The Raven 20L is often suggested as a solid personal item for air travel. Its compact, organized design is a major benefit, though it comes with a downside. The tough canvas holds up well over time, but the small size might not suit everyone.
- DVSS Score: 80.01/100
- Satisfaction Tier: Excellent
- Review Count: 347
STRENGTHS
- Comfort on Small Frames: Fits users under 5’0″ perfectly without feeling bulky or awkward.
- Canvas Durability: Withstood one year of rough treatment by a 7-year-old and daily use over six months.
- Non-Bulky Loadout: Maintains a slim profile even when loaded with a 15-inch laptop and accessories.
- Excellent Organization: Features many inner pockets and a soft-lined top quick pouch for sunglasses.
LIMITATIONS
- Side Pocket Conflict: Water bottles exceeding 20oz conflict with the main compartment zipper operation.
- Attracts Debris: The synthetic material easily attracts dust and hair and is susceptible to water stains.
- No Luggage Pass-Through: Users specifically note the absence of a strap for hanging a suitcase handle.
- 16-inch Laptop Fit: Technically fits, but the corners make the bag bulge, and the zipper struggles.
- DVSS Score: 80.01/100
- Satisfaction Tier: Excellent
- Review Count: 347
The Raven 20L is a top-rated daypack that stands up to rough use, with one model lasting over a year of heavy student use. Its high score comes from its great fit and internal organization, but the main drawback is the tight side pocket, which makes the main zipper harder to use.
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Contents
The Raven 20L Maintains an 80.01 DVSS Score Despite Side Pocket Obstruction.
The Raven 20L is a sturdy, well-built backpack. Its high score is thanks to its compact shape and strong organization. While it can be worn daily, a few usability issues keep it from being perfect.
- DVSS Score: 80.01/100
- Satisfaction Tier: Excellent
- Review Count: 347
- Average Rating: 4.70
- Ideal For: Commuting and Short Travel (for petite users and light loadouts)
We used our DVSS Methodology to calculate this score. It shows the pack uses reliable materials, though the water bottle pockets have some problems. Most buyers see the Raven 20L as a dependable pick, as evidenced by many positive reviews.
Comfort Sponginess Reduces Back Strain for Petite Users
The soft padding on the back and shoulder straps makes the backpack feel lighter. Users say it sits comfortably on their shoulders and does not dig in, even for people who are 5’9″.
The compact design helps prevent overpacking, so the bag stays comfortable. People who are 5’9” or 160 lbs say it fits well and does not cause neck or back pain. The shoulder straps are padded enough without being bulky.
Side Pockets Block Main Zipper Operation at 20-ounce Limit.
Water bottles exceeding 20 ounces or 3-4 inches in width will interfere with the main compartment zipper. Users note the side pockets are “ludicrously tiny” and force the bag to bulge slightly inward when a 24oz Owala is inserted.
This issue stops the main zipper from opening or closing fully. Using a shorter water bottle makes it easier to use the zipper and keeps it working well.
Inner Pockets Allow Full Organization Without Bulk
The Raven 20L has many pockets in each compartment for organizing stationery and small accessories. The inner compartments help keep everything “tidy and in place” without making the pack look bulky.
A small, soft-lined pouch at the top is perfect for a phone or sunglasses. The off-white lining inside the main compartment is also “extremely helpful to see one’s contents.” This organization helps balance out the bag’s smaller 20L size.
Canvas Material Withstands Rough Use, But Attracts Debris
The material is confirmed to be sturdy canvas, “very durable,” and well-made, holding up to daily use for many months. One user noted it survived the “rough treatment” of an active boy for the first year of school unscathed. The canvas fabric is also Greenland wax compatible, suggesting enhanced longevity.
However, the fabric tends to attract dirt and is a “magnet for cat hair and dust.” One reviewer said the material stains “INSANELY easily,” even from a water spill. So, it needs more care than most synthetic packs.
Capacity Accommodates 15-inch Laptops and Light Overnights.
The laptop sleeve easily fits a 15-inch laptop with “no problem,” plus a planner and charging cables. The description says a 16-inch MacBook Pro fits, but this makes the bag tight and the zipper hard to close.
For short trips, the pack can hold a change of clothes, a computer, and cables. It is a good size for a “weekend away” or as a carry-on, without the bulk of a larger travel pack. The depth fits a few textbooks, but the front pocket only works for “flat” items.
Flat Bottom Design Prevents Pack from Standing on Its Own
The Raven 20L does not have a flat, stable bottom, so it tends to “fall forward otherwise.” The front is shorter than the back, so it usually needs to lean on something to stay upright.
This instability stems from the bag’s slim, non-bulky shape, which makes it easy to carry. The slim profile favors comfort and a compact feel over standing up on its own. Most users quickly get used to leaning the bag against a wall or chair.
Raven 20L Secures Commuter Needs: Is it the Right Fit?
The Raven 20L combines a simple, high-quality look with useful organization for commuters or students. Its main strength is being a compact day bag that safely holds tech essentials without being bulky.
Real-World Loadout Test
- Tech: Fits a 15-inch laptop with no problem; a 16-inch MacBook Pro is technically possible but strains zippers; fits a Nintendo Switch with accessories comfortably.
- Gear: Fits a small umbrella and sunglasses case in the side pockets; 24oz Owala causes interior bulge and zipper interference; fits a Game Boy in the soft-lined top pouch.
- Result: The bag keeps a great slim profile for commuting, but the strict water bottle size limit makes it harder to access the main compartment quickly.
Quick-Fit Assessment
✓ You’re a Great Fit:
- Your daily load is a 15-inch laptop or smaller and light accessories.
- You use a water bottle 20 ounces or less (or carry it inside).
- You are a petite traveler seeking a non-bulky personal item.
✗ Skip This If You:
- Must carry a 16-inch laptop with a large charger brick daily.
- Need to carry a 32-oz wide-mouth water bottle externally.
- Require a luggage pass-through for rolling suitcase travel.
Raven 20L for Petite Travelers: Compact Comfort, Tight Zippers
This bag is a great choice for users around 5’0″ to 5’4″ who find most backpacks too bulky or long. The Raven 20L provides these users with better comfort and fit, with a padded yet slim profile that does not feel overwhelming. The main downside is that the compact design results in smaller pockets, which can lead to water bottle issues.
Raven 20L for the Organized Commuter: Pockets Trade Side-Carry
The Raven 20L is for commuters who want lots of pockets instead of space for big items. Users take this bag from the office to construction sites and like its simple but stylish look. The trade-off is using small, narrow water bottles to keep the zipper working smoothly.
Raven 20L Secures Commuter Needs with Minimal Bulk.
The Raven 20L is a good choice for commuters who want organization, comfort for small frames, and a slim look instead of lots of space. It works well as a mobile “office” for light travel and moving between departments.
The main drawback is the side-pocket design, which means you have to choose between using a small bottle or having full access to the main compartment. This pack is best for people who value its slim, high-quality, and organized features enough to accept the trade-off of a side pocket and a zipper.
For travelers and commuters, check the price and availability of the Raven 20L and explore our other recommended packs in our Best Standard EDC Backpacks (20L-29L).
