Samsonite Openroad 2.0 Review: A Great Laptop Backpack?

Samsonite recently redesigned and updated its classic Openroad backpack. The new and improved version is packed with useful features, which means I absolutely had to get my hands on this backpack to review it for you. 

This hands-on review will tell you everything you need to know about the Samsonite backpack, from the quality of materials to the type of USB necessary for the charging port. Every feature of the bag is analyzed and explained here, so keep reading if you want to know whether the Samsonite Openroad 2.0 is the right laptop backpack for you!

Materials & Build Quality

The Openroad backpack from Samsonite is manufactured from three different materials. The main material used in its construction is nylon (70%), followed by polyester (28%), and TPU (2%).

All three fabrics are known to have excellent abrasion and water resistance, as well as durability. When you put the three materials together, you get a high-quality softside backpack that will hold up very well even with frequent use. The durability of the bag is amazing, and the water resistance is a big plus since this is first and foremost a laptop bag.

Another important thing to note is that Samsonite decided to put a waterproof zipper on the laptop compartment. This virtually guarantees that your electronic devices will stay dry in this compartment even if you’re caught in a heavy downpour.

The Back System

The Back Panel

The back panel of the Openroad is heavily padded and covered with breathable mesh. The padding provides a nice barrier between your back and the laptop, ensuring that you don’t get poked in the back by anything from the laptop compartment.

The breathable mesh is an excellent addition because it makes the bag more comfortable to wear, especially in warmer weather. If you want to use this bag for work and you travel on a bike, scooter, public transport, or in any way that requires you to wear this bag on your shoulders for a while, the breathable mesh will prevent you from arriving at your destination with a sweaty back and a wet shirt.

Shoulder Straps

This Samsonite backpack features S-shaped ergonomic shoulder straps that are super comfortable to wear. They feature thick padding and breathable mesh just like the back panel, plus they’re adjustable so you can easily make them fit your body perfectly.

Adjusting the shoulder straps is one of the first things you should do when you get this backpack, to ensure a comfortable carrying experience. When the backpack straps fit your body just like they should, the weight of the bag is more evenly distributed across your torso, and you don’t feel the bag as much.

No Hip Belt Or Sternum Strap

It’s important to note that the Openroad 2.0 backpack does not feature a hip belt or a sternum strap. These features aren’t exactly necessary on smaller backpacks like this one, but I do think it’s a bit of a downside since a hip belt can never hurt. It depends on how heavy you pack the bag, but if you overdo it, it’s likely you’ll get sore from wearing the backpack.

Compartments And Pockets 

Main Compartment

The main compartment of this backpack is front loading and very roomy. It’s divided in two for better organization, with a document holder in the back. It’s important to note that the main compartment cannot be opened fully because the sides are sewn together. Whether that’s an upside or a downside is entirely a matter of personal preference.

For me personally, it’s not a downside at all because it prevents stuff from falling out of the backpack when you open it. This compartment is very spacious and it will easily fit any bulkier items you might want to carry in the backpack.

Laptop Compartment

The laptop compartment is kind of the star of this backpack. It’s in the very back of the bag with a waterproof zipper closure for maximum security. The compartment has a laptop sleeve with thick padding and a Velcro strap to secure your device in place, and there’s an extra tablet sleeve on top of this compartment.

All the padding in the laptop sleeve ensures that the device is protected from all sides, so even if you bump the backpack into something or even drop it on the ground, the padding absorbs all the impact and protects your devices. Also, it’s worth noting that there is extra room inside this compartment for any other items you might want to store here.

External Pockets

One of the best things about the Openroad backpack is that it has a lot of external pockets. That’s an important feature for me because I like having lots of pockets on a bag and keeping my items organized for easy access.

This Samsonite bag features an additional compartment in the front, two zippered pockets on the front panel, two open side pockets that are great for water bottles and umbrellas, and a hidden zippered pocket in the back panel.

The back pocket is great for the really important stuff you want to keep extra secure, so items like your phone, wallet, etc. The front pockets are quite slim so you won’t be able to use them for any really bulky items, but you should be able to fit things like mice and headphones inside. Also, it’s important to note that the bottom front pocket is equipped with an internal USB port and features a dedicated sleeve for a power bank.

Additional Features 

USB Port

The Samsonite Openroad Backpack features a convenient USB port for easy charging on the go. A power bank is not included with the purchase of the backpack, so you will need to use your own power bank if you want to take advantage of the USB port.

Additionally, it’s important to note that both the USB port and the USB cable are USB Type-A, which could be an issue if you have a newer power bank and cables.

Trolley Sleeve

The trolley sleeve in the back is another convenient feature of this awesome backpack, which just makes it a really good option for cabin luggage. Most airlines allow backpacks that are the size of this Samsonite inside the cabin as a personal item, so you can easily pair this backpack with a carry-on suitcase for maximum convenience.

The luggage strap can be secured to any suitcase handle of standard width, plus I love the fact that it features the same breathable material and padding as the rest of the case. Most brands cheap out on the luggage strap and just use plain nylon, which becomes noticeable if you’re ever wearing this backpack for hours at a time.

Value For Money

The Openroad 2.0 really is an excellent backpack, but it’s far from cheap. This is actually one of Samsonite’s more expensive laptop bags, so it’s not going to be an option that everyone can easily afford. It’s currently priced between £150-200+ depending on the size and seller. It’s also important to note that you can get the older version of this backpack for cheaper, but it won’t have all the same features.

I do think that it’s a little overpriced, especially when you compare it to similar options from other trusted backpack and luggage brands. But then again, Samsonite is known for the amazing quality and durability of its items, not for affordable prices. Besides, the backpack will be discounted at one point, and if you can wait for a sales season, I’m pretty sure you’ll be able to get a really good deal on it.

Rating

With a rating of 88, the Openroad 2.0 is one of our highest-rated laptop backpacks. I deducted points for the lack of a sternum strap and hip belt, the slightly higher price point, and the lack of RFID pockets. The bag did great against our rating system, making it a solid choice for anyone who is looking for a sturdy laptop backpack.

Verdict

I’ve told you everything worth knowing about this backpack, showed you the photos of all its most important features, and now I’ll just leave you with my final thoughts.

The Openroad 2.0 is a really good laptop backpack from Samsonite. The size and quality of materials make it a pretty versatile bag; it’s great for everyday carry, it can be a good business backpack, school backpack, and even a solid option for travel.

The bag is also packed with useful features, from comfortable and ergonomic shoulder straps to a USB port for charging on the go. But it’s an expensive bag, and you should consider it only if it’s within your backpack budget. If you can’t really afford this pack from Samsonite, just know that there are dozens of more affordable options that could work perfectly for you!

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