Antler’s new Discovery collection features a backpack/cabin case hybrid that’s both lightweight and roomy, and makes travel far easier
For years, I’ve been loyal to my trusty four-wheel suitcase; it’s reliable, sturdy and easy to use. However, after seeing and testing out Antler’s new Discovery 45L Backpack, I’m officially converted.
Designed as a hybrid between a backpack and a cabin case, this clever new launch makes travelling easier, lighter and way more flexible. It’s the ideal purchase for those who want the space and size of a suitcase, without the hassle of wheeling one around.
Whether you’re running for your flight through the airport, hopping on a train or even just on your morning commute, this lightweight backpack is a game-changer.
It’s practical without feeling too bulky, sleek and smart-looking enough to carry around on a city break, and durable enough for an outdoorsy holiday. Essentially, it’s a bag that does it all, and I can see it becoming my go-to for everything from weekends away to long-haul travel.
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The backpack features fully adjustable straps and a supportive chest strap, ensuring the bag feels extra secure and helping even out the weight off your lower back. At £160, it’s on the pricier side for a backpack, but given that it essentially doubles up as a cabin suitcase and a backpack, I think the price is pretty fair.
Alongside the roomy interior (that opens up like a suitcase), it has a few clever extras, such as a large front pocket, quick-access side pockets, and hidden compartments for strap storage.
It’s fairly large, measuring 55 x 35 x 24 cm, which is the right size to fit the requirements of a paid cabin suitcase on airlines such as Jet2 and British Airways. However, it could easily work as a commuter backpack thanks to the padded laptop sleeve that fits extra-large laptops.
Thanks to the water-repellent, durable fabric, this backpack feels made for adventure holidays and outdoorsy trips. I’ve got a visit to the New Forest and Lake District coming up, and I can already tell this bag will be perfect for it. However, I can also see myself ditching my suitcase for this backpack altogether, even on longer trips.
In August, I travelled to Indonesia and Singapore with just a small backpack and a cabin suitcase. The suitcase ended up being more of a hassle than help. The carpeted terminals in Singapore made dragging it around almost impossible, and with short layovers, I needed to move quickly, which the suitcase definitely slowed down.
Of course, there will be times when a backpack won’t always cut it, and for those who struggle to carry around weight or need extra back support, it may not be the right choice.
However, this new Antler backpack feels like the solution to my suitcase struggles: lightweight, practical, and made for those on the go.
If you’re after some more affordable alternatives, the Large Roadseeker Backpack from Samsonite, priced at £105, offers similar space to a suitcase and the hands-free movement of a backpack.
Decathlon has currently slashed the price of the Quechua Backpack NH500 23 L Escape Roll-top to £34.99. This is ideal for those looking for a smaller option.