Paxis Twin Lakes Backpack is unique with its clever swing-arm system which allows you to access the interior of the bag without having to set it down. To say that it is unique would be an understatement.

We’ve reviewed and used many backpacks in our nearly 20 years traveling together. From the most affordable backpacks to some of the more expensive ones, we’ve tested them all. Top loading packs, backpacks in the suitcase-style, backpacks for overnight trips, backpacks designed to fit into urban areas, as well as some of the best travel backpacks, and travel business backpacks, have been tested.

No matter how good the design or the price of the backpack is, it has one major flaw. You need to remove the bag from your back and lay it flat to get to the contents.

It can cause a lot of trouble.

When you are stuck in the rain and need to get into your bag, it’s best not to place the backpack on a muddy or wet surface. Most of the time backpacks don’t balance well and they fall over, sooting the whole thing.

It’s difficult to get into a back pack when it’s hot. You may be able, if the bag is small and flexible enough, to wear it around your hips, so that you can access the contents. It’s a little tricky, and even more so if your body is curved.

It’s especially frustrating to have to dig around in my bag when I am outside, taking pictures. It has been frustrating to have to put down my bag and search for my camera gear. This ruined many great shots. The wildlife is not very patient when I put my camera down and search for the right lens.

Why hasn’t anyone invented a system that allows you to easily access the contents of your backpack while wearing it?

One company is doing it.

PAXIS BACKPACK REVIEW

Paxis Twin Lakes has a pod which can be swiveled from your back towards the front. It takes only seconds to do, and you’ll be able to access your gear without taking off the whole pack.

Paul Vierthaler and Cathy Vierthaler, outdoor enthusiasts from the USA, designed and developed the Paxis Swing Arm Backpack.

Paxis was kind enough to allow us to test a Paxis Twin Lakes Backpack for our readers.

Pros:

• The innovative swing arm allows you to access your pack without having to put it down.
• Modern fabrics and attractive design.
• Padded straps that are comfortable
• This pack is ideal for a photography daypack, fly-fishing backpack, fishing pack or day photography backpack

CONS

• It weighs around 6 pounds and is heavier than similar-sized backpacks.
• The swing arm mechanism will be tested over time to see if it can withstand repeated use.
• Ideal for short or day trips but too small for long-term travel.

Technical Details

• Capacity: 30 Liters
• Exterior Dimensions: 21″ high, 14″ wide, 9″ deep
• The Shuttle Pod can hold up to 5 pounds.
• Shuttle Pod Dimensions Interior: 11″W by 4.5″H x 5″D
• The ARC Swing Technology swings the lower portion of your backpack forward
• Free standing design
• Waterproof base
• Inside tablet/laptop pockets
• Limited warranty for life

How does the swing arm work?

The Paxis swing arm backpack has two sections: an upper section that acts as a small bag and a lower part which can be swung around to access its contents. Only the lower pod of the backpack swings to the front. The upper part does not.

Operation: Pull the release handle while keeping the straps and the sternum closed. You can access your pod (snacks and fishing equipment) without having to remove the backpack.

Was it difficult to operate? Was it difficult to use? It would it be flimsy or cheap feeling?

With a quick release of the arm, the pod at the bottom swung from the rear to the front. The bottom pod is perfect for snacking on the hike.

It was easy to do. A gentle tap on the side of the pack clicked the pod back in place.

PAXIS TWIN LACES MATERIALS DESIGN AND MATERIALS

Paxis Twin Lakes Swing Around Backpack is made of nylon fabric with high-tech polyethylene.

Aluminum is used for the frame to provide strength and lightness.

Twin Lakes comes in 4 colors: Mineral (aqua), Quarry (greyish brown), Madrona (orange), and Long Range Grass Camo (green camouflage color).

Paxis’ logo appears large and prominently on this pack. However, because it is white, the Paxis logo does not look as obnoxious when it is displayed on packs in grey, teal, or orange. On the camo pack, however, it’s a bright orange.

The zips on the Paxis Easy Access Backpack Twin Lakes feel solid and move easily.

The straps on the shoulders are padded and have a stabilizing sternum band. Also, the waist/hip straps have a quick-release buckle and are well padded.

It is padded, vented and comfortable to wear.

PAXIS BACKPACK INNER POCKETS AND EXTERIOR STRINGS

The interior has many pockets. We consider the laptop/tablet pocket in the top bag to be the most crucial. Two other zippered interior pockets are perfect for electronics equipment, such as chargers and cables.

It has enough room to store a full day of clothing and toiletries.

There’s also a key pocket or a sunglass pouch on the exterior top of the bag.

Shuttle Pod is the bottom part of this pack. It has a single compartment lined in soft fabric. The pack does not come with dividers, but you can purchase them as an accessory.

The upper pocket has exterior straps that can be used to hold tripods or any other equipment.

On either side of top of pack, there are exterior compression straps with quick-release buckles.

The PAXIS BACKPACK is FIT and comfortable.

I (female 5’4 ”), Charles (5’11”), our daughter (12 years old) and Charles tested out the Paxis Twin Lakes for fit and comfort.

It was very easy to adjust the pack using both shoulder and waist straps.

Charles had to loosen the shoulder and waist straps for more comfort. The backpack also rode a little higher up on Charles’ hips. He said that it was comfortable enough for a short hike and very well cushioned.

It took some more adjustment to the shoulder and waist straps when switching the frame from Charles’ to our daughter’s.

She said that after a few minutes, the bag was snugly fitted on her back. Even with the loose shoulders, she felt comfortable. She could have tightened the straps but preferred to keep them loose.

Returns and Refunds

Paxis accepts returns and offers a refund in full if the gear received is ” brand new with all tags still intact“. Return shipping is the responsibility of the purchaser.

Accessory

Paxis offers two optional accessories: A foam packing system to protect expensive gear such as cameras, binoculars and other valuables and a waterproof cover.

PAXIS DIVIDERS POD PROTECTION – ARMOR FOR POD GEAR

Two (confusingly) named Pod Armor inserts allow you to divide the lower Shuttle Pod section of your backpack. Pod Armor allows you to divide the lower section of the Shuttle Pod in the backpack.

These two inserts are great for protecting camera gear, electronics or fishing equipment.

Inserts made of soft, velour-covered aviation foam with a high density.

PAXIS RAINCOVER – GEAR PROTECTION FROM RAINSHIELD

Rain covers are not included with the Paxis Dual Lakes Backpack.

RainShield, with its elasticized binding, is a rain cover that can be attached to any pack of 30 liters or less.

TIMELINE IS USEABLE

First use Backpack in great condition.

• Swing arm is easy to use and effortless
• The upper fabric is resistant to water beads.
• Cool and comfortable back panel

Use for two weeks Pack in good condition

• Swing arm moving smoothly with no visible binding or wear
• The shoulder straps and waist belt are comfortable and padded for hiking.

This timeline will be updated as we continue to use the Pack.

Price: Paxis Twin Lakes Backpack is priced at around $199 US.