Review: Able Carry Daily Plus
In a crowded EDC backpack world, the Able Carry Plus stands out. I grabbed the olive green version of the pack. I like the look of it. It is minimalist in its outside design but sleek and modern inside. But is that it? Nope.
Trust me. You’ll appreciate it even more the more often you use it for your daily adventures. This bag is packed with something instead of fancy, unnecessary features. It is engineered to deliver top-notch performance – to carry and organize travel gear, EDC items, and accessories like a pro should.
If you’re researching the right EDC backpack that combines function, durability… and style, the Able Carry Daily Plus might be for you! Let us review it and later determine if it’s worth your attention.
Aesthetics and Design
The Able Carry Daily Plus makes a statement besides carrying my stuff in style. I find its modern and sleek silhouette plain but enough to blend in different environments. Whether hiking on the weekends or commuting to work, it fits well wherever…subtly without a bunch of flair.
The A-frame design also ensures the pack retains its shape (i’d say it does a really good job at this)—wide at the bottom and narrower at the top. I also like its X-pac fabric, which makes it more durable while giving it a distinct look and texture.
Overall, I can say that its feel and look won’t suit everyone. However, if you’re into the brand’s bold and original aesthetics, this bag will deliver more than you expect. It’s a highly functional EDC backpack that’s a pleasure to carry around.
Build Quality
Regarding build quality, the Daily Plus is up there with the best. Everything about this bag—from the YKK zippers to the durable hardware—is top-notch.
The materials inside and out are first-class, ensuring that this bag can withstand whatever you throw at it. Amazingly, it also stands on its own, keeping its shape (and your tech organized), and has strategically positioned pockets for easy access.
The zippers glide smoothly and are protected from the elements, so you won’t have to worry about your gear getting wet in a surprise rain shower.
At around $210, this bag competes easily with higher-end brands like Aer, Bellroy, and Goruck, offering a similar level of quality at a more accessible price point.
Functionality
Now, function. How is it? I must say, it’s not just good-looking but also functional and practical. First, it is made with X-pac X42 fabric—a lightweight, water-resistant, and “crinkly” to the touch fabric that gives the bag a distinct feel and texture.
Features such as multiple latch points (also on all four corners) and the hidden AirTag pocket (with the back frame sheet) add to this pack’s uniqueness.
It is also designed with a secure quick-access pocket on the back top. I must say, it’s ideal for essentials, such as a wallet or phone. And because it sits against the wearer’s back, it will keep them safe from pickpockets.
But then, it is small and flat, so there is not much room in there. (I don’t suggest putting your sunglasses in this pocket, for it might break.)
One feature I particularly appreciate is the removable frame sheet, which can be accessed via a hidden zipper. If you want to reduce weight and bulk, simply remove it, and you’ll still have plenty of padding to keep your gear safe and your back comfortable.
The bag also holds a 16” laptop with a false bottom to protect against drops, and the water-resistant zippers on the main compartment offer added protection for your tech.
When in use, its water bottle pocket can share space with the main compartment. You can fit most 1L bottles into it, but note – it is not fully waterproof, so leakage is possible. Be really mindful of how you pack. Check out this EDC backpack essentials checklist for a guide.
This bag also features angled pockets or zippers, which would work if slung over your right shoulder. I just wish the chest strap could be tucked away. It’s magnetic and sometimes doesn’t hold.
Comfort
If you pack a backpack to the gills, one main concern you’d have is weight distribution. It’s good that this one has padded straps to help with even weight distribution. I also find the plenty of back padding really useful, making the bag feel less of a burden when I am wearing it fully loaded.
Finally, its padded shoulder straps and breathable back panel add comfort during long commutes and fieldwork. I recommend this bag if you want a versatile, functional, stylish, and well-designed backpack for everyday carry.
Overall, this Able Carry should keep you comfortable for a whole day of fieldwork or commute.
Organization and Access
The well-thought-out organization is another plus for me. Inside the main compartment, you’ll find dedicated pockets for your laptop, tablet, and phone and smaller mesh pockets for accessories. The front pocket has inner pockets that keep items from accumulating at the bottom, which is a nice touch for those who like to stay organized.
Space and Access
The water bottle pocket can be accessed with its external zipper. While some might not like that it eats into internal storage, smart packing can mitigate this impact.
Plus, the pocket takes up no space if you don’t carry a water bottle. It also keeps the water bottle more secure and helps avoid its unintentional drops.
This bag also has plenty of space to organize your EDC and travel items, allowing you to add pouches and kits depending on your organizational needs.
It also has an interior zippered pocket, just the ideal size for a few cables and a charger. You can also use it for something else or nothing, and it won’t take up space.
Although this pocket doesn’t have its volume, it allows for additional space when I need to fit in a few smaller items. What’s best is that it still does not feel and look bulky.
However, if you already have a tech pouch, you better use it to pack different cables, adapters, and multiple chargers. Overall, what’s truly impressive is how well the bag maintains its shape and functionality even when you need to carry heavy for the day.
Unique Features
The A-frame design, unique shape, and modern, sleek look set the Able Carry Daily Plus apart from the competition. This aesthetic and functional design makes it a solid choice for those who love versatility and a wide range of uses.
Specs
- Capacity: 21L
- Fits 16-inch laptop
- Zippers: YKK RC Zippers
- Weight: 2.6 lb (1.2 kg)
- Dimensions: 19.3 in x 11.4 in x 7.5 in (49 x 29 x 19.1 cm)
- Duraflex POM hardware
- Nylon Webbing
- Olive Green: X-Pac X42; Black: X-Pac VX21
- Hypalon (available on Daily Deep Black) is a lightweight, durable, synthetic rubber resistant to extreme conditions. It contributes to this bag’s overall waterproof properties.
Brand (warranty, support, etc.)
Able Carry Bags come with a warranty, covering workmanship defects to their products for life. However, user damage and normal wear and tear are not covered. Users can quickly contact their customer service at support@ablecarry.com.
Value
At $210, the Able Carry Daily Plus offers tremendous value. Its build quality rivals that of more expensive brands, and its thoughtful design ensures it’s not just another pretty face in the EDC world. Whether you’re looking for a daily commuter bag or something to take on your next adventure, the Daily Plus is an excellent choice.
Final Thoughts
Able Carry Plus delivers style, comfort, and functionality. It’s tough enough to handle daily wear and tear while keeping your gear organized and protected. It has sufficient space for essentials, including a padded laptop sleeve to fit 16-inch devices and quick-access pockets, keeping your tech clutter-free.
