If you are a chronic overpacker like me, who packs half your wardrobe and 47 pairs of undies for a week away “just in case,” and brings 95% of it back home unworn, you need this travel backpack in your life, just like I did!

I’m going to be honest with you, when I was offered the opportunity to review the BLAST Pro 40L Backpack from Bagsmart, I was keen. It’s effortlessly stylish and with regular camping trips and interstate visits to see family, I knew I’d get plenty of use out of it. But, when I read that it’s designed to fit enough for a week away, I had serious doubts! When I told my husband, his rather annoying response was to crack up laughing, and not because he didn’t believe it was big enough. He claimed that he could probably fit a fortnight’s worth of his stuff in it (he’s probably right), but I would have it bursting at the seams for a weekend away!

So, fuelled by a burning need to prove him wrong, the next time we had a trip planned I battled every irrational overpacking urge I had to dig out clothes I haven’t worn in years, and only packed enough for 7 days! It even zipped up without a struggle! Life-changing!

I dread to think how much we have spent over the years on checked-in luggage at the airport because I insisted on toting around everything but the kitchen sink! (But don’t tell hubby I said that!)

But that has changed now. The BLAST Pro Backpack has officially taught me the error of my ways. Not only is it deceptively roomy with plenty of pockets to keep everything neat and organised, it’s also compact enough to be taken on a flight as carry on and stored in the overhead compartment. It would pay for itself in a few trips!

The main compartment opens suitcase-style, which makes packing and unpacking so much easier. I can actually see everything at once instead of blindly digging through layers of folded clothes. Inside, there are compression straps that help keep everything stable, so even when it’s fully packed, it doesn’t turn into a chaotic mess the moment I open it. There’s also a mesh pouch and a tablet sleeve for smaller items, which helps keep tech and accessories from disappearing into the bottom of the bag.

For travel organisation, it’s honestly one of the most thoughtfully designed bags I’ve used. There’s a dedicated ventilated shoe compartment that separates dirty or bulky items from your clean clothes — this will be especially useful for camping trips when the weather turns and things get a bit muddy! There’s also a waterproof PVC pocket for toiletries, which gives me peace of mind that there won’t be a repeat of that time when my sunscreen leaked over half of my clothes.

On top of that, there are smaller organisational details everywhere. There’s an RFID-blocking pocket for cards, which adds a layer of security when travelling. A hidden anti-theft pocket sits against your back for passports and wallets, which is really useful when you’re in airports or busy places. The front organiser section has pen slots, slip pockets, and even a key leash so I’m not constantly digging around trying to find things. There’s also a velvet-lined top pocket that’s perfect for items I want quick access to, like my phone or earbuds.

It’s also surprisingly comfortable to carry for a bag that can hold this much. The adjustable sternum strap, hip belt, and load lifters actually make a difference when the bag is fully packed. It distributes weight better than a standard backpack, so it doesn’t feel like everything is sitting on your shoulders. I also appreciate the multiple grab handles — especially when I’m lifting it into the car or overhead compartments. The trolley pass-through is another small but practical detail that makes airport travel easier.

Material-wise, it feels solid and durable. The exterior is made from ripstop nylon, which already gives it a more premium feel, and the YKK zippers are smooth and sturdy. It doesn’t feel flimsy or like something that will fall apart after a few trips, which is important when you’re relying on it for both short getaways and longer stays.

Overall, this has become my go-to travel bag because it fits the way I actually live and travel — camping trips, interstate flights, and everything in between. It’s practical, organised, and has genuinely helped me change my packing habits for the better—which is something I never thought I’d say!

Think you need one in your life? The good news is that we have one to giveaway, and the winner even gets to pick the colour (subject to availability). So head on over to the Bagsmart website to check out which colour you’d pick before you enter.

Can’t live another day without this awesome backpack in your life? If you use our affiliate link to make a purchase we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us support our content so that we can keep bringing you honest reviews and giveaways like this one!

Win a BLAST Pro 40L Travel Backpack from Bagsmart

For your chance to win a BLAST Pro 40L Travel Backpack from Bagsmart valued at $170 in your choice of colour (subject to availability) head over to our Instagram page and follow the prompts to enter!

Good luck!

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