The UAG Civilian 20L Backpack is a robust tech backpack that perfectly meets the demands of Apple users who are frequently on the road. With its 20 liter capacity and smart organization, it offers protection for your MacBook, iPad and accessories, without sacrificing style or comfort.
I was looking for a new backpack with plenty of storage options, and Urban Armor Gear’s Civilian series seemed perfect for that. This backpack unites durability with practical functions for everyday use, travel or work, and is ideal for people like me who are on the go with tech every day.
UAG Civilian 20L Backpack
The UAG Civilian 20L Backpack is a durable, water-repellent 20-liter tech backpack with a clamshell design that provides easy access to a pocket for laptops up to 16 inches. It features practical storage options such as quick access pockets, a hidden AirTag pocket and side bottle pockets.
Furthermore, the backpack is equipped with comfortable mesh padding and a chest strap for pleasant wearing comfort. Made from recycled nylon with YKK zippers, this backpack is perfect for Apple users while traveling or for everyday use.
Cool design for personalization
The UAG backpack has a robust and timeless design, made from 100% recycled nylon that is both durable and water-repellent. This makes the Civilian backpack durable and resistant to the elements. Measuring 48 x 31 x 12 cm and weighing only 0.84 kg, this backpack is light and ergonomic. The sturdy YKK zippers contribute to a robust construction that is suitable for intensive use.
The front of the backpack is made of nylon gear loops, which are sturdy straps to which you can attach items. For example, you can attach a carabiner to take even more accessories with you. I also used it to attach my cap by attaching the closure to the back of one of those nylon gear loops.
Clamshell design for easy access
The shell design of the backpack took some getting used to for me. The UAG Civilian backpack is a so-called clamshell backpack (also called a suitcase backpack) and is designed to open like a suitcase. Instead of just an opening at the top, the bag unzips its full length, allowing you to lay the backpack flat on a bed or table.
The clamshell opening makes packing and accessing contents easy without the need for digging; This way you can immediately see what is in your backpack. This does require some practice, as it is advisable to lay the backpack flat, for example on a table, when you open it completely; otherwise it will become unstable and the backpack may collapse like a piece of pudding. Of course, you can also only open the zipper at the top, so that you can quickly take something out or put something in.
Large laptop compartment
On the inside there is a spacious laptop compartment in which you can easily place a 16-inch laptop. This compartment can be closed with a flap with Velcro and, in addition to the laptop, also offers space for additional items, such as an iPad.
Lots of storage options
The UAG Civilian 20L Backpack has a spacious main compartment for clearly storing clothing, larger accessories and tech gear. There are various internal organization pockets and zipper pockets for smaller items such as power bank, AirPods, keys, wallet, chargers and cables.
At the top of the backpack there is a quick-access and separate storage compartment where you can keep things like your iPhone or passport safe, but easy to reach when you need it. This special compartment is only accessible from the back or from the inside.
On the outside there are elastic side pockets that you can close with a zipper, ideal for a drinking bottle or a compact tripod. You can also easily store pens and other small accessories here. In addition, this backpack has a small hidden pocket on the inside where you can hide an AirTag or other valuable small items. This wide selection of storage options allows you to organize your belongings logically and securely both daily and when traveling.
Portability and comfort
Urban Armor Gear has improved the comfort and portability of the backpack with a mesh finish on the back, making it light and breathable and not giving you a sweaty back.
It is important to note that the backpack sits close to your back as there is no spacer like some hiking backpacks. A spacer creates a space between the backpack and your back, which prevents stickiness. Although the UAG Civilian backpack has mesh for ventilation, it is not the same.
The shoulder straps are wide and comfortable because they have a cushion-like layer that spreads the weight and pressure over your shoulders. In addition, a chest strap helps to securely attach the backpack to your back and body, ensuring optimal pressure and weight distribution.
On the back of the backpack there is an elastic nylon strap that allows you to attach the backpack to the telescopic handle of your suitcase.
Conclusion: UAG Civilian 20L Backpack
REVIEW SCORE
After traveling with the UAG Civilian 20L backpack for several weeks, I can conclude that it fits seamlessly into my daily routine. The Clamshell design provides easy access to the main compartment, which you can also securely close by pulling all the zippers on the back of the bag. Once you wear the backpack, it is practically impossible for someone else to open it.
My 14-inch MacBook Pro, 11-inch iPad and documents fit in effortlessly, along with clothing, drinking bottles, power banks, chargers, cables and various accessories. Each item has its own place, and thanks to the smart layout, the bag remains clear, even when it is well filled.
The sturdy build quality and wearing comfort make it ideal for both work and short trips. This ensures that the Civilian 20L is a reliable and durable companion for those who want to take their Apple gear and daily necessities with them in an organized manner.
- Cool design with personalization options
- Clamshell design for easy access
- Lots of storage options
- Large lockable laptop compartment
- Comfortable wearing comfort with good weight distribution
- Does not have a reinforced bottom and can therefore fall over
- Mesh finish, but no spacer at the back
Buy UAG Civilian 20L Backpack
The UAG Civilian 20L Backpack has a suggested retail price of € 125 and is available in the cool colors: Black/Orange, Olive/Orange and Midnight Camo. At the time of writing, the UAG Civilian backpack is only available through UAG itself, it is expected that you will also be able to purchase it later this year through Appelhoes, Smartphonehoesjes, Bol.com and Amazon.