this post was submitted on 18 Feb 2026
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Buy it for Life

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My cheap no-name Chinese backpack is finally falling apart, after over 20 years of absolutely solid service.

I want something that will last at least another 20 years, will hold a modern 16" laptop (e.g. Macbook), and will also let me toss a pair of jeans and light jacket in, when I ride home from work in the spring and fall afternoons.

I'd like to avoid American brands if possible.

Looked online at the SwissGear 5698 and Endure, but don't know how well they're built, or if they'll hold my junk.

Any recommendations?

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[–] ClownStatue@piefed.social 3 points 3 days ago (1 children)

The Wenger Swiss Gear backpacks are tanks. I’ve had 3 over the past 20-ish years. If you buy them from the company website, or Amazon I think, they come with a 10-year warranty. I can’t remember the model I have, but I don’t think they make it anymore. I see someone else with one every time I fly somewhere for work. Very popular among road warriors.

[–] Bane_Killgrind@lemmy.dbzer0.com 1 points 2 days ago (1 children)

I also buy swissgear, but my use is light enough that my latest one is basically mint condition going on 7 or 8 years I think. It holds my laptop/overnight stuff, so just holidays and the odd camp trip

[–] ClownStatue@piefed.social 2 points 2 days ago

Mine is basically my office. I think the heaviest I’ve had it was close to 40 lbs! It’s usually around 30 lbs when I’m traveling for work.