Deuter Trans Alpine 30 review
The Deuter Trans Alpine 30 proved to be a versatile backpack with practical storage, a useful rain cover and comfortable carrying.
We tested the Trans Alpine 30, a cycling backpack that proved useful for much more, thanks to a comfortable carrying system and plenty of practical details.
Designed for mountain biking, the Trans Alpine can serve almost any everyday purpose, one reason it has become popular with users. It has a roomy upper compartment and a useful lower compartment, with a divider that opens to create one larger space. The upper compartment contains two separate pockets: one can hold training clothes, while the other accommodates a three-liter hydration system. A further compartment against the back holds a sitting pad. It comes in handy now and then, provided you remember it is always with you.
There is more storage outside. Alongside the two mesh side pockets, a slim compartment is ideal for a map. A helmet attaches to the outside of the upper compartment, while the lower section can hold and carry a bike light. Each side of the hip belt has a mesh pocket, and another front compartment takes valuables and other small items.
An integrated rain cover underneath the pack proved useful during the wet summer and fall of our test. Its bright color and reflective detailing improve visibility as daylight fades. This is a lot of storage in a relatively compact 30-liter pack, something we appreciated and expect others will too.
After a little adjustment, the pack sat very comfortably. Even with several kilos inside, it was barely noticeable. Deuter calls the carrying and ventilation system Airstripes, and it worked reasonably well. Activity still made us warm and sweaty, but the system helped make exercise more comfortable.
If you need a versatile pack for longer bike rides, easy day trips outdoors or carrying equipment for work, the Trans Alpine 30 deserves a closer look. That was what we wanted before the test, and it was exactly what we got.
- Weight: 1,230 g.
- Capacity: 30 liters.
- Dimensions: 53 × 34 × 24 cm (height × width × depth).
- Recommended retail price at the time: SEK 1,199.
Strengths
- Numerous storage compartments.
- Versatility well beyond cycling.
- Useful rain cover.
- Comfortable carrying system.
Drawbacks
- The hip-belt pocket openings could be larger.
- The pack tends to ride up while cycling until properly adjusted, so take care with the fit.
The original review noted that more photographs would be published later.
