BAGSMART Blast Travel Backpack Review 2026: Worth It?
Are you looking for a travel backpack that offers great organization without breaking the bank? The BAGSMART Blast Travel Backpack has quickly become one of the most talked about carry on bags on the market.
It promises multiple compartments, a sleek design, and airline friendly dimensions all for under $80. But does it actually deliver?
I spent weeks testing this bag on flights, road trips, and daily commutes. I packed it full, carried it light, and put every pocket to the test. In this review, I will share everything you need to know about the BAGSMART Blast. You will learn about its materials, comfort, storage, and durability.
Key Takeaways:
- The BAGSMART Blast offers 28L of base capacity that expands to 38L with the built in expansion zipper. This gives you the flexibility to pack for short weekend trips or longer vacations without switching bags.
- Priced under $80, this backpack is one of the best budget friendly carry on travel bags you can buy right now. It competes with bags that cost two or three times as much in terms of features and organization.
- The clamshell laptop compartment holds devices up to 17 inches and opens 180 degrees for easy TSA security checks. A separate tablet sleeve is also included inside the same compartment.
- Six independent pockets and a dedicated shoe compartment give you plenty of organized storage. You can keep your tech, clothing, snacks, and shoes all in separate sections.
- Water resistant nylon material protects your gear from light rain and splashes. The fabric has held up well in multiple tests, though the exact denier is not specified by BAGSMART.
- The bag weighs just 2.3 pounds, making it one of the lighter options in the carry on travel backpack category. This leaves more room in your weight allowance for the things that matter.
BAGSMART Blast Travel Backpack: Overview and First Impressions
The BAGSMART Blast Travel Backpack makes a strong first impression right out of the box. It has a clean, modern look that does not scream “budget.” The nylon exterior feels smooth and has a slight sheen that hints at its water resistant coating.
Picking it up, you notice how lightweight the bag is at just 2.3 pounds. That is significantly lighter than many competing travel backpacks. The zippers, while unbranded, glide reasonably well. The buckles snap into place with a satisfying click.
The bag comes in two versions. The standard model sits at 28 liters. The expandable version stretches to 38 liters with an additional zipper panel. Both versions stay under $80, which is impressive for the feature set.
Color options include Black, Beige, and Mint Green. There is also a mesh variant with a more breathable front panel. Each color looks professional enough for business travel and casual enough for vacation.
My first thought was that this bag punches above its weight class. It does not feel like a premium $200 backpack. But it does not feel cheap either. It sits in a comfortable middle ground that most travelers will appreciate.
Build Quality and Materials
The outer shell of the BAGSMART Blast uses a ripstop style nylon fabric. BAGSMART does not share the exact denier or fiber composition. However, the material has a coating or laminate that adds water resistance. Light rain and accidental splashes will not soak through to your gear.
The stitching is tight and even across all seams. After several weeks of testing, there are no loose threads or fraying edges. This is a good sign for long term durability. Budget bags often show wear within the first few uses, but the Blast holds up well.
The zippers are the weakest link in the build quality chain. They are unbranded and feel a bit rough. They work fine and have not broken or jammed during testing. But they lack the buttery smoothness of YKK or similar premium zippers. You may notice slight scraping on your hand if you move quickly.
The buckles and adjusters are also unbranded. They feel more solid than the zippers though. Each buckle snaps cleanly and the adjusters hold their position without slipping. No hardware failures happened during the testing period.
Overall, the build quality is impressive for the price. You should not expect the same level of polish as an Osprey or Aer bag. But you also will not feel like you are carrying a disposable product.
Storage Capacity and Expandability
The BAGSMART Blast starts at a generous 28 liters of base storage. This is enough room for two to three days of clothing, toiletries, and a laptop. Most one bag travelers will find this capacity sufficient for short trips.
The expandable version adds an extra 10 liters through a zipper along the front panel. This pushes total capacity to 38 liters. That is enough for a full week of travel if you pack smart and use packing cubes.
When expanded, the bag does lose some structure. It can feel a bit saggy on your back because the extra fabric does not have the same rigidity as the main body. Compression straps on both sides help counteract this. They cinch the bag down and pull everything tighter against your frame.
The main compartment opens like a duffel bag with a wide U shaped zipper. This gives you full visibility into your gear and makes packing much easier. You cannot easily access this compartment while standing though. You need to lay the bag flat on its back panel to open it fully.
An X shaped compression system inside the main compartment keeps your clothes from shifting. It does not compress aggressively. But it holds everything in place during transit. Using packing cubes alongside this system gives you the best results.
Top 3 Alternatives for BAGSMART Blast Travel Backpack
If the BAGSMART Blast is not the right fit for you, here are three excellent alternatives worth considering.
The Osprey Farpoint 40L is the gold standard for travel backpacks. It offers a fully adjustable torso, padded hip belt, and a LightWire suspension frame. This bag costs more than the Blast. But the comfort and durability are in a different league. It is ideal for travelers who carry heavier loads or walk long distances with their pack.
The MATEIN Carry On Backpack 40L is another budget friendly option. It offers expandable storage, a USB charging port, and water resistant fabric. The organization is not as refined as the Blast. But the extra capacity makes it a solid choice for longer trips.
The tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L bridges the gap between budget and premium. It features TSA friendly design, water resistant materials, and fits laptops up to 17.3 inches. The build quality is a step above the BAGSMART Blast, and it remains competitively priced.
Laptop and Tech Compartment
The tech compartment on the BAGSMART Blast is one of its strongest features. It opens in a clamshell 180 degree design that lays flat. This makes TSA security checks fast and easy. You do not need to remove your laptop from the bag at most checkpoints.
Inside the compartment, you get a padded laptop sleeve that fits devices up to 17 inches. A separate tablet sleeve sits on the opposite side. Both sleeves use hook and loop fasteners to keep your devices from sliding around.
The padding on the laptop compartment is adequate but not thick. There is no false bottom protection. This means your laptop sits close to the base of the bag. If you drop the bag or set it down hard, your device could feel the impact. Using a separate laptop case inside the sleeve is a smart precaution.
Two mesh pockets sit at the bottom of the tech compartment. These are perfect for chargers, cables, and adapters. They keep small accessories organized and prevent them from scratching your screens.
The clamshell design does take some getting used to. It zips differently than a traditional top loading laptop pocket. But once you learn the opening motion, it becomes second nature. Many travelers report that they prefer this layout after a few uses.
Pocket Layout and Organization
The BAGSMART Blast earns high marks for pocket variety. There are six independent pockets spread across the bag. Each one serves a clear purpose, and none of them feel like an afterthought.
The top dump pocket is your quick access zone. It has a mesh zippered liner on the lid. This is great for sunglasses, earbuds, or a passport. The main area of this pocket can hold a packable rain jacket, snacks, or a small Nintendo Switch.
On the front face, there are two stacked pockets. The horizontal pocket fits your phone, wallet, and a snack bar. The vertical pocket below it is larger and works well for a book, Kindle, or travel documents.
A side pocket opposite the water bottle holder stores flat items like a power bank or small notebook. It offers quick access without opening the main compartment. This is handy during flights or train rides.
The hidden rear pocket sits against the back panel. It stays concealed while the bag is on your back. This is the ideal spot for your passport, cash, or credit cards. Pickpockets cannot reach it without you noticing.
Finally, the shoe compartment opens from the bottom of the bag. It has two drain holes for wet or muddy footwear. This pocket shares space with the main compartment. Loading shoes here reduces your overall packing volume, so plan accordingly.
Comfort and Harness System
Comfort is a mixed bag on the BAGSMART Blast. It performs well for short carries but shows its budget roots on longer hauls. The back panel uses padded foam with aerated mesh. It breathes well in warm weather and keeps sweat buildup to a minimum.
The shoulder straps have a slight ergonomic curve. They use the same padding and aeration as the back panel. Most body types will find them comfortable for carries under two hours. Wider framed individuals may feel the straps are a bit broad for their preference.
A sternum strap sits on a rail and uses elastic material for a flexible fit. It distributes weight across your chest and reduces shoulder strain. The strap is removable if you prefer not to use it. There is no hip belt on this bag. This is a notable omission for travelers who load the bag to full capacity.
The back panel gains more structure when a laptop is inside the bag. Without a laptop, the panel feels a bit soft and flexible. This can lead to items poking into your back if you pack irregular shaped objects near the rear.
One annoying detail is the lack of strap keepers. Excess strap material hangs loose from the shoulder straps. This looks untidy and can snag on things. A pair of rubber bands or velcro strap keepers from a hardware store will fix this issue.
Airline Compatibility and TSA Friendliness
The BAGSMART Blast measures approximately 16.5 x 12.2 x 8.1 inches in its standard 28L configuration. These dimensions fit under most airline personal item and carry on size limits. You can slide it under the seat in front of you on most domestic flights.
The clamshell laptop compartment is a major win for TSA checkpoints. It opens flat like a book. This means you can leave your laptop inside during screening at many airports. The 180 degree opening gives security agents a clear view of your electronics.
A luggage pass through on the back panel lets you slide the bag over the handle of a rolling suitcase. This is useful if you travel with both a carry on roller and a personal item. The pass through keeps the bag upright and stable while you move through terminals.
The top and side handles make overhead bin loading simple. They are not heavily padded. But they give you enough grip to lift the bag without straining. The side handle is especially useful for pulling the bag out of tight bin spaces.
When expanded to 38L, the bag may exceed personal item limits on some budget airlines like Spirit or Frontier. Stick with the standard 28L configuration for strict size requirements. The expanded version still fits most major airline carry on limits from United, Delta, and American.
Water Resistance and Weather Protection
The BAGSMART Blast uses a coated nylon shell that offers solid water resistance. Light rain, drizzle, and accidental splashes will bead right off the surface. Your gear stays dry during brief exposure to wet conditions.
This is not a waterproof bag though. Heavy, prolonged rain will eventually seep through the seams and zippers. The zippers do not have weather sealed flaps or aqua guard coatings. If you travel to rainy destinations often, a packable rain cover is a smart addition to your kit.
The shoe compartment drain holes are a thoughtful design detail. Wet shoes or damp gear can air out through these openings. This prevents moisture from building up inside the main compartment and keeps odors under control.
The fabric has shown no signs of delamination after several weeks of regular use. The coating remains intact and continues to repel water at the same rate as day one. This suggests the water resistance should hold up for at least a year or two of normal travel use.
For most travelers, the water resistance level on the BAGSMART Blast is sufficient. You can walk through a light shower to your hotel without worrying about your electronics. Just avoid leaving it exposed in heavy rain for extended periods.
Daily Use vs Travel Use
The BAGSMART Blast works surprisingly well as a daily carry bag. At 28 liters, it holds a laptop, lunch, water bottle, and a few personal items without looking oversized. The clean exterior design blends into office and campus settings.
For commuting, the quick access pockets are a standout feature. You can grab your transit card, phone, or earbuds without opening the main compartment. The hidden back pocket keeps your wallet secure during crowded subway rides.
As a travel bag, the Blast shows its true strengths. The duffel style opening makes packing and unpacking at hotels fast. The shoe compartment keeps dirty footwear away from your clothes. The laptop clamshell design speeds up airport security.
One area where travel use falls short is long distance carries. Without a hip belt, the full 38L expanded version becomes uncomfortable after about 30 minutes of walking. The weight sits entirely on your shoulders. Budget travelers who walk a lot between hostels may want a bag with better load distribution.
For weekend getaways and short business trips, the Blast hits the sweet spot. It carries two to three days of clothing plus tech gear without feeling stuffed. The expansion option gives you breathing room for souvenirs on the return trip.
Durability: How Long Will It Last?
The BAGSMART Blast will not last a lifetime. Let me be upfront about that. This is a budget bag, and it uses budget materials. But that does not mean it will fall apart after a few trips.
After multiple weeks of consistent testing, the bag shows no major signs of wear. The fabric is intact with no tears or abrasion marks. The stitching remains tight across all stress points. The zippers still function smoothly despite their rough texture.
The buckles and adjusters continue to snap and hold firmly. These hardware components feel like they could last several years with normal use. The compression straps show no signs of fraying at the attachment points.
The most vulnerable area is the bottom of the bag. Setting it down on rough surfaces repeatedly will eventually wear through the nylon coating. Using the bag on clean floors and in overhead bins extends its life. Avoid dragging it across concrete or gravel.
For occasional travelers who fly two to four times per year, the BAGSMART Blast should last three to five years. For frequent travelers who use the bag weekly, expect one to two years of solid performance. Either way, the sub $80 price makes replacement painless.
Value for Money: Is the BAGSMART Blast Worth It?
The BAGSMART Blast delivers outstanding value for its price point. At under $80, you get a feature set that rivals bags in the $150 to $200 range. Multiple compartments, a clamshell laptop sleeve, expansion capability, and water resistance are all included.
Compare this to the Osprey Farpoint 40, which costs around $200. The Osprey wins on comfort, durability, and brand reputation. But the Blast offers better pocket organization and a lower weight at less than half the price.
Against the MATEIN Carry On 40L at roughly $40, the Blast justifies its higher cost with better materials and smarter design. The pocket layout on the Blast is more thoughtful. The clamshell tech compartment is a genuine upgrade over the MATEIN’s traditional laptop sleeve.
Who should buy this bag? Budget conscious travelers who want solid organization. Students planning study abroad trips. Anyone who needs a versatile bag for both daily use and occasional travel. First time one bag travelers who do not want to invest $200 before knowing if the lifestyle suits them.
Who should skip this bag? Travelers who need maximum comfort for long carries. Anyone who requires a bombproof bag that lasts a decade. Ultralight enthusiasts who count every ounce and want premium materials.
Pros and Cons Summary
The BAGSMART Blast Travel Backpack has clear strengths and honest weaknesses. Here is what stands out on both sides.
The pros are significant. The pocket organization is excellent for a budget bag. Six independent compartments keep your gear sorted without packing cubes. The clamshell laptop sleeve speeds up TSA screening. The expandable design gives you flexibility between 28L and 38L. Water resistance handles light rain without issue. The sub $80 price is hard to argue with.
The cons are real but manageable. The zippers feel rough and lack brand name quality. There is no hip belt for heavy load distribution. The expanded version loses structural rigidity. No strap keepers means excess material hangs loose. The laptop sleeve lacks a false bottom for impact protection. The bag will not last as long as premium alternatives.
The overall verdict leans positive. The BAGSMART Blast does more things right than wrong. Its weaknesses are typical for the price range. Its strengths exceed what most travelers expect from a sub $80 bag. If you set your expectations at “really good for the money,” this bag will exceed them.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the BAGSMART Blast Travel Backpack?
The BAGSMART Blast Travel Backpack is one of the best budget carry on bags available right now. It delivers smart organization, airline friendly dimensions, and genuine versatility for under $80.
This bag is not perfect. The zippers could be smoother. The expanded version could be more rigid. A hip belt would improve comfort. But every shortcoming is understandable at this price point.
If you need a reliable travel companion for weekend trips, business travel, or daily commuting, the Blast is a smart buy. It offers features that many $200 bags include, at a fraction of the cost. For first time one bag travelers or budget conscious adventurers, it is one of the easiest recommendations I can make.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the BAGSMART Blast Travel Backpack carry on approved?
Yes. The standard 28L version measures approximately 16.5 x 12.2 x 8.1 inches. This fits within carry on and personal item size limits for most major airlines including Delta, United, and American. The expanded 38L version may exceed personal item limits on budget carriers like Spirit and Frontier.
Does the BAGSMART Blast fit under an airplane seat?
The 28L standard version fits under most airplane seats. It slides in comfortably on domestic and international flights. The 38L expanded version is tighter and may not fit under seats on smaller regional aircraft.
Can you use the BAGSMART Blast as an everyday backpack?
Absolutely. The 28L size works well for daily commuting, school, and office use. The quick access pockets make it easy to grab your phone, wallet, or transit card on the go. The clean design does not look out of place in professional settings.
Is the BAGSMART Blast waterproof?
No. It is water resistant but not waterproof. The coated nylon exterior repels light rain and splashes. Heavy or prolonged rain will eventually seep through the seams and zippers. A packable rain cover is recommended for rainy climates.
How does the BAGSMART Blast compare to the Osprey Farpoint 40?
The Osprey Farpoint 40 is a premium bag that costs about $200. It offers superior comfort with a hip belt, adjustable torso, and internal frame. The BAGSMART Blast offers better pocket organization at less than half the price. Choose the Osprey for comfort and durability. Choose the Blast for value and organization.
What laptop size fits in the BAGSMART Blast?
The padded laptop sleeve fits devices up to 17 inches. A separate tablet sleeve is also included. Both sleeves use hook and loop fasteners to secure your devices. Using a separate laptop case inside the sleeve adds extra impact protection.
