Whether you’re a daily commuter or traveller who wants the perfect backpack for your on-the-go lifestyle, you’ve come to the right place.
The Metrosafe X Anti-Theft 16-Inch Commuter Backpack is jam-packed with security features and organisation.
From hidden pockets and cut-resistant straps to a unique locking system, there is much to be unpacked about this bag.
But do you need all those fancy features? And how comfortable is it really as a backpack?
Today, I’ll be giving my full and honest review of this Pacsafe bag so you can decide if this is the product for you.
Rating: 8.5/10
Let’s go!
Pacsafe is best known for designing and creating anti-theft carry solutions, specifically for travellers.
This includes featuring technology like self-locking zips, slash-resistant materials, smart hooks, security clips, and many more.
Everything is designed to keep your gear safe while maintaining an active lifestyle or going on adventures.
They’re also a sustainable brand that cares about keeping its process eco-friendly, from production to shipping.
To illustrate, the 16-inch Commuter Backpack is made with rPET which is equivalent to 23 recycled plastic bottles!
So far, the best place to buy the Commuter Backpack or even Pacsafe’s other products is their official website.
Your orders will be shipped from the United Kingdom in 2 working days or faster. If your purchase is £100 or more and within the country, you can get free shipping too.
For those in Canada and the US, free shipping is even easier with a minimum order of only $49!
The best reason for buying directly from the Pacsafe website is that you get a 30-day return window if you don’t like the product for whatever reason.
Not to mention the limited 5-year Pacsafe Warranty for all their bags!
I’d recommend this Commuter Backpack for those living a fast-paced life and wanting a secure backpack that has orgnisation and simple aesthetics. It’s perfect for city life, work life, being on the go and manoeuvring in crowds.
On the other hand, this backpack may be less suite for those who needs something that can be transformed into an active backpack, this is not the right backpack for intense activities, also if you are looking for a backpack that is top loading this is also not the right backpack for you
Upon first impression, I could tell this backpack was designed with a slim profile for quick movement through the big cities and busy areas.
It is made up in a way to easily move through a fast-paced lifestyle or environment.
The overall look is simple and not overdone. It’s not flashy, eye-catching, or complex, and comes in three colours.
In terms of the quality of this Pacsafe bag, I’d say that it’s all in all very well made and crafted.
The zips overall on the backpack are branded and unique, running smoothly and easily.
The backpack itself is made up of post-consumer recycled polyester rPET.
And I love a good sustainable brand, as anything we can do to help our planet, I am a huge fan of. So that’s a huge plus point for Pacsafe.
The straps feel very premium, and I love the additional branded hardware, which is subtle but brings the bag up in quality.
The main handle on the top is very solid, and I LOVE the fact that it’s in maroon red (at least for the backpack in Slate) and gives a pop of colour and style.
It has elastic dangle stoppers which helps the overall appearance of the bag as you have no excess materials just flapping about.
Another great thing about the Metrosafe X Anti Theft 16-inch Commuter Backpack is that it holds its shape well when packed. It doesn’t stand up on its own, but I guess with this slim line profile of the backpack that is to be expected.
The various anti-theft technology is also obviously very advanced and well thought out, which I will go into more detail below.
Moreover, there’s certainly thoughtfulness in the design, as you can tell from the horizontal luggage slit, which makes sense because the bag is accessed sideways (more on this point below).
Overall, I have no complaints about the construction and build quality of this bag.
The shoulders straps in general are good, which is key in a backpack. They’re strong, sturdy, and definitely better than the Citysafe CX backpack straps.
These have more padding, pull in more, and are more adjustable and supportive. The airflow is also excellent, which all work together to provide really good comfort when worn.
I love the back padding on the Metrosafe X Commuter Backpack. It’s comfortable and soft, and while not overdone in the airflow design, it’s still very cooling and comfortable.
The lower and upper back support are also lovely!
1. Excellent anti-theft technology
Perhaps the number one reason that sets this backpack apart is the sheer amount and quality of its anti-theft features.
For one, you get a hidden pocket right next to the padding at the back of the bag, which is secured by an elastic tag over the zip. This makes it harder for others to get at and perfect for a phone or passport.
I love how the zips close in nicely together, and then can be placed inside an additional lock, which is used for both pockets on the backpack.
Not to mention the RFID-blocking pocket to protect your cards and IDs.
Other anti-theft tech you’ll get with this bag includes a Carrysafe® slashguard strap with Dyneema®, eXomesh® slashguard, a Roobar Sport locking system, puncture-resistant ToughZip, and a secure zip tab.
Talk about a secure bag!
2. Smart organisation
The interior here is also highly organised and functional.
In front of the laptop compartment is where you’ll find the RFID pocket. But there are also several pen holders, a velcro pocket, zipped pocket, and more.
The opening of the Pacsafe Metrosafe X backpack side panels
They’re pretty useful without being too overwhelming, and enough to keep your belongings neat and suited for those who want some organisation in the main compartment.
The pocket closest to the front has a meshed pocket and a key lash, and the space is big enough for your smaller items.
The water bottle compartment is great and expandable, although note that the bottom of the bag isn’t overly padded.
There’s even a quick-access zipper pocket with a card slot on the shoulder strap where you can store accessories like earbuds and your transport card.
Below this pocket, there is an external elastic strap. I’m unsure what for and its real purpose but if you wanted I guess you could clip on something externally.
3. Laptop and tablet sleeves with protection
Speaking of organisation, let’s not forget the laptop AND separate tablet sleeves.
You can fit up to a 16-inch laptop and 11-inch tablet here, and the padding is not overly done but feels enough for the devices.
The microfleece-style material is also great to ensure that your gadgets don’t get scratched when you’re moving about.
4. Slim profile but spacious inside
Now, this Commuter Backpack has a slim profile, which I love in terms of style and minimalism, but it actually holds more than you think!
In addition to the 18L main compartment (which is plenty to work with), the various compartments make it easy for you to pack and fit more things.
I also love how it’s overall easy to see and find your belongings, especially because the light comes in nicely when you open up the bag.
5. Sideways opening
Alright, the fact that this bag opens up sideways can be an advantage or disadvantage, though I think it comes down to preference.
The idea is that you swing the bag around and have this side access to make it less of a hassle for you on the go.
It’s easy to throw around and grab what you need but also secured enough for others not to have as easy access to your belongings.
Plus, the bag comes with two side flaps stopping it from fully opening, which is pretty great so that things don’t just spill out.
I don’t know if I am quite a lover of the side access point but I can definitely see the benefits.
6. Water repellent
The materials of this Pacsafe Metrosafe X bag are also where it excels.
They’re not only sustainable and well-crafted but also water resistant and are perfect for commuters and travellers who might occasionally be caught up in rain or spill things on the bag.
The main materials are 750D Recycled polyester, while the lining uses 150D Recycled polyester. Both are water resistant 1,000mm and PCF-free.
At first, the sideways opening can limit your range if you’re in a rush and forget about this fact.
For instance, I was in a hurry one day and forgot about this feature so I was trying to access the bag via the top and the flap that opens the backpack sideways wasn’t allowing access to the top of the bag.
Of course, this is fantastic for anti-theft purposes and making it harder for others to get inside the bag, but can understandably be a nuisance when you’re not used to it yet.
The luggage slit uses a seatbelt-like material, which isn’t really a drawback but something I’m not personally fond of. Aside from the shiny texture I don’t like, it is strong and sturdy!
While the top handle, as I’ve mentioned earlier, is really good, the side handle feels a bit more flimsy. You can still attach things to it but I wonder if it would’ve been nice to have this just as thick and hefty.
Below are some of my thoughts and impressions after using the Metrosafe X Commuter Backpack for the first time, and then three weeks later.
You may not have time to read this entire review in-depth. But you might be wondering…
Should you buy the Metrosafe X 16-inch Commuter Backpack?
Well, you’ve come to the right section
The answer to that is probably yes!
It’s truly a great backpack that’s ideal for city breaks, work environments, and a fast-paced lifestyle.
Compared to a few other bags I’ve reviewed, this one is more of a tech rather than an adventure backpack.
Of course, you could use it for sightseeing or taking on a plane as your personal bag, but the interior tech organisation may not come in as handy in that case.
Overall, I can say that the materials are built to last and perform in a way that is safe, secure, and reliable.
If you need a larger backpack, I’d recommend checking out the 25L Backpack. It comes with everything you need for a daily backpack and enough capacity for a short weekend trip.
This includes hidden pockets, a dedicated laptop compartment, a luggage slit, and lockable zippers.
For a smaller bag to wear on the go but still with anti-theft features, the Metrosafe X Vertical Crossbody is a great option. You can fit up to an 11-inch tablet here, as well as keys, wallets, and other valuables.
The Urban Sling bag is another excellent choice. It’s packed with anti-theft features such as an RFID pocket, lockable zippers, cut-resistant straps, and more. Plus, the bag’s neutral colour and slim profile make it very versatile in style.
Here are a few alternatives to the Pacsafe Metrosafe X backpack…
The Series 2 by Knack Bags is great for those of you always on the go. It has extensive organisation and can be expanded to take on a short trip away.
While it may not have as many anti-theft features, you still have the essentials like hidden pockets and lockable zippers.
The Roll Top backpack comes in various colours and is designed for cyclists and commuters in mind with its waterproof seams and water-resistant zippers. I’d definitely recommend this for those with active and busy lifestyles.
Finally, this one is perfect for city breaks and chill days. This is also one of the more stylish and beautiful designs in an anti-theft backpack. It’s straightforward and does the job well without being overwhelming in terms of organisation
That’s all for my review today!
Have you ever used this bag?
Comment and let me know below!
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