I have a habit of overthinking travel bags (and how much I should or shouldn’t pack). Before every trip, I convince myself I need something bigger, smaller, or somehow more optimized for whatever adventure is ahead. Then I end up carrying the same essentials: a camera, water bottle, chargers, a light layer, and a few odds and ends collected throughout the day.
That’s exactly why The James Backpack from Armorgie London surprised me.
I got it before heading on a solo trip to Lisbon, Portugal thinking it would simply serve as a stylish daypack while I explored the city. Instead, it quickly became one of those rare pieces of gear that solves problems without calling attention to itself.
Photos by Adam Szafranski
What struck me first was how much it holds. The James looks compact, but it never feels limiting. Whether I was wandering through Alfama, hopping on a tram, or spending the afternoon café-hopping, it easily carried my camera, water bottle, sunglasses, chargers, and everything else I needed for a full day out.
The organization is equally thoughtful. There are plenty of compartments and zippered pockets to keep things in order, but not so many that you’re constantly searching for where you put something. It manages to stay minimal while still being incredibly functional.
Photos by Adam Szafranski
Comfort was another pleasant surprise. Lisbon is a city best explored on foot, and after long days navigating its steep hills, I appreciated the backpack’s padding more than I expected. Even fully loaded, it remained comfortable and never felt cumbersome.
It also proved itself in transit. One of my favorite details is that it fits perfectly under an airplane seat, keeping everything within easy reach without taking up valuable overhead space.
The bag’s looks didn’t go unnoticed, either. More than once during the trip, strangers stopped to compliment it or ask where it was from.
Photos by Adam Szafranski
Since returning home, The James has become my go-to travel bag. It’s accompanied me on weekend trips, flights across the country, and even regular office days in New York. That’s probably the highest praise I can give it. What started as a backpack for one trip has become the backpack I reach for every time.
