Balo: Expandable Multi-Pocket Multifunctional Backpack
The Balo-MR5748SJ by Mark Ryden is a versatile, expandable backpack with a 6L to 26L capacity. It features waterproof nylon, multiple compartments, an RFID theft protection pocket, and an external USB charging port,...
Customer Reviews
I like the bag, the way it looks. To be fair, it has quite the capacity and may work well as a backpacking bag. However, for this bag to be useful as a daily use bag, some extra considerations should have been given to actual use and practicality. Let me explain.
Let me start with the charging port. The charging port allows a USB-A (for charging the device) and a microUSB connection for charging the mobile power bank. When you take a look inside to see how this connects to the power bank, you can see that there is another USB-A cable, presumably for the power output for the bank, but a USB-C connection probably for charging the power bank. The assumption here is that your power bank will most definitely have a USB-C input, which isn't so in my case. So, if you already own a good power bank with a microUSB input, you will not be able to charge it this way. A carefully thought out design would allow me to plug in the relevant type of cable myself, but sadly this wasn't the case.
Next, the side pockets. There is one side pocket designed for an umbrella or water bottle. Why not go all the way out and provide me with a mesh pocket on the other side for holding my umbrella, so I can have both the umbrella and the water bottle? It would hardly cost the manufacturers to add a simple elastic mesh.
Now, the compass on the chest strap is a nice to have, but it would only be useful if I am allowed to remove a defective compass and add a working one. The one the bag comes with points the N to the south! Good luck to anyone who follows that compass should they ever get lost.
The flap pocket. What could possibly be the idea behind making it only half as deep as the full width available? I couldn't put a packet of pocket wet wipes in there!
Another puzzle: the shoulder strap pocket. No, a credit card doesn't sit in there nicely. (It is quite a struggle. It doesn't have the depth!) If the shoulder straps were a bit wider, it could indeed be a useful feature. This one can maybe hold a moustache comb!
Other issues. Those pockets designed for tablets would only hold very small tablets. Not very useful for larger tablets. But I can use the laptop pocket for that. Bringing both the laptop and the tablet will be a bit tricky. There is no dedicated pocket for power adapter and cable for the laptop.
Apart from these, the bag is quite decent. It is somewhat well structured and has a number of pockets. While not the perfect bag, I can work with its limitations by being creative or simply going old school.
Extremely comfortable to carry and easy to adjust. Great design!
Extremely comfortable to carry and easy to adjust. Great design!
Surprised at how much it can hold. I can't wait to use it for my next trip.
Surprised at how much it can hold. I can't wait to use it for my next trip.
FAQ
You can browse and purchase MarkRyden backpacks on our official website markrydenglobal.com. We offer a convenient online shopping experience where you can explore our product range and choose the style and size that suits you. Once you've made your selection, you can add the chosen backpack to your cart and proceed to checkout.
Yes, we offer international shipping. And it is free of charge! No matter where you are, as long as you have an internet connection, you can purchase and enjoy our products on our official website. Please note that international shipping may incur additional fees and duties. You can check specific shipping and duty information during the checkout process.
Yes, we provide a limited ONE Year warranty for MarkRyden backpacks. Our warranty policy typically covers manufacturing defects and workmanship issues for a specified period. For more information about our warranty coverage and terms, please refer to our warranty page on our website.
To keep your MarkRyden backpack in optimal condition, we recommend following these care instructions:
Spot clean any stains or spills with a mild detergent and a soft cloth.
Avoid machine washing or submerging the backpack in water.
Air dry the backpack in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
Avoid exposing the backpack to extreme heat or harsh chemicals.
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We have a flexible return and exchange policy for MarkRyden backpacks. If you are not satisfied with your purchase, you can initiate a return or exchange within a specified period from the date of purchase. Please refer to our returns and exchange page on our website for more information and instructions.