Nearly every time I travel, I tuck a hip pack into my bag. The small ones are used for in-flight necessities (so I don’t have to dig in my personal bag), and then double as my around town/resort/ship bag once I get where I’m going.
But sometimes I need a bigger hip pack, like the Alpine Sea Side Pack 3L. It’s especially useful for outdoor adventures like biking, hiking, and running when you need more than just lip balm, keys, and your phone.
The bag measures about 9 inches long x 2 inches wide x 6 inches high. It sits comfortably on the small of your back, thanks to its ergonomic design. I’ve also used it as a crossbody with the bag on my back. A non-slip mesh back panel keeps the bag from bouncing around while you’re wearing it.
The interior is organized for easy access, with easy-to-grab zipper pulls on the YKK coated zipper, one main interior compartment, two ultra-stretch slip pockets, and one zippered pocket with a gusset for room. There’s also a front external bungee for carrying extra items like a light layer or a water bottle.
The bag is made using recycled and sustainable materials that are lightweight, tear resistant, and highly water resistant. The Eco fabric (see colors, below) uses recycled polyester sailcloth material and the X11 Canvas fabric uses cotton duck canvas sailcloth. The exterior coating is environmentally friendly and PFC free.
I’ve been testing the Side Pack 3L on my local trails, as well as a couple of longer hiking and biking trips, and it’ll definitely make the cut for upcoming adventurous trips.
The Side Pack 3L lists for $135 on the Alpine Sea site and comes in Eco Black, Eco Neon Orange, Eco Drab, Eco Curry, Eco Blue, X11 Canvas, X11 Storm, X11 Moonstone, and Realtree Camo.