NITECORE BP18: REVIEW
FOREWORD
I have to say, I have not heard of Nitecore prior to receiving an email offering me to try out BP18 - their compact, crossover bag that definitely has military DNA and interesting carry modes. The bag itself was created as a collaboration between the indie bag designed Lii Gear and Nitecore and boasted some interesting features so finally I said “yes” and here’s my take on the bag.
Read on to find out.
WHO IT SUITS
Anyone looking for a compact commuter pack to carry the essentials
Those who like the Goruck Bullet but looking for something less expensive
WHO IT DOESN’T
Those spoiled with Goruck Bullet might find the quality and durability of the BP18 lacking
Anyone allergic to tactical/military gear will probably not dig the bag
If the safety of your laptop is the main concern the lack of suspension in the laptop compartment will probably disappoint
ABOUT THE BAG
PRICE: $89
WEIGHT: 710 g (1.6 lbs)
DIMENSIONS: 16cm(L) x 24cm(W) x 47cm(H)/ 6.3"(L) x 9.4"(W) x 18.5"(H)
CAPACITY: 18L / 1098 cu in
DESIGN & FEATURES
At first glance, BP18 looks very similar to Goruck Bullet 15L but upon closer inspection, it will become crystal clear this is a very different bag.
The unique feature of the bag is the ability to transform from a backpack to a sling bag thanks to the special quick-release buckles used on the straps. In theory, it’s great but the lack of the stabilizer strap in the sling mode, as well as a dangling bit on the bottom for the unclipped strap, is strange.
The way the access to the main compartment is implemented is great. You can either get into the bag from the top (this is where I normally go to grab my Macbook Air) or rip open the front panel - works like a charm, just be mindful of the velcro that secures the front panel at the top in case you have sleeping babies around :)
Another cool thing that overlaps both design and features is the unique “fishbone” carry system - basically the back panel that is made from raised up the mesh that does resemble fishbone a bit. It’s an interesting design that is meant to take the air ventilation to the next level. I had no issues with breathability wearing this bag on the hot August days in Turkey.
If you like personalizing your bag you will appreciate the abundance of morale patch fields all over the bag as well as a generous amount of pals webbing to attach additional accessories/pouches.
COMFORT
The comfort is a mixed bag, pardon the pun.
In the backpack mode, I found the straps to be comfortable, decently padded, and wide enough (however, I wouldn’t mind them being a tad wider)
The sling mode felt strange and I never felt it was comfortable enough to carry BP18 as a sling over extended periods of time. I tried it out multiple times, was not in love, and opted for the backpack mode.
I have to commend the “fishbone” back panel which looked cool, performed well, and overall was good for breathability regardless of the carry mode you choose.
MATERIALS & ORGANIZATION
The main material used on the BP18 is 500d nylon. It is light and contributes greatly to how slim and nimble the bag is.
The hardware is industry-standard YKK zippers as well as durable and reliable Duraflex buckles. Overall the materials are totally fine as long as you are not spoiled by some of the best options on the market.
The organization is thoughtful and effective.
Externally:
Quick access pocket on top of the bag. Definitely not large but great to throw a spare mask or sanitizer
2 side pockets on the outside
The laptop compartment accessed from the top
To complement simple external organization, Inside the bag there is a very simple layout that consists of:
2 side pockets that sit flush when empty
a laptop compartment that fits up to a 14’ laptop
If by any chance you don’t find the built-in organization sufficient for your needs - you can attach a bunch of other organization options by taking advantage of the generous amount of pals webbing on the outside as well as the velcro panel inside the bag ( behind the front flap).
WHAT’S HOT
Decent quality, good comfort while not breaking the bank
Multiple ways to access the main compartment with the dedicated opening for the laptop
High level of personalization with velcro panels on the front and the sides of the bag
The zippers are silky smooth and effortless to operate making it very easy to open any compartment at any time
Light and nimble, great when for minimal carry
WHAT’S NOT
When packed heavy, not comfortable in the sling mode.
Lack of the stabilizer strap in the sling mode, unfortunately, means you will have the sway of the bag and the strap digging into your shoulder after some time
The top pocket is convenient for the smallest things like an AirPods Pro or a knife, does not fit a large phone or a wallet so its usability is very situational
The water bottle pockets are quite small. Would fit a 0.5L bottle at best
No suspension in the laptop compartment is not confidence-inspiring
VERDICT
The Nitecore BP18 is an interesting pack. Light and nimble, with multiple access points to the main compartment, multiple carry modes, and a high level of personalization thanks to velcro and pals webbing on the front I could see how this pack could become the personal favorite of a student or someone who likes outdoor activities.
Unfortunately, it did not quite work for me. As a dad with an infant son, I always tend to carry extras that simply did not fit in the 18L volume of BP18. And whenever I was using the bag just for my stuff it felt too small on my large frame.
So if you are looking for a small light pack with great access, decent comfort, and multiple carry modes - BP18 should definitely be on your shortlist. Just don’t expect it to feel and perform like Goruck Bullet and make sure you protect your precious tech with some case or extra padding.
