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Patagonia’s Versatile Travel Backpack Is Finally On Sale In Its Best Color

Now you don’t have to settle for an odd color to score Patagonia’s famed “maximum legal carry-on” for less.

The Patagonia Black Hole MLC Pack 45L shown on its side against a bright yellow backgroundPatagonia
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Patagonia’s mid‑season markdowns are already drawing attention across its outdoor gear lines—but perhaps no deal is more practical than the Black Hole MLC Pack 45 L, which Huckberry has now discounted even its classic black color while supplies last.

As one of Patagonia’s most adaptable travel backpacks, the MLC’s convertible design and capacity make it a quiet favorite—and this sale lets travelers upgrade without overstating the promise.

“Maximum Legal Carry-On”

The Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L backpack in black shown being carried by a side handle strap
The sizeable carry-on can be carried like a backpack, a duffle or a briefcase.
Huckberry

The MLC in the name stands for “Maximum Legal Carry-On” which is both clever and controversial.

While every size of the MLC line is designed as a carry-on, the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45 L is the biggest option in the series and best suited for stashing in an overhead bin vs. under the seat in front of you.

The Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L backpack in black shown open to reveal tech pockets
The clamshell design makes it easy to access and see smaller EDC items stashed in the backpack’s various pockets.
Huckberry

It’s crafted from 900-denier polyester ripstop with a TPU-laminate weatherproof finish, offering serious resistance to wear and the elements.

Pack Hacker rates its overall usefulness at 8.0/10, highlighting three carry modes—backpack, briefcase, and crossbody—and commendable laptop storage and gear compartmentalization.

The Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L backpack in black shown opened to reveal zipped mesh pockets filled with clothes
The biggest advantage of the 45L version of the bag is its ample room for a day (or two) worth of clothes.
Huckberry

That versatility isn’t just for show. Hidden shoulder straps and a removable hip belt let the MLC shift easily between carry styles; the internal layout includes a padded laptop sleeve and a range of mesh and zip pockets for organized stowing. It’s a long-haul, adaptable companion—more suitcase, less standard backpack.

A Few Details Short of Perfect

The Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L backpack in black is shown sitting on top of a roller board.
The ability to slide the bag over suitcase handles is a feature many other travel backpacks don’t include.
Huckberry

No bag is flawless. One point often raised is the lack of a breathable back panel—it can run warm under heavy loads.

More pointedly, travelers frequently flag the absence of external quick-access pockets and a dedicated water-bottle sleeve. While you can attach a bottle via external lash points, it’s not ideal.

These omissions are worth considering, especially if you rely on grabbing essentials on the move or staying hydrated in transit.

Pricing and Availability

The Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L backpack in black shown with the straps extended
The biggest downside to this pack is that it lacks a dedicated water bottle pocket. There’s also no small quick access pocket for stashing a wallet or other small item.
Huckberry

Currently, Huckberry is listing the Black Hole MLC Pack 45 L in Black for $191, down from its original $239 MSRP. That’s a meaningful drop on a high-utility travel piece that Patagonia isn’t currently offering directly.

A man wearing a Patagonia Black Hole MLC Travel Backpack - 45L showing his backHuckberry

Patagonia Black Hole MLC Pack 45L

The Patagonia Black Hole MLC (45 L) is a sturdy carry-on backpack built for travel. Crafted from recycled ripstop polyester laminated with TPU, it resists wear and weather. It opens flat, with a padded laptop sleeve that accommodates up to a 19-inch device and organization sleeves for cords and documents. Convertible straps let you carry it as a backpack, duffel, or shoulder bag, and a hip belt helps shift weight comfortably.
About the Author: Ben Bowers is the Co-Founder and Chief Content Officer of Gear Patrol. Throughout his tenure in media, Ben has written and reported on everything from consumer tech to whiskey, watches, cars, camping, and personal style. These days, he gets to write less than he’d like to.

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