REVIEWED: Osprey Cyber Port 18L daysack
Super-compact daysack for digital nomads with a unique tablet window
If you’re travelling with tech, it’s easy to be fooled into thinking that it’s all about protection. Gadgets need a layer of foam a zipped compartment, sure, but wrapping them up and hiding them away makes them pretty dormant, too. Step forward the Osprey Cyber Port, which makes it possible to use a tablet while it’s still in its dedicated storage pocket.
Transparent design
That ‘Port’ window is revealed after unzipping the front flap of the Osprey Cyber Port, with a toggle provided to hook it back out of the way (something that covers and encloses the shoulder straps). That pocket itself is good for a 10-inch tablet, though it’s designed in such a way that an iPad Mini sits in the correct position, too.
Paperless travel?
This novel design has its origins in bags designed for bike couriers, but here the ability to use a tablet – perhaps for consulting a map, a itinerary, calendar or check-in details (does anyone still travel with paper?) on an iPad – is a unique idea.
Super-compact
Weighing about 750g and measuring 450x300x200mm (well within the EU maximum carry-on luggage size), the Osprey Cyber Port isn’t the lightest daysack around, but it’s one of the most compact. Almost completely flat when empty – and with no expansion options (sadly) – its main compartment can store a laptop (measuring a maximum size of 340x228x25mm at the back. There’s a nice Velcro strap to hold it in place.
Interior pockets
On the exterior of that pocket is a second tablet-sized pocket as well as two netting pockets, possibly designed for smartphones, one of which contains a short red clip to attach your house keys (always a welcome feature in a rucksack, whatever its size.
Too many pockets?
Also on that panel are two pen slots and three tiny USB stick-sized pockets, which are less than necessary and clutter-up an otherwise pretty sleek appearance.
Top pocket
However, the highlight is probably the increasingly popular easy access pocket on the to, a Kindle-sized area that can take a smartphone, and perhaps a pair of sunglasses, too. It’s actually larger than most such pockets, and it’s lined with scratch-free fabric that has a mottled look.
Performance
A die-cut foam back panel and some slim, yet strong, neoprene-backed shoulder straps prove comfortable to wear, with that all-important chest strap for cycling included, too. All zips are water-resistant design and sport silicon loops ideal for hanging a pair of sunglasses on.
Tough stuff
With a tough though cleverly compact build quality and an attention to detail,the Osprey Cyber Port makes a great daysack for those travelling with tech.