Overland Equipment Cambridge Review

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Backpack, tote, laptop bag? I am not sure how to label the Cambridge bag from Overland Equipment because it is just so versatile! The Cambridge has the ability to be carried like a tote thanks to adjustable loop straps that can be used to carry the bag over one shoulder or tightened up to be carried with one hand. If you are carrying a heavier load, the adjustable backpack straps come in handy to help distribute the weight. When not in use, the backpack straps can be stowed away near the top of the bag, while the buckles can be stuffed into secret little pockets along the bottom sides of the bag. I really liked this feature because it helps the Cambridge keep a neat and clean appearance.

The Cambridge features a neoprene sleeve that Overland Equipment states can fit your 15″ laptop. The neoprene sleeve is padded, super soft, and adds a little protection from the remaining items in your bag. I would like to see some sort of loop or velcro attachment that keeps the laptop sleeve from bulging out into the main compartment; after a few months of use I felt that the sleeve tended to loosen up a bit and perhaps a little securing device at the top could avoid this problem.

The main compartment features multiple organizational compartments: a mesh zippered compartment, a velcro closure small compartment, and vertical pocket for pens-pencils, and a horizontal compartment that easily fits a wallet. The remaining main compartment can be used as you see fit. I commonly took my lunch bag, laptop, a change of gym clothes, and various odds and ends such as a wallet, water bottle, coffee mug in the Cambridge on a typical work day. The main compartment was able to accommodate my needs and the zipper at the top was nice to help add some security while traveling in the airport. However, if you are carrying an extremely large load and can’t zipper the bag shut, no need to fret. The Cambridge has a buckle closure that can help close the bag to avoid losing large items while also allowing a bit more space for over-sized objects. If you are carrying a smaller load, their are adjustment straps on each side to slim down its’ profile.

The Cambridge also features outer pockets for additional storage. There is a small pocket at the front that I stow by work badge in for easy retrieval, while the two larger compartments can hold a Stanley coffee mug or a bottle of water. The two larger pockets are covered with a flap with a magnet closure for easy access.

The Cambridge is made from ripstop and ballistic nylon and has withstood my daily use to and from work and travel trips as my carry on/purse. What I like most about this bag is its’ versatility; I call it my grown up work bag because it is the first bag in years that is not a backpack. The large opening, or tote style, is very useful when trying to find something buried at the bottom of the bag and makes me realize how inconvenient my old backpacks really were. Overall, a great backpack, tote, laptop bag all rolled into one. For more information on the Overland Equipment Cambridge, please visit www.amazon.com.

MSRP 90

Dimensions: 15.5″x13″x6″