Hey Tan sin haw - we're glad to hear you're a fan! 🙌 Let us know what you think of the Synik if you decide to pick it up. We'd love to hear if it works for you! 😊 - Rebecca
I use the Western Flyer for travel and the Synapse 19 for every day carry (I'm 5'2"). I'm thinking about this because sometimes I want a bit more space (Western Flyer is 26L). I just like the way the WF is set up for travel. Tom Bihn bags are top notch quality for sure.
Placed a pre-order of Synik 30 and excited to get one soon. Been using lots of fancy and minimalist design bags, none of them serve purpose when traveling. Thanks PH for your consistent reviews for all backpacks!
Very thorough review and demonstration thank you so much. I have 2 Synapse and this updated design by Nik has addressed all my 3 issues I have with the Synapse. For someone who commuted daily on a crowded train where you need to placed your heavily loaded bag on the ground between your legs, the much thicker carry handle strap and the flat bottom is a much welcome change. The new laptop compartment is way more elegant than trying to pull out the cache and the clips. Overall love the new design and already placed a pre-order for the Synik 30.
I can’t believe you got a suit in there! I have a Synapse 25 and used it as my one bag on a 10 day trip to Stockholm and Amsterdam this past December. It was amazing, and worked well as a daily bag while walking around at my destinations. Not sure if the extra five liters justifies an upgrade, but I sure am tempted. Thanks for the great review!
Jon Nelson I picked one up. Not an totally necessary upgrade as I love the Synapse as well but I do like the nicer straps, included frame sheet, laptop compartment, clamshell design, nicer grab handle. A worthy upgrade especially for you can sell your old bag for a decent chunk of change. The 30 L is tight for my travel but allows me to only take this bag. It was more difficult with the 25 L Synapse
Picked up the 30L. Love this bag. Only thing I would recommend is to make the pocket above the water bottle pocket could go an inch or 2 deeper. I have two large mobile phones and a set of keys and it’s too shallow. Especially with mobile phones getting bigger these days. It’s great for phones under 6 inch displays.
Great video! I received my Synik 22 today and got it all set up. I’ve been on the look out for the perfect edc bag for a couple of years now and I think I’ve found it! Absolutely love the O rings and the Tom Bihn accessory pouches. The amount of organisation this pack gives me is pretty incredible.
Hi Jesse! I'm between the 22 and 30 ... If you have a minute, do you feel like you can put around 2 changes of clothes in your 22? A little unsure how much main clothing storage there is in real life. Thank you for any info! All the best -elisa
@@elisa01jeffrey hello! Sorry for the late reply. The Synik 22’s main compartment is pretty small compared to most other packs around the same size because of the all the extra pockets. I could fit in one change of clothes but even that would be pushing it. For my XL size anyway. I use my Synik as an EDC bag so most of my items are in the various organisational pockets. I only keep my Bellroy Tech Pouch and my small FAK in the main compartment, with my gift cards and AirPods hanging from o rings. I would estimate that the main compartment holds only around 15-16 litres, just a guess though. If I’m going away or need just a bucket of space, I use my Mystery Ranch Urban Assault 21 or one of my Osprey packs.
@@jesseallen4184 thank you so much! I ended up going with the 30, and I'm so glad, especially after reading this!! I hope you're having a great weekend, all the best!
Pretty great backpack. Almost the best. I love the pockets and organization ideas. But I worry about the laptop protection being not so protected from the main compartment. What if I will carry hard stuff other than clothes, like speaker or hardware, etc. Thus, I am likely going with the Ogio Renegade because the laptop is totally separate and protected better. Also, the round shape of Synik is a little 3rd-grader looking.
Hey Tom. Great review. The bag seems awesome. However, do you think the bag is worth $300 + tax? Are there other bags around, which may offer similar functionality and comfort for a lower price point?
Great video! Don't mind the aesthetic since I just had a kid 😉. My main question is: how did this bag do with wear on clothing? Are the materials in the straps and lower back soft enough to not pill shirts and jackets? I've had backpacks from Patagonia and North Face with rough mesh that damage t-shirts over time. That's really one of my biggest criteria for a new backpack. Thanks!
I have the synapse and it's definitely one of the best bags in terms of organization. Yes, its not very aesthetically pleasing, but it works as theft-deterrent, especially when you're staying in cheap hostels. LOL
Great review guys. I was curious about this evolution of the synapse. The design is still a bit strange but the synapse was awesome to use, so I think it will be the same for this one.
I have nothing but love for Tom Bihn bags (super customer service too). Perfect for running around NYC. I'd love to see a comparison of the Synapse 19 vs the Synik 22 (or have you done a review of the 19?). They're actually close in size/footprint. The 19 seems a wee too small and the 25 a wee too big and wondering if the 22 might be a happy medium, especially if I want room for gym gear. I've never used a clamshell for EDC. Thoughts? All ears to others too (yup, I read your reviews). Gotta be able to go chic to everyday (I can make this happen with anything). I like sleek and clean. I'm often walking tough neighbs, using subways, out all day and need a durable, comfortable bag. Can't go longer than 18/maybe 19. My favorite look is the Evergoods bags, super simple and clean. Minaal looks interesting. I did buy a 19 Brown Buffalo Conceal. At the same time, I love the Trakke Bannock (please review the Bairn!). Goruck 1 is a me too (would love to see a comparison between the Goruck 1 and the Women's version)...I'm female, 5'6 1/2." Enjoy your reviews. Learned a lot.
Hey! We currently haven't had our hands on the Tom Bihn Synapse 19, but you can check out our initial thoughts on the Synik 22 here packhacker.com/travel-gear/tom-bihn/synik-22/ We also recommend checking out our new sorting feature where you can sort all of the packs we've had our hands on by capacity. packhacker.com/travel-gear/category/bags-and-luggage/?page=10&order=capacity Hope this helps! - Rebecca
Hi, Tom, great video and review as always. I'm on the fence with this bag... I'd like to get it as a gym bag/one bag travel bag, but the depth dimensions of 10.8in have me worried that the bag will not be carry-on compliant once fully packed out for many airlines that have the 22x9x14 rules. Does this seem an issue to you? Thanks.
Hey ayoldguy1 - only an issue if you really pack it out. The benefit of a soft, oval-shaped bag is that there's a decent amount of flex and give to it. Compare that to a rectangular travel pack, or even hard luggage, and there's a big difference. Of course, this is always going to depend on your airline and how strict they are. Here's some additional info from Tom Bihn on sizing blog.tombihn.com/synik-faq#airline - Tom
@@PackHacker thanks. One other question... do the pockets in the front of the bag keep their shape, their dimension, when main compartment is packed out decently? I currently use the Tortuga Outbreaker, and while the front and organizer pockets are nice they lose dimension when main is packed out. Thanks.
They do somewhat - but definitely not as much as they would if the bag was packed full. Maybe take a look at some of the photos / video and see if that matches your expectation. In almost all of the footage and shots, the front pockets aren't packed to the max. - Tom
@@PackHacker Thanks. Looks like TB does charge shipping for returns, so making the right choice the first time is ideal. These detailed answers help quite a bit - thanks!
By the way, with the for-sale bags they're now including new detachable strap-keepers :O I purchased one of the bags and received detachable strap-keeps with them!
@Packhacker Tom Bihn fan here. I've had a Brain Bag for 6-7 years and I'm looking to get something a little smaller. My debate is between the Synik and Synapse are either of them smaller?
Hey Gary - with a soft backpack where the material is less structured, the width of the pack can change depending on how much you pack inside and 10.8" is the maximum dimension from Tom Bihn. As for airline restrictions, Tom Bihn made this statement on their blog "We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: one of the great things about soft backpacks and luggage - as opposed to hard-sided rolling luggage - is that soft bags can compress in a luggage sizer, overhead compartment, or under the seat of a plane. The Synik is no exception here. Here’s the confusing part: that means that, even though one of our bags may have listed dimensions that exceed a specific airlines carry-on requirements, it’ll still likely fit in that airline’s bag sizer and thus work as a carry-on." Hope this helps! - Rebecca
would you recommend for a college student? son starting in the fall; wondering about the water bottle being in a pocket vs the sides; he will use glass which will sweat so... , is this more for business/travel? he'd prefer non clam shell but I was wondering if he kept zipped would the zippers hold even while shoving books in and out. I had a clam freshman year and hated it, the books would fall out because the zipper never held (of course it was a Jansport and not high end like this) but still I wonder how that would perform
I couldn't agree more on your point about bags under 1 kg. I've researched so many travel bag brands and every single one is at least 1.3 kg and above even for those smaller size bags (30 litres).
The design isn't as good as an aer travel or peak design... But there is something about this brand. It exudes confort and practical above all else. Also somehow doesn't seem to care about marketing bs or hype.
My Peak Design Everyday 20L looks great, is comfortable, I have walked miles and miles in it full of camera gear with a DSLR hanging off a Capture Clip on the front and when I fly I can strap my jacket to the front using the hidden straps. Sit in an airline seat once and you will find out how amazing the top opening with the latch is for getting stuff quickly and easily. I can also walk off a plane in the rain and have no worries or have to look for a rain cover.
Skipper I’m actually considering upgrading to the 30L or adding it to my collection. For a long time I criticized Peak for not being able to lock the bag but honestly most people don’t know how to get in and you will hear and feel anyone trying to get it. Funniest thing is unless the bag is X-ray scanned, security has no idea my camera and lenses are under the divider when I open it up for them, ditto side pockets.
Hey Tobias - we get what you're saying, it's important to find a bag that works for you in aesthetic and function. We currently have no plans to review the Mystery Ranch Urban Assault 24 in the immediate pipeline, but it's on the list. You can check out our initial thoughts here packhacker.com/travel-gear/mystery-ranch/urban-assault-24/ 😊 - Rebecca
Excellent review. I wonder if the Peak Designs packing cubes would fit well inside. After watching this it made me wish that you had reviewed the Brain Bag from Tom bihn. Wondering which of these is a better one bag travel solution.
Hey Jeffrey - the Synik 30 fits 3 units of the Peak Design Packing Cubes (the small packing cube is 1 unit, the medium cube is 2 units, and the large cube is 3 units) - hope this helps! 😊👍 - Rebecca
Tom. If your house (or wherever that wall of backpacks is) was on fire and you can only save one backpack, which one are you going to save ? I have purchased the GR2 and it comes on Friday but I recently discovered your channel and have been watching your reviews on other backpacks and I’m wondering if I made the right choice.
How is it possible that the Synik 22 and Synapse 19 have the same dimensions when the former is 3L bigger? Where does the added capacity come from? 🤔 I was hoping the 22 would be slightly bigger in size as the 19 looked really small.
Hey JelloG - the Synik 22 has a bit more depth than the 19. Tom Bihn has been swapping around their widths a bit - we have the correct dimensions listed on our review page: packhacker.com/travel-gear/tom-bihn/synik-22/
Hey Kevin - we just checked the site and Tom Bihn has released this update; "UPDATE: The Synik 30 is expected to be in stock around early November." - Rebecca
I know I keep saying this, but if they brought these upgrades (laptop and straps) to the A30 I would buy in a heart beat. Not a fan of the Synapse/Synik look.
Hey Michael! The materials used in this pack are Ballistic Nylon, EVA Foam, Ripstop Nylon, YKK Zippers, Duraflex, and Woojin Hardware. You can find out more info like this over on our full review here packhacker.com/travel-gear/tom-bihn/synik-30/ 😊 - Rebecca
Pack Hacker they did, and the eco polyester one as well. What I wasn’t keen to spot was that the different colour (all of them) are made of different material. Grey is 900D polyester And black is 16xx cordura or x-pac And finally the military one was 10xx cordura. The military one is going out of production and the xpac is limited quantities unfortunately.
Hey Lisz - we currently have no plan to review this sling in the immediate pipeline, but it is on the list. You can check out our initial thoughts here packhacker.com/travel-gear/alpaka/alpha-sling/ 😊 - Rebecca
This looks like a wonderful bag, but I could never use it for travel. If you walked around with this bag, it would be fairly easy for somebody to steal from your bag, because almost every access point is on the front of the bag. A travel bag needs to have better security.
I like everything about this bag besides the look. Don't think I can get past that though, this thing is truly hideous in my opinion. Out of all the backpacks reviewed on this channel, I think nearly all are more aesthetically pleasing than this one. The shape of the bag combined with the big logo patch just makes for an overall very ugly look.
I was wondering as well. Chase loves the bag just not a fan of the looks. I personally don’t care what people think as looks are subjective. This bag is made so well and super functional and comfortable. It’s looks are the last thing I care about. Checks all the boxes for me.
Are you a fan of Tom Bihn?
Even without this review I'm sure I will preorder the bag. Big fan of Pack Hacker as well as Tom Bihn.
Never heard of the company but this is a great first impression!
Hey Tan sin haw - we're glad to hear you're a fan! 🙌 Let us know what you think of the Synik if you decide to pick it up. We'd love to hear if it works for you! 😊
- Rebecca
Thanks for sharing Ashton! 😊👍
- Rebecca
I use the Western Flyer for travel and the Synapse 19 for every day carry (I'm 5'2"). I'm thinking about this because sometimes I want a bit more space (Western Flyer is 26L). I just like the way the WF is set up for travel. Tom Bihn bags are top notch quality for sure.
Placed a pre-order of Synik 30 and excited to get one soon. Been using lots of fancy and minimalist design bags, none of them serve purpose when traveling. Thanks PH for your consistent reviews for all backpacks!
Hey Prapharat - you got it! We're glad you're digging the reviews. Let us know what you think of the Synik 30 when it arrives. 😊👍
- Rebecca
Very thorough review and demonstration thank you so much. I have 2 Synapse and this updated design by Nik has addressed all my 3 issues I have with the Synapse.
For someone who commuted daily on a crowded train where you need to placed your heavily loaded bag on the ground between your legs, the much thicker carry handle strap and the flat bottom is a much welcome change. The new laptop compartment is way more elegant than trying to pull out the cache and the clips. Overall love the new design and already placed a pre-order for the Synik 30.
Thanks for dropping your thoughts here Navus_X - glad you're digging the updates 👍👍
- Tom
I can’t believe you got a suit in there! I have a Synapse 25 and used it as my one bag on a 10 day trip to Stockholm and Amsterdam this past December. It was amazing, and worked well as a daily bag while walking around at my destinations. Not sure if the extra five liters justifies an upgrade, but I sure am tempted. Thanks for the great review!
Jon Nelson I picked one up. Not an totally necessary upgrade as I love the Synapse as well but I do like the nicer straps, included frame sheet, laptop compartment, clamshell design, nicer grab handle. A worthy upgrade especially for you can sell your old bag for a decent chunk of change. The 30 L is tight for my travel but allows me to only take this bag. It was more difficult with the 25 L Synapse
Picked up the 30L. Love this bag. Only thing I would recommend is to make the pocket above the water bottle pocket could go an inch or 2 deeper. I have two large mobile phones and a set of keys and it’s too shallow. Especially with mobile phones getting bigger these days. It’s great for phones under 6 inch displays.
Great video! I received my Synik 22 today and got it all set up. I’ve been on the look out for the perfect edc bag for a couple of years now and I think I’ve found it! Absolutely love the O rings and the Tom Bihn accessory pouches. The amount of organisation this pack gives me is pretty incredible.
Thanks for reaching out, Jesse. It's awesome when you find the bag that's going to work for you. Keep us updated! 😊
- Rebecca
Hi Jesse! I'm between the 22 and 30 ...
If you have a minute, do you feel like you can put around 2 changes of clothes in your 22? A little unsure how much main clothing storage there is in real life. Thank you for any info!
All the best -elisa
@@elisa01jeffrey hello! Sorry for the late reply. The Synik 22’s main compartment is pretty small compared to most other packs around the same size because of the all the extra pockets. I could fit in one change of clothes but even that would be pushing it. For my XL size anyway.
I use my Synik as an EDC bag so most of my items are in the various organisational pockets. I only keep my Bellroy Tech Pouch and my small FAK in the main compartment, with my gift cards and AirPods hanging from o rings.
I would estimate that the main compartment holds only around 15-16 litres, just a guess though.
If I’m going away or need just a bucket of space, I use my Mystery Ranch Urban Assault 21 or one of my Osprey packs.
@@jesseallen4184 thank you so much! I ended up going with the 30, and I'm so glad, especially after reading this!! I hope you're having a great weekend, all the best!
I dig the quality of these, but I think I'd feel like a 6th grader on my way to school when wearing one.
👍👍
I am function over fashion. So it’s perfect for me. Don’t care what others think it looks like as I don’t let that dictate my life choices.
Pretty great backpack. Almost the best. I love the pockets and organization ideas. But I worry about the laptop protection being not so protected from the main compartment. What if I will carry hard stuff other than clothes, like speaker or hardware, etc. Thus, I am likely going with the Ogio Renegade because the laptop is totally separate and protected better. Also, the round shape of Synik is a little 3rd-grader looking.
Hey Tom. Great review. The bag seems awesome. However, do you think the bag is worth $300 + tax?
Are there other bags around, which may offer similar functionality and comfort for a lower price point?
To me, made in the U.S. out of high quality materials means it is. The thing will last a decade plus.
Die hard fan of Tom Bihn, all the bags!!!
Nice Mel!
- Tom
Agreed
Great video! Don't mind the aesthetic since I just had a kid 😉. My main question is: how did this bag do with wear on clothing? Are the materials in the straps and lower back soft enough to not pill shirts and jackets? I've had backpacks from Patagonia and North Face with rough mesh that damage t-shirts over time. That's really one of my biggest criteria for a new backpack. Thanks!
I have the synapse and it's definitely one of the best bags in terms of organization. Yes, its not very aesthetically pleasing, but it works as theft-deterrent, especially when you're staying in cheap hostels. LOL
Got you Eddie!
- Tom
it honestly doesn't look too bad for smaller frames!
Great review guys. I was curious about this evolution of the synapse. The design is still a bit strange but the synapse was awesome to use, so I think it will be the same for this one.
You got it, David, glad you're digging the review! Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us. 😊🙌
- Rebecca
I have nothing but love for Tom Bihn bags (super customer service too). Perfect for running around NYC. I'd love to see a comparison of the Synapse 19 vs the Synik 22 (or have you done a review of the 19?). They're actually close in size/footprint. The 19 seems a wee too small and the 25 a wee too big and wondering if the 22 might be a happy medium, especially if I want room for gym gear. I've never used a clamshell for EDC. Thoughts? All ears to others too (yup, I read your reviews). Gotta be able to go chic to everyday (I can make this happen with anything). I like sleek and clean. I'm often walking tough neighbs, using subways, out all day and need a durable, comfortable bag. Can't go longer than 18/maybe 19. My favorite look is the Evergoods bags, super simple and clean. Minaal looks interesting. I did buy a 19 Brown Buffalo Conceal. At the same time, I love the Trakke Bannock (please review the Bairn!). Goruck 1 is a me too (would love to see a comparison between the Goruck 1 and the Women's version)...I'm female, 5'6 1/2." Enjoy your reviews. Learned a lot.
Hey! We currently haven't had our hands on the Tom Bihn Synapse 19, but you can check out our initial thoughts on the Synik 22 here packhacker.com/travel-gear/tom-bihn/synik-22/
We also recommend checking out our new sorting feature where you can sort all of the packs we've had our hands on by capacity. packhacker.com/travel-gear/category/bags-and-luggage/?page=10&order=capacity
Hope this helps!
- Rebecca
Hi, Tom, great video and review as always. I'm on the fence with this bag... I'd like to get it as a gym bag/one bag travel bag, but the depth dimensions of 10.8in have me worried that the bag will not be carry-on compliant once fully packed out for many airlines that have the 22x9x14 rules. Does this seem an issue to you? Thanks.
Hey ayoldguy1 - only an issue if you really pack it out. The benefit of a soft, oval-shaped bag is that there's a decent amount of flex and give to it. Compare that to a rectangular travel pack, or even hard luggage, and there's a big difference. Of course, this is always going to depend on your airline and how strict they are. Here's some additional info from Tom Bihn on sizing blog.tombihn.com/synik-faq#airline
- Tom
@@PackHacker thanks. One other question... do the pockets in the front of the bag keep their shape, their dimension, when main compartment is packed out decently? I currently use the Tortuga Outbreaker, and while the front and organizer pockets are nice they lose dimension when main is packed out. Thanks.
They do somewhat - but definitely not as much as they would if the bag was packed full. Maybe take a look at some of the photos / video and see if that matches your expectation. In almost all of the footage and shots, the front pockets aren't packed to the max.
- Tom
@@PackHacker Thanks. Looks like TB does charge shipping for returns, so making the right choice the first time is ideal. These detailed answers help quite a bit - thanks!
Looks like a turtle shell. I love it!
By the way, with the for-sale bags they're now including new detachable strap-keepers :O I purchased one of the bags and received detachable strap-keeps with them!
That's great pure5152, thanks for sharing! How are you getting on with your Synik? 😊
- Rebecca
Great review - superbly designed bag
@Packhacker Tom Bihn fan here. I've had a Brain Bag for 6-7 years and I'm looking to get something a little smaller. My debate is between the Synik and Synapse are either of them smaller?
You show an 8 inch depth for the bag, but TB's website indicates 10.8. This could be a problem for a lot of international airlines.
Hey Gary - with a soft backpack where the material is less structured, the width of the pack can change depending on how much you pack inside and 10.8" is the maximum dimension from Tom Bihn. As for airline restrictions, Tom Bihn made this statement on their blog "We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: one of the great things about soft backpacks and luggage - as opposed to hard-sided rolling luggage - is that soft bags can compress in a luggage sizer, overhead compartment, or under the seat of a plane. The Synik is no exception here. Here’s the confusing part: that means that, even though one of our bags may have listed dimensions that exceed a specific airlines carry-on requirements, it’ll still likely fit in that airline’s bag sizer and thus work as a carry-on."
Hope this helps!
- Rebecca
would you recommend for a college student? son starting in the fall; wondering about the water bottle being in a pocket vs the sides; he will use glass which will sweat so... , is this more for business/travel? he'd prefer non clam shell but I was wondering if he kept zipped would the zippers hold even while shoving books in and out. I had a clam freshman year and hated it, the books would fall out because the zipper never held (of course it was a Jansport and not high end like this) but still I wonder how that would perform
Will you also do a video or review for the 22l?
Hey David - not likely - the bags are pretty similar tough
- Tom
Looks like your wearing a turtle shell on your back. Also its a little on the heavy side when empty. Need more bags under 1kg.
Hey Joel - sounds like you're not a fan, what's your current go-to pack? We'd love to hear what works for you! 😊
- Rebecca
I couldn't agree more on your point about bags under 1 kg. I've researched so many travel bag brands and every single one is at least 1.3 kg and above even for those smaller size bags (30 litres).
To be honest i currently use a Cabin Zero Classic 28L for travel. Plan on buying an CZ ADV32 or Arcido Saxon before the end of the year.
Thanks for sharing Joel! 👍
- Rebecca
@@Joelseet cool name btw.
The design isn't as good as an aer travel or peak design... But there is something about this brand. It exudes confort and practical above all else. Also somehow doesn't seem to care about marketing bs or hype.
Good synopsis Takahashi - the Synik's look isn't for most people but the functionality is too great to ignore!
- Tom
Glad you found a bag that works for you Skipper!
- Tom
@@skipper4114 were you using the bag as a light everyday carry or for short travel? Wondering if that makes a difference on the sweat aspect
My Peak Design Everyday 20L looks great, is comfortable, I have walked miles and miles in it full of camera gear with a DSLR hanging off a Capture Clip on the front and when I fly I can strap my jacket to the front using the hidden straps. Sit in an airline seat once and you will find out how amazing the top opening with the latch is for getting stuff quickly and easily. I can also walk off a plane in the rain and have no worries or have to look for a rain cover.
Skipper I’m actually considering upgrading to the 30L or adding it to my collection. For a long time I criticized Peak for not being able to lock the bag but honestly most people don’t know how to get in and you will hear and feel anyone trying to get it. Funniest thing is unless the bag is X-ray scanned, security has no idea my camera and lenses are under the divider when I open it up for them, ditto side pockets.
This bag just doesn't fit my taste I guess.. Btw what about the new Mistery ranch Urban assault 24l. Would be nice to see a video about that bag imo.
Hey Tobias - we get what you're saying, it's important to find a bag that works for you in aesthetic and function. We currently have no plans to review the Mystery Ranch Urban Assault 24 in the immediate pipeline, but it's on the list. You can check out our initial thoughts here packhacker.com/travel-gear/mystery-ranch/urban-assault-24/ 😊
- Rebecca
+1 for a review of the new Urban Assault 24L
@@Cutback31 - got you! We've got the UA24 in testing now including a trip to San Francisco next week 🙂
- Tom
Excellent review. I wonder if the Peak Designs packing cubes would fit well inside. After watching this it made me wish that you had reviewed the Brain Bag from Tom bihn. Wondering which of these is a better one bag travel solution.
Hey Jeffrey - the Synik 30 fits 3 units of the Peak Design Packing Cubes (the small packing cube is 1 unit, the medium cube is 2 units, and the large cube is 3 units) - hope this helps! 😊👍
- Rebecca
Jeffrey O'Neill go check out Chase Reeves’ review. He uses in his Peak Designs packing cube in the bag.
Tom. If your house (or wherever that wall of backpacks is) was on fire and you can only save one backpack, which one are you going to save ?
I have purchased the GR2 and it comes on Friday but I recently discovered your channel and have been watching your reviews on other backpacks and I’m wondering if I made the right choice.
Hey Henry - you're not going to go wrong with the GR2 - it's a really solid pack and I think you'll enjoy using it!
- Tom
How is it possible that the Synik 22 and Synapse 19 have the same dimensions when the former is 3L bigger? Where does the added capacity come from? 🤔
I was hoping the 22 would be slightly bigger in size as the 19 looked really small.
Hey JelloG - the Synik 22 has a bit more depth than the 19. Tom Bihn has been swapping around their widths a bit - we have the correct dimensions listed on our review page: packhacker.com/travel-gear/tom-bihn/synik-22/
@@PackHacker Thank you! Much appreciated 🙂
Is this more comfortable and carry friendly than a GR1 26L? Because I love my GR1 26L, but I wish it had more organization.
Will this fit under seat on United or Southwest airlines?
On the bottom front pocket do you think the peak designs tech pouch would fit in there?
Hey Christopher - we just tested this out and the Peak Design Tech Pouch does fit in the bottom of the Synik. Hope this helps! 😊
- Rebecca
Had been looking all over Reddit and other videos for this confirmation. I must have missed this early. Appreciate your engagement in the comments.
How easily is this bag able to fit under the seat as a personal item bag?
It looks possible to stow the shoulder straps in the frame sheet space. Is that possible?
Outstanding review.
Thank you, Paul!
-Eric
Hi, does this bag have a luggage pass through? Awesome bag! I went to order one but they are sold out!!😳
Hey Kevin - we just checked the site and Tom Bihn has released this update; "UPDATE: The Synik 30 is expected to be in stock around early November."
- Rebecca
Pack Hacker It does have luggage pass-through. Look at minute 1:48. ruclips.net/video/8MvTKNJk_2g/видео.html
Great catch, Robert! Thanks for sharing this with the community 😊👍
- Rebecca
I love tom bihn bags.
I know I keep saying this, but if they brought these upgrades (laptop and straps) to the A30 I would buy in a heart beat. Not a fan of the Synapse/Synik look.
Hey NightRainDream - thanks for sharing your thoughts with us! It's so important to find a pack that works for you and your travel style. 👍😊
- Rebecca
@@PackHacker Thanks for the awesome review! I love how in-depth you guys get with the bags.
You got it NightRainDream! 🙌
- Rebecca
I bought my synapse 25 to last me forever, which is a shame as I'd like this bag now!
Thanks for sharing curblaw, the Synapse 25 is a solid pack. Let us know if you decide to pick up the Synik as well. 😊
- Rebecca
I have both bags, this is a great upgrade. Will probably sell my S25.
It's getting colder, which means I can slowly start wearing my TB again.
#backSweatProblems?
- Tom
Which external material is this? Parapack or ballistic nylon
Hey Michael! The materials used in this pack are Ballistic Nylon, EVA Foam, Ripstop Nylon, YKK Zippers, Duraflex, and Woojin Hardware. You can find out more info like this over on our full review here packhacker.com/travel-gear/tom-bihn/synik-30/ 😊
- Rebecca
Does the parapack feels similar to the evergoods chZ22 inner lining?
Still waiting for the AER xpac review :b if you find other small adjustments
They've definitely updated the laptop compartment on the Travel Pack 2 across the board! Both the X-Pac and Cordura version.
- Tom
Pack Hacker they did, and the eco polyester one as well.
What I wasn’t keen to spot was that the different colour (all of them) are made of different material.
Grey is 900D polyester
And black is 16xx cordura or x-pac
And finally the military one was 10xx cordura.
The military one is going out of production and the xpac is limited quantities unfortunately.
Looks good
👍👍👍
- Rebecca
Please review the Evergoods CPL 24. Thanks
Hey Adam - we've got a full review of this one over on the site: packhacker.com/travel-gear/evergoods/civic-panel-loader-24-cpl-24/
- Tom
Loving the look of this bag.... but can I just discard my perfectly serviceable Founder’s Briefcase for it? Slick aka Fat Crip
Please do the alpaka alpha please
Hey Lisz - we currently have no plan to review this sling in the immediate pipeline, but it is on the list. You can check out our initial thoughts here packhacker.com/travel-gear/alpaka/alpha-sling/ 😊
- Rebecca
½ the people saying it looks like a dad bag are actually dads. 😂
Whoa is that Lauren Hom?
It sure is, John! 😊
- Rebecca
This looks like a wonderful bag, but I could never use it for travel. If you walked around with this bag, it would be fairly easy for somebody to steal from your bag, because almost every access point is on the front of the bag. A travel bag needs to have better security.
no water bottle pocket? hello?
While there isn’t a traditional water bottle pocket, there are plenty of places that work for stowing a water bottle on the Synik 😃
-Eric
@@PackHackerwait, what? The top middle pocket is for water bottles. It’s clearly advertised as such.
When showing the water bottle pocket, doesn't actually mention what size bottles can fit or demonstrate it 🤦♂
I like everything about this bag besides the look. Don't think I can get past that though, this thing is truly hideous in my opinion. Out of all the backpacks reviewed on this channel, I think nearly all are more aesthetically pleasing than this one. The shape of the bag combined with the big logo patch just makes for an overall very ugly look.
Quite the statement somedudethatchillshard! 72% of people agree with you on the look according to our aesthetic poll 🙂
- Tom
It's nice but it's such a "Dad Bag".
We feel you Gerald 🎒it's Dadtastic
- Tom
Chase Reeves turned me off of Tom Bihn and this is just an ugly and cheap looking bad, it’s a hard pass for me.
The important thing is to find a bag that works for you venom5809 👍👍
- Tom
venom5809 Just wondering why Chase Reeves turned you off of Tom Bihn.
I was wondering as well. Chase loves the bag just not a fan of the looks. I personally don’t care what people think as looks are subjective. This bag is made so well and super functional and comfortable. It’s looks are the last thing I care about. Checks all the boxes for me.
nahh don't really like the design
👍👍