Assessment of REI Co-op Ruckpack 40 Travel Backpack: Insightful Analysis and Opinions
The REI Co-op Ruckpack 40, a 40-litre travel backpack, stands out for its exceptional organization, durability, and comfort. Designed as a versatile travel companion, this pack is ideal for both everyday use and travel, offering a functional design that is typical of REI products.
The Ruckpack 40 boasts an excellent organization layout, with multiple pockets for easy division of gear and clothing. Its exterior features two stretchy mesh pockets that securely fit a water bottle or sandals, a top pocket with a zipper extending across the pack, and additional pockets on one side of the pack. The main compartment is accessed via a full-length U-shaped zipper, with secondary access available on one side of the pack.
One of the key strengths of the Ruckpack 40 is its durability. Over the past year, it has proven to be built to withstand rough use, making it a reliable choice for travellers. It is also bluesign-approved, ensuring it was produced with minimal impact and certified as safe for workers, consumers, and the environment.
In terms of comfort, the Ruckpack 40 offers excellent carrying comfort, with a well-padded hipbelt, cushioned shoulder straps, and load lifters that minimize pulling on the shoulders. The women's version of the Ruckpack 40 has a deeper S-curve in the shoulder straps that fit comfortably over the chest.
While the Ruckpack 40 does not have an internal divider in the main compartment, it comes with a rain cover tucked into a side pocket, padded carry handles, and a Velcro compartment that opens to reveal a backpanel cover, turning the pack into a handheld duffel bag.
The REI Co-op Ruckpack 40 measures 23 by 15 by 9.5 inches and may not fit into some smaller overhead bins when full. It is a perfect carry-on size for most airlines, with a light-colored interior for easy visibility in dim conditions.
Compared to other top travel backpacks in 2025, the Ruckpack 40 is comparable to the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 in terms of durability, but without the ultra-thick ballistic polyester base. The Sandmarc Travel Backpack is especially suited for content creators needing gear protection and smart organization, while the Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L offers a suitcase-style opening for easier access and better organization. The Tropicfeel Shell is unique with its innovate packing system and sustainability features, offering adjustable size for different trip lengths.
Ultimately, the choice of backpack depends on your travel style. For camera gear protection, the Sandmarc Travel Backpack is a great choice. For suitcase-style packing, the Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L is a top alternative. For innovative compression and adaptability, the Tropicfeel Shell is a practical choice. For larger capacity and city-focused travel, the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 is a budget-friendly and highly functional option.
- The Ruckpack 40, ideal for travel and everyday use, offers brilliant organization with multiple pockets, suitable for storing water bottles, sandals, and other gear.
- Its durability, built to withstand rough use, makes it a dependable choice for backpacking adventures.
- The pack's comfort features, such as padded hipbelt, shoulder straps, and load lifters, ensure carrying comfort during hiking trips or city exploration.
- For fitness enthusiasts, the Ruckpack 40's design can accommodate biking gear, making it a functional backpack for lifestyle pursuits that blend travel with health-and-wellness and fitness-and-exercise.
- In the realm of technology, the pack's light-colored interior enhances visibility within dim environments, proving convenient for digital nomads on the go.
- When it comes to sports, the Ruckpack 40's versatility extends to various travel styles, be it travel backpacking, city exploration, or even suitcase-style travel – making it a popular travel companion for an array of travelers and lifestyles.
