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Owen Whitfield

Head of testing: packs, luggage and adapters, based in Manchester

Covers Luggage, Backpacks

Last field trip Aug 20263 guides published

Backpacks
Luggage
Testing method

Languages: English

About

Owen runs the lab. Every backpack is weighed on the same scale, every wheel is rolled over the same cobbles, every adapter is tested in the same six sockets. He wrote our how-we-test page and edits every gear roundup so the comparisons stay honest. Method first, then the verdict.

Field trips

Months, not dates, for privacy.

Aug 2026Manchester20 carry-ons against six sizer frames, 3 days in the workshop
Jul 2026Lisbon and PortoCarry-on luggage cobblestone test, 5 nights
Mar 2026Scottish Highlands40 L pack loaded hikes, 4 nights

Guides by Owen Whitfield

gray hardside luggage

Data storyTwenty carry-ons against six budget-airline sizersOwen Whitfield · Updated Oct 3, 2026

grey and black hiking backpack and cyan tumbler on grey rock during sunset

Best ofBest travel backpacks: how to choose one that fits your airline and your tripUpdated Oct 2, 2026

a man and a woman walking through an airport

Best ofCarry-on bags for budget airlines: how to check, pack and avoid gate feesUpdated Oct 2, 2026

DestinationsWhere to go, when to go and how to get around in 221 countries. Every practical fact shows the date we checked it and who checked it.Where to stayNeighborhoods walked end to end: who each area suits, how far it is from the airport train, and the hotels we would book ourselves.PlanVisas and entry rules, travel insurance, eSIMs and rail passes, explained in plain words and rechecked when the rules change.EventsFestivals, concerts and tours with confirmed dates, rooms near the venue and the fastest way on to the next city.StoriesField reports and data stories from the road. We time the queues, count the costs and say what changed since last year.