That’s why we decided on Happy Campers and could not have been happier. We have now done two separate road trips with Happy Campers, and will continue to road trip with them if we visit Iceland again (and we will – because it’s stunning!) They have one of the best reputations for Iceland camper van rentals, and it’s easy to understand why after renting a camper van from them.

An Iceland camper rental removes some headaches around a road trip and offers greater flexibility. They’re also economical to travel around Iceland as they combine your transportation, kitchen, and accommodation.

However, that doesn’t mean a Happy Camper Iceland is cheap by any means – just affordable by Iceland standards! Iceland is one of the most expensive countries to travel to, and you want to ensure your dollars go as far as possible. If you want to rent a campervan in Iceland, here’s why you should consider the family run Happy Campers!

Is Happy Camper Rentals The Best Iceland Camper Van Rental?

The best Campervan Rental Company in Iceland?

Happy Campers Iceland was one of the first companies to offer kitted rental vans in Iceland starting in 2009. It may not seem that long ago, but since 2009, a lot has changed. It’s brought about dozens of new companies, including familiar faces like corporate car rental giants offering their own version of a camper van.

Happy Campers is still family-run by Icelanders; you can find the whole family involved. We were checked out by the Sverrir or the “Happy Boss.” While his son was responsible for setting up our booking, another picked us up from the airport. Although the company has grown, they still represent their family core values.

Their main office is a short drive from the Keflavik Airport, and they offer a free shuttle to and from the Airport. You’ll definitely want to take advantage of that, because taxis from the airport are not cheap! We paid nearly $30 for a 7 minute taxi ride when we arrived late at night.

Once at Happy Campers guests can pick up their campervans. The check-in process is super smooth; they take the time to review guest travel plans in Iceland and make helpful suggestions. That gives you plenty of time to go over any last-minute questions you may have about routes, campsites, activities, or features of the van. (Here are some of our tips)

Customer service is a real highlight here, and we trust that they’d be sure to amend any issue that may arise. They’re very much a family business and something we really appreciate when booking.

The Happy 2 Campervan

We’ve now traveled Iceland twice with Happy Campers, both times in the Happy 2. Our van came with everything we could need for a camping trip around Iceland. The Happy 2 is one of their larger model camper vans and can drive four people and sleep two.

With only two of us on the trip, we had plenty of space for our ten-day trip around the Ring Road. Three people could sleep in there, but it would be a squeeze, and it’s really more ideal for two. If you have more than two people it’s best to bump up to their Happy 3. If you plan on camping around Iceland like us these are our top Ring Road trip tips.

The Happy 2 can either be a manual transmission Renault Trafic, or an automatic. With so many Americans visiting Iceland, more and more campervans are now automatic.

The Renaults are larger vans, but it is still manageable. I had no problems driving the vehicle as I’m a confident manual driver.

Music is important on any road trip, and the vehicle has an Bluetooth, an MPS CD player with a USB/auxiliary input to hook up your phone so you can play all your travel music!

Happy Camper vans are equipped with a dual battery system that allows for you to have a running fridge and heater. The heater fan operates off of the battery while the heat is generated by burning diesel fuel in your tank. The vehicle is equipped with a solar panel on the top to ensure it stays charged.

Almost all Happy Campers come with a tablet that gives the Happy App and free unlimited WiFi. The WiFi was so good that we were able to stream 4k movies at night! Bonus of booking with Happy Campers! A welcome feature of the vehicle is the inclusion of CDW insurance. This, combined with our travel credit cards’ insurance, gave us peace of mind while driving on Iceland’s roads.

Our Happy Kitchen

Both of our Happy Camper vans came equipped with everything we needed to make a basic meal. Kitchens change slightly based on van model, but overall you’ll be able to cook things like pasta, rice, chicken, and oatmeal very easily. The kitchen boxes were equipped with a pot, pan, and a full set of dishes for four. You’re also given a camping stove with a few bottles of Butane (more than enough for our ten days of camping).

The only thing I would highly recommend bringing for yourself is some way to make coffee. We brought an Aeropress, but a French Press will do too. Happy Campers gives very basic plastic mugs, but if you’re a coffee lover like me, make sure to bring a coffee thermos to keep your drink nice and hot.

A large cubby system with drawers had enough room to store all of our dry food and cooking utensils. It offered enough cooking space for basic prep meals and cook, but I would opt for a table and chairs outside in the summertime for more room.

Each vehicle also includes a sink with running water. Water is easy to find in Iceland as almost every gas station has hoses to wash your vehicle and top up water tanks.

They offer a few extras such as a grill, picnic table, coffee press, and chairs for an extra charge. Since we traveled in the Fall with low temperatures and we’re not big meat eaters, we didn’t add the grill or picnic table. However, I’m sure they’re an awesome addition to your trip in the summer months.

Update: When we returned in the summer we did grab a table and chairs, but didn’t use them often as the weather was still very wet.

A Happy Bedtime

The Happy fold out bed was more than large enough for the two of us! The bed converts from the back seat area that fold flat. When not made, it provides plenty of seating space to relax, eat dinner, and watch a movie. Come bedtime; it’s easy to convert and takes less than a minute to set up your bed.

Honestly, we found the bed to be a little firm and uncomfortable, though in our Happy 2 it at least felt like a Queen size bed. I would recommend a camping pad and a cheap comforter to make the bed your own if you have extra space in your luggage. A comforter is provided, as well as a blanket, but they aren’t the best.

The pillows provided are also cheap and lumpy and badly in need of an upgrade, if you are fussy about your pillows definitely pack your own!

A welcome feature is a heater at night. In the Fall and Spring, temperatures often dip below freezing, so a cozy van is amazing! We even used the heater a few times in June in Iceland when we returned on another trip!

Seasonal Iceland camper rental

Happy Campers Iceland camper van rental is now open year-round and does offer winter rentals for their fleet of camper vans. This means they switch their rentals over to winter tires, which is super important in the winter. Winter tires are proven to significantly increase traction and stopping power on ice and snow.

If seeing the Northern Lights is on your bucket list, finding a better way to chase them will be tough than a camper van. This will allow you to drive away from cloud cover if it appears and to hide out in your toasty van away from light pollution while you wait for them at night.

Winter rentals benefit from cheaper rates. While we haven’t used the camper van in the dead of winter yet, we did rent during October and found the Webasto heater kept us toasty at night. Another safety note, Happy Campers offers 24/7 emergency assistance, and each rental is equipped with GPS tracking for quick location.

The winter rentals also have a warm winter kit to help out in a bind. This means you get sleeping bags, jumper cables, rope, a shovel, and a flashlight. Granted, we’d recommend you bring your own sleeping bag, warm clothes, and a headlamp if you plan to visit in the winter.

A Few Happy Camper Iceland Van Rental Tips

• If you haven’t yet, head to our comprehensive post about our time on the Ring Road and camping tips there.
• Check our guides if you’re planning on doing the Golden Circle or Reynisfjara black sand beach. 
• Don’t wear shoes in the back of the vehicle; they can get dirty fast. They provide a dustpan and brush, so make sure to use them often to keep the van clean. We also picked up wet wipes, which helped keeping everything clean for two weeks as well.
• Bring your favorite coffee roast and an Aeropress if you’re like us and love good coffee. We picked up local beans at a roaster in Reykjavik.
• Make sure to check the weather forecast and pack the right clothes for Iceland. This website is where you get the most reliable weather forecasts around Iceland.
• Stick to simple one-pot meals. It makes for easy preparation and cleaning up. Also, ensure you get all your food from the Icelandic grocery stores. Restaurants are really expensive in Iceland.
• Don’t fret over a shower if your campsite doesn’t have one or it’s closed! Icelandic swimming pools are affordable and a wonderful experience. Just be prepared for casual nudity! Check out our other Iceland travel tips for more info.

Our Overall Experience with Happy Campers Iceland

We had a great time with our Happy Camper and felt it really gave us the freedom we wanted to explore Iceland during our time. It’s something we all want when exploring the great outdoors. We loved that we could stay out exploring until 11pm if we wanted, and then drive to a campsite for the night. We could pull over at whatever random viewpoint we wanted for dinner, and never had to stick to any schedules.

Happy Campers picked us up for free from the airport, had our vehicle ready, and waited. It was an easy pick-up (and drop-off), and we were on the road in less than an hour. We were off to explore the country for a quick stop at an Icelandic grocery store! Our first journey around the country took ten days, and our second road trip around Iceland was 13 days – a perfect amount of time. Just enough time to fall into the rhythm of things, but not too long to curse living in a van!

Although many are bummed to learn you can only stay in campsites in Iceland, we found a plethora around the country. Many shut down in the low season months but leave their basic facilities open and allow for free camping. This relieved some of the stress of making it to an open campsite by nightfall, as we don’t like driving at night. 

Each day we’d wake up in a new spot and make our way on our own time. Some days we covered a lot of ground while other days, we only drove 100km because we stopped so frequently to go for hikes, relax, or take photographs.

The idea of a campervan is to disconnect and make some beautiful memories. Our memory had to be watching the Northern Lights from our “bedroom,” something we would not have experienced based in Reykjavik without a vehicle. What is going to be your memory in Iceland?

The Best Iceland Camper Van Rental?

Happy Campers vs. Go Campers vs. Kuku Campers

The companies break down into three steps, in our opinion. Happy Campers is likely the nicest company in Iceland, but their rentals also fetch the highest price than their closest competitor. Go Campers comes in right behind Happy Campers with a similar design and price point. They’ve clearly taken a close look at Happy Campers and emulated their design, using fridges, heaters, and running sinks in their vehicles.

Kuku Campers are extremely popular and the largest company in Iceland, but they’re also pretty budget. Their cheaper models include older cars with no heaters, kitchenware, or bedding. Other rental companies are Indie Camper and Wicked Campers (not very nice).

What is Included in the Happy Campers Campervan?

Our Happy Camper was equipped with everything we could possibly need for 10 days on the road. That included things like:

Insurance on the Campervan

When checking out a camper van in Iceland, you have many options for choosing insurance. Happy Campers includes CDW as it is mandatory in Iceland. If you go with the standard insurance, your liability limit is €2500. They also offer packages that reduce the waiver, such as sand and gravel damage.

We went with the gravel insurance (both trips), but I found it a waste, as the roads were great in Iceland during June and October. Had we traveled during the winter and windier months, I believe it could have been more useful.  Also, look into what your credit card covers for auto insurance.

Most American credit cards offer auto rental insurance as a benefit, and I recommend calling your credit card company beforehand to double-check what they cover. If you don’t have a credit card, it’s time to get one, as it’s an important part of travel banking.

Review Opinion: Should You Book a Happy Camper in Iceland?

Yes! Of course, we’re slightly biased as we had a two great experiences with our Happy Camper rental. The company is well run and clearly wants its customers to have a great time. Above all, we only find glowing Happy Campers customer reviews online.

This is how we know we’re not a fluke of having a good time in one of their camper vans. We even met many separate people in their vans who had booked for a second and third time because their first trip to Iceland was that great! They genuinely are the best campervan rental in Iceland!

What to pack for a campervan trip to Iceland

Remember that you’re traveling around Iceland in a campervan. The smallest models don’t leave a lot of room for a massive checked bag (although we had one, as we were on the road for a month prior to our Iceland trip, and it still fit in the van).

The obvious thing to pack is warm weather clothing, even in summer. A great option is to pack a duffel bag or backpack that has soft sides and can be stuffed under a seat.

Of course, always pack a down jacket, sweater, wool socks, and a travel towel. The towel is really important if you go to hot springs and public pools. We have a post on what to pack for Iceland if you want more clothes recommendations. It should also go without saying that Iceland is seriously photogenic, so you’ll want a great camera for travel photography.

Here are some things we’d recommend to make your campervan more at home in Iceland.

How Much Will an Iceland Campervan Rental Cost?

It depends on the season! In the summer, your rental car will cost significantly more than in the off-season months from October to February. Happy Campers offers low season, mid-season, and high season rates. So if you’re goal is to save money, book a car rental in the off-season. Here are some tips for getting a good deal on a campervan Iceland:

• The sooner you book, the better. Campervans, especially with the good companies, sell out fast.
• Do your research and go with the companies that have good reviews. They are often the ones who won’t rip you off for extra charges.
• Avoid peak season, which is late June-early September.

Pros and Cons of Renting a Camper van in Iceland

After years of use and a half dozen pairs, we figured it was time for an updated review of Allbirds. For this Allbirds review, we’ll stick to their signature Wool Runners and Tree Runners and touch on their growing line of shoes. We were in search of the perfect travel shoe. Instead, we found new daily shoes for casual wear. Allbirds shoes live up to the hype with few drawbacks and many positives.

An Honest Allbirds Shoes Review

While Allbirds has a few physical stores, it is principally an e-commerce store that fulfills most orders online. We have ordered all of our Allbirds shoes directly from their website. The baseline price for Wool Runners and most of their line is a reasonable $110. Free shipping and a good return policy make ordering online with them a no-brainer.

All of our orders have been fulfilled fast and delivered in a short time. Our first order was their classic Allbirds Wool Runners. The construction of these Allbirds shoes is from a blend of recycled polyester (laces), sugarcane EVA foam (midsole), and merino wool (upper). The result is a more sustainable product.

For those after a more animal-friendly product, Allbirds shoes have the Tree Runner. This is a more breathable shoe better suited for warm weather. Its construction utilizes eucalyptus fiber to weave the upper fabric. However, the insole still uses a small amount of wool.

If you haven’t guessed already, they are big on sustainable products. They’ve come up with some innovative ideas to lessen their impact on the environment. The shoes use the two primary builds of tree and wool to offer a wide range of shoe styles. Shoppers can now choose running, sneaker, boat, slip-on, and high-top shoe styles.

First Impressions

As soon as I pulled my new Allbirds sneakers out of the box (with no plastic packaging), I was impressed by both styles’ softness. The merino wool Wool Runners won by a hair over the Tree Runners. I also loved the sponginess of the soles straight away. It was like I’d bought slippers in runner form. I am not ashamed to say that’s my kind of shoe. 

I also immediately noticed how light the shoes were. I can’t stand it when shoes bulk up my luggage, so both styles immediately got a big tick for travel. The style is great, and the simple shoe has no prominent patterns or logos. Allbirds Shoes set out to make a simple shoe that can go with various styles and has succeeded.

Style of Allbirds Shoes

The Allbirds site offers a range of sleek, neutral colors and fun colors like purple and pink. The primary color palette is gray, but Allbirds has expanded its range to include all sorts of amazing colors. I opted for blue in the Wool Runners and purple in the Tree Runners. Allbirds shoe colors regularly rotate, often offering limited-release colors for a unique look.

Are the Allbirds shoes sporty? Fashionable? Casual? A little from columns A, B, and C. Thanks to their neutrality, the shoe’s style is versatile. I love that they’re not covered in big logos and keep it simple. It’s the look of a classic shoe.

Pairing them with a nice travel outfit can look sharp, but they are very casual in nature. Their simplicity allows them to be worn comfortably in a more formal setting. They don’t feel out of place when worn with a blazer. The shoes feel as appropriate at a trendy bar as on the beach.

Comfort

I laced up the Wool Runners and hit the pavement straight away. I immediately noticed they had a nice bounce, which is a good indicator of long-term comfort. We’ve spent a lot of time in various Allbirds sneakers and have traveled all over the world in the shoes. With all that time, we’ve never had discomfort while wearing the shoes.

They even offer decent arch support. My mother, who suffers from Plantar Fasciitis, reports that they are some of her most comfortable shoes. The main difference between the two shoes is the warmth. Wool provides more warmth, while the Tree Runner material is best for hot summer weather. Allbirds tend to be worn without socks, and their airy design keeps your feet cool and comfortable. If they do get dirty, there is nothing to worry about as they’re machine washable.

The shoes’ outsoles are very soft, which adds to their comfort. However, we are selective about where we wear them, as you can feel rough or uneven terrain underneath. They aren’t technical shoes ready to tackle hikes or a hard gym session. You could run for a bus in them, but not trail run. However, they do offer an athletic shoe called the Dashers.

Are they the comfiest shoes ever? That’s a little subjective. They are very comfortable. I can easily clock ten miles in them without blisters or pain, and even without sock-wearing, my feet don’t smell at the end of the day – unless it’s been crazy hot and humid out. They are soft, lightweight, and have good arch support. I recommend them based on comfort alone. 

Sizing

Both Tree Runners and Wool Runners are true to size. It helps that the material is compliant, so it’d be tough for them to be too small. I am always thankful that I am not a half-size. It seems that hardly any brands make half sizes, including Allbirds. If you are a half size, try the smaller size, as it will likely stretch out. You should be fine, but you have 30 days to test and return them if they are not right.

Warm Weather Wear

I wear my Allbirds Tree Runners for warm-weather destinations like the Philippines and Thailand. They let my feet breathe without odor. Cameron wore his during our tour of Egypt in 100+ degree heat and felt as comfortable as possible in that kind of heat.

Cold Weather Wear

Both styles keep your feet cozy in cold/freezing weather, especially with a good pair of wooly socks. However, wool is always going to be slightly warmer than anything else. I wear my Wool Runners for winter travel.

This is important: Allbirds Wool Runners do not get along well with rain and snow. They are fine in a shower or drizzle, but avoid wearing them if you’re walking around in a downpour or a blizzard, as they will just get dirty and tire faster. They get pretty soppy, like wet clothes.

Odor and Washing

After initially hesitating on wool shoes, I found that wool is odor-resistant. That said, if you wore them without socks daily, they’d eventually get smelly. I wore mine for a month in Greece and eventually had to throw them in the wash. The good thing is you can throw them in the washing machine. So convenient! Just make sure you’ve got the washer set to cold water. You can’t put them in the tumble dryer. However, you’ve gotta let these bad boys air dry.

It takes about 24 hours unless it’s warm and dry, and you can place them in the sun. Don’t plan long walks on washing day if you don’t have a backup pair of shoes. This is one of the reasons I love Allbirds shoes—the ability to consistently throw them in the wash and not have them ruined is terrific.

Durability

Allbirds provide great value thanks to their durability and longevity. That said, they don’t last forever! My first pair made it about three years while rotating with other shoes and a lot of use while traveling. They held up very well, even after wearing them almost daily for an entire European summer.

However, similar to other reports, the toe box stretched out over time and formed a hole. This is due to the big toe stretching out the fabric. If you are a heavy user and wear your Allbirds daily for all activities, I’d say they will get you 1-2 years of awesome use. That’s pretty solid, in my opinion. They won’t fall apart on you. Just wear out like your old favorite t-shirt.

Tree Runners Vs. Wool Runners

Tree Runners

Quick Specs | Price: $105  | Material: Eucalyptus Fiber, Recycled Polyester, Sugarcane EVA Foam

Women’s

Men’s

The Wool Runners

Quick Specs | Price: $110  | Material: Merino Wool, Recycled Polyester, Sugarcane EVA Foam

Women’s

Men’s

When comparing shoes, it comes down to personal preference and how you’ll use them. If I’m honest, I didn’t have much of a preference. The two styles have more in common than they have differences. The Wool Runners and the Tree Runners have the same aesthetic design. They both keep things minimalistic, with neutral and pastel colors. They are equally comfortable.

The Tree Runners keep stinky feet at bay without socks a little better than the Wool Runners. On further investigation, Allbirds agree that the Tree Runners are better for hot weather. They are ever so slightly more breathable and light.  

The main difference lies in the materials they’re made from. The Wool Runners are, as expected, made of premium merino wool – some of the best wool in the world. Meanwhile, the Tree Runners are made from Tencel, created from Eucalyptus trees. Try both pairs and cycle with the seasons if you can swing it. Or purchase the pair that fits the current season.

There’s also the wool vs. eucalyptus debate. Are you vegan? Or do you want to avoid wool for whatever reason? I bet you still want that incredible softness and comfort that wool runners bring. That’s why I’m sure you will be happy with the Tree Runners. Tencel is also a very cool technology. 

Final Thoughts on Allbirds Shoes 

The runners have a beautiful minimalist design. They’re also incredibly comfortable, with pretty decent support. Sure, they’re not something you’d want to run or hike in, but they are great everyday shoes. They’re certainly up there with the best pairs of shoes I have taken on a trip. You’ll easily hit ten miles in these without a blister or stinging heels. To think of it, I’ve never gotten a blister with Allbirds shoes.

It’s inspiring to see a company that creates options for different lifestyles and preferences. I also like to see companies that are brave enough to experiment with new materials for footwear. For all their comfort and style, the best thing about Allbirds sneakers is their unshakeable commitment to sustainability.

They use 5% of the water and ⅓ of the land compared to other footwear manufacturers. They only source eucalyptus from plantations that abide by sustainable forestry standards. Their laces come from recycled plastic bottles; the packaging is made from 90% recycled cardboard. Amazon has tried to copy them at a fraction of the price, but we all know those are cheap knock-offs. With zero care about sourcing or sustainability.

Allbirds start at $110 (depending on style). At that price, with that level of ethics, you can feel good about buying yourself a pair of Allbirds. I wish more footwear companies were like Allbirds. I know I will see more great designs and shoes from this brand. Every time I check their site, I see new innovative products and different colors.

The Wool Runners

Quick Specs | Price: $110  | Material: Merino Wool, Recycled Polyester, Sugarcane EVA Foam

Women’s

Men’s

Tree Runners

Quick Specs | Price: $105  | Material: Eucalyptus Fiber, Recycled Polyester, Sugarcane EVA Foam

Women’s

Men’s

My Other Favorite Allbirds shoes

Since writing this Allbirds shoes review, Allbirds has sent us a few more pairs of shoes to try out. Here are some of my favorites.

Allbirds Trail Runners

The brand-new Trail Runner SWT is ideal for those seeking more activity out of their Allbirds. These are designed for the trails and have durability and comfort for off-road terrain.

trail runners

Allbirds Pipers

These are my favorite Allbirds since they are more stylish than the regular Tree Runners and Wool Runners and look great with chinos, skirts, and dresses.

allbirds pipers

Allbirds Mizzles

These are Allbird’s shoe answers to a Rain-Ready Sneaker. They are rated as a great Water-Repellent Sneaker, and perfect for cold weather with their thick wool. Also, expect a No-Slip Natural Rubber Grip.

allbirds mizzles

The Knack Bag is an everyday travel backpack designed to go from everyday use to travel. It’s excellent for savvy minimalist travelers or and anyone in the market for a new bag. With stylish design features and many practical elements, it all adds up to a well-designed backpack for one bag travelers or everyday carry use.

Knack Bag Product Specs

• Weight: 3 lbs. 4 oz.
• Exterior Fabric: Nylon 1200D
• Interior Fabric: Nylon 150D
• Capacities: 31L, 37L
• Expanded Dimensions: 21.5″ x 14″ x 9.5″
• Padded Laptop Pocket: Yes, 15″ Compatible
• Water Resistant: Yes
• Carry On Compliant: Yes, overhead and under the seat

Design

The pack’s exterior has a professional look to it that, and it looks very sharp in person. I was initially impressed by the bag’s looks online and was pleasantly surprised when we first received the pack – it lived up to its product images. The Expandable Knack Pack comes in two sizes, medium and large, with a small Knack Pack to be released later this year.

Several innovative design features stand out in the Knack Pack. In particular, I appreciate the large laptop sleeve that holds my 15″ Macbook Pro with ease yet separates it from the rest of the pack’s interior. The next pocket over is a hidden water bottle holder.

The Knack Pack has various compartments and pockets:

• Top pocket:  This pocket is designed for sunglasses or other items you need to access easily
• Front triangle pocket:  This is a great place to put pens, snacks or a book
• Bottom Pocket:  This pocket is designed to hold your laptop charger – no more trying to untangle it in the airport!
• Main compartment:  This is where you can keep the bulk of your items, like a camera, over the ear headphones, books, etc
• Expandable Luggage Compartment:  This section of the Knack Pack is great for digital nomads and travelers.  You can expand it to carry clothing (the large fits 3-4 outfits).

Overall the size of the backpacks feels just about perfect. On a trip, I can utilize packing cubes to compress luggage and arrive at a destination. Once at said destinations, it’s great to slip the packing cubes up, zip up the expandable section, and use them as an everyday carry bag.

Exterior

The medium comes in four colors, while the large has two color choices, Stealth Black and Saville Gray. I went with the Saville Gray, but I have to admit the Slate Black looks very sharp.

We receive a lot of travel backpack samples, and the Knack Bag has design quality that many backpack start-ups lack. It has a professional look to it, and the slim design gives a professional appearance. I’d even go so far as to say the bag would be appropriate on a business trip.

Three Months of Use

After three months of use, we can make a safe assessment of the exterior of the bag. Further down, we share where we took the Knack Pack and how it held up to international travel.

With 1200 D nylon fabric used in the bag’s exterior construction, we shouldn’t be surprised at how well the backpack has held up to heavy travel. The Knack Pack shows minor wear, and I have yet to find any snags, abrasions, or blemishes on the bag’s exterior.

Support

With any backpack designed for travel, I like to stress the importance of support. It refers to the shoulder straps, sternum straps, back panel, and hip belt. It’s nice to see that the Knack Pack uses all of these vital elements for a back that feels solid on back when fully packed.

It’s not as robust as a hiking pack, but this also saves it from looking too much like an outdoors pack. I used the pack several days as a day pack while exploring various cities, and it felt comfortable throughout the day. Even after all the wear with weight, the shoulder straps have no signs of wear which is an excellent signal for the longevity of the Knack Pack.

The back panel is effective as padding and offers ventilation. It saved me a sore back, and I did not sweat in typical weather environments. There is hardly any backpack that will prevent sweating in hot/humid climates like Hong Kong, Singapore, or New York in the summer.

A great feature should you need to stash the bag away or perhaps check the backpack for a flight is the stowaway straps. All of the straps detach and can be stored away inside the bag. It’s easy to do and only takes a minute or two to stash away everything in a straightforward way.

Interior

The main compartment of the expandable backpack does a great job at protecting your items and offers several pockets to organize. We had enough room to store lip balm, a wallet, two jackets, a small tripod, a mirrorless camera, lotion, GoPro, and a power bank with ease — more or less everything we need to explore a new city when we travel.

It was easy to keep things organized in the main compartment with two zippered compartments and a soft-lined sleeve that would work well to protect a tablet. The minor key leash is super helpful and a great way to save you from digging for keys, and it protects other items from scratches.

Moving onto more elements of the interior is the smooth nylon-lined interior. It’s stain-resistant and sports a brightly colored fabric that aids in finding items in the bag.

The second compartment expands and is best suited for your luggage as it is roomy and features a strap to secure luggage. This backpack area feels very similar to a clamshell suitcase with a large roomy side opposite a large zippered compartment. The zippered compartment is vented and is excellent to store underwear, socks, belt, or ties. What stands out is how unobtrusive the compartment is when not expanded. It zips up nicely and leaves a minimal footprint.

On the top is a small pocket that is perfect for small items that require quick access. It was the ideal spot to stash your phone and sunglasses, and with the soft-lined sleeve, it did a great job protecting your screen or glasses.

Knack Bag Features I Love

Water Bottle Pocket

It has some surprising features for its size, such as a zippable secret compartment and a water bottle holder capable of holding my large 18oz Hydroflask water bottle. We always encourage everyone to travel with a water bottle to fight dehydration and reduce plastic waste. Too often, a pocket to hold a water bottle is left out in travel bags, or it’s on the outside and makes it easy for a water bottle to get lost!.

Small Top Pocket

I enjoyed the top pocket as it felt just the right size. The soft-lined interior is excellent for protecting valuable items like a phone, sunglasses, glasses, or a small camera like a Sony RX 100 or GoPro.

Interior Liner

A lined interior is a feature found in a lot of luggage, but it’s taken a while to make its way into backpacks. I love having a sleek liner that is bright in color as it saves a lot of digging.

Support

I enjoyed the support system in Knack Pack and felt it does a great job at supporting a medium amount of weight. Should I need to check the back, I could stash away the straps, which is excellent!

Water Resistance

In light rain showers or getting caught briefly in a thunderstorm, the bag effectively protects against rain. They have implemented a reverse coil zipper from YYK that’s good at keeping the elements out, and when combined with super robust 1200D nylon, the bag holds up well in the elements.

Knack Bag Features I Don’t Love

Triangle Pocket

While I love the look of the front pocket, personal preference, it’s not the most practical. When opened, items tend to slip out as it folds down, and it doesn’t utilize all of the space available in the front effectively.

It’s far from a deal-breaker for me, but I’d love to see a top open pocket in future versions of the backpack. In use, I was still able to slip in my noise-canceling over-ear headphones, pens, notepad, and a reusable straw (check out our eco-friendly travel products). So, it’s still a practical compartment. It just could be a little better.

No Side Handle

The stowaway support straps are great and make the bag very streamlined. However, once they are stored away, the bag’s only to hold is via the top handle, which feels a bit long and awkward. It would be an outstanding feature if a side handle were added to the bag or perhaps even a shoulder strap. Hopefully, in a future backpack version!

Testing

We took the Knack Bag on our last trip to Asia, in which we visited the cities of Hong Kong, Osaka, Singapore, Kyoto, and even did some island hopping in the Philippines.

As far as design, the Knack Expandable Backpack is one of my favorites in the travel world. It’s a new backpack and company that launched in 2019 and from several executives who worked for the luggage company Tumi. The exterior and design of the pack are overwhelmingly positive. Compared to any of the other travel-specific bags we’ve had the chance to look at, it delivers high quality with excellent features.

It’s not well suited for those on long trips a month or more, but if you’re making a quick city escape for a long weekend or week trip to a city like London or Paris, this pack would be a tremendous decision. 

Living a #OneBagLife

Having separate bags for travel and every day can be a pain, and they take up a lot of storage space. The Knack Pack is excellent for someone who loves to travel for long weekends or week-long trips as both business professional and tourist, who also needs an everyday carry laptop bag for work.

As a traveler, you’ll likely spend a lot of time on your feet, so it’s essential to have good shoes that will keep you comfortable and help you avoid blisters and sore feet. However, packing multiple pairs of shoes for different activities can be impractical, which is where Tropicfeel shoes shine. They are suitable for light hikes, beach days, bike rides, and exploring new cities.

This review will explore the features that make Tropicfeel a unique and innovative brand and how these shoes can enhance your travel experience.

Tropicfeel Shoes Review

Price: $125-$159 (Model Dependent | Weight: 14 oz. | Materials: Recycled Nylon/Recycled Elastane

Quick Overview of Tropicfeel Shoes

Tropicfeel has expanded its line of shoes in only a couple of years. There are now seven shoe styles that all come in various colorways. All the shoes carry the same principle, simple shoes ready for travel and made with sustainable materials. There are two primary lines in their collection, weatherproof and water-friendly.

Water-friendly is where the company started, and they have six various styles of these shoes. These water-friendly shoes are great for traveling to tropical destinations and activities like paddleboarding and kayaking. The water-friendly line includes the Canyon, Jungle, Lava, Monsoon, Dune, and Sunset. The Geyser is Tropicfeel’s latest variety, their new “weatherproof” shoe. It’s a travel sneaker with recycled wool and a waterproof membrane to keep your feet comfortable during inclement weather.

First Impressions

The appearance of the Tropicfeel shoes gives you a clue to their versatility and style. They look pretty sharp for a pair of shoes made for the water. On close inspection, the shoes utilize a lot of mesh, foam, and rubber. Lightweight and with a minimalist appearance, the shoes bring together a nice blend of casual and athletic. They’ll look right at home on the trail but are perfectly suitable for urban use and don’t give off an “on the way to the gym” vibe.

Water capabilities are a clear priority, with the mesh sidewalls and soles designed to dry quickly. Rubber soles have a nice blend of styles that should help provide traction on several surfaces. There are various styles to pick from, the two most famous being the Monsoon and the Canyon.

I prefer the stylings of the Canyon, an ankle-cut sneaker, but some may prefer the low-cut Monsoon. If you like color, there are brighter options like green or aqua. Those who prefer subtler shades will be happy with traditional black or gray shoes. For our tests, we chose Canyon Night Blue and Monsson Sage Green.

Performance of Tropicfeel Shoes

The biggest question is whether Tropicfeel holds up to the rigors of the road. Well, the answer is yes. Of course, there are a few downsides (more on that later), but by and large, these shoes have great reviews from many travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. They’re impressive as shoes for coastal destinations. I loved the shoes on our trip to Siargao in the Philipines, where I could comfortably drive a motorbike before cliff diving off rough rocky outcroppings.

With regular use, they held up well as daily drivers. It took around 180 days of wear for the shoes to start showing signs of age, and this is while handling saltwater, rocks, and generally rough conditions. They work as casual shoes for errands around town or for working out comfortably. I have done a light run in them, but they lack the correct ergonomics for more serious runs and are too loose. However, they are perfect for a quick workout in the hotel gym!

They also travel exceptionally well as the shoes are lightweight, flexible, and easily fit in your luggage. This saves room and weight in your bag. A carry-on traveler can easily pack Tropicfeel shoes in their suitcase without fretting over the space.

The Best Use For Tropicfeel Sneakers

Tropicfeel makes some excellent shoes. They feel appropriate for many travel destinations and use at home. Although travelers can particularly appreciate this level of versatility, anyone can benefit from having one pair of shoes with many functions.

It’s tough to pick one best use, but an ideal destination or purpose involves some body of water. They’re great on the boat, canoe, or paddleboard. Or the shoes can help out exploring waterfalls, beaches, or lakes. Since water is the typical breaking point for shoes, this makes them so versatile, especially when they’re comfortable and supply enough support to spend a whole day walking around a city.

• Comfort: The comfy design makes them a great everyday casual pair of shoes.
• Durability: They’re sturdy enough to hold up to hours on the trail or travel adventures.
• Quick Dry: The quick-dry ability makes them a perfect pair of aqua shoes.
• Style: To top it all off, they’re stylish enough for urban use.

Materials in Tropicfeel Sneakers

What makes Tropicfeel suitable for hiking, water, and urban use shoes starts with the materials. You might be surprised to learn that algae are one of the components in Tropicfeel insoles! Yep, you read that correctly. About 8% of the insole is made from harvested algae, according to Tropicfeel, which creates a lighter, more durable, and eco-friendly shoe.

The EVA material in the midsole provides good support and comfort and is made from 20% upcycled material. And to tack on yet another sustainability bonus, it’s estimated that about five recycled plastic bottles are put into each pair. So, not only will you be wearing recycled plastic, but the combination of natural and synthetic materials creates a quick-drying, soft, and flexible shoe. 

Each pair weighs about 7 ounces, which is practically nothing for footwear, especially footwear suitable for extended periods of walking. Whether you’re hiking, doing outdoor yoga, or touring a new city, you can benefit from these shoes’ “light as air” quality. 

What It’s Like To Wear Tropicfeel Sneakers When Traveling?

Of course, everyone’s feet are made differently, so what works for one person might not work for another. However, Tropicfeel has created a super comfortable shoe to treat most wearers well. The super breathable 3D mesh keeps your feet dry and aired out on long walks and allows for super-speedy drying after you go swimming or get caught in a rainstorm. The aqua shoe property also means they’re super easy to wash – throw them in the washing machine, and they’ll come out as clean as when they were brand new.

Unlike some urban shoes with flat and slippery soles, Tropicfeel has slip-resistant rubber to keep your footing while hiking on trails or city streets. The cushioned footbed is removable to help fit different foot shapes and sizes. Although most people prefer cushioning, you might have your preferred shoe inserts, which can be put in place instead for better comfort. 

The shoes are slip-on style with a stretchy, elastic-like closure and elastic laces that stay in place on your ankles. For those who like slip-ons, it’s a dream come true. If you prefer regular laces, then the Canyon shoes come with a pair you can interchange! Tropicfeel adds an anti-odor and anti-bacterial treatment. It might be a small touch, but it helps when you’ve been out walking and sweating all day! 

What’s to Love About Tropicfeel sneakers? 

As you can already see, Tropicfeel shoes have many positive qualities going for them in terms of function and style. Below are a few other things we love about the shoes and what sets Tropicfeel shoes apart. 

Sustainability

As mentioned in the materials section, Tropicfeel is committed to producing high-quality and environmentally friendly shoes. These shoes also began as a grass-roots project designed by travelers tired of constantly wearing out their sneakers while on the road. With a Kickstarter campaign for initial funding, the brand launched with the support of thousands of travelers. Most travelers already have a few go-to brands they trust for equipment, but sometimes it’s worth branching out to try a new product-especially one with such high reviews from so many travelers! 

Value

While it’s possible to find pairs of sneakers cheaper than Tropicfeel, chances are you’ll be getting something that will look shabby within a month, probably has relatively poor support, and certainly won’t have the aquatic qualities of Tropicfeel. 

For how durable these shoes are and the versatility of uses, you could argue that they’re a bargain deal. There are plenty of “travel shoes” on the market selling for a lot higher price, which might not even measure up to Tropicfeel in terms of versatility and comfort. Every dollar we save can be used for future travels.

Unique Mesh Bag

Another exclusive part of getting a pair of Tropcifeel shoes is the unique mesh bag each pair comes in. The simple sack has the Tropicfeel logo on the bottom, black mesh on the top, and a fold-over closure with a buckle. 

Not only is it a great bag for carrying your shoes, but it can also function as a camping gear stuff sack, a laundry sack, or storage for other gear while on the road. The only thing better than a pair of versatile shoes is a pair of versatile shoes with a versatile carrying sack! 

Your Feet Can Breathe!

If you’re traveling to hot climates like Southeast Asia, it’s beneficial to have breathable footwear that provides support. Walking around a city all day or hiking to a nearby temple are activities where flip-flops aren’t feasible, regardless of how hot and uncomfortable it is to wear close-toed shoes.

Thankfully, the light and airy build of Tropicfeel shoes gives your feet plenty of air to breathe and prevents them from becoming trapped and sweaty while out on adventures. Plus, since they’re also made for aquatic use if the opportunity presents itself, you can always take a dip to cool off without worrying about taking off your shoes!

What’s Not to Love About Tropicfeel?

No gear is perfect, and despite all the great features of Tropicfeel shoes, some things could still use improvement or don’t work for particular travelers. Here are the primary considerations to keep in mind when deciding whether to get a pair of Tropicfeel shoes. 

Lacks Protection

They may be light and airy, built for the cold, but they are not. As versatile as Tropicfeel is, the line is drawn at cold and snowy temperatures. If you’re traveling to Sweden in the winter or hiking mountains in South America, you’ll want a different pair of shoes because your feet will get cold quickly. After all, the name is Tropicfeel.

They are made for warm-weather destinations. Nor are they great at rough conditions. They may be great for an easy hike on the trail but not trekking through the jungle. The airy design does little to protect your feet if you’re likely to face rough conditions such as sticks or mud. This was the case until the latest shoe. The Geyser solves many of these problems for cold weather as they’re lined with wool and feature a waterproof exterior. It’s a promising shoe, but we’re unsure if it replaces a boot.

Slip-on Have their Limitations

As we mentioned, the personal preference for slip-ons vs. regular lace-ups may affect your overall impression of Tropicfeel shoes. Thankfully, some of their new pairs come with regular laces you can interchange if you’re not a fan of the elastic ones. 

Also, remember that while these shoes will hold up to easy hikes and outdoor activities, they are not a substitute for a sturdy pair of hiking shoes. If you’re going on longer hiking expeditions or planning a two-week thru-hike with extended hours on the trail every day, you’ll need something with more support and structure for your feet and ankles.

Conclusion On Tropicfeel Shoes

Price: $125-$159 (Model Dependent | Weight: 14 oz. | Materials: Recycled Nylon/Recycled Elastene

Defining “the best” when it comes to travel gear is always a tricky business. Each traveler has their preferences and style, which change how effective a piece of equipment or clothing is for the traveler. That being said, Tropicfeel is close to achieving a nice balance of function, style, and comfort. There are drawbacks, but the positive qualities greatly surpass the imperfections in the grand scheme. 

Compared to some shoes marketed for travelers, Tropicfeel is also a very affordable option, especially considering how well they hold up to daily use and the overall scuffs and scrapes of the road. 

Hopefully, as Tropicfeel continues to make new shoes, they will continue to improve on this already great product to meet the needs and wishes of even more travelers. When I’m off to a warm destination, these inevitably end up in my backpack or suitcase.

New Product: TropicFeel Shell Backpack

The Tropicfeel Shell Backpack markets itself as the ultimate modern-day travel backpack, and we couldn’t agree more. This backpack can easily shift between 22L and 40L quickly. That means you can pack up all your travel belongings, and once you get to your hotel, you can unload the wardrobe system and use it as a daypack. No need to carry little backpacks for groceries or hiking in your suitcase anymore!

The Shell backpack has excellent organization and features detachable accessories. It’s also a fantastic anti-theft backpack that uses Fidlock® security. Its waterproof and sleek design means you can go from urban travel to wilderness adventures in a snap!

It perfectly straddles the line between warmth, weight, style, and comfort. Unsurprisingly, just about every outdoor enthusiast owns one of these epic jackets. It feels ready to crush any sport, whether ski touring, mountain biking, or climbing. We particularly love pairing it with the Arc’teryx Rush for a snowboard jacket.

Our detailed review of the Arc’teryx Atom LT hoody covers all the jacket’s features and compares it to the competition. Then share its best uses so you can determine whether or not it matches your needs and outdoor lifestyle. 

Arc’teryx Atom LT Hoody Quick Specs 

Women’s Atom LT

Men’s Atom LT

Product Details

Price: $259 (CAD 320) | Weight: 375 g / 13.2 oz (Men’s) & 320 g / 10.9 oz (Women’s) | Materials: Tyono 20 (face fabric), Coreloft Compact insulation, Polyester, Elastane

Pros

Mobility, Versatile Style, Weight, Wonderful Comfort, Decent Warmth, Ideal Fit

Cons

Expensive, Waterproofing, Breathability

Men’s Version

arc’teryx

rei Co-op

backcountry

Women’s Version

arc’teryx

rei Co-op

backcountry

Arc’teryx Atom LT Hoody Review

Let’s dive right into what makes the Arc’teryx Atom LT Hoody stand out among other synthetic insulated hoodies. We’ll go through all the jacket components and how it holds up to actual use, so you can decide whether it’s the fitting addition to your gear. 

Warmth Of The Arc’teryx Atom LT

The Arc’teryx Atom LT Hoody is best suited as an outer layer jacket for fall and spring. It also works outstanding as a mid-layer for snowsports. Warmth is provided mainly by the synthetic insulation, 60g Coreloft Compact insulation, and side panels, a stretchy midweight fleece. A weather-resistant shell effectively cuts the wind, and the tall collar, adjustable hem, and hood provide added protection in cold temperatures. It’s a versatile blend of features.

It works well for several temperatures and keeps you warm just above freezing without many layers. When active, such as on a hike, it’s comfortable under freezing and can go well under for high-output sports like ski-touring or cross-country skiing. The jacket is best for active sports. If you have plans for relaxing or sitting around, you may need a shell jacket around freezing and below.

If you need more warmth, Arc’teryx has the Atom AR with more insulation and a burlier face fabric. That jacket is considerably heavier and feels a little less versatile for sports. Granted, if you run cold, it may be an excellent option.

Protection From Elements

The Arc’teryx Atom LT jacket is designed to provide reliable protection in inclement weather. The jacket boasts a weather-resistant shell, synthetic insulation, and coverage from the collar and adjustable hood. The Tyono 20 face fabric feels slightly more substantial than other leading synthetic jackets, such as Patagonia’s Nano-Air. It is finished with a DWR treatment that effectively sheds water and snow.

The side panels are made of fleece, which may not be ideal for blocking wind. It’s worth noting that the jacket will not be suitable in extended heavy rainfall and is not a replacement for a waterproof rain jacket or hardshell. However, if caught in a surprise storm, the jacket can hold its own for a short period.

Additionally, the insulation in this jacket, the Coreloft fill, will continue to provide warmth even if water manages to penetrate the jacket, which is a benefit synthetic insulation has over down insulation. I find this most useful for snow sports, where it’s common to find yourself wet at the end of the day.

Weight & Packability

The Women’s Arc’teryx Atom LT Hoody weighs 10.9 oz (310g), while the men’s version weighs 13.2 oz (375g). This makes the jacket lightweight enough to be considered a “lightweight” jacket. However, it is slightly heavier than other light jacket varieties offered by Arc’teryx.

Regarding durability and effectiveness in keeping you warm, it’s essential to strike a balance between weight and performance. The Atom LT jacket offers the durability and sturdiness expected of an adventure jacket while also being lightweight and not adding unnecessary bulk to your pack when not in use. In terms of packability, the Atom LT Hoody excels. The materials are highly compressible and can regain their shape even after being packed away for an extended period.

This is particularly useful for hikers, as the jacket can be easily packed away when not needed without affecting the quality or appearance of the jacket. In contrast, some compressible jackets may lose their shape and appear “deflated” after repeated packing and unpacking. It does have one downside, as there is no included stuff sack or pocket.

Fit & Sizing

Arc’teryx describes the Atom LT as having a “trim fit,” which is an accurate real-life statement. This jacket was meant to fit more snuggly against your body and was made for people with an athletic frame. Some reviews have mentioned that it can be challenging to find the right fit if you are between sizes. The size guide is usually accurate for those with a taller, leaner body frame, but the Atom LT can be either too long or too tight for people with other body types.

The Atom LT Hoody fits us both very well and, overall, looks flattering. We find it even has a better fit than the Arc’teryx Cerium. I know I can wear this anywhere around town. Double-check the measurements before ordering the jacket and size up when in doubt. Arc’teryx has an excellent exchange policy should you have to exchange the jacket for another size. To help with fit, there are lower hem adjusters on the jacket and stretch cuffs to keep the sleeves in place while wearing it. 

Comfort Of the Arc’teryx Atom LT

A jacket does you a little good if it’s uncomfortable to wear, but thankfully there aren’t any complaints about the Atom LT. The super soft and flexible material and excellent breathability make the Atom LT comfortable to wear as an insulating or standalone jacket, depending on your activities and the weather. 

The fully-insulated hood is also helmet compatible, an excellent bonus for outdoor adventure enthusiasts. We wear ours with a scrambling helmet, but rock and ice climbers would love it too! A single pull adjuster on the hood provides additional protection to accommodate the wind. 

Arc’teryx receives another star for comfort thanks to the stretch-knit cuffs. Not only does this keep the sleeves in place while wearing the jacket, but it also makes it easier to layer up with further insulating layers underneath or a heavier outer shell jacket over the top. To help with mobility, the Arc’teryx Atom LT also has articulated elbows on the sleeves and stretch side panels on the underarms, allowing for an increased range of motion. 

Materials

The Arc’teryx Atom LT is made from a combination of synthetic insulation layers and stretched fleece. There are three total layers of insulation in the jacket. The Coreloft Compact 60 insulation gives the jacket more loft and is a compressible material that won’t “deflate” so much over time, like other fabric choices. 

The super lightweight and soft Tyono20 provides the Atom LT with excellent breathability and durable face fabric. Along the sides, there are also stretch fleece panels which add more mobility and help with the ventilation of the jacket. The three components create the flexible, breathable, and lightweight hoodie, the Arc’teryx Atom LT. 

Another great thing to note about the Arc’teryx brand is its commitment to sustainability and quality. Like many other products from Arc’teryx, the Atom LT is made from materials that follow BlueSign criteria, which is a definite bonus if you like to support environmentally friendly businesses. 

Hood & Pockets

The hoody has an excellent selection of features, including several pocket and fit adjustments. The two hand pockets on the sides of the jacket have “hidden zippers.” It’s a nice aesthetic feature that gives the jacket a sleek look but also helps reduce the zipper catching when used as a mid-layer. They also have custom TPU zipper pulls, which are excellent in terms of ease of use and the aesthetics of the jacket. 

An internal zipped pocket is a perfect spot to store valuables like a wallet or phone. It’s worth emphasizing just how comfy the hood of the Atom LT is, especially if you’re the type whose head or ears tend to get cold. The hood offers excellent coverage, and the front zipper comes up to your chin to keep the wind out.

Putting the Arc’teryx Atom LT to Use 

Arc’teryx describes the Atom LT as an “all-around” activity jacket, which is certainly true in terms of practical use. Thanks to the combination of highly breathable material and insulation, it’s a jacket designed to keep you warm and comfortable at various output levels.

This means that whether you’re doing a high-energy activity like skiing, or something more casual like running errands around the city in winter or spring, the Atom LT Hoody will keep you warm without trapping sweat next to your body. 

Although the Atom LT Hoody can work as a standalone jacket, it’s thin enough to work as an insulating layer beneath a heavier shell jacket. Since the exterior fabric of the Atom LT Hoody is only moisture-resistant, it’s better to put on another layer if you’ll be encountering heavy snow or cold rain. 

In addition to fulfilling the requirements for being out on the trail, it’s also worth pointing out that the Atom LT has undeniable style. The sleek appearance and multiple colors the Atom LT is available will probably more than satisfy most wants.

What To Consider

As you can see, there are a lot of positive qualities to highlight with the Arc’teryx Atom LT. However, despite being such a fantastic jacket, it might not be the best fit for certain people. Here are a few potential cons to the jacket you’ll want to keep in mind. 

• First off, the Atom LT is not exactly cheap. Of course, if you’re shopping for Arc’teryx products, you’ll probably already know that their gear is not a “budget” option. However, you get what you pay for in terms of quality. For the outdoor enthusiast or for someone who lives in a colder climate, buying an exceptionally well-made jacket like the Atom LT can be a smart investment in the long run.
• Secondly, it’s also good to remember that compared with some of Arc’teryx’s other products, the Atom LT is slightly less weather-resistant. Yes, it still has decent protection thanks to the water-repellent coating, but you’ll need another outer layer if caught in an icy rainstorm. However, this is the case with any mid-layer, and a lightweight windbreaker rain jacket is always handy.
• And finally, like other Arc’teryx products, the Atom LT was designed for people with a more athletic frame. Although this works perfectly for some people, it can make it difficult for some people to find a size of the Atom LT that fits them well. 

Pro/Con Comparison for the Arc’teryx Atom LT

Now that we’ve gone through the details of the Arc’teryx Atom LT hoody in our review, here’s a round-up of the pros and cons of the jacket. 

The takeaway for the Arc’teryx Atom LT Hoody

We’ve come to the end of our Arc’teryx Atom LT Hoody review, and hopefully, you have a better idea about what makes this jacket such a great addition to your gear for year-round adventures. Overall, the Atom LT provides a lightweight jacket with excellent wind protection and warmth. It’s an outstanding balance between durability and flexibility that’s easy to pack and carry along on your adventures. 

When matched with the proper lifestyle, the Atom LT is a worthwhile investment that will pay off in the long run. Thanks to its comfort and versatility, it performs equally well whether you’re waiting outside for the bus in winter or hiking in the mountains. Given proper care, it’s a tremendous packable jacket that can accompany you on your adventures for years to come. 

Shop For the Arc’teryx Atom LT Hoody

Women’s Atom LT

Men’s Atom LT

The genius of the bag lies in its versatility, as it can transition from a 22L everyday bag to a 40L capable of extended travel. Previously, we’ve had to resort to a two-bag system as most backpacks large enough to accommodate our clothes are too big to double as a daypack. However, thanks to the innovative design of the Shell, it compresses items to fit in its 40L version that zips tight to become an everyday backpack.

Tropicfeel Shell Backpack Specs

• Exterior Fabric: 100% Recycled Nylon
• Interior Fabric: 60% Recycled Polyester
• Capacities: 22L-40L
• Padded Laptop Pocket: Yes
• Water Resistant: Yes
• Carry On Compliant: Yes

Use Code: SHELLXMAS for a rare 25% for the holidays!

Initial Impressions of the Tropicfeel Backpack

Initial impressions with the Tropicfeel Shell are excellent, and it feels like a high-quality backpack worthy of a $368 price tag. It starts with the outer material used in the bag, durable recycled nylon that is weatherproof and abrasion-resistant. Craftmanship and the stitching on the bag feel tough, and it has a clean look that works well for an everyday carry backpack.

The feature-rich part of the backpack delivers many well-executed ideas that work well for travel. It has fantastic tech features we’ve come to expect, like a dedicated laptop sleeve and organization for tech accessories. Other helpful features include side handles, a hip belt, sternum straps, and an ergonomic back panel.

However, the fundamental standout features are unique. Such as the compressible interior organization that can hang in a closet once you reach your destination. Or an interchangeable exterior pouch that can hold toiletries or more tech gear, securely fastened to the backpack Fidlock security buttons.

Exterior

Initial impressions with the bag are excellent, thanks to the thick Bluesign recycled nylon. The fabric used in construction is thick and supple enough to add an ideal structure to the bag but still flexible enough to expand and conform to the interior items. It’s a sharp-looking bag in person and comes in three color options.

Due to the quality of nylon, the backpack is weatherproof, and Tropicfeel backs that up with YKK-sealed zippers that do a great job with precipitation. My contents feel well protected, and I wouldn’t worry about wet or damaged items. It’s all an excellent complement to the buckles and Fidlock buttons that feel secure and easy to adjust. The kangaroo pouch and sternum strap utilize G-hooks, one of our favorite clips for quick adjustments.

Support on the bag is excellent with thick shoulder straps, a sternum strap, a waist strap, and frontal straps to control the height of the load on your back. Shoulder straps are a vital element on a backpack, and the Shell straps are just the right amount of firmness to keep the bag secure on hold up to the rigors of extended use.

There are three pockets on the exterior. A primary pocket lies on the top flap of the rolltop and has enough room for several essentials such as headphones, power bank, chapstick, hand lotion, eye drops, etc. Of course, this is if you’re not utilizing one of the accessory pouches that attach magnetically to the Fidlock buttons.

Two hidden pockets are a front pocket on the lower half of the bag behind the buttons and a passport pocket hidden behind the waist straps on the back. It’s a great way to reduce the risk of theft from wandering hands as they feel secure and well hidden. The pockets are large enough to hold a wallet, cash, and a passport. Lastly, there are two water bottle pockets on both sides of the bag, deep enough to hold bottles securely.

Interior

Compared to the exterior, there is a lot less going on inside the bag. Access to the interior comes from the rolltop or clamshell rear opening. On the back panel of the clamshell lies a well-padded laptop sleeve and two tech pouches for all of your essentials.

Outside of that, there are no other organizational features inside the bag. The Shell comes with the Wardrobe, a compressible organization system for clothing. We’ve found the Wardrobe useful in travel, and it adds a nice structure to the bag.

Packing cubes save room inside the bag, but either way, it does need an organization system for extended travel. In everyday carry, we found the 22L roomy enough to carry everything without more organization.

Key Features of this Tropicfeel Backpack

The bag is pretty feature-rich, so we want to touch some standout things in more depth. Some of these features come with every bag purchase, such as the Wardrobe system, while customers will need to purchase the Assecory Pouches for an additional charge.

Accessory Pouches

Two accessory pouches, a tech version and a toiletry version, attach to the front of the Shell with Fidlock buttons. The Toiletry Bag is great as it makes separating liquids for security accessible and served travel well. On a long-haul flight, I easily accessed my toiletries to brush my teeth and freshen up without rummaging through the bag.

The Tech Pouch is a little more basic as it is smaller and contains several elastic loops to help with cable management. Another tech accessory is the Camera Cube, a little organizational cube for a run-and-gun camera set up. It can comfortably fit a camera body, two lenses, batteries, and accessories in the cube.

Wardrobe

The Wardrobe is one of the unique features of the Shell and what separates it from many other travel backpacks. It’s an organizational system that hangs similar to a closet organizer. It’s handy and easy to use for travel if you have the space to hang the system. It has three levels with different sections of organization.

A top section is secured with a mesh zipper for underwear and socks, a large middle section for pants, and a bottom with pockets perfect for shirts. That is how we used the Wardrobe in testing. Due to the construction, it takes up a bit more room in the bag, but it has compression straps, which is debatable. If that is a worry, packing cubes makes an excellent substitution.

Kangaroo Pouch

We love Tropicfeel shoes, which make it into our luggage for any warm destination. So it shouldn’t be surprising that they would think of a nice feature to deal with dirty shoes in their travel backpack. The Kangaroo Pouch is around 6L and has enough room to fit shoes like the Tropicfeel Canyons or my trail running shoes, Salomon Speedcross.

Laptop Sleeve

The laptop sleeve is enough to fit both our 13″ Macbook Air and 15″ Macbook Pro. There is enough room to fit a 16″ laptop, but much more would likely be too big. It’s easy to access from the rear clamshell opening, and is the closure secures with a magnet.

Hidden Pockets

The hidden pockets on the backpack are a great feature to keep your valuable secure. A hidden passport pocket is hidden away as you will not need access to that every day. While the front hidden pocket does work well for a wallet, important documents, a watch, or some cash.

Travel With the Tropicfeel Shell Backpack

The Tropicfeel Shell works wonderfully as an everyday carry backpack for minimalists. All of the finishes on the bag are high quality, and the Wardrobe is highly functional. It surprised us with how helpful it was in our travels as it made unpacking and organization a breeze.

On the bottom of the bag lies the Kangaroo pouch. It’s great for shoes or dirty clothes, but I would recommend a small/medium-sized packing cube for the pouch if you plan to use it for dirty clothes.

This bag would be great for a minimalist who enjoys thorough organization. We do feel you sacrifice some space for the Wardrobe system, but it’s so good at the organization we found it worth the sacrifice. If you prefer to pack more or do not care about the organization you may want to look for a roomier or more basic travel backpack.

Tropicfeel Shell backpack Specs

• Exterior Fabric: 100% Recycled Nylon
• Interior Fabric: 60% Recycled Polyester
• Capacities: 22L-40L
• Padded Laptop Pocket: Yes
• Water Resistant: Yes
• Carry On Compliant: Yes