Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

B Better Trail Multiple Authors Andrew · reviewer

With the largest carry capacity of any travel pack we’ve tested so far (along with the Peak Design Travel Backpack, in its expanded configuration), the Black Hole provides plenty of space.

U U.N. Luggage Canada U.N. Luggage · reviewer

If your priority is carrying everything you need in one bag while staying within carry-on limits, the MLC 45L remains one of the most proven designs available.

At 5’9”, the 45L also felt massive on my back—great for longer trips, but the 30L is way more manageable for smaller frames or lighter travel. Oh, and the 30L has both a water bottle pocket and a quick-access top pocket. The 45L doesn’t. Want help finding the right backpack for you? I’ve reviewed 50+ and made a free guide packed with tips and recommendations—comment “guide” and I’ll send it over.

V VILANERA Vilanera · reviewer

Two honest trade-offs, both well-documented by owners. First, the laptop sleeve is padded but soft, opens sideways, and sits against a back panel with no rigid frame — reviewers at Pack Hacker and OutdoorGearLab both flag that a fully-stuffed main compartment can press on the screen, so tech-heavy carriers should look at the Thule instead.