SLAPPA Kampus Duffle 18" Laptop Backpack

Having purchased the ASUS G73SW, which is a beefy laptop, I found myself looking for a better/bigger backpack than the black Republic of Gamers one that came with the computer. Finding a backpack that even FITS this computer was a challenge in itself, let alone one that has features/styling that I like. When I saw this backpack on Slappa's site, I was immediately in love with the design and colors. Obviously not a subtle design, this will turn some heads and get you some comments. Thankfully its not a bag that screams "I'm carrying a massive laptop", although being flashy it may attract unwanted attention all the same. I have owned this bag for a year now, and have flown with it, taken it on various long trips and day-to-day trips into the office.

COMFORT/WEARABILITY I'm a big guy, so carrying around a heavy laptop along with power brick, etc. on my back doesn't faze me. This backpack is definitely comfortable. I like the strap design, and find it to be comfortable (not the BEST I've ever worn, but still good). It comes with a sternum strap, which is nice when you need it, but it definitely gets in the way when you're not using it. It also has a waist strap, which I rarely use, so it's always in the way. It would be nice if there were a way to remove the waist strap without simply cutting it off. The big cushy handprint that sits in the middle of your back while strange feeling at first eventually grows on you, and now I love it being there.

SPACE USEFULNESS Here is where I believe this backpack falls short for my particular needs. I was hoping for a backpack that had a bit more useful space. What you need to know is that this bag is very low-profile and doesn't extend off your back very far. It also opens only at the top, essentially making this like opening a duffel bag at one end. Once your laptop is in there, it can be easy to lose stuff at the bottom if you try to store a bunch of other things in there. There are only 6 pockets (not all of which are usable) 2 small ones inside (about the size of a smart phone), a mesh pouch inside the lid, 2 outside pockets on either side (which aren't even accessible really when you have a computer in the bag), and one larger one on the outside at the bottom. That's it. No pen pockets or organizers if you're a student and have a bunch of small items. Also the interior space just isn't all that big with a laptop in there. The laptop compartment literally takes up almost half of the internal space of this backpack. If you're going on a day trip and want to take your laptop and charger, a change or two of clothes and a few other small items, that's about all you'll be able to fit. I can barely even fit my DSLR (Canon 60D) down in there with the lens pointing down. It's pretty deep, just not very tall. Also, while I like the way the top closes (drawstring, flap over top with 2 clips), sometimes it isn't easy to get to your laptop quickly. And with the way that the straps/buckles that secure this top flap are designed, you have to be careful to make sure you always have the top flap secured or else you might lose the male end of the buckles (they slip right off the ends of the straps).

LAPTOP COMPARTMENT The laptop compartment is great. Nice thick padding and my G73 fits great in the 18" version that I have (there's actually a bit of room to spare, so sometimes I slide my tablet in there as well). I'd like to see a bit more padding on the bottom in case of accidental drops or setting the bag down hard, but I haven't had any issues in the past 12 months. I'm glad the top has a flap, because some bags don't, so if the bag gets turned upside down, out comes your laptop.

MATERALS/DURABILITY First of all, you will be surprised by how lightweight the material in this bag is. It looks kinda like the ripstop material that they use in BDUs or heavy-duty shorts. I was concerned at first about how long the bag was going to last considering how light it was and how heavy my laptop is, and while I wouldn't say I've treated it roughly, I certainly haven't babied it the last year and have had no issues with tears or seams coming apart. Really, the bag almost looks brand new aside from a few issues. I'm not certain, but I don't believe that the material is water-proof, so I wouldn't suggest exposing it to prolonged rain. I've run through the rain before without any issues. The laptop is pretty safe underneath multiple layers of fabric anyway. I believe Slappa sells a waterproof cover for cyclists. You'll have to check out their website. I like the drawstring design for the top of the bag, but this is easily the weakest part of the design. Within a few months, the elastic in my drawstring began to pull apart. It still works, but I think it won't be too long before the string gives way completely. And, the most annoying part of the bag for me... WHY IS THERE NO PADDING ON THE TOP HANDLE?!?! I know Slappa's other bags have padding here, and frankly, there's no reason for this bag not to have a padded handle except to save money. The silly strap handle that's on there works fine when you are carrying the bag by that for 5 seconds, but any longer than that and it gets really uncomfortable. I often find myself grabbing the bag my anything but that handle.

Overall, I think it's a great bag. I'd say it's really more of a 3.5 than a 4,but Amazon doesn't give that option. Your appreciation of this bag will largely depend on your expectations. If you're looking for a stylish, lightweight, comfortable bag to carry your behemoth laptop and not a whole lot else, then this bag might be perfect for you. If you need something that carries a bit more, I recommend checking out Slappa's MASK backpack, which has customizable front faces and the nice fast track feature for quicker screening of your laptop at airport security checkpoints. Also, Slappa has great customer service, so make sure you ask if you have any questions or concerns. I found them to be very helpful and courteous. And also, sign up for their newsletter so you can get a promo code before you buy.

The bag feels well built and is roomy inside. I bought this for a Dell XPS 18. I contacted Slappa's customer service and I was told that this backpack will fit the computer. The computer does fit inside but the velcro flap for the computer compartment will not close I just wish that the flap was around 5 inches longer. I still give this five stars as it seems that there is really not much choice out there for an 18+ inch laptop/tablet as of this review. I'm keeping the XPS 18 with a sleeve in the bag for added protection. This is made in China.

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My main concern when ordering this backpack was the size. I have a bulky laptop(asus g55vw) and it fits perfectly. It is way taller than I thought which is really good since I tend to travel occasionally so being able to bring all my stuff plus my laptop is great. The color of the backpack is as described(silver/black), I was expecting a more grey tone but it is definitely a nice shinny but subtle silver. If you like silver and need something big enough to carry your big laptop around, this will do great.

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Great mag and hold my G75vx, power adapter, creative labs USB recon 3d sound card, razer tiamata 2.2 headphones, Nostromo gamepad, log itch g9 mouse, mouse pad. Still has room for more!

The material it is made out of is kind of strange, kind of crinkly tarp type material. Its nice just different.

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It's an awesome bag for traveling and it's a really good bag even for hiking, camping etc. Just wish it could be a little bigger, both outside and the inside slot for the laptop, the laptop slot can't be closed if have a laptop sleeve on. Or maybe I'm asking for too much.