Eighth Generation Coast Salish Pattern Hip Bag Review

We’ll let Eighth Generation explain the company’s background because they do it best. They “provide a strong, ethical alternative to ‘Native-inspired’ art and products through its artist-centric approach and 100% Native designed products. We are proudly owned by the Snoqualmie Tribe.” Their Coast Salish Pattern Hip Bag is simple, sleek, and budget-friendly. All that considered, how does it work for travel? Let’s dive in.

External Components

The primary material used on the pack is rPET, or recycled polyethylene terephthalate, which comes from plastic bottles. We feel that drinking from disposable water bottles should be replaced with travel water bottles, but we’re in favor of reusing those that do get used.

The exterior fabric has padding throughout the pack’s construction, which we dig. It’s as comfortable as a down jacket, even if it isn’t as thick or warm. Considering the padding, the materials are malleable, so you can pack it up reasonably small, which is ideal if you’re looking for something to stick in your travel backpack and use at your destination. We shoved this thing inside pants pockets, larger slings, and daypacks without issue.

There was one long loose thread on the exterior when we first got this sling. It’s just the one, and it’s likely one that wasn’t trimmed, but it was so long that we feel it is worth mentioning. How’d you get so big, buddy?

The exterior has a unique artist-designed Coast Salish Pattern, which is sleek and looks like a simple black bag from a distance. Closer up, however, you’ll notice the pattern.

The Eighth Generation logo, stylized 8th Gen, is pretty large but not in your face, so we don’t mind it. Passionate minimalist travelers might have beef with it, but the logo is well-designed and fits the pattern, so we’re here for it.

The zippers are from eka and feel a little cheap. That said, we’ve had no issues with them so far. The pulls are basic and stay out of your way but are a bit loud when you move the pack quickly. This isn’t unusual, as many bags utilize metal pulls, but it is worth noting.

The plastic hardware is unbranded but feels durable and rugged enough to handle daily adventures through the city or on the trail. This pack isn’t huge, so the buckle doesn’t have to do a ton, but it’s held up well with the experiences we’ve put it through.

Fit Notes

There are two versions of this pack. The small version has a belt that expands from 25.2 to 37 inches (64 to 93.98 centimeters), and the long model has a strap that extends from 36 to 59 inches (91.44 to 149.86 centimeters).

We recommend going with the long strap if you want to wear it as a crossbody bag. However, the small will work best for those with a petite frame who want to wear it as a sling, and it’ll still adjust to being worn as a hip pack. We dig the two options but have noticed that it can be awkward for those with body types that fall in the middle. It’ll fit, but you don’t have as much leeway to wear the pack differently or fluctuate in weight. That said, we think it’s better to be safe than sorry, so consider sizing up.

The strap has no padding or aeration, and there’s no dedicated back panel to add structure to the shape, but the padding from the material we mentioned earlier is a positive for comfort. We’ve found that the back panel doesn’t cause any issues, but the shoulder strap can dig in occasionally if you’ve got the pack fully stuffed—an issue exacerbated if the strap length is too short. Most of the time, this isn’t an issue. However, if you take it to the rock beach while wearing a tank top, you might start to feel it after a while.

Due to the colorway and the pack’s lack of mesh or aeration, it can start to feel warm on hot days. That said, this is an issue with most slings, so we won’t knock it for that.

Inside The Hip Bag

In terms of storage, we’ve got a single secondary compartment on the pack’s front side. A fabric welt over the zipper prevents water from sneaking inside and hides the track slightly. However, when we close the zipper, the head can stick on the welt. It’s avoidable once you’re aware of the issue but easy to do if you’re in a hurry. It comes off, but it can be a frustrating experience.

There’s no organization here; it’s just a simple pocket, which we dig. For the size, it doesn’t need any segmentation. It’s a solid spot to stow your phone, sunglasses, wallet, snack, or a combination of goods for trekking across the city or state.

The main compartment doesn’t have a fabric welt but has a wide opening, making it easy to load and take out your gear. There’s no organization inside here either, which may deter some travelers. We’ve experienced that it can be hard to segment your gear in a way that enables you to find it quickly because there aren’t any pockets or dividers. You’re on your own since it’s too small to put packing cubes or pouches to good use.

That said, there are plenty of uses for a sling such as this one. It’s great for the beach because you can throw all your gear inside and go. Or, fold it up and throw it inside your coat pocket, daypack, or travel backpack to use once you arrive at your destination. You can even put it in another bag if you venture out for the day with a friend or partner who claims they don’t need a sling. Once they buy a few knick-knacks at the thrift store, they might change their tune, and you can save the day.

At the end of the day, this is a budget-friendly hip bag with a unique pattern and a comfortable harness system. It isn’t going to be your everyday carry solution, but it’s a stellar option for use on the city or trail by those who want to get up, get out, see the world, and support Native artists doing it.