Review: Eagle Creek Explorer LT Backpack

Eagle Creek Explorer LT Backpack

by Michael Tieso on December 9, 2008

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I recently used the Eagle Creek Explorer LT on a one week trip to Montreal. Majority of the backpack was packed with clothing and toiletries. The daypack was used for more of the necessary items that I take out often which included a guide book, passport, umbrella, etc. The backpack is 55L + a 10L daypack. With the dimensions of the backpack, it should be OK for most airline carry-on. They have a female version which accommodates different sizes around the torso and shoulders compared to the men’s version.

Most of the features of the backpack go unnoticed until you’re actually using it. Several straps help you balance the backpack and keep it against your body. I loved that the curve in the backpack was able to distribute the load from my back and shoulders. I’ve added approximately 50lbs as a test and it certainly did not feel like I was holding that much. It’s a very comfortable backpack.

Although it was pricey, this is the kind of backpack that will last a long time (as long it doesn’t get stolen!), avoid checking in bags, comfortable, and very accessible.

Note: This was published December 9th, 2008. I’m actually still using this backpack and it is now November 22nd, 2010. It has been amazing.

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Michael Tieso travels around the world writing, photographing, and filming his adventures. He left the cubicle life to travel the world in May 2009 and he still continues the journey to this day with no end to it. He loves adventure, food, and music. He is the Editor-in-chief of Art of Backpacking. Follow him on Twitter and .

Michael has written 285 awesome articles for AOB.

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  • http://almostbohemian.com David

    I have the same bag! I freakin love it. I’m taking it for my round the world trip. Should be a good year or two.

  • https://twitter.com/amarendra Amarendra Kumar

    Do know of a backpack with a camera case inside? Camera case as in a camera case-camera case and not a pouch that our local Decathlon sales manager tried to convince me was just the thing in a Quechua. 

    I need sth that doesn’t have to be enormous (with pads on 5/all sides) and can hold at least a normal size of DSLR/UltraZoom e.g. FinePix S2000HD. And I also do not want to carry an extra camera bag or day/backpack. I just want one bag when travelling, at least till the time I am in transit.

    PS. A global brand will be appreciated. I live outside of EU/USA :-)

    • http://artofbackpacking.com Michael

      Backpack with a camera case – that’s interesting. I don’t know of any but I’m curious to find out if there are large backpacks like this that has space for a camera.

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