Did Arc’teryx Accidentally Craft the Ideal Travel Pack?
Originally built for the crag, the Verro 20 Backpack's sleek styling, durable materials and light weight make it ideal for travel.
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Arc'teryx originally designed its new Verro 20 Backpack for climbing and crag sessions. After a closer look at its feature set, I'm convinced it's actually the ideal travel bag.
Its thoughtful organization, flagship-level materials and lightweight form factor make it an unintentional travel superstar … and it can still pull double-duty as a climbing pack when you need it.
Quality materials and a svelte form factor make this an undeniable travel pack. - Credit: Arc'teryx
Travelin' pack
Starting from the top, the Verro 20 Backpack's 20-liter capacity fits most airline overhead bins, while a clamshell opening makes its main compartment easy to pack and grab essentials and its reliable FC0 DWR weatherproofing means rain drops (and spills along the way) are repelled with ease.
The Verro 20 Backpack was designed for the crag, but it makes an excellent choice for shorter trips and weekend getaways. - Credit: Arc'teryx
The outer shell is made with 630D Cordura plain weave, a 320 GSM 100-percent nylon that will resist tears and abrasions. The lining is dependable 210D recycled polyester, also treated with FC0 DWR weatherproofing.
Durable Cordura and weatherproof DWR make this an excellent choice for traveling between climates. - Credit: Arc'teryx
The wide three-quarter clamshell opening makes it easy to grab snacks and that extra layer you packed for the flight. - Credit: Arc'teryx
In terms of organization that thrives beyond the climb, there's the main compartment, a small zippered pocket in the top flap that stores keys and essentials and an additional zippered front pocket for housing extra layers, snacks and more.
At just over 1.5 pounds, the Verro 20 won't weigh you down, and it's minimalist harness and shoulder straps are comfortable and lightweight for all-day wear.
The minimalist straps on the Verro 20 cut weight while maintaining comfort. - Credit: Arc'teryx
The Verro 20 is not a purpose-built travel bag, and Arc'teryx doesn't claim otherwise. There's no built-in luggage pass-through sleeve or trolley handle attachment, and the 20-liter volume will feel limiting for trips longer than a long weekend.
But for one- to three-night travel, or as a personal item alongside a checked bag, the combination of weather resistance, clamshell access and a slim silhouette makes the Verro 20 a credible "best travel bag" contender.
Availability and pricing
The Verro 20 Backpack is available now on Arc'teryx's website, retailing for $200. Considering its multitude of uses, this is actually a steal.
Arc'teryx Verro 20 Backpack
About the Author: Hayley Helms is an associate editor at Gear Patrol specializing in outdoor gear. Once upon a time, she wrote for Men's Journal, Gearjunkie and Shape. Whether it's testing a new rain shell or putting a pair of hiking boots through its paces, she leaves no stone unturned (however, she always Leaves No Trace).
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