Airlines often charge steep fees for carry-on and checked bags, making it expensive to pack extra clothes. A Dutch startup offers a solution with the Airback backpack, featuring a vacuum-sealed compartment to compress items and maximize space in a carry-on.
The Details
The Airback Original starts at 22 liters and expands to 47 liters using an expansion zipper and vacuum compression system. Constructed from weather-resistant recycled nylon, it provides a waterproof, premium rubber-like finish.
Key features include a lockable laptop compartment, water bottle holder, built-in handle scale, USB-C charging port, and multiple pockets such as a quick-access strip for phone, passport, and wallet. The interior offers a clamshell design with an odor-resistant shoe pocket, zip section for chargers and documents, and the main compression chamber.
The compression area accommodates a week’s clothing, vacuumed using a home vacuum or the optional Airback electric pump.
Pricing
The backpack retails for £291, currently discounted to £214.
Pros
The vacuum system effectively compresses clothing, allowing more items in a carry-on. Testing packed the following into the compressed section:
- One pair of jeans
- One chunky knit cardigan
- Three tops
- Three pairs of underwear
- Three pairs of socks
- One pair of tights
- Pair of pajamas
- Soft running shoes
- Laptop
- Paperback book
- Phone and laptop chargers
- Journal
- Skincare bag
- Makeup bag
Clothing compresses best in the vacuum area, while electronics and hard items fit in other compartments. Tested on five Ryanair flights, it fits overhead bins and under seats without issues, even when fully packed. The quick-access pocket remains reachable.
Cons
The bag weighs more than expected when empty and lacks a hip belt or load lifters for comfort at full capacity. Stiff nylon hinders access to some compartments. Zippers fall short of YKK quality standards. The built-in scale adds little value and costs extra (£14).
Verdict
The Airback excels for frequent travelers seeking maximum carry-on space without checked bag fees. Gadget lovers appreciate the charging port. However, its weight and bulk may deter those preferring lightweight options or non-backpack styles.
Ideal for heavy packers avoiding suitcase hassles; less suited for minimalists.
