Side by side
Patagonia Black Hole 32L vs REI Trail 25
Patagonia Black Hole 32L
45 positive (90%) · 5 mixed (10%) · 0 negative (0%)
Trust + time weighted: +91%
AI summary — not a quote
The Patagonia Black Hole 32L is highly regarded in the one-bag travel community as a lightweight, high-volume option specifically suited for strict airline weight limits. Users frequently praise its 760g weight and versatility, noting it functions well as both a travel pack and a hiking or day bag. While it lacks the complex internal organization of dedicated travel backpacks, its simplicity is often viewed as a benefit by those who use packing cubes.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight (approximately 760g) for its 32L capacity
- Excellent volume-to-weight ratio, ideal for 7kg airline limits
- Versatile design that works for hiking and daily use without looking like a travel pack
- Comfortable carry features including a sternum strap and water bottle pockets
Cons
- Top-loading design is a dealbreaker for users who prefer clamshell or full-opening access
- Minimal internal organization compared to specialized travel backpacks
- Requires the use of packing cubes for effective gear management
Top excerpts
OP is looking for a bag to fit tight 7kg carry on limits and can easily get 32L for much less weight by spending more to get a black hole 32. But the BH32 lacks a lot of organizational features and doesn't fully unzip which many people will not like
If I was buying exclusively for a SEA trip I'd probably pick a Patagonia black hole 25 or 32 depending on my packing list.
I recommend the Patagonia Black Hole 32 as an overhead bag. It’s only 760g and I find it more comfortable.
A Patagonia Black Hole 32 is only 60g heavier (760g vs 700g) and I bought mine “new without the tags” off my local Facebook Marketplace for $100.
I have used the Patagonia Black Hole 32 in that niche and will probably stick with it: it works and it’s paid for 😎
REI Trail 25
15 positive (88%) · 2 mixed (12%) · 0 negative (0%)
Trust + time weighted: +90%
Top excerpts
The REI Trail 25 is a favorite of mine.
If you don’t need a laptop sleeve, the REI Trail 25 is similar and 18”x13”x8”.
I have an REI Trail 25 that is 18”x13”x8” vs the CZ36 at 17.7”x12.2”x7.9” I use that as my under seat maximum. It has a fair amount of top to bottom taper so it might not pack as much. It does have a plastic frame sheet, sternum strap, waist belt, rain cover and daisy chains.
The REI Trail 25 is one of my favorites, but it has typical mesh water bottle pockets. At 18”x13”x8” it will fit under a seat.
REI Trail 25 or Commuter 22, Patagonia Black Hole 32.