SwissGear Travel Gear ScanSmart Backpack Review: The Perfect Companion for Tech-Savvy Travelers
I’ve gone through my fair share of backpacks over the years, and I’ll be honest – most of them just didn’t cut it for my daily commute and frequent weekend trips. So when I decided to try the SwissGear Travel Gear ScanSmart Backpack, I was cautiously optimistic. After using it for several months, I think I’ve found a keeper. This backpack somehow manages to balance durability, functionality, and comfort in a way that makes me wonder how I ever managed without it.
The ScanSmart technology is genuinely useful (not just marketing hype), the organization is thoughtful, and despite stuffing it to capacity more than a few times, it hasn’t shown signs of giving up on me. Is it perfect? Well, nothing really is, but it comes pretty close for what I need. Let me break down why this might be worth your consideration too.
- Tech Backpack: Pack all your essentials in the 1900 ScanSmart 17-inch laptop backpack specifically designed to speed you through airport security by allowing laptop-in-case scanning
- Secure Storage: This laptop backpack for men and women features an enhanced laptop compartment with zippered access for a 17-inch laptop and a padded TabletSafe tablet pocket
- Effortless Organization: Computer bag includes a main compartment with an accordion file holder and a RFID-protected organizer compartment with a removable key/fob clip and multiple divider pockets
- Multiple Pockets: Add-a-bag trolley strap slides over telescopic handles, 1 front and 2 side quick-access pocket secure essentials, and 2 mesh side pockets accommodate water bottles and umbrellas
- Comfortable To Carry: Lay-flat laptop bag includes ergonomically contoured, padded shoulder straps, adjustable compression straps, airflow back padding, and a reinforced, molded top handle
Built to Last
The first thing that struck me about this SwissGear backpack was how substantial it felt – not heavy, but definitely not flimsy either. The 1200D ballistic polyester fabric has a quality feel that suggests it’s built for the long haul. I’ve accidentally scraped it against brick walls, dropped it on concrete, and even got caught in an unexpected downpour, and it still looks almost new. The fabric isn’t completely waterproof, but it repelled light rain long enough for me to find shelter without anything inside getting damp.
The stitching throughout is exceptionally well-done with no loose threads or weak points that I could find. The zippers – often the first thing to fail on lesser bags – operate smoothly with a satisfying sturdiness. After countless open-close cycles, they haven’t shown any signs of sticking or separating.
I particularly appreciate the padded handle at the top – it’s a small detail perhaps, but it makes grabbing the bag from an overhead compartment or car trunk genuinely comfortable. The overall aesthetic is professional without being boring, making it appropriate for both business settings and casual use.
Smarter Than Average
After using this backpack for my last four trips through airport security, I can confidently say the ScanSmart feature isn’t just a gimmick. The dedicated laptop compartment really does open flat, allowing TSA agents to scan your device without removing it. During my last trip, the agent actually commented on how convenient the design was – a small victory that saved me time and hassle while people behind me were still unpacking their bags.
The main compartment is surprisingly spacious. I managed to fit a weekend’s worth of clothes, my toiletry bag, and a pair of shoes without feeling like I was forcing the zipper closed. The accordion-style document holder has become my go-to spot for keeping travel documents organized and accessible.
Perhaps my favorite feature is the side water bottle pocket – it seems like a standard inclusion until you notice it’s actually elasticized and can expand to hold larger bottles. My 32oz water bottle fits perfectly without that annoying tipping-out issue I’ve experienced with other backpacks.
The mesh padding on the back panel and shoulder straps has made even my longer walks comfortable. I recently carried this fully loaded through Chicago O’Hare for what felt like miles, and while I was exhausted, my shoulders and back weren’t particularly sore. That’s saying something.
Specs at a Glance
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | 1200D Ballistic Polyester |
| Dimensions | Approximately 18.5″ x 13.5″ x 9″ |
| Weight | 3.2 lbs |
| Laptop Compartment | Fits up to 17″ laptops |
| Capacity | Approximately 31 liters |
| Number of Compartments | Multiple (including laptop compartment, main compartment, front organizer pocket, and side pockets) |
| Special Features | ScanSmart lay-flat technology, airflow back panel, side water bottle pockets, sunglasses holder, TabletSafe tablet pocket |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
Pros
- Exceptional durability with quality materials and construction
- TSA-friendly ScanSmart technology actually works and saves time
- Comfortable to carry even when fully loaded thanks to the padded straps and back panel
- Outstanding organization with multiple compartments and pockets
- Fits laptops up to 17 inches with good protection
- Professional appearance suitable for business settings
- Surprisingly water-resistant in light rain
- Sturdy zippers that operate smoothly
- Expandable water bottle pockets that secure larger bottles
Cons
- Slightly heavier than some comparable backpacks
- Can feel bulky when navigating crowded spaces
- The black interior makes finding small items difficult in low light
- No dedicated power bank pocket with cable pass-through
- Water resistance is good but not complete waterproofing
- Price point is higher than basic backpacks (though justified by quality)
- Could use more reflective elements for nighttime visibility
What Users Are Saying
After combing through hundreds of Amazon reviews, the overall sentiment for the SwissGear ScanSmart is overwhelmingly positive, with the backpack maintaining an impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars across thousands of reviews.
One reviewer noted: “I’ve had this backpack for over 3 years now, using it daily for work and travel. It still looks new despite being thrown around, stuffed to capacity, and occasionally rained on. Best bag investment I’ve ever made.”
Another customer highlighted the practical organization: “As someone who carries a laptop, tablet, notebooks, pens, chargers, and everything else for work daily, this backpack is a godsend. Everything has its place, and I can find what I need without digging through a bottomless pit.”
Critical reviews, though few, tend to mention the weight and size as potential downsides. One reviewer commented: “Great backpack with tons of storage, but it’s a bit bulky for my daily commute on packed subway trains. Excellent for travel though.”
Who Should Buy This Backpack?
For Beginners/Casual Users: If you’re just looking for a reliable backpack for occasional use or short trips, the SwissGear ScanSmart might actually be more than you need. However, if you value durability and think you might expand your use over time, it’s a solid investment that will grow with your needs.
For Intermediate Users: Frequent commuters, business travelers, and students will find the perfect balance of features, durability, and organization. This is really where the backpack shines – daily use with technology and moderate travel needs. The ScanSmart feature and thoughtful organization make it ideal for this user group.
For Advanced Users: Digital nomads, frequent flyers, and tech professionals who carry multiple devices will appreciate the robust construction and specialized compartments. While dedicated, ultra-lightweight travel backpacks might offer more specialized features, the versatility of the SwissGear makes it suitable for a wide range of advanced uses beyond just travel.
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Upgrade Your Travel Experience Today!
After months of testing and thousands of miles traveled, I’m convinced this might be one of the best all-around laptop backpacks on the market for the price. If you’re tired of replacing cheaper bags or struggling with inadequate organization, the SwissGear ScanSmart represents a worthwhile investment in your daily comfort and efficiency.
- Tech Backpack: Pack all your essentials in the 1900 ScanSmart 17-inch laptop backpack specifically designed to speed you through airport security by allowing laptop-in-case scanning
- Secure Storage: This laptop backpack for men and women features an enhanced laptop compartment with zippered access for a 17-inch laptop and a padded TabletSafe tablet pocket
- Effortless Organization: Computer bag includes a main compartment with an accordion file holder and a RFID-protected organizer compartment with a removable key/fob clip and multiple divider pockets
- Multiple Pockets: Add-a-bag trolley strap slides over telescopic handles, 1 front and 2 side quick-access pocket secure essentials, and 2 mesh side pockets accommodate water bottles and umbrellas
- Comfortable To Carry: Lay-flat laptop bag includes ergonomically contoured, padded shoulder straps, adjustable compression straps, airflow back padding, and a reinforced, molded top handle