Primark's Budget-Friendly £17 Backpack Draws Comparisons to Premium £65 Travel Bag
Fashion retailer Primark is capturing attention with a remarkably affordable travel backpack that bears striking resemblance to a significantly more expensive alternative. The £17 Roll Top Backpack presents itself as an ideal solution for airline passengers seeking practical cabin luggage without breaking the bank.
Design Features Tailored for Air Travel
According to Primark's product description, this backpack incorporates thoughtful design elements specifically suited for flight travel. The roll-top construction allows passengers to compress the bag to meet stringent airline size restrictions, while multiple zip-up sections provide secure storage for essential travel documents, passports, and electronic devices.
The yellow version particularly invites comparison to Eastpak's Medium backpack with laptop sleeve in tarp yellow, currently available at London Luggage for £45.50 (reduced from £65). Both designs share fundamental characteristics including roll-top construction, front pocket access, and zip fastenings, presented in nearly identical colour schemes.
Notable Differences Between Budget and Premium Options
Despite visual similarities, discerning shoppers will notice several distinguishing features. Primark's version includes a distinctive black base absent from the Eastpak design, and material differences are inevitable given the substantial price disparity. The Eastpak backpack boasts premium construction with water-resistant fabric, padded back support, dedicated laptop compartment, and comes with an impressive 30-year global warranty.
Eastpak's product description emphasizes durability and functionality, highlighting features like "water-resistant top-loading backpack crafted from durable top-coated fabric" and "padded back compartment for laptop protection." These premium elements naturally contribute to the higher price point.
Additional Colour Options and Availability
Primark offers the backpack in four colour variations including navy, black, and a two-toned ecru design alongside the comparison-inspiring yellow. While detailed specifications are limited on Primark's website, multiple product images allow potential buyers to assess the design thoroughly.
Shoppers can purchase the backpack through click-and-collect services or check in-store availability via Primark's website. The polyester construction, though less detailed in description than premium alternatives, provides functional performance at an accessible price point.
Premium Alternatives for Different Budgets
For travelers with more flexible budgets, John Lewis offers the Samsonite Ecodiver Rolltop Large Cabin Backpack at £125. This 35L yellow backpack features water-resistant coating and represents the higher end of the travel backpack market, with Samsonite emphasizing "practicality with stylish design" and "special attention to security and comfort."
The market clearly offers tiered options catering to different consumer priorities—from Primark's budget-conscious £17 solution to Eastpak's mid-range £45.50 offering and Samsonite's premium £125 investment. Each provides varying levels of durability, warranty protection, and material quality while addressing the fundamental need for practical, airline-compliant travel storage.
