Bagsmart 38L Blast Pro Travel Backpack Review: The Best One?

If the BAGSMART 38L Blast Pro looks familiar, it’s because it’s an updated take on the original travel pack that has already become a bit of legendary budget travel backpack, especially amongst the personal item only travelers.

Most of what made the first version a hit is still there, including the massive capacity, the dedicated tech storage, and that signature organization, but the “Pro” version introduces a few strategic refinements to the mix.

I was especially curious to see what improvements they made and, more importantly, how those changes actually affected the experience of traveling with it. 

Since the core DNA remains the same, this review is all about seeing how those small updates have polished the overall experience. It’s the same reliable travel companion you might already know, just a bit more polished and ready for the road. 

So let’s find out if these upgrades make this budget backpack feel more “lux.”

Overview of Bagsmart 38l Blast Pro Travel Backpack

So, here’s the scoop on BAGSMART. The brand launched back in 2017, born from a team of designers under Guangzhou Tigernu Leather Co., Ltd., which is a major player in the bag industry. Their mission was simple: create “smart” bags that are stylish and hyper-organized without the kind of premium price tag that makes your wallet cry.

Since then, they’ve carved out a serious niche for themselves with backpacks, camera bags, and travel organizers that focus entirely on function-meets-style.

BAGSMART has become a go-to for students, commuters, and frequent travelers because they position themselves as an accessible brand. Unlike luxury labels that charge a “status tax,” this brand focuses on clean designs and clever compartments that make life on the go easier.

Their gear is built to handle the daily grind or a weekend getaway, providing reliable organization for people who want a “pro” experience without spending hundreds of dollars.

Things to Consider Before Buying the Bagsmart 38l Blast Pro Travel Backpack

The BAGSMART 38L Blast Pro isn’t trying to be a high-end luxury piece, and that’s exactly why it works so well. It’s a value-driven workhorse for travelers who want maximum organization without the “prestige” price tag.

If you’re a “one-bag” traveler, a weekend warrior, or a student who needs to pack a few days’ worth of clothes alongside a full tech setup, this bag is a perfect fit. 

It’s also great as an everyday carry or gym bag if you’re on the go often.

At 38L, it’s significantly more spacious than a standard daily commuter bag, making it ideal for those who want to skip the luggage carousel and head straight to their destination. 

The compartments are incredibly thoughtful, making it easy to stash chargers, notebooks, and toiletries without having to dig through a “black hole” at the bottom of the pack.

On the flip side, because this is a 38L bag, it might be a bit too bulky if you’re just looking for a slim office backpack to carry a laptop and a lunch, in which case I’d suggest checking out the Maverick Vista Backpack. It’s one of my favorites!

If you’re chasing premium materials, remember, this bag is sturdy and reliable, but it’s still a budget-friendly option at heart.

While it works as a personal item on some larger airlines, it’s definitely pushing the limits for under-seat storage on budget carriers, so you’ll want to always check before flying.

Will it fit? If you’re worried about whether this bag will actually pass the “sizer test” at the airport, I’ve got you covered. Be sure to check out my TikTok or YouTube channel, where I’ve posted reels showing me testing the Blast Pro in various airline sizers. 

It’s the best way to see exactly how it handles those strict airline requirements before you head to the gate.

Basically, the Blast Pro is best for people who want a reliable, hyper-organized travel bag that looks professional, works hard, and leaves you with enough money in your pocket to actually enjoy your trip.

Bagsmart 38l Blast Pro Travel Backpack & Unboxing

What’s in the Box?

• BAGSMART Blast Backpack

BAGSMART keeps it pretty simple with its shipping. Your backpack will arrive in a plastic bag, inside a mailing bag.

Hardware and Design Features

Water-Resistant Features

Unexpected rain is a traveler’s worst enemy, but the Blast Pro offers some peace of mind, since the fabric has a protective water-resistant coating that causes light rain and splashes to bead up and roll right off.

Bagsmart also was thoughtful and included water-resistant zippers on the tech and main compartments, which is a huge win for protecting your electronics and documents. 

Just keep in mind that while it’s great for a dash through a rainy city or an accidental spill, it’s water-resistant, not waterproof, so you’ll still want to seek cover during a total downpour, and definatly avoid puddles in luggage mode.

Bagsmart 38l Blast Pro Travel Backpack Color and Style

One of the standout features of the Bagsmart line is the sheer variety of choices. With around 15 different color options, ranging from professional neutrals like classic black and navy to vibrant pops of green, there are versions of this bag for every personality.

The design itself is sleek and contemporary, allowing it to transition effortlessly from running around the city to being carried into the country.

Bagsmart 38L Blast Pro Travel Backpack Dimensions

The true magic of this bag is its chameleon nature. It starts as a compact 28L pack that conforms to most airline personal item requirements, but with a quick zip, it expands to a 38L powerhouse. 

This extra inch of depth is perfect for those trips where you might be coming home with more than you started with.

• Compressed (28L): Ideal for daily use or as a personal item.
• Expanded (38L): Fits within standard TSA carry-on limits for overhead bins.

Inside, the bag uses smart dividers, and even a fold-flat divider to keep your shoes and clothes neatly separated. And because the interior layout is so flexible, you can easily customize the space to fit your specific packing style. 

Organization and Storage

Laptop Compartment

Your tech is often the most valuable part of your carry-on, so it requires special care while traveling. The BAGSMART 38L Blast Pro delivers with a dedicated laptop compartment that comfortably fits up to a 15.6-inch device. 

Just like the original version, it’s positioned right against your back, which is the best spot for weight distribution and keeping your expensive gear stable while you’re on the move.

The padding is substantial enough to safeguard against the inevitable bumps of travel, whether that’s a crowded train or being shoved into an overhead bin. 

I’m overly cautious because my computer is my life, so I always keep mine in its own case before putting it in the bag.

Inside the compartment, there’s also a separate sleeve designed for a tablet or e-reader, so you can make sure all your screens stay scratch-free and organized in one secure, tech-focused hub.

There’s also a hidden little top pocket on the opposite side that fits a mouse and a couple of cords and chargers. I always veer on the side of safety and don’t overfill it because I worry they will probably press up against the laptop too much when I inevitably over-pack. 

Outer Pockets

The BAGSMART 38L Blast Pro is fantastic at helping you keep your essentials within arm’s reach.

The standout for me is still the top quick-access pocket. It’s the perfect spot for items you need to grab in a split second, like your passport, sunglasses, hand sanitizer, or wallet, without having to unzip the entire bag. 

Basically, I treat this pocket the same way I do my favorite travel crossbody.

During a busy travel day, this is easily my most-used pocket, and it saves you from that awkward “digging through the main compartment” dance at the security line or boarding gate, or worse, when they call you out and you have to step aside and shove your purse or travel crossbody into your already over-packed backpack.

It drives me crazy when airlines do this. We should allow women to use a crossbody bag, as they naturally carry more items, and it’s small enough to hold during take-off. But the main point of this rant is that this pocket is very handy!

Overall, this bag’s got six strategically placed external pockets that make “on-the-go” access feel effortless whether you’re running through the airport or grabbing something during the flight.

The front of the bag is the other spot where the organization really shines for me. These compartments are perfect for flat items like notebooks, chargers, or a Kindle. 

I like to pack mine with a small play (I love reading scripts), my Kindle (this pocket is easier to access than the laptop one during flights), and then my sleep mask on top to give a bit of extra padding to the front of the Kindle.

Interior Pockets

Open up the BAGSMART 38L Blast Pro, and it’s immediately clear this bag was built for people who crave order. 

If you’re like me and a Type B traveler who needs a little extra help to stay organized on the road, the interior layout is a dream. 

This bag strikes a perfect balance between open packing space and structured compartments, allowing you to maximize that 38L capacity without it turning into a cluttered “black hole.”

On either side of the main compartment, you’ll find mesh pockets that are perfect for spotting smaller items at a glance. These are my go-to for adapters, cables, or portable chargers, basically the things that usually disappear into the corners of a bag. 

There’s also a large, clear zippered pocket specifically designed for toiletries. 

While I prefer keeping my liquids in my Cadence parcel system, I love stashing face masks and basic skincare self-care extras up here for anytime I get downtime on my trip. 

Either way, this is a thoughtful touch that keeps your liquids visible and contained, making it much easier to stay organized during your morning routine or at a security checkpoint.

And to keep everything safe, the interior features adjustable straps that cinch your clothes down, acting almost like built-in packing cubes or shelves. 

This means that even when you don’t fill the bag completely, your belongings remain snug and sorted instead of shifting around as you navigate the airport.

Shoe Pocket

One of the most practical features carried over to the Pro version is the designated space for shoes or dirty clothes.

This is a total game-changer for “one-bag” travel, as it keeps your less-than-fresh items completely separate from your clean gear and electronics. No more worrying about a stray sneaker scuffing your laptop or a gym shirt making everything else smell.

Water Bottle Pockets

On the sides, the Blast Pro features reliable elastic pockets designed for water bottles or umbrellas. The tension is just right, snug enough to keep a standard bottle from tipping out when you’re rushing through the terminal, but flexible enough to accommodate a slim thermos or travel mug.

Whether you’re commuting or flying, this external setup ensures that your hydration and travel documents are neatly organized and always accessible.

Shoulder Straps

When you’re carrying a 38L load, the shoulder straps are doing a lot of heavy lifting, and BAGSMART keeps things fairly comfortable on the Blast Pro with padded straps lined in breathable mesh. 

This mesh lining is a crucial detail for a bag this size, as it helps with ventilation and keeps you from getting too sweaty during those long, frantic walks through the terminal or city streets.

The straps themselves have a slight ergonomic curve that helps them sit naturally on your shoulders, and the easy-adjustment sliders mean you can tweak the fit to your height without any fuss. 

You’ll also find some thoughtful “Pro” touches here, like loops on the straps that allow you to attach small gadgets or clip on your sunglasses for easy access. 

That said, it’s important to keep expectations realistic: while the padding is supportive and sufficient for standard travel and everyday loads, it is still relatively basic. 

If you’re planning to pack this bag to its absolute limit with heavy gear for an all-day trek, you might find yourself needing a break after a few hours. But for typical “one-bag” travel and commuting, the comfort level is exactly what you need.

Sternum Strap

For that extra bit of stability when the bag is fully loaded, the adjustable sternum strap is a key feature. If you’ve never used one before, it basically connects the two shoulder straps across your chest to keep the pack balanced and snug against your body.

This is incredibly helpful when you’re navigating a busy airport or walking longer distances to your hotel, as it prevents the bag from swaying and shifts the weight for a much more secure feel.

Trolley Sleeve

The trolley sleeve is one of those small but essential features that makes a massive difference for frequent travelers. 

It lets you slide the backpack right over the handle of your rolling luggage, securing it on top so you can move through airports or train stations completely hands-free. 

While it seems like something that’s not a huge deal, let me tell you it can be so helpful, especially when you’re navigating a crowded terminal, being able to shift that 38L weight from your shoulders to your suitcase is a total lifesaver.

This sleeve fits most standard luggage handles and holds the bag snugly in place, so you won’t have to deal with the bag slipping, sliding, or awkwardly tipping over as you wheel your suitcase around (nightmare situation in transit).

This backpack is a durable, no-fuss design that keeps your combined luggage setup balanced, so even when you’re rushing to catch a flight or juggling a coffee and a boarding pass, this little detail adds a massive layer of ease to your travel day.

Product Warranty

When it comes to the BAGSMART 38L Blast Pro, the warranty coverage is pretty straightforward. Like most of their products, it comes with a 30-day limited warranty that specifically covers manufacturer defects. This is essentially your safety net to ensure that if the bag arrives damaged or there’s a flaw in the construction, you’re covered for a return or exchange within that first month.

To start the process, you’ll need to email their service team (service@bagsmart.com) with your order number and return request. If the issue is a genuine quality problem, like a broken zipper or a seam issue right out of the box, BAGSMART will cover the return shipping costs.

However, there are a few practical things to keep in mind if you’re on the fence:

• Change of Heart: If you’re returning the bag because you ordered the wrong size or simply decided it’s not for you, you’ll be responsible for the return shipping and delivery fees.
• Refused Delivery: If you refuse the package at delivery, 10% of your refund will be deducted to cover the shipping costs they incurred.

While this isn’t the “lifetime” warranty you might find with premium luxury labels, it provides a solid 30-day window to make sure the Blast Pro arrives in top-tier shape and fits your travel style before you commit to your first big trip.

Performance

I’ve now taken the BAGSMART 38L Blast Pro on six different trips over the last four months, bouncing between West Palm, New York City, and Pittsburgh, and it has officially earned its spot as a travel staple. 

One of the first things I noticed is that the Pro version feels significantly more “lux” than the original. This time I opted for the black color (my original was blue), and the combination of the deeper tone and the upgraded fabric gives it a much more polished, premium look that doesn’t scream “budget bag.”

When it comes to packing, the internal organization, which almost feels like having built-in shelves, was a standout feature during my travels. It kept everything perfectly in place while I was moving between cities, meaning I wasn’t just throwing my gear into a void. I always knew exactly where my clothes ended and my tech began.

And the expansion feature also proved its worth in a very real way on the way home from NYC during a particularly cold Savannah Bananas game. I managed to squeeze in a bulky Yankees blanket we bought at the stadium, and the expansion zipper compressed it down with no problem at all.

It’s that kind of flexibility, like being able to suddenly find extra room for souvenirs or extra layers, that makes this bag so reliable for unpredictable trips.

Like the original, the Blast Pro is impressively lightweight when empty, which is also a huge plus once you really load it up. 

The top pocket remains my absolute favorite feature for stashing my passport and snacks, and the water-resistant fabric handled the varied weather of the Northeast and Florida without a hitch. 

While the padding is still relatively basic for long-distance hauls, the trolley sleeve was a lifesaver for those long airport walks. 

Overall, the Blast Pro takes everything I loved about the original and adds just enough “lux” refinement to make it a bag I reach for without even thinking.

Bagsmart 38l Blast Pro Travel Backpack Video Review

I’ve also put together a full YouTube video review of the BAGSMART Blast Pro Backpack, where I walk through all the features, show you exactly how much I can fit inside, and share my honest thoughts after taking it on six different trips.

Seeing the bag in motion really helps to show off that “shelf” organization and the way the fabric looks in person, so head to my YouTube channel to watch and subscribe or click play above!

Bagsmart 38l Blast Pro Travel Backpack Alternatives

CALPAK Terra 26L Duffle Backpack

If you’re willing to spend a bit more, this is easily one of my most-loved backpacks for a weekend away, especially when I want to save money by traveling personal item only.

Even though it’s technically a smaller capacity (26L), it matches the size of the BAGSMART Blast when it’s un-expanded.

Overall, I actually feel like I can actually squeeze more into it because the organization is so well-thought-out. It’s my go-to “personal item only” bag when I want something that feels a bit more premium and structured.

Baboon to the Moon Duffle Backpack

So, I haven’t had the chance to test this one out personally yet, but I keep seeing amazing things about it.

I went down a bit of a YouTube review hole the other night checking out this bag, and truly, it’s on my wish list. It looks absolutely fab and has a reputation for being incredibly durable and “adventure-proof.” It’s a great option if you want a bag with a bold personality and a rugged build.

That said, the BAGSMART Blast will save you money you can spend later on your trip.

Tomtoc Navigator T-66 Liteway 28L Backpack

This is very comparable to the BAGSMART in terms of price and general layout. I recently was sent one to test out and I couldn’t believe the quality when I unboxed it.

That said, I think the Blast Pro has much better internal organization, but I do prefer the exterior of the Tomtoc. If you aren’t a fan of flashy branding, the Tomtoc has a much more subtle, minimal logo that looks very clean.

The Verdict

What I Like:

• Exceptional Organization: The “shelf-like” interior and variety of mesh pockets make it easy to stay organized without needing a dozen separate packing cubes.
• Versatile Expansion: The ability to jump from 28L to 38L is a lifesaver for unpredictable trips—like when you need to squeeze in a stadium blanket or souvenirs.

• Upgraded “Lux” Feel: The Pro version features a more premium fabric and a polished look that feels significantly more high-end than the original.

• Travel-Centric Design: Features like the trolley sleeve, side-access laptop compartment, and the shoe pocket are clearly designed by people who actually travel.

• Lightweight Build: Even with all its features, the bag remains lightweight when empty, so you aren’t wasting your weight allowance on the bag itself.

What I Don’t Like:

• Basic Strap Padding: While perfectly fine for standard travel, the padding isn’t heavy-duty enough for all-day trekking with a maximum load.

• Flashy Branding: The logo is a bit more prominent than on some alternative bags, which might not appeal to those who prefer a minimalist look.

• Size Limits: When fully expanded to 38L, it can be a tight squeeze for under the seat.

• Pockets Take Interior Space: Shoe compartment and top pocket reduce interior space

FAQs

Can the BAGSMART 38L Blast Pro expand for more space?

Yes! One of its most versatile features is the expansion zipper. This allows the bag to grow from a more compact size (perfect for daily use or light packing) up to its full 38L capacity.

It’s incredibly helpful for those trips where you leave with more than you started with, like when I needed to squeeze in that extra Yankees blanket!

How much does the backpack weigh?

The Blast Pro is impressively lightweight, weighing in at approximately 2.6 lbs (1.2 kg) when empty.

This is a huge advantage for “one-bag” travelers, as it allows you to pack more of your own gear without the bag itself eating up a significant portion of your airline weight allowance.

Is this backpack suitable as a carry-on?

Absolutely. The 38L size is specifically designed to meet the carry-on requirements for most major airlines. When you don’t fully expand it, it can often pass as a personal item that fits under the seat on larger planes.

However, if you have it packed to its full 38L capacity, it is best suited for the overhead bin. If you want to see it in action, check out my TikTok or YouTube reels where I test it in various airline sizers!

What is the material of the backpack?

BAGSMART crafts the Blast Backpack from durable, water-resistant polyester.

The “Pro” version features an upgraded fabric that feels more premium and “lux” compared to the original model. It’s designed to handle the rigors of travel and can easily withstand light rain, keeping your electronics and clothes dry while you’re on the move.