REVIEW: Deuter ACT Lite 35+10 SL

I chose the Deuter ACT Lite 35+10 SL hiking backpack for my month-long trip around Asia. This model was recommended to me by a salesperson at Bagalio.cz. I didn't have much experience with backpacks before, so I took their advice. When I first saw the backpack, the color caught my eye the most. The Petrol-mint variant looks amazing and the backpack is striking and colorful at first glance.

After examining the details, I put the backpack on and was immediately pleased with its low weight. Every girl who doesn't travel with her own personal sherpa but carries all her things herself will appreciate this.

The chosen volume of 35+10 liters seemed quite small at first, and initially, it seemed impossible to pack for a whole month's vacation in Asia. Not many people believed in me, but surprisingly, everything necessary eventually fit into the backpack. The fully loaded backpack weighed ten kilograms, which I would mark as the maximum for comfortable travel in Asia.

First of all, I would like to describe the back system. For this model, Deuter uses the Aircontact Vari Quick type. The women's version is marked SL (from "short length"). A backpack with this designation is intended mainly for us women, and possibly for shorter men. As soon as I put the backpack on my back, it was clear that this women's version has narrower shoulder straps. I had to get used to it, as I had previously only had experience with classic backpacks, which meant wide shoulder straps and a longer back section.

After adjusting all the straps, which are easy to tighten and loosen, I found a position that suited me. After initial hesitation, I quickly got used to the backpack. I especially appreciate the ability to move the shoulder straps up or down using the Velcro system. This allows you to lengthen or shorten the back section and play with the backpack's center of gravity.

The Aircontact Vari Quick back system is a truly comfortable "gadget" of the backpack. Thanks to the great padding, it ensures that nothing presses on you even during all-day wear, and the manufacturer also thought about ventilation. The central tunnel eliminates back sweating, which you will appreciate not only in warmer regions.

A great advantage of the ACT Lite backpack is its two-compartment interior. It probably won't guarantee that you won't be looking for something all the time, but after all, every girl who carries a handbag is used to that. The main part is separated from the bottom compartment by a zippered partition. If necessary, the partition can be unzipped and the entire interior of the backpack can be used as a single space. Personally, I found the division of the two compartments useful. The smaller bottom part can be used for things you need every day and that take up too much space. I would put a sleeping bag or a toiletry bag here. During shorter trips, I can imagine the bottom part as a place for shoes or wet clothes.

An interesting addition to the main compartment is the fixing strap for attaching and securing items in the backpack. The strap is located between the top of the backpack and the lid. This strap can be used to easily tighten and compress the contents of the top compartment, or it is possible to attach a sweatshirt or a light jacket between the top compartment and the lid.

An excellent detail is the "locking" drawstring slider, which closes the top of the backpack. Handling is very fast, comfortable, and one doesn't have to worry about things falling out of the backpack.

A hydration bladder can also be part of the internal contents, as the backpack is prepared for this accessory in every way. There is a loop for securing the bladder and an opening for the hose on the shoulder strap. This will certainly be appreciated mainly by athletes or hikers who don't have time to take the backpack off their back. :)

Besides the already mentioned striking color, I fell in love with the backpack for its low weight. The manufacturer reached 1580 g, which is an interesting feat for such a large and durable backpack. I also appreciated the external pocket for wet things, which is located on the front of the backpack. However, I used it to store guidebooks and candy for Asian children. On the outside of the backpack, you will also find loops for Nordic walking poles. From the bottom, there are two tightening straps for anything - they can also be used to attach a larger sleeping bag that would take up too much space inside. A sleeping mat would certainly fit there too.

On the sides of the backpack, there are mesh side pockets. I was sorry that they were not large enough. A classic PET bottle (1.5 l) with water was difficult to store and pull out, especially when the backpack was full. Near the side pockets, there are fixing straps that can also be used to attach a sleeping mat, sweatshirt, or other items. Thanks to the straps, it is also easier to secure a large PET bottle.

The backpack lid has two pockets. The outer pocket can be used for small items that one needs to have at hand – ideal for a charger, a small GoPro camera, and others. It is then advisable to store valuables in the inner pocket.

One certainly cannot forget the SOS label, which is located on the inside of the top lid. It serves as a guide and procedure in crisis situations in the mountains. I really appreciate and praise this label, as it is definitely more useful than a sticker with information that the backpack cannot be washed in a washing machine.

The last part of my backpack not yet described is the hip belt. It is adjustable, pleasantly padded, and most importantly, it doesn't press anywhere. The durable plastic buckle is easily closable and will last even if you accidentally step on it. :) The small waist pocket, which can be used, for example, to store a mobile phone, is also pleasant.

In conclusion, a small mention of the praised color of my model. It looks great, but after all, smudges and dirt are quickly visible on it. Especially in Asia, during transport by buses and tuk-tuks, the backpack took a lot of abuse. Even air travel left its mark in the form of smudges. For these cases, I would welcome at least a rain cover or, even better, a protective cover. However, it can be purchased separately from the Deuter brand.

I would recommend the Deuter ACT Lite 35+10 SL backpack to all girls who have trouble packing a backpack. :) Everything necessary fits into it, and of course a few unnecessary things (which you will only find out on the way). If you don't stuff it with stones, you can be sure that you will carry this backpack comfortably the whole time and that you will be able to carry it.

It is good to fully load the backpack in advance and try it out so you know what to expect from the SL variant. And for those who mind getting their dream backpack dirty, I recommend buying a backpack cover, which, as seen in Asia, is becoming a completely common part of the equipment of every traveler who has invested in a quality backpack.