By Natalie Ferguson

(With a background in retail and a love for wellness, travel, and the outdoors, Natalie Ferguson joined Alabama Outdoors in 2016.)

We have found our new favorite, every day, cross-functional pack. Osprey did it again — they created another pack loaded with features and sleek design details with unmatched comfort and durability. 

Features and specs

Pack Size: 20L 

Weight: 1.76 lbs

• Top zip access to the main compartment with integrated fold-and-hook closure
• Over-the-shoulder tote bag easily converts to backpack-style
• Front panel shove-it pocket for stashing small items or tuckaway tote straps
• Quick-release aluminum security hook to keep your belongings safe
• Stretch power mesh shoulder strap sleeve for transportation cards or small items
• Large zippered front panel scratch-free pocket
• 15″ padded laptop sleeve
• Internal organization, small zip pocket and key clip

Why we love it

The size: Coming in at 20L, this is a great size for everyday use. For reference, 20L is ideal if you are going on a quick day trip or hike. It is compact and lightweight, but it has the capacity for daily essentials.

Versatility and value: Not only is this pack a great size, but you get two bags in one. That’s right, this bag easily converts from a backpack to a tote bag, with tuckaway straps. I know what you are thinking — tuckaway straps are bulky and annoying. Not the case with the Osprey! The pack features two stowaway pockets on the outside to easily store the straps. One is on the back with a padded sleeve for the backpack straps (which easily fold over and down into the pocket) and the back tote strap; and one on the front is a quick “shove-it panel” to tuck in the front tote strap. With the padded component on the back, you can’t even tell backpack straps are in there!

Storage and organization: This bag has (almost) all-of-the-pockets.

My favorite feature is the padded laptop sleeve. My laptop fits easily, and the foam lining keeps it protected. There is also a document sleeve, multiple small pockets, and a zippered pocket. If that isn’t enough, the outside has three pockets for quick-access items. Two are the pouches for the straps but offer plenty of extra space, and one is a zip pocket for items that need to be kept safe. The one pocket I (sometimes) wish it had was a water bottle pocket; but, the front shove-it pocket serves the need for the intended use!

Quality: Being an Osprey, quality is a key component and a known characteristic, and part of why we love them. The durable canvas exterior, the extra padding, and interior lining give this pack strength and stability. So, load it up! It can handle it. The waxed canvas exterior is excellent as it resists moisture if you get caught in the rain. If your pack has been through it all and needs repair, Osprey has the best lifetime guarantee. “Osprey will repair any damage or defect for any reason free of charge – whether it was purchased in 1974 or yesterday.”

Feature highlights: The fold-over top is a double win. It is a very convenient option if you do not want to zip the top closed. (The bag has a strap and security hook to keep your items secure and the flap in place.) Just fold the flap, hook and tighten the strap, and go. Need extra storage? No problem. The top has a zipper so you can use the extra space while keeping your items secure. The coolest feature? This pack is made from plastic water bottles!

The look While this bag has great technical features for an everyday bag, this bag is also sleek. From the colorways, simple design lines, and matte look, it is all-around beautifully crafted and the bag I bring everywhere. 

Where I go with it

This bag is my gear pick (and perfect) for the on-the-go lifestyle. I bought this bag while at a tradeshow and it immediately replaced the bag I was using.

On the first day of the show, I used a shoulder bag, which was for travel and work purposes. However, by the end of the day, with my bag full of catalogs and a laptop, my shoulder was killing me.

The next day I bought the Arcane Tote from Osprey and everything changed. It held my laptop, pens, notebooks, catalogs galore, and I was able to convert it to a backpack for more comfort. Throughout the trip, I easily switched it from backpack to tote depending on the time of day and what I was doing. It was perfect. I like using the tote style in a more casual setting and when it is not loaded down with work items.

It is now my go-to travel pack whenever I fly. I can bring my laptop without it being a hassle, keep my boarding pass in the front zip pocket, and I can access everything swiftly. Plus, it is so comfortable for all-day travel.

With the small size and two style options, this is a perfect commuter sidekick. From the office or school to the gym, to patio lounging and anything in between; it will hold up to your lifestyle!

Looking for a bag, tote, or pack? We have plenty to choose from! Alabama Outdoors wants everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors