Traveling with multiple carry-ons is an issue, and if one of them is too big while boarding an airplane, you might hear, “that will need to be checked.” Fortunately, I found a Swiss backpack company that makes a stylish modular carry-on and backpack system that fixed the major issues I was having while traveling. Enter the Slicks Backpack BIZ.
Overview
The Slicks Backpack BIZ system is unlike any other travel gear I have tried. From straight out of the box, it was like a transformer bag that was ready to keep my pressed clothing from getting wrinkled but was also designed to go on hiking trips. So far, I have completed multiple trips with the Slicks Backpack BIZ.
The box contains:
- Slicks Backpack BIZ
- Tripcover
- Suitcover
I used to travel with a roller bag for my MacBook Pro, a separate carry-on for my other electronics and then I had to check a bag, which always dinged me with that unwanted baggage fee. Now, with the Slicks BIZ backpack system, everything I travel with fits into one piece of luggage.
There are multiple zippered compartments around the sides and top for accessories that can get tangled if worn outwardly. The Slicks pockets are discreetly positioned as interior pockets hidden behind zippers. Slick right?
I have had headphone cords catch on seats while boarding on airplanes and buses. But with the Slicks, I can keep them in the compartments and grab them right before I sit down without taking too much time in the aisle.
Having a carry-on fit in an overhead bin is crucial when taking along several days worth of clothing, a computer and accessories. The Slicks Backpack will fit in the overhead and still leave room for a jacket. I do not always want to wear my carry-on through airports or bus stations. One of my favorite features of this transformative gear is that it has a carry loop on the side.
Why I call the backpack slick is that it transforms from my travel carry-on to a hiking bag. I recently visited the Grand Canyon and Horseshoe Bend in Arizona. These are destinations that are hours away from civilization and getting caught without necessary gear can be dangerous.
The material and ventilation engineered into the back of the Slicks kept me warm in the cold weather of the desert. Most importantly, my back was dry after climbing 500ft to reach my waypoints during the hike with the backpack.
The Slicks had enough room inside to carry bottles of water, snacks and the mobile gear I needed to make the trek a success. Bringing the BIZ system with me has lessened travel anxiety by helping me to pack lighter too.
Verdict
The Slicks Modular Backpack BIZ system is a vital and professional travel bag for anyone in the market for a transformative experience, and for those who want to save money when checking luggage to fly.
Rating: 4.5/5
Price: $159.00 for backpack only (inserts available too) – Available now on Kickstarter, and the estimated delivery will be around September 2016, according to Slicks.
Pros:
- Fast, easy setup
- Strong zippers
- Avoid checked baggage fees
- Fits into overhead bin
Cons:
- Minimize use of inserts to keep it spacious
Disclaimer: I received the Slicks Backpack BIZ at no cost for review. I have not been compensated for the review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Some photos are courtesy of Slicks.
