The Eddie Bauer Stowaway Backpack is a compact, 20L pack built from ripstop polyester with a DWR finish, designed for travelers and day hikers. It folds into a small parcel, offers extended shoulder straps, a modest hip belt, and measures approximately 18″ tall by 11″ wide when expanded. What are the trade-offs between its lightweight packability and limited load-carrying capacity, and how well does it perform on longer outings?
Key Takeaways
- Lightweight 20L pack that folds into its own pocket for easy travel and storage.
- Ripstop polyester with StormRepel WR sheds light rain and resists abrasion.
- Extended shoulder straps and modest hip belt provide decent comfort for 10–15 lb loads.
- Minimal padding and structure limit long-haul comfort and organization.
- Good choice as a durable, packable daypack for commuting, travel, and short hikes.
Design and Build Quality
Although compact at first glance, the Stowaway’s design balances lightweight portability with purposeful construction.
The reviewer notes ripstop polyester, StormRepel WR finish, and reinforced stitching, yielding a 20L capacity: open 18 x 10 x 9 inches, stowed 8.5 x 7 x 1.5 inches.
Ripstop polyester, StormRepel WR, and reinforced stitching deliver a 20L pack—18×10×9 open, 8.5×7×1.5 stowed.
How durable is it? Ripstop resists tears; coated fabric sheds light moisture.
What about hardware? Zippers and webbing feel substantial; attachment points are minimal but functional.
Practical considerations: carries daily essentials, packs into its own pocket, weighs little for travel.
Assessment: well-built for casual hiking, commuting, and short trips, given expected trade-offs for ultralight packs.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort and Fit centers on how the Stowaway wears during real-world use: extended-length shoulder straps and a modest hip belt aim to distribute load across the torso, while the pack’s light structure keeps overall weight low.
The reviewer notes fit for users 5’2″–6’2″, with straps extending ~24 inches; hip belt adds stability for 10–15 lb loads.
Questions addressed: Is it comfortable for day trips? Yes, under moderate loads; longer treks may expose padding limits.
- Strap length: ~24″ extended, adjustable.
- Hip belt: slim, stabilizes 10–15 lb.
- Back panel: minimal padding, ventilated feel.
Packability and Performance
When packed down, the Stowaway folds into a compact parcel that’s designed for true grab-and-go convenience, making it easy to stash in luggage or a larger daypack.
The pack expands to 18 x 10 x 9 inches, yielding about 20L capacity; stowed size is 8.5 x 7 x 1.5 inches.
Expands to 18 x 10 x 9 inches for roughly 20L of carry; packs down to 8.5 x 7 x 1.5 inches.
How durable is it? Ripstop polyester with StormRepel WR resists light rain and abrasion.
Who is it for? Travelers, commuters, hikers needing a lightweight backup.
Pros: lightweight, compressible, water-shedding.
Cons: limited structure, modest organization.
Practical note: pack heavier items low to preserve balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Fabric Ethically Sourced or Bluesign® Certified?
No; the fabric’s bluesign® certification or specific ethical sourcing isn’t indicated. The reviewer notes Eddie Bauer’s broader sustainability commitments, but this pack’s ripstop polyester certification and supply‑chain details aren’t specified.
Does It Include a Laptop Sleeve or Padded Compartment?
Like a pocketed map folded into a jacket, it does not include a dedicated laptop sleeve or padded compartment; the Stowaway Packable Backpack offers general internal space only, relying on external protection or a separate sleeve for electronics.
Are Replacement Parts or Repairs Available From Eddie Bauer?
Yes; Eddie Bauer offers repairs and replacement parts through its customer service and warranty programs. The company facilitates returns, repairs, and limited replacements depending on damage, purchase proof, and warranty terms—customers should contact support for specifics.
How Does the Backpack Hold up to Long-Term Color Fading?
Testing suggests the backpack resists long-term color fading reasonably well; UV and repeated washing gradually lighten Onyx, but StormRepel finish and ripstop polyester slow deterioration, preserving appearance longer than typical untreated nylon.
Is There a Lifetime Warranty or Satisfaction Guarantee?
Yes; Eddie Bauer typically offers a lifetime warranty and satisfaction guarantee on its gear. The Stowaway Packable Backpack is generally covered, with claims handled through Eddie Bauer customer service subject to proof of purchase and warranty terms.
Conclusion
To summarize, the Eddie Bauer Stowaway Backpack performs as promised: 20 L capacity, ripstop polyester with a water-repellent finish, and a folded parcel size that fits into a jacket pocket. One reviewer compared packing it to folding a paper map—compact, reliable, instantly deployable—illustrating its packability. Who should buy it? Travelers and casual hikers seeking lightweight daily utility, extended straps, and a modest hip belt; note the 5’2″–6’2″ fit range and practical weather resistance.
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