Thule

Aion 28L Backpack

Hole in backpack after first trip

I have purchased many Thule products over the years and have always been very satisfied with their quality and durability… until this backpack. The first time using it (last week) as a carry on on my round trip flights, it has a small hole near the top of the bag. Very disappointed in the quality/durability after such mild, routine use.

Outstanding for safari and international travel

This bag was perfect for my recent safari to Africa that involved extensive air travel (international long-haul flights on big jets, short-haul flights on small jets, and tiny bush planes) and a whole lot of rattling around the dusty bush in open Land Cruisers. This bag had everything thrown at it and held up perfectly. It even looks amazingly clean and smart at the end of it all! I carried about 28lb worth of stuff in it expanded for flights (including heavy photographic equipment) and then when I got to my destinations, used it 'unexpanded' as a day pack with sweaters etc. I really like the layout and features of this bag and it is extremely robust and well-made, without looking dorky or unstylish or overly technical. This is my new favorite hand luggage and backpack, and I anticipate using it for many years to come.

Great backpack!

The Thule Aion Backpack is a standout choice for anyone in need of a durable, well-designed bag that transitions seamlessly from work to travel to everyday use. Built with rugged materials and a sleek, minimal design, the Aion combines toughness with practicality. Exceptional Durability: Made with weather-resistant materials, the Aion can take a beating — rain, bumps, and daily wear don’t faze it. The recycled waxed canvas is both eco-conscious and built to last. It offers excellent internal organization with a padded laptop sleeve, hidden valuables pocket, and compartments for chargers, notebooks, and daily essentials. There's even a removable TPU rolltop pouch perfect for storing dirty or damp items. The padded straps and breathable back panel make it very comfortable, even when fully loaded. Great for commuting or day trips. It strikes a balance between modern and utilitarian, making it suitable for the office, campus, or outdoor use. The Thule Aion Backpack is an ideal daily bag — tough enough for demanding use, smart enough for professional settings, and versatile enough to handle whatever your day throws at you. Highly recommended for people who value both function and form.

Doesn't lock

I really, really, really wanted to love this bag. It's as good functionally as all the reviews advertise with the exception of one feature...it doesn't lock. The zippers to the computer compartment are lock compatible however, the zippers to the main compartment aren't. So event if you locked the computer zippers someone could still easily access the contents of your pack. I looked and looked thinking I was missing something but Im not

Great size

I bought it to go to Africa. It was my carry on. I really love it. The pockets are really nice and usefull. I use it now as a regular backpack for school. Maybe Thule needs improve a little bit the tissu. It doesn't let the water get in the bag but something left a dark spot on the tissu and it'not easy to clean. Really happy about my purchase.

Great backpack but not for extended carry

I've had this backpack for three years now and it is holding up well. The functionality of the bag, with its three different compartments and expandability cannot be beat. I use it for commuting and occasionally as an overnight bag. However, it is slightly uncomfortable on my shoulders. The straps have little padding and are too far apart for me. (I'm a 5'4" woman). It would be nice if you offered the pack in proportions for a smaller person and in more colors.

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Great bag

Paired this with an older Thule rolling and the combinations works perfectly. All the right pockets in the right place, passport stash more useful than anticipated, and the expansion feature is a nice safety option for when i buy something.

Awesome compartments and size

I am so happy with this backpack for traveling. The different compartments helps me keep things organized. I stuffed it to the brim so it just barely fits underneath the plane seat as a ‘personal item’ but it fit!

Superb quality and function, good sized

This bag is 28L size. It is a good sized pack but not large. It is great for a travel carry on but small for an all-in-one that would replace a carry on backpack and a piece of luggage. I love the details from the zippers to the flexibility inside to the expansion zip out. The fabric is supple yet durable. The shoulder straps are curved for a more contoured fit - especially for women. I did also get the hip pack to couple it as a waste strap - it rides higher on the torso than I would like (I’m 5’9”) but it is a great combo and much better than trying to stuff the hip pack into the pack when you are flying with carryon limitations.