bag to fit your needs. In today’s review, we’ll be taking an in-depth look at the Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack – a versatile backpack that transforms into a shoulder bag or briefcase. This innovative 3-in-1 bag boasts a range of handy features like a USB charging port, wet clothes compartment, and garment compression panel. We’ll break down the pros and cons of this bag, who it’s best suited for, and how it compares to similar products on the market. Whether you’re a frequent business traveler or casual weekend adventurer, read on to see if the Samsonite Silhouette 17 could be your ideal travel companion.
What is the Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack?
The Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack is a backpack that belongs to the Silhouette collection, which was launched in 1958 as the most advanced luggage ever made. The backpack features a split-case opening that creates an organized interior with built-in pockets, a WetPak™ pocket, a TecKit pouch, a garment compression panel, a padded laptop pocket, and more.
It also has a 3-way convertible design that allows you to carry it as a backpack, a shoulder bag, or a briefcase, with backpack straps that can be hidden away. The backpack is made from Recyclex® material technology, which uses 100% post-consumer recycled PET bottles1. It also has Fuzion™ zippers by YKK® that provide 5x more abrasion resistance and reparability. The backpack has a capacity of 39.5 liters and weighs 3.31 lbs1. It costs $199.99 and comes with a limited 10-year global warranty.
The Good and Bad
The Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack has many advantages and disadvantages that you should consider before buying it. Here are some of the main ones:
The Good
- The backpack is very versatile and can be used for different occasions and purposes. You can easily switch between backpack, shoulder bag, and briefcase modes depending on your preference and situation1.
- The backpack is very organized and has many compartments and pockets to store your belongings. You can pack your clothes, toiletries, laptop, tech accessories, and more in separate sections and keep them neat and tidy.
- The backpack is very durable and can withstand wear and tear. The Recyclex® material is strong and eco-friendly, the Fuzion™ zippers are resistant and repairable, and the exterior has a zipper repair kit in case of emergencies.
- The backpack is very innovative and has some unique features that make it stand out from other backpacks. For example, the TecKit pouch has a USB pass-through and wireless charging capabilities (battery not included), the WetPak™ pocket can store wet or dirty items without affecting the rest of your luggage, and the garment compression panel can secure your clothes and prevent wrinkling.
The Bad
- The backpack is quite expensive compared to other backpacks of similar size and quality. You can find cheaper alternatives that offer similar or better features on the market.
- The backpack is quite heavy for its size and capacity. It weighs 3.31 lbs when empty, which is more than some other backpacks that have larger capacities.
- The backpack is not very stylish or colorful. It only comes in black or navy blue colors, which are not very appealing or eye-catching. It also has a plain and simple design that does not reflect much personality or flair.
Who Is It Perfect For?
The Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack is perfect for travelers who value versatility, organization, durability, and innovation in their luggage. It is ideal for business travelers who need a professional-looking bag that can fit their laptop, documents, clothes, and other essentials. It is also great for leisure travelers who want a flexible bag that can adapt to different situations and environments. It is suitable for short trips or weekend getaways where you don’t need to pack too much stuff.
Comparing Other Brands
To help you compare the Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack with other similar products on the market, we have created this table that shows some of their key features:
| Product | Price | Capacity | Weight | Material | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack | $199.99 | 39.5 L | 3.31 lbs | Recyclex® polyester | Limited 10-year global |
| Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L | $299.95 | 45 L | 4.5 lbs | Nylon canvas | Lifetime |
| Tropicfeel Shell Backpack | $199 | 22-40 L | 2.65 lbs | Recycled PET bottles | Limited lifetime |
FAQs
Here are some of the frequently asked questions about the Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack:
Q: How do I switch between backpack, shoulder bag, and briefcase modes?
A: To switch between backpack, shoulder bag, and briefcase modes, you need to adjust the straps and handles of the backpack. To use it as a backpack, you need to pull out the backpack straps from the back panel and adjust them to your desired length. To use it as a shoulder bag, you need to detach one of the backpack straps and attach it to the side of the backpack. To use it as a briefcase, you need to hide the backpack straps in the back panel and use the top or side handle to carry it.
Q: How do I use the TecKit pouch?
A: The TecKit pouch is a designated pouch for your tech accessories. It has a USB pass-through and wireless charging capabilities (battery not included). To use it, you need to connect your power bank or battery pack to the USB port inside the pouch. Then, you can plug your devices to the USB port outside the pouch or place them on top of the pouch if they support wireless charging.
Q: How do I clean the backpack?
A: To clean the backpack, you need to follow these steps:
- Empty the backpack and remove any detachable parts.
- Wipe the exterior and interior with a damp cloth and mild soap.
- Rinse the cloth and wipe again to remove any soap residue.
- Air dry the backpack in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
Wrapping Up
The Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack offers the flexibility of three bags in one, with a range of thoughtful features tailored to the modern traveler’s needs. Its innovative design and quality materials make it built to last, though the higher price tag may deter some shoppers. Frequent travelers who prioritize versatility and organization will appreciate this bag’s unique 3-in-1 capabilities and array of storage options. More casual adventurers may want to consider cheaper or more stylish alternatives, however.
Overall, for those seeking a durable, functional backpack that seamlessly transitions into a shoulder bag or briefcase, the Samsonite Silhouette 17 is a strong contender. We hope this detailed review has provided the information you need to decide if it’s the right fit for your next travel adventure. Let us know if you have any other questions as you continue your search for the perfect luggage!
