EPIC Peak Design Everyday Backpack Review [2023]
Peak design everyday
backpack review (UPDATED 2023)
- The best Peak Design Everyday Backpack review on the web!
- Written by Digital Nomads
- Who the Peak Design Everyday Backpack is perfect for
- If this is not the pack for you, we’ll show you which pack is
Table of Contents...
Peak Design Everyday Backpack Video Review
Check out our EPIC video review below 🙂
Peak Design Everyday Backpack Overall Score
Our Take – If you are looking for a functional, daily backpack that has a ton of customization options – this is possibly the best option on the market. We give it 4.5/5.
This backpack is currently #4 on our best laptop backpacks list.
Peak Design Everyday Backpack Specs
Available in 20L or 30L
Peak Design Everyday Backpack (20 liter – the one I used for this review)
- Capacity: 20 litres
- External Dimensions: 22.3″ x 8.3″ x 11.8″
- Internal Dimensions: 22″ x 6.3″ x 11.2″
- Weight Without Dividers: 1.66kg (3.66lb)
- Weight With Dividers: 2.01kg (4.43lb)
Pros of 20L – Much smaller and more manageable for a daypack. Plus smaller backpacks always look, feel, and just carry better.
Cons of a 20L – If you have a TON of stuff (think professional photography gear) then the 20L might be too tight a fit for you. Both bags are 100% carry on compliant. This is also not going to be a pack that can be used for weekend trips as there won’t be enough space for all of your stuff.
Peak Design Everyday Backpack (30 liter)
- Capacity: 30 litres
- External Dimensions: 24.5″ x 14.2″ x 7.8″
- Internal Dimensions: 23.7″ x 12.2″ x 6.7″
- Weight Without Dividers: 1.76kg (3.88lb)
- Weight With Dividers: 2.11kg (4.65lb)
Pros of 30L – Quite simply you can fit more stuff, which means that this can be used as a (larger) everyday backpack and a (smaller) 2-3 day travel pack. The 30L gives you the best of both worlds
Cons of a 30L – If you don’t need to carry more stuff then it’s a bit overkill for a daily communting backpack
The Peak Design
Everyday Backpack is
PERFECT for you if...
- You need an amazing daypack
The design of this pack is undeniably brilliant. Get this pack if you are looking for a daypack that looks great and has limitless customization options for all of your cool Digital Nomad gear.
- You are a photographer
Technically Peak Design creates backpacks for photographers, so if you are in the market for a backpack that is specifically designed for all of your DSLR equipment – look no further.
- You want a good looking daypack
In our opinion, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack is freaking gorgeous. The ‘MagLatch’ top has a unique look, and the bag itself is super sleek (without being too tech-y)
- You want an urban pack
Try not to go hiking with this bag – this is meant for urban commuting.
- You love customization
One of the most unique aspects of the Peak Design Everyday Backpack are the configurable FlexFold dividers. This gives you nearly limitless customization of how you want the main compartment of your bag to function.
- You want waterproof materials
Don’t throw this backpack in a lake, but if you encounter some light to moderate rain, you can be confident knowing that your expensive gear is safe!
The Peak Design
Everyday Backpack is
NOT for you if...
- You want large travel backpack
At 20 or 30 liters, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack is too small to travel the world. Mayybbee you can get away with the 30 liter if you are a super light traveler, but we don’t recommend it. Check out our list of the best backpacks for Digital Nomads.
→ If you need something larger, these are the best on the market…
- You want a different style photography pack
Not everyone is going to be into the Peak Design look
→ Here are some alternatives…
- You want a Digital Nomad backpack
While the Peak Design can 100% be used as a Digital Nomad pack – it wasn’t specifically designed for that.
→ These are the best Digital Nomad backpacks…
- Nomatic Backpack Review (the best)
- Nomatic Messenger Bag Review (more professional)
- You want an outdoors backpack
While you can certainly take it on a nice nature stroll, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack is for urban traveling – case closed.
→ Below you can find our favorite hiking backpacks…
- Osprey Aether (Huge men’s hiking backpack)
- Osprey Ariel (Huge women’s hiking backpack)
- Osprey Farpoint 40 Review (Adventure backpack)
- Osprey Talon 22 (Ultralight hiking daypack)
- You want something simpler
Peak Design packs are feature-heavy and frankly might be overkill for some people. Not everyone needs (or wants!) all of those bells and whistles
→ If you are looking for a simpler backpack…
- You want to spend less money
Peak Design comes at a peak price point – and this pack is $260 USD (before shipping!). We understand that this is not within everyone’s price range.
→ Want to save some money?
- You have TONS of photography gear to carry around
While this should be large enough for the average professional photographer, if you have TONS of gear, even the 30 liter might not be big enough.
→ Looking to pack more photography gear?
- WANDRD HEXAD Access Review (super big)
- You want a sling
If you are looking for something smaller than a backpack, there are some amazing slings on the market right now…
→ Check out these epic sling reviews…
- Peak Design Everyday Sling Review (great for tech)
- Bellroy Sling Review (great for casual)
Pack Style
In our opinion, the Peak Design’s biggest selling point is the way the bag is designed and how it looks.
Because it’s fucking awesome.
That’s because of it’s originality. If you compare it to other backpacks on the market, it has such a cool, and unique aesthetic – without coming across as overly pretentious.
This unique vibe is due to two things – 1) their trademarked ‘MagLatch’ and 2) the shape of the pack.
When it comes down to it, the ‘MagLatch’ is true winner here as it provides a unique take on the roll top.
Honestly… it’s pretty genius in every way.
More on this when we review the front of the pack.
How it Feels
Peak Designs Materials
While we are CRAZY about the design of this pack… we aren’t as sold on the feel of the pack.
This isn’t a knock on the quality. Peak Design uses 400D double poly-coated DWR-impregnated nylon canvas shell (which is just a technical term for ‘high f-ing quality’)
The materials are great. We are certain of that.
But we are less certain we like the actual way it feels.
While the materials are of high quality, they have an almost paper-y and scratchy feel to them, and it’s not the most satisfying touch we’ve ever experienced on a backpack.
While this won’t be a dealbreaker for most people – it’s certainly something to keep in mind.
Some people prefer a backpack that has a smoother, sexier sort of touch to it (think the Nomatic Backpack or the WANDRD PRVKE 21).
But really, unless you have a THING for smooth materials (like leather), then this probably won’t be a huge deal to you.
Zippers
Peak Design is one of the few backpack companies that DOESN’T use YKK zippers – they use a company called Zoom – and they are great!
There are a total of 7 zippers on this backpack.
4 zippers (2 on each side) for the side pocket access, 2 zippers (1 on each side) for the smaller side pockets, and the last zipper on the back for the laptop/tech compartment.
All of the zippers a smooth to the touch , and have a very satisfying ZIP to them.
Also, one more awesome thing to mention about the zippers on this pack… they all have a basic locking mechanism!
The material on the zippers has the capacity to unbuckle, which you can then re-buckle over the provided loops on the side of the pack.
Obviously this mechanism is far from anti-theft – but it will provide your back with an extra layer of security, and you with an extra layer of peace of mind.
Comfort
Simply put – the Peak Design Everyday Backpack is EXTREMELY comfortable.
We aren’t going to say it’s the most comfortable daypack ever made, but overall it’s got a great feel to it when wearing it.
It’s compact and tight where it needs to be, and the interesting sternum strap (we’ll get to a bit later) offers an additional layer of comfort.
Front of the Pack
While not feature-heavy, the front of this backpack has a few noteworthy things to discuss.
The Mavelous MagLatch
Here’s an interesting thought…
Never before have we seen a backpack with a single feature that is so defining and important to its identity.
To put it bluntly – the Maglatch is what takes this backpack from a great backpack, to one of our favorites backpacks.
The Maglatch is so cool for a few reasons…
#1 – Its Aesthetic
As discussed before, the Maglatch gives the Everyday Backpack a one of a kind look. The metallic clip peeking out of the bottom of the top provides a nice aesthetic that is neither too tech-y or too subtle.
#2 – Its Functionality
While looking nice is important – it also provides a great function!
This feature enables the Peak Design Everyday Backpack to change its capacity allowing it to go from 17 liters to 20 liters.
#3 – Its ease of use
And the best part about the Maglatch? It’s a joy to use!
Peak Design made the latch magnetic and able to open or close with one hand, making this feature both easy and satisfying to use.
Hidden Magnet Pocket #1
While ‘hidden magnet pocket’ sounds very cool – it’s a bit of a let down here.
Reason being the while the pocket is hidden and the magnet feature is cool – it doesn’t feel very secure. There is only a single magnet in the center, meaning on either side there are openings, and it didn’t feel secure putting actually something there.
To tackle this problem, Peak Design have equipped this pocket with straps so securely strap something on the outside of your back (like a cool looking blanket!).
We used this feature to tie a few things on the end of the pack, and while it doesn’t suck… it’s just OK.
While it’s nice to have, it’s certainly not a defining feature of the pack.
Hidden Magnet Pocket #2
Located on the inside of the front panel – we find this magnet pocket to be much more useful.
Important note – One flaw of this backpack is its lack of an apparent quick access pocket. A quick access pocket is exactly as it sounds – the place you store the things you might need to quickly grab (wallet, phone, passport, etc).
Because of it’s location under the Maglatch, this is NOT a quick access pocket. But it could be a great location for things you might not need to grab as quickly – think headphones, snacks, or pens.
Also this pocket is quite small and not very deep – so don’t expect to fit a ton of stuff in it. A
Top Handle
The top handle styles will vary depending on which version of the Everyday Backpack you get.
But no matter the version – we think these handles look amazing! The tan leather against the silver backpack material has a super cool look, and is our personal favorite.
But when it comes to comfort – this top handle is average. There really isn’t any padding to this feature. It’s basically just a cloth strap with a layer of laether-y material on top of it.
In terms of comfort it’s not BAD… it’s just average.
A+ for looks. C for its comfort.
Middle of the Pack
This is the part of the review where we take a look at sides of the pack, as well as the main compartment. There are a few important things to consider with the Peak Design Everyday Backpack.
Water Bottle Holder (or Tripod Holder!)
The water bottle holder on this pack isn’t the most beautiful water bottle holder we’ve eve seen – but it works just fine and reallyyy expands.
Expansion is important if you prefer to travel with larger water bottles
Side Handles
While they lack to sexy leather aesthetic that the top handle has, the side handles are infinitely much more functional and comfortable.
But having said that, while they are certainly comfortable, they aren’t the most comfortable handles we’ve ever tested.
But the handles work fine, have a nice feel to them, and are convenient to access and to grab on the go.
Side Panels
The side panel is where we really start to see this backpack for what it is an experience it the way it’s intended to be experienced.
First off – side panel access is freaking awesome. If you are concerned – don’t be. It is incredibly convenient and allows you to access exactly what you need, and exactly when you need it.
On the inside of the panel are two pockets. The top pocket is a magnet pocket, and the bottom is a zip-pocket.
Inside the bottom zip pocket there are two small pockets (perfect for SIM cards!) and a main area.
It should be noted that the material on this side panel feel great – high quality but also a bit of an elasticity to them, meaning they can expand a bit and hopefully fit everything in your Digital Nomad packing list.
Key Leash
The good of the Peak Design key leash – key leashes are amazing as they allow you to safely store your keys on a leash that expands as you pull it.
This part is awesome!
The bad of the Peak Design key leash – the keyclip is intended to tie around the side handle, and be inserted into the water bottle/tripod pocket.
The water bottle holder?
Really Peak Design? You want us to put our keys in the water bottle holder?
This Keyclip could have been so damn cool!
Don’t get us wrong, we’ve been using the key leash as intended and are putting it in the water bottle holder – but it just feels very insecure. Keys are valuable, and we would feel a lot more comfortable if they were in a more hidden part of the pack.
So close, but so far.
Main Compartment
Once you open the Everyday Backpack up you can see how its layout is going to give you a different experience than most other backpacks.
The quality of the interior is nice – both sturdy but soft.
There is plenty of depth and size to the bag, while still feeling very compact and tight without too much unnecessary space.
FlexFold Dividers
This is where Peak Design takes customization to the next level.
Meet, the FlexFold dividers…
These FlexFold dividers are designed to do one thing – provide you with ultimate customization over your Everyday Backpack.
The dividers are simple to work. The outside of the dividers are velcro, and the inside of the backpack connect to the inside of the backpack.
This simple system allows for TONS of customization. This is because the FlexFold dividers are very cleverly designed, and can be bent into different shapes which allow you to crate bespoke areas in your backpack for your gear.
But is it overkill?
In our opinion, it depends.
While this backpack can be used by anyone, it was ultimately designed for photographers. And these FlexFold dividers are a godsend for photographers.
If you are a photographer you will be delighted as the dividers will allow you to customize how you interact with and access you gear. Lenses, bodies, lights, more lenses – you can put your rig together however you dream fit!
But if you don’t have camera gear – this feature might be a bit overkill.
After trying a handful of varying combinations, we found that our favorite FlexFold customization was either single divider or no dividers…
Our Digital Nomad gig was much better served by a single divider – or no dividers.
This gave us the space to work with the things we needed.
We also want to note that the Peak Design Tech Pouch (pictured in the backpack to the left) worked perfectly in combination with the Everyday Backpack. If you can afford to buy both – do it.
Back of the Pack
Laptop Compartment
The laptop compartment is handled a little differently in this pack…
Most backpacks have a laptop compartment, and most of those laptop compartments are going to unzip around the entire circumference of the pack so you can completely open the tech compartment (like the Tortuga Setout).
But in contrast, the laptop compartment in the Peak Design Everyday Backpack is only a small slit.
Pros of the laptop ‘slit’ – Less zippers (so it’s lighter), laptop is still easy to access, can fit 13 or 15 inch laptop
Cons of the laptop ‘slit’ –You have to take laptop out of the pack for Airport Security, plus it’s a tight squeeze.
Ultimately the last cons (that it’s a tight squeeze) is probably the most controversial part of the laptop slit. It’s definitely a tight squeeze, which makes accessing the pocket (up next) challenging at time.
Laptop Slit Pockets
Behind the laptop slit is a pocket with two internal pockets within it.
This is a fantastic location for more quick access type items like your wallet, laptop, or a notebook.
Note – When we say this area is tight – we mean tight. We had to take the laptop out to be able to adequately photograph the space.
It’s not that it’s a bad space. Just given the compactness of the bag, this part is going to come with more friction.
Well Padded Back Panel
The back panel is well padded and when worn has a solid, compact feel to it.
If we are getting super technical, it’s worth noting that this isn’t the most comfortable daypack we’ve ever worn. The Nomatic Backpack and the WANDRD PRVKE 21 are definitely more comfortable.
Having said that though, this backpack is very comfortable and shouldn’t be painful for anyone.
Harness Adjustment
The pack has a nifty magnet system at the top of the pack that will allow you to redistribute weight off your back.
It’s a nice feature, especially if you are on the shorter side as it will allow you to adjust the pack in a way that is more comfortable for you.
Plus magnets are always a fun experience!
Awesome Shoulder Straps!
We are huge fans of these shoulder straps for three reasons.
#1 – They look dope. Great aesthetics.
#2 – They are comfy! Not quite like wearing-a-cloud-on-your-shoulders-comfy… but plenty comfy
#3 – They are magnetized! The straps have a very strong magnet on them which connects them to the back of the pack. This means when you aren’t wearing the pack, you can ensure the straps are neatly pressed against the back, making it tidier and tighter.
But! If there was one thing we wished these shoulder straps had – it would be some sort of stowaway system.
Granted we know that on backpacks this small it’s a tall order, but it really would have been a cherry on top!
A Sternum Strap that is... Interesting
We at Nomads Nation LOVE sternum straps.
Why?
Because when you are traveling long distances, there is no better ‘pick me. up’ and no faster way to put yourself into 6th gear than by connecting and tightening your sternum straps.
In essence – it feels great.
And the sternum straps on the Peak Everyday Design Backpack are… certainly different.
Let’s take a look…
How are these sternum straps different? Most backpacks have plastic buckle belts for sternum straps. You’ve seen the design a million times. Very few companies have tried to innovate this.
Peak Design is one of them!
Instead of going the traditional route, Peak Design uses a metallic clip. And it’s really cool!
While we weren’t a huge fan of it at first, it quickly grew on. us. It’s creative, it’s memorable, and most importantly – it functions great!
Also it is 100% removable. You can relocate it up or down the strap (depending on your height) or take it off all together.
The choice is yours!
Peak Design Everyday Backpack Pros
-
Unique look and aesthetic
-
Some of the most innovative features we've ever seen
-
Made for photographers but great for everyone
-
MagLock for the win!
Peak Design Everyday Backpack Cons
-
It's on the expensive side
-
Features are overkill for most people
-
Laptop compartment is a tight fit
-
Missed the boat on the key leash
Other Peak Design Products
Peak Design specializes in a wide range of travel and photography gear. Here are some of our favorites…
#1 - Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip
The Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip is basically a simplified version of the original Everyday Backpack.
The organization and design are basically going to. be the exact same – the only noteworth difference is the lack of the MagLatch. The lack of the MagLatch gives the pack a much sleeker/tech-y look to it – which some people will love and others will hate.
Oh and it’s significantly cheaper.
#2 - Peak Design Everyday Messenger
Messenger bags are all the rave right now, and Peak Design have made a great version by blending a traditional messenger bag with their flagship Everyday Backpack.
Using a similar MagLatch top, materials, and design the Everyday Messenger is on brand for Peak Design as it does a great job of balancing of functionality and aesthetics.
We are super excited to get our hands on this bad boy…
#3 - Peak Design Travel Backpack
At 45 liters, this is Peak Design’s go at a long-term travel backpack.
One of their most popular products, the Travel Backpack is great for anyone looking for a backpack that can travel for weeks – or even years – at a time!
It’s big, it’s deep, and it will easily fit all of your travel gear… and then some.
Traveling with a toiletry bag is basically a necessity and Peak Design have made our favorite.
Plenty of pockets, zippers, mesh compartments (and not to mention a nifty magnet-sealed toothbrush) this is something that once we bought we could no longer imagine traveling without.
Peak Design’s Wash Pouch and Tech Pouch made for perfect companions with their packs as they are designed to perfectly fit inside, and complement one another.
Read our full Peak Design Wash Pouch Review.
#5 - Peak Design Tech Pouch
Basically the dry version of the Peak Design Wash Pouch – it’s almost shocking how much stuff you can fit into this thing!
We’ve tried a handful of tech-pouches, and this one is our favorite. If you are traveling with an external mouse, chargers, extra speakers, and an adapter – the organization this thing gives you pays for itself overnight.
If you are interested, have a read over our ultimate Peak Design Tech Pouch review.
FAQs
Which pouches to buy for Peak Design?
Both the Tech Pouch and the Wash Pouch are amazing. We would say that the Wash Pouch is more of a travel necessity, but if you are a Digital Nomad or have a lot of electronics, then a good tech pouch is a life necessity.
How do you set up your Peak Design backpack dividers
The beauty of the Peak Design dividers is that you can literally set them up any way that you want! Simply apply the velcro outside of. the dividers to the inside of the backpack, and start experimenting with a system that works for you.
How to pack the Peak Design Everyday Backpack
The trick is to stay organized. Keep your laptop and tech stuff in the tech compartment, and use your dividers to keep your stuff organized and easily accessible within the main compartment of your Everyday Backpack.
How fast does Peak Design ship?
We ordered the Peak Design Everyday Backpack, the Tech Pouch and the Wash Pouch – all of which arrived in less than a week!
Conclusion
Ladies and gentlement that is it!
If you are still here reading this review then we just want to say thank you so much for your time. If you have any questions, comments, or just want to say hi – please do so in the comments below.
Travel on Nomads…
***Disclaimer*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you use our links, Nomads Nation will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for the love and support!
