REVIEW: Tasmanian Tiger Companion 30

A good companion is important in life. This also applies when it comes to a backpack, namely the brand new TASMANIAN TIGER Companion 30. This backpack is designed for everyday carry (EDC) and we were able to test it extensively.

The Companion 30 measures approximately 55 x 28 x 19 cm, has an empty weight of 915 g, and offers a good 30 liters of space. The exterior of the backpack is extremely smooth and minimalist in design. Definitely very stylish.

On the sides, you will find an antenna / hydration tube port each, as well as compression options with a drawstring.

It also looks good in action.

The Companion 30 is made from CORDURA 700 and the side panels are made of RipStop Nylon. This reduces the weight to under a kilo. The color here is the extremely chic Titan Grey.

There are small carabiner loops sewn on the front, into which the included round rubber can be threaded. Also known as "Daisy Chain." Very practical for quickly stowing a jacket.

The Companion 30 features the Thermo Mold carrying system. The shoulder straps are wide and well padded. The zippers of the main compartment can be locked.

The back is padded and slightly profiled to ensure adequate ventilation.

The chest strap provides additional support for the shoulder straps.

Also, the lightweight 25 mm webbing hip belt. Overall, the Companion 30 wears very well, even with a bit more weight inside.

The lid compartment offers the clever divisions known from TASMANIAN TIGER. A real advantage for all the odds and ends you carry with you daily.

Even though the Companion 30 looks like a "clamshell" backpack, it is a classic toploader. The lid simply unzips. At the bottom of the lid, there is a mesh pocket available.

The back in the main compartment is lined with MOLLE/PALS - Velcro, making it easy to attach pockets. At the top, there is also a hydration bladder loop. Otherwise, there is nothing special to see in the main compartment. We really like that the interior is kept bright, making it easy to find your stuff even in poor lighting.

The volume of the main compartment is approximately equivalent to an uncompressed Defence 4, which is just under 30 liters.

The lightweight, unstructured construction of the Companion 30 also has a small visual disadvantage. If the main compartment is not fully loaded, the lid sags and the backpack looks a bit limp.

However, this is less noticeable from the back. This does not detract from the carrying comfort, thanks to the padded back panel.

CONCLUSION: The Companion 30 lives up to its name very well, being a good companion for everyday use. With its 30 liters of capacity, everything from a laptop, documents, snacks, to a jacket fits into this sturdy backpack. The Companion 30 is also highly recommended for (short) trips.

The Tasmanian Tiger Companion 30 is available from 119 euros in Olive, Coyote Brown, Black, and Titan Grey at all retailers carrying TASMANIAN TIGER.

TASMANIAN TIGER on the web: www.tasmaniantiger.info