Bagsmart Blast 28L-38L Carry-On Backpack Review (Honest Review)

I have a fair amount of experience with expandable bags, and even more experience reviewing carry-on backpacks for travel. What’s so great about the Bagsmart Blast Backpack?

In this review, I’m going to go through everything you need to know about this carry-on-sized travel bag, including what I think is a stand-out feature compared to the competition, and some special features it’s built with.

After you check out my experience, you can decide if it’s the personal item or travel pack that’ll suit your upcoming adventures. Let’s dig in.

The Score View detailed breakdown

Bagsmart Blast Carry-On Backpack

3.85 / 5

The Bagsmart Blast 28L-38L Carry-On Backpack is an impressively lightweight travel bag with smart expandability features. At 2 pounds, it offers excellent value with multiple pockets, mesh ventilation, and carry-on compliance. While it has some organizational limitations and basic shoulder straps, it's a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize weight and versatility.

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What is the Blast Carry-On Backpack?

It’s Bagsmart’s answer to a smart (see what I did there?) and functional daypack that turns into a slightly larger carry-on backpack through an expansion feature.

At first glance, I thought the Blast Backpack looked pretty petite, like a daypack I’d take with my laptop inside, to a nearby cafe. Once I expanded it, it seemed much more appropriate for considering as a pack-light weekend getaway bag.

The things that stand out to me initially are the casual and sort of “rugged” look to it, with lots of compression straps, buckles and zippers. It’s by no means a sleek business backpack or a backpack to be worn as a fashion statement. It is, however, a backpack that gets a job done, and it’s a backpack that’ll perform well for being tossed around during your trip.

I’ll get into all the details later, but to start off, the things I’m thinking are my favorite highlights are its very light weight (2 lbs. only!) and big assortment of pockets, both mesh stash pockets and inner zipper pockets, as well as compartments.

Without giving it all away right here, I’ll dig into what I like in the next section.

Best features (and the things I like)

The Blast 28L-38L Carry-On Expandable Backpack has a bunch of great features to its credit. I’ll go through them here, along with the ones that surprised me.

Expandability

The main feature to talk about with the Blast 28-38L backpack is that it’s easily and quickly expandable. Much like my Peak Design Travel Backpack (which is in a different class of volume, so it’s not really comparable), there’s a zip-around expansion quality to it that lets you increase the volume in the main compartment.

This is a very good thing, because at first glance, I thought that this backpack was going to be too small to take with me for my 48-hr trip to NYC. After expanding it, it seemed much more doable.

Lightweight materials

This backpack is seriously lightweight, at only 2 pounds. It weighs less than a 21-liter backpack I have that reminded me of this one, in size, initially.

The Blast Backpack is both bigger AND lighter, so it makes an ideal companion for use while walking around a city, or being on a layover. I barely feel weighed down when I’m wearing it.

Lots of mesh

This backpack is characterized by its mesh look, which is present in a lot of spots.

The following parts of the backpack are made of mesh material: the panel that goes against your back during carrying, the front mesh zipper pocket, the side water bottle pocket, the two small mesh pockets on the interior of the laptop compartment AND a zipper organizer pocket on the top flap compartment.

“180-degree opening”

The main opening to the largest compartment of the backpack is a C-shape. Luckily, it has double zippers to assist with a quick opening. With being able to open the backpack this way, similar to a clamshell-style opening (that’s for the laptop compartment, uniquely), you can see everything inside.

Clear pocket

I actually have not seen this type of pocket in a lot of bags. It’s a good feature for a “one-bag travel” style of taking a trip.

What I mean by that is that if you intend for the Blast Backpack to be your entire backpack for a weekend away, then you can ditch a toiletries pouch completely and save space, if you keep your shampoo and toothbrush in this clear pocket. That’s a space-saver for sure.

Downfalls and shortcomings

While it’s lightweight and has nice expandability to accommodate different styles of travel, there are a few criticisms I have to note about the Blast Backpack.

Shoe compartment

I find that when I put my shoes in (I wear a size 10, so my shoes are sizable), it eats up a lot of the space in the backpack.

Sure, this is the way it is. I would also find that if I put my shoes into a compression bag for packing like my Peak Design Shoe Pouch and put them in the main compartment, I could probably win more space that way.

That being said, is there really a point to having a dedicated shoe compartment in this bag for me? I’m not sure.

Single water bottle sleeve

Not to be nit-picky, but this backpack is designed for a righty (or is it designed for a lefty?). With the water bottle pocket on the left side (when I’m wearing the backpack), it’s actually potentially the less-convenient side for the location of a large water bottle holder.

On the bright side though, the mesh for this pocket is thick and strong, unlike on other backpacks I’ve owned, where the mesh water bottle pockets got holes after a year and made the backpack look raggedy.

No tech organizer pocket

I think when we face the facts, everyone travels with tech these days. Even if I’m out at a coffee shop doing a bit of work on my laptop, I bring my laptop, maybe my charger, my headphones and my phone charger, to set up.

When I open up the laptop compartment at the rear of the backpack at the back panel, there is a laptop pocket, a tablet pocket and then two mesh pockets at the bottom of the front of that compartment.

To me, that’s not the most helpful, and it also forces all my tech to slide down to the bottom of the backpack. I would’ve preferred an organizer panel with several vertical pockets, in the middle of this compartment. That’s my constructive critique.

Shoulder straps

The shoulder straps on the Blast Backpack are nothing to write home about. I feel like they’re average, if not a little lacking, for a backpack that goes up to a 38L volume.

While there is a sternum strap for your chest, and mesh on the inner side of the straps, they’re not highly ergonomic and there are also no elastics to keep the bottoms of the straps tidy.

The shoulder straps remind me of stow-able straps I’d experience on a duffel bag that converts into a backpack, but this is a backpack straight up.

Quick pros and cons

Let me break down the Blast Backpack into the good, the bad, and the “it depends on your needs” categories.

Pros

Lightweight champion – At only 2 pounds, this thing is impressively light for a 28-38L backpack. You’ll barely notice it’s there when walking around cities or during layovers.

Expandable versatility – The zip-around expansion feature gives you 10L of extra space when you need it, making it perfect for both day trips and weekend getaways without committing to a larger bag. It’s also not overly wide, so this bag still has the frame/width of a 28L bag, not one of a 40L bag. Basically, when it’s expanded, it doesn’t feel huge.

Smart organization – Multiple pockets including anti-theft compartments, clear pocket for toiletries, and dedicated laptop/tablet storage. The 180° opening makes packing and unpacking a breeze.

Durable mesh design – The mesh water bottle pocket is thick and strong (unlike flimsy ones that tear), and the ventilated back panel keeps you cool during long walks.

Carry-on compliant – Fits under airplane seats when not expanded and meets TSA carry-on requirements when expanded, giving you flexibility for different travel scenarios.

Great value – Priced well below similar backpacks in the $100-250 range, making it accessible for budget-conscious travelers.

Cons

Shoe compartment space hog – The dedicated shoe compartment eats up significant space, especially for larger shoes (size 10+). You might get more efficient packing by using the main compartment instead. You can use the shoe compartment for other things.

Single water bottle pocket – Only one side pocket, and it’s positioned on the left side, which might not be ideal for right-handed users or if you prefer dual bottle storage. Look at the other bags that you use and see what your preference for the water bottle pocket is. This matters more than you think if you expect to take this out for a day and want quick access to your water bottle.

Basic shoulder straps – The straps are functional but not highly ergonomic. They feel more like duffel bag conversion straps rather than dedicated backpack straps, which could be uncomfortable for longer carries.

Limited tech organization – No dedicated tech organizer panel means your chargers, cables, and accessories slide to the bottom of the laptop compartment, making them harder to access. Use a tech case to help solve this!

How’s the price?

The Bagsmart Blast Backpack, for what you get, is currently priced really affordably. With all my experience in backpacks of this size, I see them ranging mostly from $100-250, and that’s from a range of brands.

With the modest price set on this backpack, I think it’s appropriate. It’s not off-putting, and it’s a solid value for the features I call my favorites, which are the hyper-lightweight total weight of this backpack, plus the pockets, features and expandability you get as well.

Should you get it?

I think if you want a lightweight backpack that fits a volume in the 30-L range, the Bagsmart Blast Backpack is a good bet.

You can be sure it’s carry-on sized (and it makes a perfect personal item for stowing under an airplane seat when it’s not expanded). You can be sure it’s lightweight and won’t weigh you down. And you can be sure it has handy features like lots of pockets, compartments, mesh organizers and water bottle storage.

I’ve seen other backpacks that ring up at higher costs, with fewer features and are heavier to begin with. So if you’re someone who plans to pack this backpack into other luggage, or you want to have a backpack as light as possible, I’d say the features are impressively packed into a travel bag that’s this lightweight.

Detailed score breakdown

Bagsmart Blast Carry-On Backpack

3.85 / 5

The Bagsmart Blast 28L-38L Carry-On Backpack is an impressively lightweight travel bag with smart expandability features. At 2 pounds, it offers excellent value with multiple pockets, mesh ventilation, and carry-on compliance. While it has some organizational limitations and basic shoulder straps, it's a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize weight and versatility.

Carry comfort & fit

60%

Shoulder straps are functional but not highly ergonomic - they feel more like duffel bag conversion straps rather than dedicated backpack straps. The mesh back panel provides ventilation, but the straps lack proper ergonomics for longer carries.

Organization & access speed

80%

Excellent pocket variety with anti-theft compartments, clear toiletries pocket, and dedicated laptop/tablet storage. The 180° opening provides excellent access to contents. However, lacks a dedicated tech organizer panel, forcing tech accessories to slide to the bottom.

Materials & build quality

80%

Well-constructed with durable mesh materials that hold up better than cheaper alternatives. The water bottle pocket mesh is thick and strong, unlike flimsy versions that tear. Overall build quality is solid for the price point.

Weather resistance

60%

Mesh design prioritizes ventilation over weather protection. The extensive mesh panels and open design mean limited protection from rain or elements. Suitable for fair weather travel but not ideal for wet conditions.

Laptop & tech protection

70%

Dedicated laptop and tablet compartments provide basic protection, but lacks specialized tech organization. No dedicated tech organizer panel means chargers and accessories slide around. Basic protection but not premium tech-focused design.

Carry options & adjustments

80%

Standard backpack carry with sternum strap for stability. The expandable design maintains the frame of a 28L bag even when expanded to 38L, so it doesn't feel oversized. No additional carry options like duffel handles.

Packability inside luggage

90%

Excellent expandability with zip-around expansion feature adding 10L of space. The 180° opening makes packing and unpacking very easy. Fits under airplane seats when not expanded and meets TSA carry-on requirements when expanded.

Security & closure confidence

70%

Includes anti-theft compartments and basic security features. The design prioritizes accessibility over security, with easy-access pockets and open mesh panels. Adequate for most travel scenarios but not high-security focused.

Versatility for work, gym & travel

90%

Highly versatile with expandable design working for both day trips and weekend getaways. The lightweight nature makes it perfect for city walking and layovers. Clear pocket eliminates need for separate toiletries bag, adding to versatility.

Overall value for price

90%

Exceptional value at current pricing, well below similar backpacks in the $100-250 range. The combination of lightweight design, expandability, and features makes it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers. Great price-to-feature ratio.

How we score gear

Where to shop for the Bagsmart Blast 28L-38L Travel Backpack

As of right now, the Blast Backpack is only available at Bagsmart’s website! Well, that makes things easy if you want to pick one up for your next trip or getaway.

While other Bagsmart products are available on Amazon, the Blast Backpack is not yet available there, nor at other retailers that we’ve found.

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We’d like to thank Bagsmart for sending us the Blast Backpack and the new Bagsmart packing cubes for this review. Although this review is sponsored by the brand, ALL opinions here are genuinely our own.