Lovevook Backpack

 In May, we booked a 14 day trans-Atlantic cruise. I've never been totally happy with the bags I've used for carry on, and really wanted a backpack this time. I also thought it might be good for my work (substitute teacher). I started watching videos on long haul flights (this was my first!), and saw this backpack recommended a few times. When I first looked, there were all sorts of fun colours and striped patterns and I really wanted a pink and grey one. But I knew that was impractical! I opted for plum and black, in the 17" size.

Two days after I got it, I was working at a school and there was another sub there with the same backpack. She told me that she loves it for work. I haven't used it for work yet. I also saw several other people with it during the trip. One woman I talked to loved it but regretted getting a light colour.

I was a little worried because it's actually a bit thicker than what the airlines list as a personal item. As long as you don't overstuff the outer pockets, it's okay. Remember, with a backpack, everything goes to the bottom, and that's where the outer pockets are. If needing to put it in a sizer, shake it up a bit and make sure everything is spread out inside. It did end up being a tad too long for under the seat in front but it didn't bother me. I did also use it as a foot rest. The top handle was good for going up the plane aisle. Previously I had duffle bags and they were a pain, and my husband nearly hit someone in the face with his backpack when he turned around to talk to me in the aisle. I only used the sleeve for attaching to a suitcase a bit, I felt the handle on my suitcase was too flimsy.

I really liked the light inside colour. 

I did struggle with trying to stay organized because there are so many pockets! That's a me thing. 

Keep in mind, the pocket on one side is designed for tissues. That would have been great, since Rob got a cold, but it was also raining so not logical to expose tissues through the slot. It also means you have to be mindful of what else you put in the pocket because of the slit. It was fine for water bottles but I worried my little container of wipes or mini fan would slide out. 

To secure the top zipper, I used a mini locking double carabiner (bought at Sail, a Canadian outdoor equipment store). For the other zippers, I used a large, vintage, metal diaper pin and pinned the zipper to the fabric next to it. Don't count on the backside zipper to be hidden when worn, so secure it too. 

My husband didn't mind wearing it a few times, which was very helpful (especially since he's always asking for stuff I have in it, or wanting to add his stuff). 

I do wish the zippers had storm flaps and were a bit more substantial though. In the airport security coming back, I yanked on the top zipper (it can require two hands to go from the flap to the top), and the zipper pull flew off, the pin and loop going down into the conveyor. I can't fit my carabiner on it now, but I'm sure there's other options. 

So, I would recommend this backpack for work or travel. I've used it for overnight visits to my mom, and it easily held a change of clothes. Just be mindful of the lack of storm flaps and security.