Regular readers will be aware of XD Design, as I have previewed their original Bobby and Bizz backpacks already. I’m even road testing the Bizz now for a hands-on review next month!
XD Design are a Dutch company who believe we should all “Live More & Worry Less” and to help us do this they have a range of anti-theft backpacks for safer travels. Their latest offering, the Urban, has just made it on to Kickstarter!
XD Design Bobby Urban
We can spend thousands of our hard-earned money on our digital devices, along with other items. It is therefore a sound investment to use a backpack, or case, that will protect them how, and wherever we travel!
Opting for a roll up, or “stuff bag” opening instead of the normal clam shell style, the Urban could be that one size fits all backpack you have been looking for!
Features
The rather different, roll up top, might not be everyone’s first choice in backpack styling but it does bring with it several good reasons why it should be!
Firstly, security! With the exception of a concealed pouch for small personal items, the top opening is the only entry point into the backpack. Therefore no one can gain access to your belongings while you are wearing it.
The extra top area can be used for additional storage! Rolled down the Urban provides 22l of storage and when fully extended you can expect up to 27l! Along with the dedicated padded pockets for laptop and tablet devices, the Urban can handle your daily commute or be your carry-on for that weekend away!
An unobtrusive steel bar has been crafted into the bag just under the opening. This will make it impossible to cut through and strengthen the rolled up section when fastened with the reinforced lock.
Finally, on the outside is a water bottle holder and a concealed pocket. This quick access, yet hidden, pocket sits against your lower back when wearing the backpack, ideal for your passport or visa documents!
There’s also an RFID protected zipped pocket on the left shoulder strap, big enough to keep any debit/credit or travel cards in for ease when travelling. It is good to find a zipper on this as the Bizz model has two of these pockets and neither can be sealed!
On the inside you will find four compartments. Two padded sections for laptop/tablets and 2 mesh pockets for smaller items. The main area outside of these compartments makes up most of the carrying space. So, if you are packing lots of kit, some level of organisation will be needed. With just the top opening you will need to go through all your items to get at the ones at the bottom!
Specifications
As you would expect from a Anti-Theft backpack, it is built to be tough, but remains a great piece of luggage to look at! The expandable storage capacity goes up rather than outwards which should make travelling in crowded locations easier! Having extra height on a bag is fine, but increase the depth and you start bumping into people!
- 32 x 15 x 47-64cm (w/d/h)
- 22-27l Capacity
- UHMWPE Cut Resistant Fabric
- Water Repellant Outer
- Luggage Strap on the rear
- Internal Key Leash
- RFID Protected Pouch
- Additional Outer Netting for extra Storage
- Holds Up To a 15.6″ Laptop and Up To a 12.9″ Tablet
Price
At the time of writing the Bobby Urban Backpack from XD Design is €80 from their Kickstarter campaign page.
The expected retail price once the campaign has finished is expected to be around €125.
Connect with XD Design
- xd-design.co.uk
- XD Design on Facebook
- XD Design on Twitter
- XD Design on Instagram
- XD Design on Youtube
