Tested: K-Way Meru daypack and Mobicool W24

Whether camping, hiking or just heading out to the weekend braai at your mates the K-Way Meru 25-litre daypack and Mobicool W24 are must-have versatile items.

The lightweight, 12-volt portable cool box is a nifty little beer-holder. It’s 24-litre capacity fits two-litre bottles standing upright and the cables tuck away neatly into the lid when not in use. It cools down to about 20-degrees below the ambient temperature with a fan that whirs away when plugged into the cigarette lighter of your car.

Does it work? Yes, really well actually. I drove it down to the Drakensberg with it perched on the backseat. It kept all the cool drinks cold and as long as the car was running, it kept icy cool. It can also be plugged into electricity and eliminates any need for ice. Honestly, I think it’s a little pricey and gimmicky, but you can’t fault the design or functionality and it’s compact enough to fit between the front and backseat on the floor.

I’m a big fan of K-Way backpacks (check out the time I took it to Thailand here) and this 25-litre Meru daypack is a jack of all trades for travellers. The drawstring divider is an excellent feature so you can choose to separate your goods in the main compartment or use it as one big container for your beach towel, hat, sandals and sunscreen.

It’s a basic buy with mesh side pockets for your water bottle, a rain cover for wetter weather and a front pocket for smaller goodies like chewing gum or a slim pair of binoculars.

The hip belt is a lifesaver. If you’re carrying a bag all day or using it for carting goods to the office during the week the hip belt helps the heavy load and keeps you comfortable.