Summary
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Brenthaven has a reputation for making tough laptop bags that do a good job protecting their contents. The Expandable Trek is new to the Brenthaven lineup.
Real-World Capacity
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I can fit about 4 small books (each about 9"H x 6"W x 3/4"D) into the expandable pouch. The main compartment holds my 14" widescreen laptop and a large folder that measures 12"H x 10"W x 2.5"D.
Pros
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1. TONS of useful compartments for storing various things like keys, water bottles, writing implements, etc.
2. The expandable pouch is very useful.
3. Removable mesh pocket looks good, is functional, and well-designed.
3. The bag is has a nice appearance overall.
4. Brenthaven's not quite as well known as, say, Targus, so the bag is less likely to be identified as a laptop bag and hence somewhat less likely to be stolen. (Okay, so that's speculation on my part...) =P
5. Sturdy, well-padded straps with sternum clip
6. Tough rubberized handle up top.
7. Bag stands upright with or without a laptop inside.
8. Felt lined pouch is a nice touch. Lets you store delicate stuff like PDAs, bluetooth headsets, sunglasses.
Cons
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1. The U-shaped pouch that holds pencils and pens is awkward to open, particularly if approaching the bag from above.
2. Sternum strap often falls off from the straps to which it attaches.
3. A bit more storage space would've been nice.
4. Padding for laptop feels thin in places. The 1.5" padding is only at the bottom. Back has about 1/2" foam and front is about 1/4". Sides really don't have much protection. It's too bad Brenthaven didn't implement the the CORE protection system with this bag.
Overall
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A capable, versatile and attractive (albeit very masculine-looking) bag that's worth the money. Improvements in padding and more colors/styles would make it the perfect laptop backpack.
Update (6/4/06)
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One side of the rubberized handle separated from the rest of the bag. Brenthaven promptly issued me a RA (Return Authorization) number. I returned the bag. They replaced it not with a repaired bag, but a brand new bag. In this transaction and in others, Brenthaven's customer support has proven to be excellent.
Also, the sternum clip on the replacement bag seems sturdier and less likely to fall off than the first.
3/11/08
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The handle broke off again, about six months ago. I contacted Brenthaven, and they immediately sent me an RMA. Their support has been very, very good. But I decided to hold on to the bag. While I do miss the handle sometimes, it's still a great bag with out it.
This bag is tight, as in it holds everything tight to the body. I though at first it may be too small for books and my mac but there is room for a mac 15", notebooks, I have gotten up-to three books in, and everything else I need for school. So because it is held close and tight to your back it does not feel like there is a bus on your back. This back is the one to get I PROMISE!!!!!
Buy Brenthaven Expandable Trek Backpack for Notebooks up to 15.4" Now
I'm 5'2" and an install tech for a computer company. I spend lots of time traveling and frequently have 15-25 lbs in my backpack between my computer, spare parts for customer machines and tools. I bought this bag because a friend with a similar job role told me he swore by Brenthavens and that the increase in comfort and durability were well worth the price. I was sold when he told me his bag was 3 years old, it still looks new.
The bag delivers on every promise they made. It's voluminous, and pocket-y which means everything has a place and I can always find the right tool when I need it. No more digging around in 1 of 2 giant pockets and hoping I find a socket or allen wrench; they all have their own little pockets and I always know where to go to find them.
The expandable pocket does make the bag huge, but accommodates food and other amenities, such that when I am traveling for work I need only this bag for a carry on, I don't need a separate bag for personal items. Ditto for long days at customer sites. I can bring everything I think I might need along with me and don't have to sacrifice space or leave anything behind.
Read Best Reviews of Brenthaven Expandable Trek Backpack for Notebooks up to 15.4" Here
I haven't started school so I haven't used it too much, but the few times I have, its been amazing. I got this so I can bike to school with all my stuff and it holds everything--my mac, books, and more. The only thing against it is the fact that its huge and you need a sleeve for your laptop for some protection. Otherwise, I've loved it so far.
Want Brenthaven Expandable Trek Backpack for Notebooks up to 15.4" Discount?
Pros:
Slim profile when not expanded; expands to a really big size when you need the extra room.
Lots of storage areas: space for phones, ipods, power supplies, pens, glasses, widescreen laptop, keys, etc.
Great straps. Durable construction (except for zippers). Nice handle.
Cons:
Zippers aren't the big, durable self-healing zippers that you find on other Brenthaven bags. Time will tell whether this is an issue.
I'd prefer a more subdued color scheme, like black or black/grey. More a taste thing.
I love it!! It is very spacious, and lots of pockets. But it's not huge and bulky. I'm expecting my third baby, and this is by far, the best diaper bag I have used! Highly recommend this item to anyone expecting a new little princess!
