Thirteen Daybag X-Pac Navy

After a few weeks of carrying the Thirteen regularly, I’m changing my rating from 4 stars to 5. I’m very happy with nearly every aspect of the bag. Note that this review is for the Green 2024 version.

* Comfort: It’s comfortable for an extended period around the 10-13 pound range, which matches my regular carry. I’m able to fit a good amount in it too - even with a 14 inch laptop in it, I’m still able to slide in two half-gallons of milk and a few other groceries with plenty to spare (photo attached). That comes out to roughly 13 pounds. However, it’s still not comfortable for me at 18-20 pounds - the shoulder straps feel fine but the surface of the laptop feels like it’s pressing a spot on my back. I think a little more padding on the back or perhaps a frame-sheet might help, but it’s a rare use case for me and it doesn’t affect my overall satisfaction.

* The external stealth pocket on rear panel fits even a large phone easily, but then it digs into your back even at medium weight loads. Something thinner like a passport would be fine. I’ve generally left it empty, or just used it to hold receipts

* The interior secret pocket is discreet but unlike on the Daily Plus, it’s a real pouch and is still accessible without much effort. That makes it usable as a pocket for spare cash, cards, and other items you may need to access on the go (rarely), not just an AirTag. It’s surprisingly useful.

* Best spot for a second phone - I carry two phones regularly, and there isn’t a great…

I've been shopping for something in the 12-18 liter range, and was excited to find this. It is lightweight and just roomy enough for my typical commute.

When I purchased this, in May 2023, they were sold out of the Able Carry store, and my only option was to buy one from a local distributor. Unfortunately, it was only available in black, though I would have preferred a red or olive. The company will restock this bag in September '23, and my guess is that it might have upgrades that it would have been worth waiting for. But even knowing this, I still decided to buy now because I've been searching high and low for something in this size range that is lightweight and comfortable, but still looks like an 'adult' backpack.

PROS: (1) Fantastic pockets! And the front pocket has an interior loop that lets me secure my transit pass to it. (2) Top handle -- just awesome; the best on any backpack I've carried so far. (3) Clean shape and design. Often small bags meant for shorter people are cutesy in a way I don't like. (4) Stretchy area inside -- for an umbrella or water bottle.

CONS: (1) As many have mentioned, it needs a sternum strap. (2) The X-Pac exterior is almost TOO stiff on such a small bag. But on the other hand, it is great that it holds its shape, even standing upright if it's balanced. (3) It gets hot against the back.