The High Sierra Access protects your notebook computer, while providing a comfortable, secure ride with ample storage and features. The pack holds up to a 17” screen size laptop computer with maximum dimensions of 15.5” X 10.75” X 1.8”. In addition to the padded computer sleeve, the Access has special pockets to securely carry your cell phone, iPod, GPS device, beverages and much more.

I tested the High Sierra Access backpack on a recent trip to the Alaskan bush. The weather, terrain and transportation methods put the pack to the test. This pack got the job done.

BAGGAGE CLAIM

The Access is pictured with the yellow rain fly over the backpack. Rain, heavy rain, is common in this area of Alaska. Gear gets thrown around while loading/unloading the float plane. The Access kept my laptop dry and damage free.

STRAPS

The shoulder straps on the Access feature a Suspension System, which allows the straps to flex under pressure. There are also chest and waist belts to secure the pack on your body. The waist strap can be tucked into the back of the pack for storage. Notice the cell phone holder. The shoulder straps and the front of the pack are well padded for a comfortable fit.

ORGANIZING POCKETS

The organizing pocket zips open to present a variety of smaller pockets and storage compartments. There's even a detachable clip to hook your keys onto. Notice the portable media pocket has an opening for your headphones.

LAPTOP CASE

Pictured is the adjustable strap that you use to secure the your computer in the padded sleeve. The internal frame of the pack is well padded and contains a hard piece of material to protect your computer. You get extra padding on the bottom of the pack when the rain fly is rolled up in storage.

SIDE POCKET

You can store a number of items in this mesh side pocket. It's termed a "Beverage Compartment", but I carried everything from screw drivers to wine bottles.

TESTING GROUNDS

Overall the High Sierra Access backpack has a solid design, and it's well constructed from high quality materials. The pack held up very well to the elements and my abuse. The alder trees snagged the bag a number of times while I hiked across the Tundra, yet neither the bag or rain fly showed any sign of tearing. It's hard to keep the mud off any gear in the Tundra, so of course the backpack got dirty. The dirt and grim stayed on the outside of the bag, and it was easy to wipe off with a wet rag. High Sierra offers a lifetime warranty to the original pack owner against defects in materials or workmanship under normal recreational use.

PROS
If you use all the features this backpack has, congratulations. For a daypack, and a Laptop carrier, this pack has it all and then some. I wore this pack everyday for two weeks and I’m still finding new uses for all the features. If you commute to work on your bike or walk in the elements, you’ll appreciate the rain fly. (I sprayed some water repellent on the rain fly for added protection before my trip.) It came in handy when I forgot to zip up the Laptop pocket and I went out in the rain. Fortunately, I had pulled the rain cover over the pack.

CONS
The suspension strap system is an interesting idea in theory, but when I had the pack heavily weighted and hiked across the undulating tundra, it didn’t ride well on my back. The suspension strap seemed to create more of a bounce to the pack instead of dampening it. It wasn’t a big deal, but the suspension strap is one of the features this pack can do without.

More Info on the High Sierra Access Backpack