Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Peak Design Everyday Zip 20L Backpack. If you're on the hunt for a versatile, stylish, and highly functional backpack, you've probably heard whispers about this one. Well, I’m here to give you the lowdown after putting it through its paces. Is it worth the hype? Let's find out!

Overview

The Peak Design Everyday Zip 20L is designed as a streamlined, accessible, and adaptable backpack for daily use. Whether you're a photographer, a student, a professional, or just someone who appreciates quality gear, this backpack aims to be a solid companion. It’s a slightly more compact and simpler version of Peak Design’s flagship Everyday Backpack, trading some of the complex features for easier access and a lighter build. This makes it an attractive option for those who want a premium backpack without all the bells and whistles.

Design and Build Quality

When it comes to design, Peak Design consistently nails it, and the Everyday Zip 20L is no exception. The aesthetics are clean, modern, and understated, making it suitable for almost any environment, from a corporate office to a casual coffee shop. The backpack comes in a few color options, typically including black, midnight (navy), bone (off-white), and sometimes a limited edition color. The materials used are top-notch, featuring a weatherproof 400D nylon canvas that not only looks great but also offers excellent durability and protection against the elements. I've used it in light rain, and the water beads right off, keeping my gear safe and dry. The zippers are smooth and robust, and the overall construction feels incredibly solid.

One of the standout design elements is the zippered main compartment. Unlike the Everyday Backpack with its MagLatch closure system, the Zip offers a simpler, more traditional approach. The full-length zipper allows you to open the bag completely, providing unobstructed access to all your gear. This makes it incredibly easy to pack and unpack, especially when you need to grab something quickly. The internal dividers are configurable, allowing you to customize the layout to suit your specific needs. Whether you're carrying camera gear, books, or a mix of everything, you can arrange the dividers to keep everything organized and secure. The attention to detail is evident throughout the bag, from the reinforced stitching to the thoughtfully placed pockets. Even the small things, like the magnetic closures on the internal pockets, add to the overall premium feel.

Storage and Organization

Let's talk about storage because, let's face it, that’s a critical factor for any backpack. The 20L capacity of this bag strikes a great balance – it's roomy enough to carry your essentials without feeling bulky or cumbersome. Inside the main compartment, you'll find a series of dividers that can be adjusted or removed to create different configurations. These dividers are particularly useful for photographers who want to protect and organize their lenses, cameras, and accessories. But even if you're not a photographer, you'll appreciate the flexibility they offer for keeping your gear separate and easily accessible.

In addition to the main compartment, there are several other pockets and storage options. There's a dedicated laptop sleeve that can accommodate up to a 15-inch laptop, providing padded protection to keep your device safe from bumps and scratches. There are also several internal pockets for smaller items like your phone, wallet, keys, and charging cables. These pockets help to keep everything organized and prevent things from getting lost in the bottom of the bag. On the exterior, there are two stretch pockets on the sides that are perfect for carrying water bottles or umbrellas. These pockets are discreet and don't add bulk to the bag when not in use. Overall, the storage and organization of the Everyday Zip 20L are well-thought-out and practical, making it easy to carry and access your gear efficiently.

Comfort and Wearability

Comfort is key when you're carrying a backpack all day, and the Everyday Zip 20L doesn't disappoint. The shoulder straps are well-padded and contoured, providing a comfortable fit even when the bag is fully loaded. The back panel is also padded and features air channels to promote ventilation, helping to keep your back cool and dry. One thing to note is that the back panel isn't as heavily ventilated as some other backpacks on the market, so if you're using it in very hot or humid conditions, you might still experience some sweating. However, for everyday use, the comfort level is excellent.

The sternum strap is adjustable and helps to distribute the weight of the bag evenly, preventing it from pulling on your shoulders. This is particularly useful when you're carrying heavier loads or walking long distances. The waist strap is sold separately, which is a bit of a bummer if you prefer having that extra support. However, for most everyday situations, the shoulder straps and sternum strap provide adequate comfort and stability. The overall weight of the backpack is also reasonable, especially considering the quality of the materials and construction. It's not the lightest backpack on the market, but it's not overly heavy either. Most users will find it comfortable to wear for extended periods without experiencing excessive fatigue.

Access and Ease of Use

One of the standout features of the Everyday Zip 20L is its accessibility. The full-length zipper allows you to open the bag completely, providing unobstructed access to all your gear. This is a huge improvement over traditional backpacks where you have to dig through layers of stuff to find what you're looking for. The internal dividers are easy to adjust and configure, allowing you to customize the layout to suit your specific needs. Whether you're a photographer carrying camera gear or a student carrying books and notebooks, you can arrange the dividers to keep everything organized and easily accessible.

The external pockets are also well-placed and easy to access. The side pockets are perfect for carrying water bottles or umbrellas, and the internal pockets are great for storing smaller items like your phone, wallet, and keys. The laptop sleeve is also easily accessible, making it quick and convenient to grab your laptop when you need it. Overall, the Everyday Zip 20L is designed with ease of use in mind, making it a pleasure to use on a daily basis. The thoughtful design and attention to detail make it easy to carry and access your gear efficiently, whether you're commuting to work, traveling, or just running errands around town.

Pros and Cons

Okay, let's break down the pros and cons to give you a clear picture:

Pros:

• Sleek, Minimalist Design: Looks great in any setting.
• High-Quality Materials: Durable and weatherproof.
• Excellent Accessibility: Full-length zipper for easy access.
• Configurable Dividers: Customizable storage options.
• Comfortable to Wear: Padded shoulder straps and back panel.

Cons:

• Price: It's an investment.
• Waist Strap Sold Separately: Not included by default.
• Ventilation: Could be better for very hot conditions.

Alternatives to Consider

If you're not entirely sold on the Peak Design Everyday Zip 20L, here are a few alternatives to consider:

• Peak Design Everyday Backpack: The original with more features but a higher price.
• Aer Day Pack 2: A sleek and functional backpack for everyday carry.
• Timbuk2 Authority Pack: A versatile backpack with excellent organization.
• Nomatic Everyday Backpack: Another feature-rich option for professionals.

Conclusion

So, is the Peak Design Everyday Zip 20L Backpack worth it? In my opinion, absolutely. It's a well-designed, high-quality backpack that offers a great balance of style, functionality, and durability. While it may be a bit pricey, the investment is justified by the quality of the materials, the thoughtful design, and the overall versatility of the bag. If you're looking for a premium backpack that can handle your everyday needs with ease, the Everyday Zip 20L is definitely worth considering. Whether you're a photographer, a student, or a professional, this backpack will serve you well.

That's a wrap on the Peak Design Everyday Zip 20L review! Hope this helps you make an informed decision. Happy travels, everyone!