Unpopular opinion: Journey backpacks are simply as necessary as your carry-on. Hear me out. For these of us who hate checking a bag, a strategically packed private merchandise can imply the distinction between bringing that further pair of footwear in your baggage or having to make the most of that area on your laptop computer and chargers as a result of they don’t slot in your purse.
So, I requested the workforce behind buzzy baggage model Monos to ship me their coveted Metro Backpack to see if the viral bag lived as much as the hype. After carting it across the West Coast on a number of journeys (and every day in my regular life), I can say with confidence that this can be my journey backpack for years to return, and I’ve by no means felt so trendy in transit.
Monos Metro Backpack value: $200
How I take advantage of the Monos Metro Backpack

Inside, the Monos Metro Backpack has a number of pouches and a fleece-lined sleeve.
Kristin ScharkeyThe Metro Backpack is fabricated from a “waterproof nylon twill” that’s accented with vegan leather-based; I’ve taken it out within the rain and it nonetheless seems to be simply as modern. The bag comes with what the Monos workforce calls its “QuickSnap Modular Equipment System,” which actually simply means the entrance pocket could be indifferent as a separate pouch. This smaller bag has passport-size pockets and a zippered part that make it excellent for quick-grab necessities like your cellphone, chargers, pockets, et cetera. Nonetheless, it will probably additionally operate as a small cosmetics bag after which be packed proper into the backpack.

The Monos Metro Basic Equipment has pouches which can be excellent for small journey necessities like your passport.
Kristin ScharkeyI usually pack two laptops into the Metro because of an outer sleeve that zips up individually in addition to a sturdy inside lined with felt. One other cool function could be discovered inside: The complete entrance lining is one other zippered pocket that the Monos workforce made with “waterproof cloth for health club garments or a moist rain jacket.” For the needs of this text, I deliberately spilled water from the within and located completely no leaks; this can be a good spot for a water bottle or the aforementioned soiled garments.

You’ll be able to see the spill-proof zippered pouch contained in the Monos Metro Backpack.
Kristin ScharkeyMonos Metro Backpack dimensions
The Monos Metro Backpack is obtainable in 4 nylon colours and three vegan leather-based hues together with ivory, saddle tan and mahogany. Not all are presently out there, with three shades requiring a preorder.
Right here’s how the Metro Backpack measures up:
- Measurements: 11.5 x 16.5 x 6 inches
- Weight: 2.4 kilos (nylon); 3 kilos (leather-based)
- Capability: 18 liters

The Monos Metro Basic Equipment detaches by way of a simple pull-and-snap system.
Kristin ScharkeyThe Metro Backpack options:
- Both a nylon or vegan leather-based end that’s water- and scratch-resistant
- An outer, zippered laptop computer compartment
- An outer, buttoned compartment for smaller necessities like a passport or cellphone
- An inside fleece-lined sleeve
- Two inside pockets, together with one fabricated from waterproof cloth, and a zippered pouch
- A carrying deal with and adjustable shoulder straps
- A trolley sleeve on the backpack that slides proper onto a suitcase deal with
- Detachable Metro Basic Equipment with one zippered pouch and two pockets
Monos Metro Backpack evaluation

The Monos Metro Backpack slides simply onto your carry-on or checked baggage deal with.
Kristin ScharkeyThe mark of journey bag is versatility, in my view. And the Monos Metro Backpack boasts that in spades. Pair the wide selection of performance with ample area designed for various work and journey necessities? That’s what makes this bag a winner. On a current journey, I used to be in a position to snugly match two binders, one pocket book, one hefty ebook and my Larq water bottle contained in the Metro, plus my pockets, Airpods, mint tin and extra within the Metro Basic Equipment.
Execs
- Two sturdy sleeves for laptops
- The detachable package makes for versatile packing
- Waterproof fabric-lined inside pocket for stress-free water bottle use
- Slides proper onto your rolling baggage deal with
- Modern, fashionable look
The perfect factor in regards to the Monos Metro Backpack is the neatly crafted compartments for various makes use of, from the felt-lined sleeve for a second laptop computer to the waterproof lining of 1 zippered pocket for soiled garments, snacks, cosmetics you’re afraid might burst, or a water bottle. The detachable Metro Basic Equipment is like icing on the cake, particularly for overpackers.
Cons
I really couldn’t give you extra downsides past the $200 price ticket of this backpack. It’s positively dearer than rivals, together with Away’s $165 backpack and July’s $175 Carry All.
Is Monos well worth the value?

The removable package will also be packed contained in the Monos Metro Backpack.
Kristin ScharkeySure. Regardless of carrying the next price ticket than comparable manufacturers, I personally discover the Monos backpack extra enticing. Plus, it backs up the aesthetics with an organizational bang on your buck. There’s a spot for every part within the Monos Metro Backpack, which makes it a worthy funding for years to return.
On the lookout for extra Monos baggage critiques? Try the remainder of our protection under:
— Why overpackers can go for the smaller Monos check-in suitcase
— It’s what on the within of the Monos carry-on that counts
— The perfect carry-on baggage of 2023, examined and reviewed