Evergoods CPL28 V3 Review: Minimalist Perfection

Evergoods makes gear for people who refuse compromise. The CPL28 V3 is the company's core everyday backpack, refined through three iterations. It's clean. It's functional. It does what it promises without apology.

What Is the CPL28?

The CPL28 is a 28-liter backpack designed for minimalist travelers, remote workers, and professionals who prefer substance over flash. It's the size sweet spot: small enough for day trips, large enough for weekend travel.

Evergoods is owned by designers who use their own gear. You feel that in every detail.

Build & Design

The exterior is 500D Cordura Nylon—durable but not military-grade. Evergoods trusts this material to last, which it does. Seams are clean, stitching is meticulous.

The real innovation is the clamshell opening. Unlike traditional backpacks where you access everything from the top, the CPL28's front panel opens completely. You can see everything inside. No blind fishing for items at the bottom. This design choice alone sets it apart.

Key Specs:

Capacity: 28L
Material: 500D Cordura Nylon
Weight: 1.8 lbs
Dimensions: 20.5" H x 12" W x 8.5" D
Laptop Sleeve: Up to 15.6"
Warranty: Lifetime warranty

Real-World Testing

We tested the CPL28 V3 for work commutes, weekend trips, and as a personal item on flights. It excels in all scenarios.

The clamshell opening genuinely changes how you interact with your pack. You're never searching. Everything is visible and accessible. For travelers, this is huge—no more repacking three times to find your phone.

The organization is intentionally minimal. No excessive pockets. No unnecessary compartments. What you get:

Main clamshell compartment
Dedicated 15.6" laptop sleeve (removable, doubles as a tablet organizer)
Rear admin pocket (credit cards, documents)
Two small side pockets
Webbing loops for molle attachment

Pros:

Clamshell opening is genuinely game-changing
Lifetime warranty with exceptional customer service
Clean, professional aesthetic
Removable laptop sleeve adds flexibility
Sternum strap + hip belt for load distribution
Weighs less than 2 lbs
Works as a day pack or weekend bag

Cons:

Premium price point ($298)
Minimalist pocket structure (some want more organization)
Not weatherproof (recommend rain cover for heavy use)
Takes time to learn optimal packing
Top lid doesn't have a grab handle

Why Choose CPL28 Over Alternatives?

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack 30L is more polished and slightly cheaper. The GORUCK GR1 is more durable for extreme use. The Aer Travel Pack is better for frequent flyers.

The CPL28 wins for people who value elegant simplicity and smart organization. It's the thinking person's backpack.

Bottom Line

The Evergoods CPL28 V3 is expensive because it's designed by people who care. You're not paying for a brand. You're paying for thoughtful engineering.

The clamshell opening will either feel essential or unnecessary—there's no middle ground. If the idea of accessing your entire pack without unpacking appeals to you, the CPL28 is worth the investment.

Where to Buy:

| Retailer | Price | |----------|-------| | Evergoods Direct | $298 | | Amazon | $298 | | Huckberry | $298 |

Prices current as of January 2026.