adjust the various straps. 

If you read the associated article, the company directs users to tighten their hip belts first. Then, adjust the shoulder straps’ height using the webbing attached to the bottom of the straps. Adjust the sternum strap next, and lastly, fit the load lifter straps on your shoulders. While these instructions are somewhat clear, I think a visual demonstration would have been helpful. 

Comfort

⭐ STAR RATING: 5 / 5 stars 

The padded back panel of the Tortuga Travel Backpack
A padded back panel, as well as padded shoulder and hip straps, provide comfort

If fit properly, the Tortuga Travel Backpack is very comfortable. Foam padding with breathable mesh lines the back panel, shoulder straps, and hip belt. According to Tortuga, the hip belt is designed to take 80% of the pack’s weight off your shoulders. 

Through my testing, I agree that this backpack does a good job of distributing weight. Before traveling, you’ll definitely want to nail down your correct fitting, and for the greatest comfort, always wear the bag properly. Clipping both the sternum strap and hip belt makes a big difference.

Protection and Security

⭐ STAR RATING: 4 / 5 stars 

View of people walking at night in Denver
Buy locks for your zippers, especially if you plan on walking around unfamiliar places at night

The Tortuga Travel Backpack does especially well when it comes to protecting its intended electronics. The laptop sleeve, tablet sleeve, and Kindle sleeve are all fleece-lined and padded. They’re also far from the pack’s base, so you don’t have to worry when setting the backpack down on the ground.

However, this backpack isn’t the most ideal when it comes to camera storage. We won’t knock points off for this, as it’s not the bag’s focus. However, it’s something professional photographers and hobbyists should keep in mind.

When it comes to security, though, I have to take away a star. The bag lacks data protection features like an RFID-blocking pocket. And sure, the pack’s zippers are lockable with an external lock. But for its price, I would expect even a basic built-in locking device. For example, interlocking zippers like the ones that I discussed in my Nomatic Navigator Backpack review would have been a smart design choice.  

Home Try-On Program and Warranty

⭐ STAR RATING: 5 / 5 stars 

Abigail posing for a photo outside the Denver Union Station

After reading the “Height Adjustable” section, perhaps you’re nervous that the Tortuga Travel Backpack won’t fit you. Fortunately, the company offers a Home Try-On Program that allows you to test fitting. If it doesn’t work out, purchasers can return the unused bag within 30 days for a full refund. 

The Tortuga Travel Backpack is also backed by the company’s Worldwide Warranty. Tortuga states, “If your gear fails due to a defect, we will repair it, replace it, or refund your money (at our discretion), depending on product availability.”

Fortunately, my backpack arrived in stellar condition. So, not having tested the warranty myself, I can’t say with certainty how quick or understanding Tortuga is in this regard. But given the fact that Tortuga is a small, founder-led company, I would expect its customer service to be attentive and streamlined. Its terms are also very fair, in my opinion. 

To clarify, the Worldwide Warranty “does not cover damages resulting from normal wear and tear, improper use, abuse, negligence, or accident,” says its website. Consequential damages are also not covered by Tortuga. In other words, while the backpack is designed to protect your gear, don’t expect your laptop or camera to be covered under this warranty. 

Tortuga Travel Backpack Alternatives

Maybe this Tortuga Travel Backpack review has you questioning if it’s the right bag for you? Totally fine! Travel Lemming has also personally tested each of the following travel backpack alternatives to consider:

Osprey Porter 46

Our Pick
Osprey Porter 46

Travel Lemming's founder Nate took this bag to over 50 countries, and it held up super well. The Porter's design helps you to distribute the weight correctly, plus it makes it easy to access what you need when you need it.

Nate, the Founder of Travel Lemming, took his Osprey Porter 46 to more than 60 countries! After truly extensive testing, he put together an Osprey Porter 46 review, discussing all the ins and outs of this pack. 

In short, the Osprey Porter 46 is a great budget alternative to the Tortuga Travel Backpack. It costs $185, which is nearly half of Tortuga’s $349 price point. Eco-conscious consumers will appreciate that the Osprey Porter 46 is also made with recycled materials. 

In addition, this Osprey pack is carry-on compliant but offers 46L in volume. It’s also compatible with the Osprey Daylite daypack, granting even more storage space. 

However, Nate notes that the Osprey Porter 46 does not have much padding on the shoulder straps and hip belt. Some users may find the Tortuga Travel Backpack to be a more comfortable choice.

Nomatic Travel Backpack

Best for Digital Nomads
Nomatic Travel Backpack

The viral Nomatic bag is taking the digital nomad world by storm for good reason. The bag has dozens of innovative features designed for remote workers - or just obsessive organizers. It has thoughtful features for stashing away everything you need, and is still carry-on size.

Nate has also previously tested the Nomatic Travel Backpack, and Travel Lemming editor Taylor is currently in the process of testing the most recent version of the bag for a soon-to-be-published Nomatic Travel Backpack review.

In his initial review, Nate highly praises its organizational features. If multiple pockets are a priority to you, you may prefer this option over the minimalist design of the Tortuga Travel Backpack. 

When it comes to aesthetics, Nomatic is a brand that’s hard to beat. Undoubtedly, it surpasses Tortuga in this regard. Its RFID-safe storage and secret back panel pocket also offer a greater level of security. 

Though stylish, Nate points out that its utility (as a travel backpack) is questionable. Its ability to toggle between 20L and 30L volumes is an appreciated feature. But even at its 30L capacity, you likely won’t be able to pack a week’s worth of gear. 

This pack is best suited for shorter trips, not a digital nomad lifestyle. But maybe storage for 2-5 nights is all you need! The Nomatic Travel Backpack is a worthy competitor to the Tortuga Travel Backpack’s 30L model. It’s also a bit more affordable at $299.99 vs. $349.  

The Backpacker by Salkan

Best for Outdoors
The Backpacker by SALKAN

A roomier bag with lots of space, and very comfortable strap and harness system. A great backpack for travel or outdoor adventures. If you need to carry your backpack for long stretches, this is a great choice.

Another alternative to consider is The Backpacker by Salkan. After testing this bag, Nate wrote a comprehensive Salkan Backpacker review, noting that it’s the most comfortable travel backpack he’s ever purchased. 

He also notes its aesthetic quality that doesn’t sacrifice function. Like the Tortuga Travel Backpack, it features a weatherproof exterior and thoughtful organization. 

It also has a hidden interior pocket, plus two mechanisms that protect the main compartment. Sure, this makes access trickier, but those that prioritize security may prefer this pack over the Tortuga Travel Backpack. 

Travelers that need more space may also prefer The Backpacker by Salkan. It has a 45L capacity, plus it comes with a detachable day pack. However, unlike the Tortuga Travel Backpack, this pack is slightly over carry-on size limits. It’s also a touch more expensive, costing $396.

FINAL VERDICT – Is The Tortuga Travel Backpack Worth It? 

Quick Summary
Tortuga Travel Backpack

The company’s V4 travel backpack is carry-on compliant, features thoughtful organization, and is made with durable, eco-friendly & super comfortable materials.

Pros:
  • A “single bag” solution for carry-on travelers
  • International and US carry-on compliant
  • Lightweight, durable, and eco-friendly materials
  • Simple yet effective internal organization
  • Comfortable even at capacity
  • Covered under Tortuga’s Worldwide Warranty
Cons:
  • Lacks an expensive, stylish look
  • Off-white interior fabric soils easily
  • May not fit all body types

Overall, I was highly impressed by the Tortuga Travel Backpack. Its innovative, eco-friendly materials are waterproof and durable, ensuring long-lasting quality. Though lacking in aesthetic value, it’s very comfortable, lightweight, and maximizes carry-on limits. And while greater security features may have been nice, it wins points for its discreet style and thoughtful organization.   

My criticisms were few, and when it came to aesthetics, somewhat subjective. If security is of concern, here are a couple of complementary products for you to consider to solve that issue: 

With these easy security solutions and my honest Tortuga Travel Backpack review, perhaps you’re ready to purchase! If so, click the button below for the best rate.  

FAQs about The Tortuga Travel Backpack

Where are Tortuga backpacks made?

Tortuga backpacks are made in China. However, its specialty fabrics and hardware have been sourced from other locations around the world. 

Is the Tortuga Travel Backpack waterproof?

The Tortuga Travel Backpack is waterproof. It features Tortuga’s latest fabric innovation, SHELL200. This recycled polyester material is also lightweight and highly durable. 

***

Thanks for reading my Tortuga Travel Backpack review! I hope that I’ve helped you in making your purchasing decision. If you go with this pack, I have great confidence that you’ll also find it to be an impressive product. 

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Tortuga Travel Backpack

Tortuga's V4 travel backpack is carry-on compliant, features thoughtful organization, and is made with durable, eco-friendly & super comfortable materials. The primary drawbacks we identified related to aesthetics and security. Overall, this is a solid backpack for travelers who prioritize having a single carry on bag that is comfortable.

Product Brand: Tortuga

Editor's Rating:
4.5

Pros

  • A “single bag” solution for carry-on travelers
  • International and US carry-on compliant
  • Lightweight, durable, and eco-friendly materials
  • Simple yet effective internal organization
  • Comfortable even at capacity
  • Covered under Tortuga’s Worldwide Warranty

Cons

  • Lacks an expensive, stylish look
  • Off-white interior fabric soils easily
  • May not fit all body types

7 Comments

  1. Thanks for the review, Abigail. We appreciate your testing out a Tortuga. I wanted to respond to some of your feedback to explain our design choices.

    AESTHETIC
    “Lacks an expensive, stylish look”
    This is intentional. Our customers consider this a pro, not a con.

    Our goal is to help travelers blend in, not stand out. That’s why our bags are low profile and in muted colors. Our customers want to look like they’re carrying a work bag, not a brightly-colored hiking pack.

    We also try to avoid any trendy, stylish design choices as our bags are made to last for years and should never go out of style.

    LINING COLOR
    The lining is “cool grey.” The light color is to make the bag easier to see into and pack. If the lining were black, like the flat front pocket, you’d have a harder time seeing your stuff. That’s why you see some brands go as far as using a bright “caution” orange color for lining.

    FIT
    You’re right that even an adjustable bag won’t fit everyone. The adjustable back panel on the new Travel Backpack should easily fit 16-20″ torsos, which covers REI’s small, medium, and large sizing.

    Thanks again for the review and happy travels,
    Fred
    Co-Founder, Tortuga

  2. “When it comes to aesthetics, Nomatic is a brand that’s hard to beat. Undoubtedly, it surpasses Tortuga in this regard”
    srsly ? this one looks like cheap 5 years old aliexpress 20$ backpack
    tortuga is minimalistic but still very nice looking backpack

  3. Excellent review! I just received my Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L and have been evaluating it trying to decide to keep it or not.

    My needs are the opposite of yours as I am a 6’5″, 220 pound male with most of my height from the waist up with 23″ torso. I also wear a 14 EEEE shoe.

    I want a travel backpack that FITS well. I’ve looked at probably every travel backpack out there either online or in person. None are made for my hegith so a;; I can do is come close. The height adjustment of the Tortuga and Osprey Farpoint help a lot and bkth adjust to about the same height. (Tortuga 21.5″ and Osprey says 22″).

    I’m going to stick with the Tortuga but it is missing a few very easy to add things. First, some attachment loops to hang trekking poles or other things off when needed, maybe some molle for convenience and a way to cover the straps to make it easier to carry like a suitcase and for protection if I have to check it or just to make it easier to put in the overhead.

    One other thing to consider… while having all the cool small pockets and storage is great, if you stuff the bag with your clothes and such, you may not be able to access some of those places so pack and plan accordingly.

    1. Hello Howard,

      Have you been able to adjust the Tortuga Travel Backpack (shoulder and hip strap) to your height? I’m 6‘4“ and as I live in Europe, I have to be 100% sure if the bag fits or not before I order.

      Thanks!

      Jan

  4. Wonderful review, great packs. I have two issues with the Tortuga Travel Backpack 30L/ 40L. These packs NEED a way to stow or cover the shoulder straps and waist strap — essential to be able to use when required to check the bag OR when needed to stash into an overhead bin/carry down the airplane aisle so you don’t hit everyone with your straps! Please give us this option (see Osprey and others). Cheers.

  5. Superb evaluation! I have been debating whether or not to retain the new Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L that I just purchased.

    As per I know, the Tortuga Travel Backpack is a game-changer for travelers. Its durable construction and spacious design make it the perfect companion for any adventure. The backpack’s organized storage and comfortable straps ensure easy access and comfortable wear throughout your journey. Highly recommended for anyone in need of a reliable and functional travel backpack.

  6. I have Tortuga backpacks since 2015 (V1 & V2) both are very spacious, comfortable, very well organized and durable. As a part of my job is to travel around the world often these tings are essentials.
    Another important think to mention is that I was pleasantly surprised with their warranty. After having a small stich brake on first backpack, they have send me new one (without charge) and also a money inside to send first to be repaired. When a new model came out I have asked them for a trade to old one and they have send me new FOR FREE, only I had to pay shipping to Europe. This kind of customer care I have never experienced, brilliant.

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