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Aviator T35 X-Pac Small
Cost: $54.99
Capacity: 1.5 liters
Dimensions: 8.3″ x 4.5″ x 2.8“ (21 x 11.4 x 7.1 cm)
Style: Sling
Weight: 0.52 lbs (235 g)
Materials: X-Pac VX21; YKK Aquaguard Zips
Origin: Made in China
TomToc Aviator T35 Sling
TomToc is one of my favorite brands for high-quality travel gear at reasonable prices. They recently came out with some new updates to their popular Aviator T33 sling that I reviewed a few months ago.
This sling also comes in several sizes and fabric options to review. The new sling in X-pac fabric is called the T35, and I also have both models in the larger 3.5-liter versions, so let’s explore these models.
Dimensions
There are two models and two sizes here. Admittedly, TomToc’s naming convention is a bit confusing because the ripstop nylon version of their sling is called the T33.
The smaller 1.5-liter size and the larger 3.5-liter size are both named T33. The newest update, keeping almost the same design, but with more waterproof materials—x-pac fabric and aquaguard zippers—is called the T35.
The T35 also comes in both sizes, 1.5 liters small and 2.5 liters large. So the number represents the fabric, not the size: T33 is nylon, and T35 is X-pac.
Capacity
As far as capacity goes, the small sizes are listed at 1.5 liters and the large at 3.5 liters. It’s safe to say these are more estimates than exact measurements, namely because the two models of smaller pouch have different dimensions yet share the same listed capacity.
It’s difficult for me to accurately test the capacity of such small bags using the peanuts that I normally use, but I can estimate just using the dimension calculation.
For example, the dimensions on the smaller T33 nylon bag, 4.35 x 8.27 x 2.56, equal almost exactly 1.5 liters, but you probably lost at least a little of this due to padding and interior pockets, and zippers.
The T35 X-pac version is listed as being deeper, and you can see this when looking at a side-by-side comparison, but it’s listed on the website at the same 1.5-liter volume.
However, plugging the numbers in, I get a little over 1.6 liters, so subtracting the pockets and padding, the T35 is probably closer to the actual interior volume of 1.5 liters.
The larger models of these bags share a similar discrepancy: 3.7 volume on the nylon version from dimensions, but the X-pac version is again slightly deeper in dimensions, and the listed capacity calculates out to 3.9 liters.
So again, there is some slight variation in capacity compared to the listed dimensions, but it’s very small and it’s not really noticeable when packing the slings.
Materials
We’ve covered the fabric and materials partially already: ripstop nylon on the T33 vs V21 X-pac on the T35, which is waterproof, and add to that the YKK Aquaguard zippers, similar to the Alpaka I reviewed a while back.
This is an extremely water-resistant but not quite waterproof sling. As far as durability goes, I’ve used these slings about the same amount, which is pretty heavy use for several months.
No noticeable tears or rips on either, but the lighter color of ripstop is showing some darker stains, this might be coffee, some dirt on the bottom, whereas the X-pac version is holding up much better and despite consistent use this pouch still looks almost brand new, also has some more durable thicker nylon fabric on the bottom and back, which adds even more durability to this version.
So overall, both great options, with tradeoffs in materials. Nylon is lighter and significantly cheaper, while the X-pac version is almost waterproof, more durable, but is slightly heavier and about $18 more expensive.
External Components
Now, let’s look at the organization on the T35 and T33 slings. As far as pockets go, all 4 of these bags are almost identical, but with a few extra sleeves in both the larger sizes.
Front Pockets
Each sling has a small front slash pocket with its own space, meaning it expands outward and doesn’t compete with the main compartment.
All four models have a sewn-in key leash, and the larger 3.5-liter versions also include two extra small divider sleeves for organizing small gear.
Back Slim Pocket
The back slim pocket is one of my favorite features. I often use it for small gear, cash, a travel wallet, a passport, or a phone, depending on what I’m doing.
Between models, there’s a slight difference in zipper length. I tested with a Google Pixel 8 and iPhone 15. Even though both bags have the same overall length, the updated T35 has a slightly longer back zipper, which allows both phones to slide in easily. The shorter zipper on the T33, however, doesn’t open wide enough for either phone.
If carrying a phone in this pocket is important, that’s worth noting. The back pockets on the 3.5-liter sizes are much larger and can fit any modern phone with ease.
TomToc Aviator T35: Interior Design & Organization
Both models share almost identical internal layouts, with the larger 3.5-liter versions featuring a few extra sleeves.
Interior Pockets
Inside, there’s a stretchy sleeve divider on the backside and a stretchy zippered pocket on the front for both of the smaller models.
The larger versions have the same layout but add two divided stretchy sleeves in front of those. The front stretchy zipper pocket remains the same, just larger overall.
Padding & Protection
If you’re planning to carry a tablet, the larger 3.5-liter size is the better choice. Both models have a padded back wall (not the wall of the rear pocket but the main compartment’s back panel).
This provides enough protection to hold a small tablet.
An iPad Mini will fit comfortably, as will my Boox eReader with a 7 and 3/4ths-inch screen. Dimensions measure about 5.5 inches tall by 10 inches deep (roughly 13.5 by 19.5 cm).
The pocket can even fit a Nintendo Switch.
Packing the TomToc Aviator T35
When packing these slings, your choice depends on the type of gear you carry.
The smaller 1.5-liter size is great for basic everyday items such as your wallet, keys, sunglasses, lip balm, charger, cable, battery, and phone. It’s compact but not too small.
I also frequently use this smaller size as a lightweight camera pouch for my gimbal setup. It has easy access and fits my DJI camera, tripod, and an extra battery, with room left for smaller accessories.
Since the X-pac version is slightly larger, if you’re unsure whether your gear will fit, the T35 might be the safer choice.
Packing the TomToc Aviator T35 Large
If you need a lot more room, the 3.5-liter version is ideal. It’s more than twice the size of the small version and can hold a surprising amount of gear.
It fits a smaller water bottle, umbrella, or compact rain jacket, grocery bag, phone, and wallet, with room left over. The front pocket still provides extra space for earbuds, chargers, cables, or other small electronics.
Carry System
The Aviator sling has a simple, functional carry system. It uses a webbing strap with a large Duraflex buckle. There’s no padding, but given the sling’s size, it’s unnecessary.
The smaller 1.5-liter model features a 1 and 1/4th inch strap, while the 3.5-liter version uses a slightly wider 1.5-inch strap. Both carry comfortably on the front or back.
TomToc Aviator T35: Verdict
Both the TomToc Aviator T35 and T33 are excellent options with smart designs, durable materials, and just the right range of sizes.
Depending on your specific size or budget preferences, there are good arguments for both of these slings, but your ultimate choice is going to come down to personal preference.
For something lightweight, affordable, and simple, the T33 is the way to go, but if you’re looking for waterproof quality, the T35 is a great option.
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