Customer Reviews L.L.Bean Stowaway Ultralight Day Pack

I've had the regular size Stowaway Day Pack for several years which was brought me to this one. That one has been and continues to be my go-to. While I knew the form factor was smaller, I had high hopes for a Stowaway 2.0. I returned it for several reasons. First, there are no external zip pockets. Sometimes, it's nice to be able to unzip a pocket without having to access the main compartment. While the item photos do not depict a pocket, I did not realized how much I missed having one. Second, when partially filled, it did not carry well. Third, I did not like the straps on this one compared to my regular Stowaway. Sure, they are mesh and breathable. However, I prioritize comfort over anything and these straps were not even close. I think the deal breaker was how cumbersome it was to unzip the backpack. It took too much effort with the way the zippers are configured. Honestly, if they re-sized the regular stowaway by 80% of its size, roughly 18L, it would make me a Bean believer once again. Keep everything the same and I'll be first in line to order. I prioritize function over form. Yes, this ultralight accomplishes a minimalist carry. However, it comes at the expense of utility. I definitely can see where this might work for some. Unfortunately, I was not one of them.

I had the previous version of this that packed into the outer pocket, it was simple and easy to pack it away. This new design is horrid. Whoever approved this design must be a masochist. Let's take a bag and have it stow away inside a puch that is inside the bag. I'll find some other company that doesn't "fix" what isn't broken, just for the sake of change which can be the only explanation for this.

The bag is nice but it does not fold within itself as stated. You really need another bag to fold it into or the internal pocket should be bigger.

the pack is flimsier than I had imagined, only one pocket (internal) and the two side holders are not deep enough or strong enough to hold a bottle of water or a mug f coffee.