So, just to be clear, I do not own the image that is featured on this page. I retrieved it from Target’s website and am giving all credit to whomever credit is due.

So, as anyone who reads this blog on the regular knows, I do firmly believe in EDC. I have been this way since childhood.

I have employed a backpack as a means to EDC what I want and need to have with me since my early twenties. The brands of backpacks I have owned over the years were either Wenger, Victorinox, or later SwissGear (which is very similar to Wenger.) I am very prejudiced in favor of the Swiss for so many reasons. I just truly admire the people, the government, the products, and the culture of The Swiss Confederation. I am not Swiss myself, at least not that I know of, but I do have mostly French and a considerable amount of German blood flowing through my veins.

I am disappointed to report that my Wenger Origins backpack of which I had recently purchased and wrote a review on a few weeks ago has sustained some damage. When I can locate a competent tailor, I will try to have it repaired. What I think had happened was, a while back, I spent a few nights at a friend’s house and packed too much clothing in the main compartment, which tore the inner lining fabric. This is not the first time a backpack has torn on me, by the way. I was disappointed and slightly ticked because I now needed a new EDC backpack. I was only slightly ticked because of the low price I paid for it. I’ve also learned not to write reviews of products so soon after purchasing them.

In the meantime, on July 13, 2020, I borrowed some cash and took a drive to my local Target to purchase a replacement backpack.

I didn’t go to the luggage section as I usually do, but rather the back to school section, where there were more Swiss backpacks.

I considered a few different SwissGear models but eventually settled on the SA3918 18.5 (or 19) Inch Backpack.

I paid $54.99+tax for it, which ultimately came out to $60 and some change.

Afterward, I ran some other errands, then went home and did some research on my newly purchased backpack.

Not long after, I found out that Target’s Website was selling it for $49.99 but the local store sold it to me for $54.99.

The next day I went back with my receipt and explained this to them. Promptly, the lady at customer service refunded me $5.50 in cash. Kudos to her!

So, at the time of writing this piece, I have owned my new backpack for ten days.

For the most part, I like it.

I say for the most part because, while it is indeed sturdy and fashionable and it does boldly show the Swiss emblem, there are two features it lacks that I wish it had:

I wish there was a dedicated tablet sleeve in addition to the laptop pocket.
AND
I wish there was an extra zipper pouch to store my computer repair tools, as my previous backpacks have had.

But other than that I truly enjoy this backpack and those are just minor flaws.

Speaking of showing off the Swiss emblem which is a white cross against a red background, I see it as a dual purpose:
Not only am I making a statement on how much I admire the Swiss, but since it features a cross, I am also publically identifying myself as a Christian when I carry this backpack with me. If you, the reader, think I am highly prejudiced in favor of the Swiss, let me make it clear that I am infinitely much more prejudiced in favor of Jesus Christ and my fellow brothers and sisters in Him! By the way, my brothers and sisters in Christ come from every nation, color, ethnicity, and race, but we are all purchased by That Precious Blood of Jesus Christ Who is God come in the flesh! I just pray that God will give me the grace and courage to always name the Name of Christ no matter the consequences!

If that wasn’t enough, I do find that this backpack appears to be tactical and fashionable at the same time! That is truly rare to be both, although it is becoming less rare. As an American, I truly appreciate tactical-grade products. I’m not very keen on fashion, I mean I wore a Casio G-Shock to my sister’s wedding, but I know just about anything Swiss will automatically be fashionable. I had previously also written about the comparisons and contrasts of tactical and fashionable a time or two.

By the way, don’t take my word for all of this, here is what Target’s website has to say, “Searching for a modern spin on a classic tactical looking design, this SWISSGEAR 3918 Laptop backpack has exactly what it takes. Fully equipped to take on the battle of the day, this everyday carry backpack has the features you’re looking for.”

Here are some of the features, taken from Target’s website with my added commentary after the hyphen:
Padded laptop compartment with built-in corner hold-down strap designed to carry most 15″ portable computers-I currently keep my tablet in there but hopefully will buy another laptop soon. In front of the laptop is where I keep my Bible and Bible study materials…

Large capacity main compartments designed to carry folders, binders, and books-I carry my scanners, chargers, and reading glasses here.

Organizer compartment with key/clip fob, slip pocket, and multiple divider pockets-I keep my flashlights, multi-tools, USB drives, calculator and weather radio in this section.

Front zippered quick access pocket for more frequently needed items-This is where I keep my masks and medical supplies, and dual exterior side water bottle pockets with reflective pull tabs-I have an insulated bottle which I plan to store in these pockets for hydrating on the go.

Ergonomically contoured, padded shoulder straps with breathable mesh fabric and reflective accent material for added safety-This will keep me cool and visible if ever walking around at night (such as commuting to and from evening church services in the dark.)

Padded, Airflow back panel with mesh fabric for superior back ventilation and support-keeps the electronics reasonably cool even in hot climates., and an integrated add-a-bag trolley strap on back panel to easily glide over carry-on’s telescopic handle-This makes airline, bus, and railroad travel slightly easier.

Not mentioned on Target’s Website but this backpack also features a metal D-ring on the upper side near the top handle. I use this to attach my key lanyard.

Here are some of the physical specifications, also taken from Target’s website:

Dimensions: 18.5 Inches (46.99 Centimeters) High by 14.1 Inches (35.814 Centimeters) Wide by 6.9 Inches (17.526 Centimeters) Deep.
Tare Weight: 1.54 Pounds (0.69853225 Kilograms).
Capacity: 25 Liters (6.604301306 US Gallons or 5.499231207 British Gallons).
It is constructed of what appears to be a durable Polyester.

The recommended user age for this product is 10 years old and up and it comes with a 5 Year Limited Warranty.

Target’s website went on to say this, “At the heart of this bag is an electronics-only compartment complete with a built-in laptop sleeve for superior protection for your portable computer. Featuring a large capacity main compartment large enough to carry books and binders, side water bottle pockets, a breathable ergonomic suspension system and an organizer compartment up front, this bag has what it takes to get your through your day.”

Target seems to be correct on this.

I just hope this backpack will last me at least a couple of years.

All in all, I give it a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. I took off half a star for lack of a tablet pocket and internal small zipper compartment

I guess this, therefore, concludes my review of the SwissGear 3918 Backpack.

Praise God, my back doesn’t hurt as much as usual!

I hope, you, the reader, have been informed and entertained.

May God richly bless you!

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