One of the few highlights from the largest outdoor fair in Germany was the booth of the manufacturer of inflatable tents, Heimplanet. For quite some time now, Heimplanet has had a nice collection of travel and day bags known as the Monolith series. And they have just updated the collection. As we know from their range of tents, these guys from Hamburg invest a lot of passion and experience in their products. Each bag is not only exceptionally well made and using only quality materials, but they are also very versatile. Especially nice is the clean and timeless design, which is now available in three colors. In addition to the classic black, the bags now come in Copper (Red) and Pine (Green).
We have evaluated two bags of the Monolith series, both suited to the outdoors.
The Daypack 22L
Just like its big brother, the Weekender, Heimplanet’s Daypack can be referred to as a transformer among bags. With its hidden pockets and straps, and thanks to the use of customized G-Hooks, it is possible to transform the Daypack from a classic bag to a messenger bag or to a backpack, depending on the occasion.
The Daypack also comes with some built-in extras. The main compartment can be accessed via two openings. Additionally, there is a padded laptop pocket and two smaller pockets for your odds and ends. Also, the front of the Daypack features a MOLLE system for attaching pouches or other gear.
Heimplanet offers a range of expandable pouches in different sizes which are compatible with all Heimplanet bags and also with bags from other brands which incorporate MOLLE systems.
Specs: 38 x 29 x 15 cm (15 x 11.5 x 6 inch) / 1100 g (2.43 lbs)
Material: 840 D Ballistic Nylon / YKK Zippers
Price: 170 Euros / $220
The Rucksack 45L
Just like the Daypack, the Rucksack is made of high quality materials. Everything is built tough and solid and with quality workmanship. A zipper divides the main compartment from a bottom compartment and can be opened to merge the whole into one large compartment. In the top of the Rcuksack, there are two smaller pockets, one with a built-in keyring. Inside the main compartment there is also a padded laptop sleeve, which can also be reached via a side zipper. Alternatively, the laptop compartment could be used for a small hydration system and the side zipper for the drinking tube. The Rucksack is secured with two G-Hooks on the front.
The padding on the back of the Rucksack is really comfortable. The shoulder straps are well padded and offer good support even when the Rucksack is full. Personally, I like the fact that the hip-belt cushion is detachable, because I don’t always need it.
The Rucksack also incorporates a MOLLE system so you can individualize it with extra gear or pouches according to your needs. I’m pretty sure I’ve forgotten some detail or other—this pack offers quiet a lot!
Specs: 70 x 38 x 24 cm (28 x 15 x 10 inch) / 2.000 g (4.4 lbs)
Material: 840 D Ballistic Nylon / 1680 D Ballistic Nylon / YKK Zippers
Price: 220 Euros / $290
Verdict: I have to say I’m hugely impressed by the bags from Heimplanet. From the design to the quality of the materials and workmanship, Heimplanet is definitely one of the leaders of the pack. Each and every product from Heimplanet is designed with an eye for both aesthetics and functionality. The products are all well-thought through and incorporate real outdoor experience. I find the slightly higher price completely justified. You are deliberately choosing a product that is head and shoulders above its competitors in its design and quality, and one that will keep you excited and satisfied for a very long time.
