Sometimes, you simply need to be hands-free when you travel, and you can’t have a roller bag slowing you down. This is especially true when traveling through less developed countries with fewer escalators and elevators, and destinations with cobbled streets, train travel, or bus travel.
When I want to leave my roller bag behind, I bring my Gregory Tribute 55. I love this bag so much, in fact, that it was painful for me to lend it to my college student for a three-month stint around India. I did it, though, because I knew this backpack would perform great.
So what makes the Tribute better for travel than your average backpacking pack? First, it opens all the way up, with a very large opening, making finding things easy. You get a 3-1-1 pocket at the top, and a large ActiveShield compartment at the base, which protects wet and dirty clothing and shoes from sullying the rest of your gear. I love, love, love this compartment! The included rain cover doubles as a pack cover for air travel, and the removable day pack is the perfect size for day tripping around your destination, complete with a laptop sleeve. There’s no need to bring a second bag or tote.
The daypack also has mesh side and back panels that make it very versatile, and a quick-access security pocket with key fob and space to stash a wallet and phone.
The main pack features compression panels to protect the zipper and GearGuard foam padding to protect your stuff, and all the zippers are lockable. You get reflective gear loops throughout, and the harness system and waist belt are designed with a women’s body in mind.
Tip: Don’t be afraid to pick the 55-liter Tribute if you think you want to carry-on. With the day pack removed, it falls easily into the length and width requirements for a carry-on bag.
Pick up the Tribute in Bordeaux red or mystic gray for only $219. There’s also a larger 70-liter size if you need to go big!
