ReFRACTION Packable Backpack

Matador Refraction for a true packable. My usual combo is a small shoulder/crossbody as a personal item and day touring bag that I wear at the same time as my overhead backpack. Backpacks are better as far as water bottle carry. It’s entirely possible yoo might find me with a 40 liter backpack, a 6.

I assumed you were using the Matador as a packable for day touring. You’re way outside the usual onebag approach and if you need a 60 liter plus a 28, you need to start over with your packing list. Your clothing choices are both heavy and bulky. I usually travel with a sub 40 liter overhead complian

Regarding the day bag, I totally understand your concerns because I had the exact same thoughts. I ended up biting the bullet and getting the ReFraction packable backpack from Matador. It's 65 GBP currently so not cheap at all, but I did get it on a black friday sale for 52 GBP. (I optimistically th

I think Osprey has changed that hardware a couple times. My pre-2025 Farpoint has no brand/mold markings on the buckles on the shoulder straps. I have seen schemes using paracord and small carabiners. The buckles have open sides so you can thread line through them. I find a pack on my front very cum

Honestly, a 30-liter backpack is enough for that trip. Round it up to 40 if you really want more space – and include a packable day pack (e.g. Matador ReFraction). Staying within carry-on limits is a huge advantage (which 50 liters probably doesn't do).

Hi. I've run an eyeball quickly down the list, my 2c (not exhaustive): - it's not a bad starting point, but you are correct, it's simply too much stuff. - multiples are too high. eg long pants x 3 and shorts x3. IMHO, 2x would be better. - the wide-brimmed hat is a good recc (Tilley is a good option

The Matador ReFraction backpack is really nice for being packable. The straps in particular are really nice for something that packs down so flat/small as long as you don't go overboard with the weight (don't carry 2 1L water bottles or bricks or whatever). It's also small enough that you can just t

It can fold but not as compact as a true packable bag. I did a thumbnail survey of a bunch of day packs and most are under 3/4” (1.9cm) thick and most of the thickness is strap padding and back panel/laptop padding. It’s lumpy to measure the thickness with the tuckable straps and back padding. It it

I usually carry a Baggu Medium Crescent: one kid who’s ten but totally un-willing/able to carry stuff. They’re kind of Mary Poppins bags in that they don’t look big but hold a lot. If I need more capacity, there’s always a packable tote inside. On travel, I’ll often bring the Matador ReFraction pack

Matador, Cotopaxi, and REI all make 18L ish packs that stash away and are pretty solid. More structure than a “packable” ultra sil type pack. And easy to use as a stuff sack in my luggage if I want. The Matador is really well made for what it is, but I prefer Cotopaxi and REI because they accommodat