As the summer holidays approach, this Decathlon backpack is a smart alternative to a travel bag.
The soft travel bag? You drag it by hand, it weighs on one shoulder and ends up sawing your arm as soon as you walk a little. The small everyday backpack? It overflows as soon as you put a toiletry bag and something to change in. We then leave either too loaded or poorly organized, with the computer stuck between two t-shirts and the charger nowhere to be found in the bottom of our pocket.
It’s difficult, when faced with this dilemma, not to eye the Danish brand Rains, which has become the darling of urban journeys with its refined silhouette and water-repellent roll-up closure. The problem: the prices, with the flagship model quickly climbing to 140 euros. This is where Decathlon comes into play with its Rolltop backpack with computer pocket, a version very similar in spirit, but at 48.99 euros, almost three times cheaper. Its “rolltop” closure, this roll-up system inherited from waterproof bicycle bags, allows you to adjust the volume: it goes from 22 to 29 liters depending on what you are carrying. Compact for going to the office, more generous for an impromptu departure.
Storage is one of its strong points. Nine compartments organize your belongings: two internal pockets for the computer and tablet, two side compartments for the water bottle or umbrella, and a modular divider that isolates shoes or dirty laundry. Practical, even if you have to take the fold of the rolltop, whose opening from the top remains less immediate than a zipper.
In terms of comfort, the equipment is consistent for journeys in the heat: padded shoulder straps, ventilated mesh back to limit perspiration, chest strap for stability. The water-repellent textile protects in the event of a stormy downpour, which is common after heat peaks. Clever detail at the station or at the airport: a rear strap slips over the handle of a suitcase, which avoids having to carry the bag on your shoulders when the thermometer panics. An anti-NFC pocket finally protects your bank cards from contactless scanning in crowded transport.
Not everything is perfect though. First downside, aesthetics: the bag is only available in two colors, a somewhat limited choice for a product that is supposed to follow us everywhere. And with its 29 liters deployed, it is aimed at light getaways, not a two-week stay: remember to check your company’s cabin dimensions before taking off.
Still, customers are not mistaken: rated 4.7/5 out of 106 reviews, this Decathlon backpack stands out as a smart alternative to designer models such as Rains, at a much lower price, and enough to replace the soft travel bag for all your summer escapades.
