This is a sweet review. you actually cover some really great points like the handle and the false bottom. I've watched a few reviews on this pack but this covers more stuff without making a rediculously long video
Thanks, I appreciate that so much. I enjoy reviewing stuff ( mostly bags) to give more detailed info not found in other reviews, so its cool to see that it was helpful. Check out my other Patagonia bag reviews if you're interested .
Thanks! Glad to hear it, and even more excited about the Japan trip. I just got back from Japan a few weeks ago ahha. First time going? It'll be so much fun.
@@EDG nice 🔥 yes my friend first time I’m so excited ❤️ thanks for this cool video I’m double checking over everything so I can go from a city girl to a backpacker 😊
Thanks so much for posting such a thorough and helpful review. I've been looking for a new backpack for a while and was on the fence about this one. Just curious if the material was noisy at all.
Refugio vs Black Hole is a tough question... yep. 3L difference but so far away in aesthetics. If you only could choose one (I don't own a laptop) which would win in straps and back confort? Thanks a lot. Love your channel.
I would choose the Refugio if you're asking between that and this 25L black hole. It has more organization and is more functional, even if it doesn't look quite as nice in my opinion.....However. I would choose the Mini MLC 26L over both of them if you're traveling a lot and prefer a more duffel style. Thanks for the question, I love answering. And check out my other Patagonia bag reviews if you enjoy!
@@amoulet69 Hmm, if you don't mind the price or size, id go black hole 32L. I personally really like the style , and the black hole has more function compared to the Refugio. What aspects are you interested in for a bag?
@@EDG I just want confortable shoulder straps and back panel, two bottle side pockets and inner compartment. I like Molle and carabiner loops. I don't need laptop sleeve nor hydration port. My 2nd option is an Altus Denon 32 (Made in my Country, Spain, the brand that makes all the Army mountain stuff).
what about this material? does not peel off? I wonder if the backpack will look like a garbage after a few trips.that's the only thing that prevents me from buying, so I will be grateful for the answer
Hi thank for the question, No, the material does not peel off and I've used it a lot. It also hasn't wrinkled or permantely become defective. So it actually holds up really well.
I'm on the fence about getting this backpack. What would you say abt the back padding, and how comfortable is it to carry heavier loads for longer periods of time? As other reviewers have also remarked, the back padding looks like it could leave some to be desired. Then again some also say it feels surprisingly good to carry.
@@vantahawk2834 in that case, I think it’ll do just fine. The padding is minimal but unless you’re hiking you won’t need lots of padding. The good thing is true minimal padding cuts down the weight of the bag .
Oh, its tough. Functionality-wise they are similar. Refugio has slightly more organization/pockets. So it all depends if you like the looks. I like this material and pack shape so I chose this. It stands out and looks unique. The Refugio is good, just looks like any other black backpack.
If you were going away for a long weekend, what backpack out of the refugio and this would you prefer? I like the look and design of the black hole and it seems spacy and deep but worried about fitting clothes in there. Thanks
Neither. I’d pick the 26L mini MLC. Haha but to answer your question, I’f it’s mostly clothes , I’d go with the black hole since it’s bigger and has a square-ish shape that’s nice for stacking clothes. But if you need any organization or bringing a laptop or even like a boook. I’d go with the Refugio. The Refugio is easier to pack cuz it opens like a normal backpack.
@@EDG appreciate your comment! No i don’t bring a laptop i’m trying to find a bag that’ll fit under the seat on a plane but also carries maximum clothes etc as i feel the laptop sleeves are a waste for me but thank you for your reply, appreciate it
@@jamessimpson4160 actually the mini MLC and this black hole 25 are both smaller than the Refugio volume wise. However, the MLC and black hole are narrow and longer so they kinda stick out from under the seat into where ur feet are. But it fits.
But also, the real question if you’re considering the 3, is what’s ur budget. Refugio , black hole, and MLC are $99, $125, $199 respectively. I reviewed the other 2 bags as well if you’re interested.
Thanks for the question. Other than price, I love the mini MLC in almost every way over the black hole, especially as a travel pack. I just made a review on the mini MLC if you’re on the fence.
@@EDG Thank you! I just saw it! Do you think the MLC is a bit small? I just came back from a trip and used this pack but found I needed more room. Would you choose the MLC over the 32L Black Hole Backpack?
@@alisonchang5656 personally , yes I’d choose the MLC over the 32 black hole. But, that’s only because I like the design better for travel in general, even if I’m sacrificing some volume. If you love the 25, then the 32 will be grrat
I have a leather case on my laptop, and the buckle rubs it. It’s unfortunate and a hard contact point should never be near the laptop. I think Patagonia could have solved this many ways.