The Best Bag for Backpacking! Debatably.

Let’s get it out in the open. Cabin Max Oxford is my favorite backpack!

The usage of carry-on backpacks separates the novice from the experienced traveler. Any seasoned explorer knows that a carry-on backpack is the obvious way to go when it comes to traveling. I feel confident in that statement after literally backpacking for months through Europe with this single backpack. It’s a Cabin Max Oxford Carry-On Luggage (found here: https://amzn.to/2QzCInY).

If it’s your first time backpacking, let me tell you why a literal backpack is the smarter choice. One, it’s lighter than a suitcase. If you have a flight followed by a day of activities, lugging around a suitcase is not ideal. Backpacks can go to the beach, a landmark, or up a mountain without the extra hassle. Plus, cobblestone streets are backpack-friendly where the same cannot be said about luggage with wheels. Two, flights are cheaper when you avoid baggage fees. This backpack is made to budget-airline specifications, so you won’t risk having to dish out extra dollars for baggage fees. Three, traveling with minimal materials enriches the experience. This is more of a personal opinion. When discovering a new place, not worrying about your belongings allows you to fully take in the experience. To better understand this concept, check out my philosophy of travel here.
Now that we’ve establish that a backpack is clearly the choice of experts, I want to review my trusted traveling companion, The Oxford Carry-On by Cabin Max.

To start, here’s some background about how I shop for products.

I’m a big researcher. The Google widget is on my phone’s home screen. From “how many ounces are in a cup” to “what’s the best day to book flights,” I’ve searched it all. My friends know me as the one who will find even the most elusive answers. I educate myself with the same attitude prior to my purchases. Any recommendations I make on my blog are thoroughly researched and tested before I give my seal of approval.

Now, let’s get back to the review.

My favorite feature on this bag is its airy weight. Because it’s so light, I was able to fit the essentials and still be under the weight limit for budget airlines. One of the most restrictive airline policies had a 17-pound limit. By the time I was done packing, mine weighed 15 pounds. Cabin Max crafts their bags with these ridiculous weight limits in mind so you can be sure you’re getting the most space out of your backpack.

I know you’re probably thinking, “It can’t be very durable if it’s so light.” I’ve carried this gem with me up a mountain – literally – and I didn’t notice a single stitch out of place. My backpack went through rain, hikes, and violent airplane turbulence. All zippers are zipping, and all pockets are perfect. Needless to say, I will be using the same backpack again on my future adventures because it held up to abusive treatment so well.

Anyone who has been on an Italian public transit system knows the risk of pickpockets. The trains and buses are plastered with warnings. To lessen the risk of being a victim, Cabin Max engineered this bag with a strategic, special feature. There is a pocket for passports, keys, and money that sits directly against the wearer’s back.

It would be near impossible to not feel someone digging through this pocket as it rests on their back. The pockets run deep – about halfway down the length of the bag. Now, there is no need to fear pickpockets, and you can relax while you ride.

Another feature that comes in handy is the laptop pocket. There is a pocket large enough to fit even the most monstrous of portable computers – not that I’d recommend bringing one. It’s padded and is located directly near the anti-pickpocket area. When the backpack is lying in the overhead compartment of the crowded airplane, this easy-access pocket makes snagging your computer from above a breeze.

One of the most important offerings of this backpack is the adjustable straps. Seventeen pounds may not sound like a lot, but when carried up a mountain, it feels like you’re transporting your own mini mountain. I am not a hiker, by any means, but I quickly figured out that the closer the bag is to your body, the easier it is to carry. This climb was made possible (and successful) by the adjustable straps. Side note: there are two handles on the bag, so it can be toted horizontally or vertically.

The space inside of this bag is a huge asset. Attempting to pack lightly can be a challenge, but packing cubes can assist with the organization of its space. Once you’ve selected what essentials you’ll bring, the backpack has no issue storing it. Cabin Max accomplishes a difficult task by maximizing user space while still adhering to airline weight and size restrictions.

Two pockets on the inside of the Oxford model make for added storage space, but the way the backpack opens is a distinctive trait. With traditional backpacks, you have to dig through a vertical mess to find an item at the bottom. This backpack unzips like a suitcase. This attribute is a must-have for any traveler who wants to avoid unnecessary, extensive searching. Painless access to your belongings can prove valuable in crowded airports and busy cities.  

During your explorations, the unexpected will happen. The best way to prepare for surprising scenarios is to have a backpack that’s as versatile as its wearer. Zip up and tighten your straps because the Oxford backpack, along with a healthy dose of wanderlust, will aid you in any adventure you might find yourself. Cabin Max has always got your back.

Sydni’s rating: 4.5/5
After exploiting this bag on at least five trips, a small corner of the mesh is finally tearing, however, the zipper is still effective. Every other feature gets countless praise from me.