Expandable Backpack Reviews
- Series 1: Large
- Series 1: Medium
- Series 2: Large
- Series 2: Medium
- Series 2: Small
- Convertible Duffel
Series 1: Large Expandable Knack Pack Product Reviews from Verified Customers
My sister works for PK and got me one of these bags for Christmas. I went in my first trip with it this week and it is LIFE CHANGING!!! I was able to bring so much more than anticipated, and was organized and easy to carry. It fit perfectly under the seat of the plane whether expanded or not. I am so happy to have received this gift that I hope to use for a lifetime, and add to my collection in the future!
The Knack Backpack is Superb Quality that I use for photography and daily activities. It has several features to secure it with TSA locks. The one improvement would be waterproof zippers.
I ordered a Knack Bag for the holiday season for a new Gym Bag and the quality is amazing. Such a premium made bag and being able to keep gym clothes in one part and then workout shoes/towels in the expandable part is amazing!!
I don't normally write reviews. But I want to give props to Knack for designing an extremely durable and functional bag. I travel extensively for work, and for fun, often with a small roller suitcase for shorter trips. This bag has been amazing! It may be expensive but it's worth every penny. I've had my series 1 medium for almost 5 years now. Extremely well designed and plane friendly. I've tried all the big expensive ones (I'm looking at you Briggs and Riley). After 30 years of extensive business travel I've never had a better carry on bag and daily worker. Unfortunately for you, you built this bag so well that I don't need to buy a new one!
This is a great backpack. I’ve used mine for years now for business travel. And it is by far the best backpack I’ve ever had. It’s well-made, intelligently designed and highly functional. I do not work with or have any affiliation with the company. But I can tell you this is a great backpack. The ability to put a few pieces of clothing in there along with a computer, all the charging cords, etc. and a bunch of files, means that I can use a small roller carry-on as my second bag. So no checked bags for even week long work trips. I’d be surprised if anyone did not love this backpack.
Series 1: Medium Expandable Knack Pack Product Reviews from Verified Customers
I really love this backpack. I recently got my first Knack Pack and took it on a 10-day Italian tour and was totally impressed. The Medium was perfect for my trip - very well thought-out design let me organize and get quick access to what I needed, carried very easily, and fit well under the plane seat. It's sturdy yet lightweight and comfortable. Expands nicely with great capacity (I also used a packing cube) and it never seemed like a burden. Plus it looks great. It was the perfect backpack for an international trip and will be my go-to bag going forward.
I searched for months to find the right travel pack and glad I discovered this one. Well done Knackers!
Long-time V1 owner. When I finally wore out the bag (which was really just small things like the original rubber zipper pulls, etc.) I ordered another V1. Lo and behold, every little tweak I wanted in the first version was made in the second. The metal zipper pulls, the deeper water bottle and glasses/phone pocket, and the luggage pass-thru make this my perfect bag. And the gray looks really classy. Can’t recommend enough.
It’s good
I had specific needs when I was shopping for a new backpack: since I'd be carrying it to the office and on business trips, I didn't want it to look like I was heading out on a campaign trip. I wanted it to have enough space to carry my gym clothes or one change of clothes and toiletries for an international flight. I wanted to be able to easily reach small objects without having to completely remove the whole pack and put it down somewhere. I wanted it to be able to easily carry a water bottle securely. And as a short woman (5'0"), I wanted the bag to sit comfortably on my hips.
This bag hits all those marks and then some! In addition: the space for storing cords and chargers is a thing I didn't know I was looking for. The small top pocket for storing sunglasses is also perfect for storing my my ear buds.
My one small request for improvement: when I travel and go to the toilet in bathrooms in airports in a variety of countries, the carry handle on top isn't well situated for hanging the bag on a bag hook in a toilet cubicle. Since we use the bottom of the bag for the cord storage, I'd rather not be putting it down on strange bathroom floors. Just a suggestion to keep in mind for future design! :-D
I have become obsessed with my Knackpack Series 1!!! And NO, this is not a paid review. I saw an Instagram ad for this Knackpack when I was in the market 6 months ago for a laptop backpack that would hold my personal Macbook + work laptop + coffee tumbler + a few personal effects, without looking too bulky or masculine (I have a small frame at 5' and 100 lbs). Price was not too much of an issue, but I wanted to stay under $500, so TUMI was out of the question. I took a chance and ordered the Series 1 in Medium (black), cautious that I may have to exchange for a size up bec in the website photos, it looks a bit small... I didn't want to get the Series 2 bec I like all the pockets and organization far more in the Series 1, and Series 2 looked a lot bigger (vertically) in the photos. Do NOT let the size of the Series 1 Medium fool you. I have been absolutely blown away at the quality of this company!! Not only was the packaging so carefully thought of, it arrived quickly, and for a backpack that looks so small, it fits soooo much and never ever looks bulky. When traveling, it slides very easily under the seat in front of you. Oftentimes, I grab the essentials from my purse or tote and toss them in my Knackpack to be completely hands-free. One thing I really appreciate (besides all the pockets and org) is that the pocket for the tumbler is hidden away. I HATE those backpacks that expose the water bottle or tumbler and it's just floppin around as you're frantically running to catch a connecting flight lol. I'm a forever customer as long the quality remains this way!!
Note to the company: You guys are doing some really great work - thank you for this gem. :)
Series 2: Large Expandable Knack Pack Product Reviews from Verified Customers
Series 2 Large real review after three years of continual use. Travel is a constant in event production. 60 to 80 flights annually. This bag is incredibly well organized and that is hard to find. Holds more than I need truly. A place for everything in well placed. I wish I travelled lighter. That's on me. I am not gentle but also not crazy. This is built superbly. Not a rip, tear, seam-slip or a single zipper issue. I have rubbed some black off of the metal K badge by repeatedly placing it under the seat in front of me. Handles have a good feel, not cheap webbing handles or weak attachment to bag. Knack has too many features other brands miss or cheapen out on. OK, the large is a little long for under the seat but I would rather have it there than overhead. I live out of it. I will buy a medium next time but I have no good reason to spend the money yet says "the boss".
Nearly perfect backpack and I hunted for years before finding it.
Received my bag and it is perfect. The laundry bag was damaged in the shipping process, but Knack was able to send out a replacement and it arrived quickly.
Hi Kari,
So sorry you had this issue with the laundry bag, we will send you a new one. We did want to let you know, we do not see an email from you on our customer service platform (email: support@knackbags.com). But our customer service team will reach out to you through that email to confirm resolution of the issue. Sincerely, Knack Customer Service
I can't say enough about how great and versitile this bag is. The quality is impressive and it continues to deliver in terms of it's usefulness. I did have an issue shortly after receiving it with the sternum strap coming off of one side due probably to my overpacking. Knack customer service was fantastic and helped me to resolve the issue so I didn't need to go through the hastle of returning the bag. I'm so pleased I'm considering also purchasing the convertable dufle to have even more flexible options.
As a flight attendant I am aleays looking for sustainable and practical packing solutions. This bag is exceptionally practical and convenient. Initially, I had concerns about its size, but it has proven to be ideal. It comfortably fits on top of my carry-on and is secured to the handle using the convenient slit on the back of the bag, ensuring that all my documents and devices remain within easy reach. I highly recommend this bag to flight crew
This bag has exceeded my expectations and I have high expectations being that my last bag was a Tumi. The quality is on point. The number of pockets is impressive and I have never been more organized in my life! I was skeptical that I can really pack for a 3 day work trip in a single bag but it is absolutely doable. Carrying one bag is so much more efficient.
Series 2: Medium Expandable Knack Pack Product Reviews from Verified Customers
I have tried a few different bags and really happy with this one. Good size for every day use and travel. Very happy would recommend
I had been using Series 1 for a long time, and I was 100% satisfied with its convenience and functionality. This time, I decided to purchase Series 2, and it has fully met my expectations. It is incredibly lightweight and comes with many practical pockets, making it even more convenient to use.
Once again, I feel like I cannot go back to using any other backpack. My colleagues at work often tell me how stylish it looks, which makes me feel even better about using it.
One more thing I’d love to add: I was really impressed by the customer service, especially Rachel’s support. You can truly feel how much the company cares about its customers. Her responses were quick, and everything—from communication to delivery—was smooth and reassuring. I was genuinely touched by her kindness and professionalism. Thank you so much.
I recently traveled overseas, and was not happy with the backpack I carried. It did not fit well underseat, and was not comfortable running through airports. The Knack Pack is the fifth bag I have ordered while looking for a replacement!
I have to carry alot of medications with me when I travel, plus all the tech stuff and a change of clothes. I also have neck and back problems, so comfort is crucial. I loaded this bag up and it was actually comfortable to wear.
I am looking forward to my taking this bag on my next trip.
Love LOVE the Series 2 Medium Pack. It offers the perfect amount of storage and organization without being bulky. The expandable section is ideal for a short trip or giving you extra flexibility on a longer trip when paired with a carryon. It’s also suited for both business and casual travel. The size is just right for petite women - it’s comfortable and not too long. While I think the bag is wonderful, I was more impressed with the customer service, who went out of their way to communicate on the shipping of my order during an east coast winter storm. With a variety of travel bags out there, I am thrilled with my purchase and would highly recommend Knack to other frequent travelers.
I really like my Knack series two bag. I don’t think I’ll ever find a more organized, functional, travel onebag. I don’t want to get anything else! The customer service is phenomenal. My previous bags have had things break or fall apart (likely due to my own doing) and the team replaced my bags. I have nothing but great things to say about Knacks and the team, and I hope my review leads you to say yes to this bag! My coworkers have also said nothing but compliments for the bag.
Series 2: Small Expandable Knack Pack Product Reviews from Verified Customers
The quality of the bag is great! We recieved it within the days informed date. We had asked them to send a personalised note but they had exceeded our expectation! I’d recommend them.
I have never loved a bag as much as this small expandable Series 2. At first pass, I had some doubts, but now you couldn't pry it away from me. It's sleek and tight without looking boring. Personally, I love the hidden water bottle pocket. It doesn't slouch! When I reach in, everything is upright without me having to push away flaps and straps and whatnot. That crinkly sound from the lining, I honestly either don't even notice now, or it's just getting quieter and it most certainly doesn't feel cheap. It's solid like the whole bag. And the expandable feature and stowable straps are chef's kiss, though a pocket on the inside back flap (like the medium) would have been soooo good. (I also would have loved an ambidextrous secret pocket since the one is on the 'wrong' side for me.) Best of all, I'm 5'3" and petite and this doesn't make me look like a turtle. This is my unexpected everyday carry doubling as my minimalist travel carry-on/personal item and I couldn't be happier.
As someone who works in artist development and spends a lot of time balancing creativity with structure, my days aren’t exactly “light.” I’m constantly moving between meetings, content planning, strategy sessions, and real-life relationship building. My laptop, notebooks, chargers, hard drives—you name it—are always with me. And when I’m traveling or working on the go, everything I need has to move *with* me, not slow me down.
That’s why having a backpack that’s both secure *and* comfortable isn’t a luxury for me—it’s a necessity.
I need something that protects my equipment and keeps everything organized, because the last thing I have time for is digging around for a charger when I’m in the middle of a session or on a tight schedule. At the same time, I’m carrying this bag for hours—through airports, into meetings, around town—so if it’s not comfortable, I’m going to feel it quickly.
What I love about this backpack is how it actually supports the way I work. It has enough structure to keep everything in place, but not so bulky that it feels like I’m carrying my whole life on my back. The compartments make sense, the security features give me peace of mind when I’m traveling or in crowded spaces, and the weight distribution makes it easy to wear all day without it becoming a burden.
It’s one of those things you don’t think about until you *really* need it—and once you have the right one, you realize how much smoother your day runs.
For me, this isn’t just a backpack. It’s part of my system.
Very well made. Perfect size for personal item and underseat storage on aircraft. The hidden backpack straps, wide trolley handle pass thru and the expandable clam shell main compartment are just a few of the ingenious parts about this pack. Only one ask-more colors please. A bit pricey but well worth it as you’ll probably not need another backpack or travel bag…unless they come out with more colors!
Great design. Love how the straps hide away. Excellent quality.
Series 1: Leather Expandable Knack Pack Product Reviews from Verified Customers
Wonderful bag. This duffel was highly recommended by my two sisters who each have one also. I’m using it for the first time on my vacation and very impressed with how much I can pack in all the convenient places. Perfect under the seat carry on with all you need readily available for your in flight trip.
Carefully planned and designed, this goes everywhere with me. Even fully expanded, it fits under the seat of every plane I've had it on. Love the "secret" zippered compartment! Carries quite comfortably in backpack mode and clamshell style makes for easy access to items. Proven durability too. For me, this was by far the best value out there.
I liked the multiple ways to carry this item, and its size will be helpful on future flights!
I love the new bag. It does everything. The only addition would be a front zipper flap to quickly access important items.
Would have been a perfect solution for ODC and one bag travel except there is no quick access pocket which makes travel difficult on the plane, bus, etc when out of the country. Having to pull out the bag to open the main compartment is too inconvenient. Add that and you will certainly have close to the perfect bag!