ALPAKA Traverse Backpack (30L) Review

When it comes to travel backpacks that blend sleek aesthetics with durable construction, the ALPAKA Traverse Backpack 30L is a strong contender. Over the last two weeks, we’ve put this pack through our travel routines, testing it in both city and weekend trip scenarios.

At a glance, the design is clean, modern, and minimalist, yet it hides some surprisingly thoughtful touches that make it functional for everyday and travel use alike. Its structured silhouette gives it a premium feel without looking bulky, even though it bulges slightly when partially packed.

External Components

ALPAKA typically impresses us with its materials, and the Traverse Backpack continues that trend. The exterior is crafted from Axoflux 400D ripstop nylon, while the interior is Axoflux 300D honeycomb ripstop polyester. This combination adds durability and tear resistance without sacrificing style. Unlike many slick, glossy packs on the market, this one offers a matte, understated finish that we appreciate in both professional and casual settings. Subtle branding and a thoughtful selection of YKK AquaGuard zippers reinforce ALPAKA’s quality-first approach.

Things may look minimalist at first glance, but the external design is highly functional. On the sides, it features expandable water bottle pockets that snugly fit up to an 18-oz bottle. We found that while smaller bottles fit securely, anything larger may start to strain the pocket, making it less ideal for tall, insulated bottles. These pockets are versatile, though, and can double as holders for umbrellas, compact tripods, or other gear you may want quick access to on the go.

The harness system is one of the ALPAKA Traverse Backpack’s strongest features. The shoulder straps are padded with a softer mesh where they make contact with the body, providing comfort without limiting flexibility. The back panel is slightly firmer, which adds structure and encourages even weight distribution across the back. Vertical and horizontal air channels improve breathability, helping to reduce sweat buildup on warmer days or during longer carries.

The sternum strap is a thoughtful addition that redistributes weight and helps prevent shoulder strain. While it attaches to fixed webbing loops rather than a sliding rail, it still provides stability when carrying moderate loads. We did find that the lack of micro-adjustment may be limiting for some users, but for most travelers, this set-it-and-forget-it design works well. The pack also includes strap keepers on both the sternum strap and shoulder straps to maintain a clean, tangle-free appearance. Additionally, two Hypalon webbing loops on the shoulder straps allow you to attach small accessories or travel gear, adding flexibility for different use cases.

EVA-padded handles on the top and side of the bag provide alternative carrying options. The side handle, in particular, is easy to grab quickly, while the low-profile top handle can be a bit trickier to access, especially when the bag is fully packed. This versatility in carry options makes the ALPAKA Traverse suitable for a range of situations, from quick office commutes to navigating the airport. Overall, the combination of sleek design, versatile pockets, and a comfortable harness system demonstrates ALPAKA’s attention to detail.

Fit Notes

In terms of fit, the Traverse Backpack is most comfortable for those with shorter to medium-length torsos. On such frames, we found the sternum strap essential to prevent the shoulder straps from pulling outward with heavier loads. While the back panel padding is supportive—albeit a bit stiffer once a laptop is packed inside—the lack of a hip belt means longer or heavier trips may strain the shoulders. Those who pack lightly or travel for short durations will find this pack very manageable, but those on the taller side may wish ALPAKA offered a hip belt option.

Despite its 30-liter capacity, the pack carries its load evenly, thanks to the structured materials and thoughtful strap design. The back panel and shoulder strap padding do a great job of maintaining balanced weight distribution. With the sternum strap engaged, items don’t create an uncomfortable backward pull, even fully packed. For taller frames, the backpack should feel similarly comfortable, though torso length will determine how the sternum strap and back padding align with the body. Overall, the pack’s design accommodates most everyday and travel scenarios, but heavier or bulkier loads may expose the limits of a 30L frame without hip support.

Inside The Backpack

Alongside the water bottle pockets, there are small slip pockets on each side at the front. These are excellent for items you want within arm’s reach, like headphones, lip balm, or even a small notebook. The pockets are designed with subtlety in mind—they don’t add bulk or disrupt the backpack’s clean silhouette. Inside are pen slots and liner pockets for various everyday carry accessories, plus a built-in leash for ALPAKA’s MOD key tether. Some of the pockets can feel tight depending on how packed out the rest of the bag is, so just keep that in mind. At the top, a soft-lined pocket provides a safe spot for sunglasses or similarly delicate items. While not plush, the material is soft enough to prevent scratches and keeps items accessible.

Around the rear right side of the backpack is a discreet security pocket large enough to hold a passport or other valuables. Positioned against the back panel, it is subtle enough that casual onlookers or pickpockets are unlikely to notice, making it a smart choice for travelers in crowded areas. Additionally, paracord zipper pulls on many compartments improve grip and add a small aesthetic touch that complements the pack’s overall sleek appearance.

Opening the main compartment of the ALPAKA Traverse Backpack, we were immediately impressed by the thoughtful layout. The dual-zipper system allows for flexible access from multiple points, which is particularly handy for travel or when you’re digging for a specific item at the bottom of the bag. When packing for short trips, we found that opening from the top provided the most convenience for quick access, while leaving one zipper pull at the bottom helped manage the closure when the pack was fully loaded. The zippers are sturdy and slightly stiff at first, but this is a sign of durability rather than a flaw—over time, they will break in without sacrificing their weather-resistant function.

The main compartment comfortably fits a four-day weekend load, including a packing cube, toiletries, a tech pouch, and accessories. For capsule wardrobes or minimalist packing, the backpack can extend to accommodate up to a week of clothing. We managed to fit tank tops, t-shirts, long sleeves, sleepwear, and athleisure pants without issue, demonstrating the bag’s efficient use of space. Even with the main compartment full, the structured materials maintain the backpack’s sleek shape without causing bulging or uneven distribution.

The backpack includes two mesh side pockets in the main compartment, ideal for smaller accessories such as socks, underwear, or other items that benefit from separation. We found these particularly useful for items you want to grab without sifting through the entire main compartment. In addition, there is a slip pocket suitable for a tablet or secondary tech accessories, offering even more flexibility in organization.

The laptop compartment accommodates devices up to 16 inches. It features soft lining to protect the device from scratches and an internal frame sheet that adds structure, ensuring the pack retains shape when carried. While larger laptops add slight stiffness to the bag, the compartment prevents sagging and keeps the device secure during transport. This section of the backpack demonstrates ALPAKA’s attention to protective design without adding unnecessary bulk.

Other interior features enhance functionality for travel and everyday use. A hidden smart tracker pocket provides a secure location for AirTags or similar devices, offering peace of mind for lost luggage scenarios. Multiple small organizational pockets, including pen slots and slip pockets for tech or personal items, allow for highly customizable packing. While some of these pockets are a bit tight, they are excellent for storing small essentials in an organized manner.

Overall, the interior of the ALPAKA Traverse Backpack balances capacity with structure. Despite its 30-liter capacity, the layout and materials make it feel spacious, efficient, and protective of your belongings. Between the main compartment, laptop sleeve, mesh pockets, and hidden smart tracker slot, there are options to organize gear for both short-term trips and daily commuting without sacrificing comfort or style.