The back compartment, also accessed through a double zipper, includes another pocket for stray papers and two more elastic accessory pockets, plus an amply padded laptop sleeve with an adjustable strap and sturdy clip to hold the laptop in place. In a curious touch, two 6.5-inch zippers, one on each side of the bag, open onto a pocket between the back and front compartments--which CODi says is "perfect for snacks and other soft items." While we appreciate the bonus space, the narrow zipper opening limits its potential; in fact we never found cause to use it.
As with the CODi Sling-Pak we reviewed earlier this year, the Tri-Pak can accommodate laptops up to 15.4 inches. We tested it with the 15.4-inch Velocity Micro NoteMagix X25, which has a cooling vent that makes the system 12 inches deep; that proved too large for the laptop pocket, though the computer did still fit inside the bag's main compartment. A more reasonably sized 15.4-inch system, such as the Fujitsu LifeBook A6030, should fit comfortably.
During our testing, we carried the Tri-Pak to the library, loaded with the Velocity Micro and its bulky power brick, a travel mouse, four hardcover books, and a spiral notebook, plus pens, keys, wallet, smart phone, MP3 player, and snacks. We were very pleased with the bag's ultrapadded shoulder straps and breathable back panel, which made the heavy load significantly more bearable than it was in our budget backpack. A slim chest strap adds extra support, though we'd have also appreciated a waist strap. (You can remove the chest strap if you find it bothersome.) Even when stuffed full, the Tri-Pak's relatively slim shape kept us from feeling like we were back-country hiking.
We do think the Tri-Pak needs a few additions to make it our preferred laptop bag. First, there ought to be some way to keep a cell phone accessible even while you're wearing the backpack; as it is, you have to slip the bag off at least one shoulder to reach even the front pockets. Second, we'd have appreciated a pocket on the outside of the bag that could keep a water bottle within easy reach and away from any electronics. Otherwise, the Tri-Pak's ample storage space and plentiful organizer pockets will appeal to anyone who wants a comfortable and attractive laptop backpack.
What You'll Pay
- Set Price Alert
