Features
Specs
Great experience with ordering online, shipping, and delivery. Love my backpack!
Cascade Backpack Standard
or 4 interest-free installments of $27.25
Size:
Standard • 21L
Add On: 3 Options Available
Cascade Kit - Standard - Black
+
Sale price$45.00
Cascade Kit - Standard
Color:
Black
Sold Out
Keep all your travel essentials organized and accessible with the Cascade Kit.
Designed in the Pacific Northwest, made for everywhere. This durable, weatherproof 5-liter travel organizer features seven internal pockets to keep toiletries, self-care products, and everyday essentials easy to find. Compact enough for effortless packing yet spacious enough for daily routines, the Cascade Kit helps you stay organized wherever the journey takes you.
Tech Organizer - Black
+
Sale price$45.00
Tech Organizer
Color:
Black
Sold Out
Keep your essentials organized and protected wherever you go.
Our Tech Organizer is crafted from the same durable, weather-resistant material used in our Cascade range, built to safeguard your cords, chargers, and daily essentials. With smart internal compartments and a sealed zipper pocket, it’s the perfect grab-and-go companion for school, work, or travel.
Cascade Bag Charm - Backpack - Black
+
Sale price$19.00
Cascade Bag Charm - Backpack
Color:
Black
Sold Out
Clip to your Cascade with this miniature keychain backpack charm. Functional and stylish, it attaches easily to your backpack, tote, dog harness, and more!
- Dimensions: 4.3” Height x 3” Length x 2” Depth
- Weatherproof construction
- Keychain clip
- Interior pocket
All online orders shipped using sustainable packaging. ♻️
Return/Exchange/Warranty Policy
1. Free Returns and Exchanges Available:
When you opt-in for Unlimited Free Returns/Exchanges at checkout, your return shipping label is included, allowing you to return any item(s) in your order for a refund or exchange for FREE. If you decide not to buy Unlimited Free Returns/Exchanges you can still return your items, but you will be responsible for the cost of the return shipping label. All returns are subject to the guidelines outlined in our Return Policy. Please note that the original shipping fee and the $1.98 charge for Free Returns & Package Protection is always non-refundable.
-
Order numbers are required for all returns and exchanges — including gifts. Gift recipients must have the original order number to proceed.
-
If your return or exchange label isn’t included in the package - you’ll need to visit our returns portal to submit a request and download your label; if you can’t find it, email team@portlandgear.com with your order number.
2. Flexible Return Locations:
We offer you the flexibility to return or exchange your items either in-store or online, no matter where you initially purchased your order. Visit one of our physical locations to complete the return/exchange, or head to https://returns.portlandgear.com to complete through the mail. If you purchased your order in-store and don’t have a shipping address on file, you will need to email team@portlandgear.com for assistance.
3. Take Your Time, We've Got You Covered:
-
We want you to shop confidently, which is why we're offering a generous 90-day return window for a full refund. If you decide within 90 days of your purchase that it’s not quite right for you, simply return your item in its original condition (unworn, unwashed, with tags attached) for a full refund.
-
If it’s been more than 90 days, no worries! You are still eligible to make a return after 90 days, but instead of a refund you will receive store credit as long as the item(s) are unworn, unwashed, and has the original tags attached, we’ll issue store credit for the current value of the product.
We’ve made returns and exchanges hassle-free so you can always shop with peace of mind.
4. Manufacturer Warranty:
Warranty Period:
This warranty is valid for two years from the date of your original purchase. Please note, warranties are only offered on your original item. Replacements will not be eligible for warranties for any time period.
Coverage:
This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. It includes issues such as:
-
Broken zippers
-
Seam failures
-
Material defects
Exclusions:
This warranty does not cover:
-
Damage caused by misuse, abuse, or neglect
-
Normal wear and tear
-
Dissatisfaction of color choice
-
Damage from accidents or unauthorized repairs
-
Items purchased from unauthorized retailers
-
Apparel and accessories
Claim Process:
To make a warranty claim, please follow these visit **https://returns.portlandgear.com.
Please note, an order number is required for all warranty requests** — including gifts. Gift recipients must have the original order number to proceed.
Resolution:
Upon inspection, we will determine whether to repair, replace, or issue store credit for the defective item.
Limitation of Liability:
Our liability under this warranty is limited to the repair or replacement of the bag. We are not liable for any incidental or consequential damages.
5. Portland Gear ReGear Repairs
ReGear is Portland Gear's repair program designed to extend the life of your gear and reduce unnecessary waste by restoring eligible bags whenever possible.
What ReGear Covers
At this time, ReGear is focused on common zipper issues, including:
-
Stuck zippers
-
Jammed zippers
-
Off-track zippers
What ReGear Does Not Cover
ReGear is not intended for all forms of bag damage and does not currently cover:
-
Zippers separating from fabric
-
Broken zipper pulls
-
Separated zipper teeth
-
Damage caused by force, misuse, accidents, or unauthorized repairs
-
Cosmetic wear and tear
Please note that if an issue is not eligible for ReGear, it may still qualify for warranty coverage. We encourage customers to submit a request through our warranty portal so our team can review the item and determine the best resolution.
Eligibility & Cost
-
Eligible Cascade bags within 2 years of purchase may qualify for complimentary repair.
-
For approved repairs outside the warranty period, customers are responsible for shipping costs.
-
One approved ReGear repair is available per warranty period.
How to Submit a ReGear Request
Submit your request through our warranty portal at https://returns.portlandgear.com and include:
-
Order number (required, including gifts)
-
Proof of purchase
-
Description of the issue
-
Clear photos of the bag and zipper
Incomplete submissions may delay review or approval.
Before Shipping Your Bag
Please make sure to:
-
Empty your bag completely
-
Remove all pins, accessories, keychains, and personal belongings
-
Package the bag securely
Portland Gear is not responsible for items left inside or attached to bags and cannot replace lost personal belongings.
Repair Resolution
Once received, your bag will be evaluated by our team. Depending on the condition of the item, we may:
-
Repair the bag
-
Replace the bag
-
Issue store credit
-
Offer a discounted replacement option
If a bag cannot be repaired, we will determine the best resolution based on warranty status and item condition.
Repair Turnaround Time
Typical ReGear turnaround time is approximately 2 weeks from the date the item is received.
6. Additional Notes for Luggage Returns, Exchanges & Warranties
To help us ensure every traveler receives luggage that meets our quality standards, please keep the following guidelines in mind:
-
Order numbers are required for all returns, exchanges, and warranty requests — including gifts. Gift recipients must have the original order number to proceed.
-
Keep your original box. All luggage must be returned or exchanged in its original packaging.
-
Photo of wheels required. Returns and exchanges must include a clear photo of the bottoms of the wheels so our team can verify the item hasn’t been used.
-
Used luggage is not eligible for a full refund or exchange.
-
Warranty requests require detailed photos. Claims submitted without photos cannot be approved.
7. Special Circumstances
Incorrect Shipping Address
If you enter the wrong shipping address, contact us right away at team@portlandgear.com. We’ll do our best to update it before fulfillment, but we can’t guarantee changes once the order is processed.
After an order ships, we can’t modify the address or contact the carrier. You may reach out to the carrier directly, though changes aren’t guaranteed.
If the package is returned to us, we can resend it to the correct address at no cost. However, if it’s not returned, we’re unable to replace or refund the order.
Please double-check your shipping address at checkout to avoid delivery issues.
Returning Multiple Orders in One Box
If you are returning items from multiple orders in the same package, you must include a note inside the box with the following information:
-
Your full name
-
All applicable order number(s)
-
A list of the item(s) being returned or exchanged
-
If requesting an exchange, clearly state the item and color you would like in return
This information is required so our warehouse team can properly identify and process your return. If a note is not included, our warehouse may not be able to match the items to the correct order. This can delay processing and may result in your return or exchange not being completed. To avoid delays, please ensure all required details are included inside the package before shipping it back.
International Returns & Exchanges
At this time, all international orders are considered final sale. As a small business, international shipping costs are extremely high, and there are frequent complications with customs when processing returns, exchanges, or warranty replacements. Because of this, we are unable to offer exchanges or returns on orders shipped outside of the United States.
If there is an error with your order due to a mistake on our end (for example, you received the wrong item), please contact us at team@portlandgear.com and we will work with you to find an appropriate solution.
Please note that “ALL SALES FINAL” items are not covered under our return and exchange policy. This includes all personalized items.
This 21-liter backpack is designed to fit everything you need for work, school, or travel.
Designed in the Pacific Northwest, made for everywhere. The Cascade Backpack combines everyday capacity with thoughtful convenience, including our signature Pop-Top wireframe opening and a travel-friendly size that fits within under-seat limits on any flight. Its weatherproof exterior keeps your essentials protected, whether you’re commuting, studying, exploring, or traveling.
Features
- Weatherproof construction
- Back luggage sleeve
- "Easy-See" grey lining for improved interior visibility
- Wireframe top for easy access
- Hidden security pocket for valuables
- Dual laser-perforated water bottle sleeves - won't collect water
- Stays upright when set down
- Dual XL water bottle sleeves
- Padded laptop sleeve (approx. 15" by 10")
- Interior organization pockets
- Adjustable straps and chest buckle
- Fits under all standard airline seats
- Dirt, grime, and spills wipe off easily
Specs
- Volume: 21-liter
- Classic Material: 100% polyester with TPU matte coating
- Leatherlite Material: Pebbled vegan leather
- Dimensions: 16" Height x 11" Width x 8.5" Depth
- Weight: 2.375 lbs (38 oz)
To preserve the integrity of your Cascade Backpack, we suggest using a damp cloth for cleaning. Avoid machine washing and using excessive amounts of soap as it may impact other parts of the bag.
Following these guidelines will ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your backpack.
Complete Your Cascade System
Cascade Crossbody Bag
Sale price$59.00
Cascade Duffle Bag - Standard
Sale price$139.00
Cascade Kit - Standard
Sale price$45.00
Cascade Pouch
Sale price$25.00
Laptop Sleeve
Sale price$45.00
Cascade Weekender - Standard
Sale price$149.00
Cascade Bag Charm - Backpack
Sale price$19.00
Cascade Carry-On
Sale price$249.00
Travel Wallet
Sale price$35.00
Tech Organizer
Sale price$45.00
Cascade Backpack - Standard
Sale price$109.00
Cascade Backpack Standard
or 4 interest-free installments of $27.25
Size:
Standard • 21L21-Liter Capacity.
Thanks to the Cascade Backpack's innovative Pop-Top™ wireframe design, it can fit way more than your average daily backpack, without the bulky footprint.
Ready For Any Adventure.
The Cascade Backpack is designed to stand up to any weather the day throws at you, so you can stay on the go without worrying about your essentials staying safe and dry.
Complete Your Cascade System
Cascade Kit - Standard
Sale price$45.00
Cascade Weekender - Standard
Sale price$149.00
Cascade Carry-On
Sale price$249.00
Cascade Duffle Bag - Standard
Sale price$139.00
Cascade Crossbody Bag
Sale price$59.00
Cascade Pouch
Sale price$25.00
Laptop Sleeve
Sale price$45.00
Cascade Bag Charm - Backpack
Sale price$19.00
Don't Just Take It From Us
Customer Reviews
Overall rating: 4.8 / 5 from 11548 reviews.
I chose this compact backpack for my husband to carry work necessities out to far West Texas and was pleasantly surprised at how much it held. It is sturdy, well-constructed, and pleasing to the eye. He raved about it and will be using it as a personal item on an upcoming international flight. This was our first Portland Gear purchase, and we are already eyeing the larger Cascade and Weekender. Super impressed!
My daughter packed her carryon items for her trip to Germany. Everything fit and the pack fits very comfortably! It’s a beautiful backpack and I believe she will use it at school as well this fall! We love all the compartments and the fact that it’s water proof! Very helpful when she is out and about all day in rainy weather! Thanks for getting here on time!
What a wonderful designed backpack. Minimal zippers and pockets to streamline organization. Worth the purchase.
I finally found the PERFECT FLIGHT BAG! Paired with the insert purchased, this bag is ideal and holds everything I need for my "office" in the jet. Headset bag ✅, iPad and plugs ✅, toiletries and makeup ✅, glasses cases and water bottle ✅, wallet with certificates and passport ✅, car keys (but there is no clip for them?!) ✅, it all fits and attached to my roller board for transport. Already spilled water on it and it proved waterproof. 😁 I highly recommend this bag.
Great bag and slightly smaller than my 35 Cascade backpack. This is great for an EDC!
I took my Cascara backpack to Alaska and hiked the Matanuska Glacier! It held everything I needed and was held in place with the chest strap! Comfortable to wear!
I purchased this backpack because I needed some durable, well made and didn’t cause back pain after a long day on my feet. LOVE IT!! 😍
I bought this to replace my small backpack. This has so much room and it's nice and light and well-made. Im so happy it fits under the airplane seat also.
Now that I have to commute to work more often in shared space, I needed more space for snacks, headphones, mouse, water bottle. Love the open mouth style making it easy to pack things. I like the versatility of use for travel too. Would love to see a parachute fabric and lighter weight design specifically for office commute. Make the handles secure down when not used.
It seemed too big to fit under the seat but was perfect! Holds a lot! Good purchase!
Got this bag for my spouse as a gift and he loves it! It’s replacing his personal travel bag and he’s also using it for his work bag now. Note: photo was taken in the sunlight so is showing up lighter than typical. Pros: - Looks sharp - Weatherproof - Functional - can easily access everything, opening is great Cons: - Bulkier/heavier bag than others - Average zipper (not as smooth as some premium bags), still works fine as zipper
I got this bag to travel and not pack a suitcase. I took it on a 4 day trip and it made travel so amazing!
First off, I ordered my backpack on a Friday morning and had it the next day in the afternoon. That was incredible shipping! Second, the first day I used my backpack it was pouring down rain and all of my items stayed dry inside the bag. I just had a wipe it off with a paper towel and it was fully drip again. There is so much room for all my things and it feels really nice on. I’m very happy with my new backpack :)
My wife loves her new backpack!! We are getting ready to order 3 more for gifts!! Best backpack that I have seen. Great quality and so many different features. Highly recommend!
After decades of using a high-end, large travel tote, I decided to give this Portland Gear backpack a try, and I am a convert. It holds as much as my giant tote, but is much more user-friendly, in part due to the well-placed pockets. It is very well structured with a high-quality frame and zipper, and I love that it is waterproof. (The fabric is also of high quality.) It slides easily onto my suitcase handle for easy transportation in the airport and onto the plane. I highly recommend it!
Love my new bag. It holds everything I need plus more...Everything down to the zipper is very good quality and I think this will be my last travel bag I buy.
Amazing backpack. Used it in Chicago to hold my sweater , water, and hat. No problem !
Conveniently carries everything I need. The top opens wide so I can find my items easily, with pockets inside in just the right places. It’s currently raining in Helsinki, so I’m glad that it is also waterproof.
I used it for the first time this week, when I traveled to visit family. The bag has so much more room in it than I thought. This would make great weekend carryon bag and the multiple pockets inside are a plus. I am so glad I purchased this bag.
I absolutely love this backpack, so much so that I’m getting another one in a different color. It’s the perfect size to fit everything that I need for a day trip, or a beach trip, and I love the fact that it’s waterproof so I can clean it easily. When I first got it, I was very impressed with the materials, they’re very high-quality and I feel like this thing’s gonna be with me for years to come.
I love this bag. I have been working remote for the past couple of years. We are now required to return to the office twice a week. I was online looking for a commuter/ work hybrid bag. I came across this one. I read the reviews and purchased the bag. I am soo happy I did. This bag is spacious, light weight, durable and rain resistant. Thank you sooo much. Now, I need the tech organizer in the fog color to match my bag. When can I expect it?
I bought this smaller one specifically to take to Disneyland. kept my stuff dry on water rides, when others peoples stuff soaked though. I also have the larger one which i also use for traveling. Best bags. Capacity that they holds is fantastic.
I LOVE my backpack! Best one I’ve owned! Perfect to carry on the ambulance while I’m in paramedic school. I love the color! The top opening is the most convenient part. Plenty of room for all my gear, books, laptop, and lunch.
Has now been to Costa Rica and into Croc infested waters and was the perfect bag for plane and doing tours. Well made and water proof (survived rain forrest as well and everything inside clean and dry). It took a header down the escalator w/ my carryon and not a scratch and wiped clean w/ a wet wipe! Holds everything a grandmother traveling with a 5 year old needs and is comfortable to schlep all over the country. No problem fitting under airplane seat either. Now about to order the getaway for my husband and the compact for the soon to be 6 year old grandson for our future travels/adventures.
I was pleased with the beautiful color. I primarily use mine for taking my dog on his 4 mile walks along the river. Since I have a Frenchie, I wanted to have something that could potentially accommodate him if he was hurt or injured. Plus, this has more than sufficient room for an extra jacket, gloves, etc. Also, I pick wild rose petals and chokecherries and will use this bag to cart out my berries. This is an awesome bag. When I travel, I plan to use this as my go to bag. So many choices and uses.
I have the dark blue compact but as a habitual “over packer” bought the standard and 💚 the forest color which compliments my blush wallet and mini blush cascade charm. Next purchase the roller bag - I don’t know how I managed all these years without Portland Gear! I get so many folks asking what brand it is. Not only do I tell them, I give them the website to view all options.
Perfect personal item carry on. Can fit everything I need in bag and keep it organized! Feels so durable compared to a standard backpack.
The backpack I replaced was great but had one fatal flaw: When carrying a laptop, after a few weeks the part under the laptop sagged and the bottom became curved and the pack would always tip over. Cascade's feature that sold me was that it stands up when I set it down, and it does. I didn't realize how big it is until I unpacked it and was concerned it would not fit into the "grocery panniers" on my ebike. However, it's a perfect fit. I carry a 16" laptop, a professional camera with 3 or 4 lenses, headphones, and the usual items people carry. I added a padded camera insert for the camera and lenses, and there's still plenty of room on top of that and to the sides for anything else I might want to include. I also like the snap strap that holds the handles together, both a better design than on my previous backpack. Overall a really nice backpack for my needs, and at a reasonable price. It's also lighter weight than its size would indicate, and that's important for me as well.
Kind of a bag fanatic… I switch edc bags often. But honestly, I think this bag will be with me for a while. It’s got just enough space, lightweight, and looks great. Can hold my camera equipment inconspicuously, or even my gym stuff no problem. Has not left my side since it arrived. Great work Portland Gear!
Love the compact Cascade backpack. I needed something that would be handy to have on an Alaska cruise and excursions. It’s a great size for that. The quality of the bags are top notch! I also purchased a couple smaller bags of theirs that I love. Great products!
My girlfriend told me about this brand who lives in Portland and she told me not to buy one until she went to the actual store. They have at the Portland airport. I had the most amazing experience and got a virtual demo of all of their items from this amazing girl working there. It was a FaceTime shopping experience. I will never forget! I bought two complete package sets one in pink one in blue for my son. It’s the best backpack ever for school hands-down.
So thrilled! We are finally traveling next summer to Vancouver WA (via California and Portland airport) to see our son and daughter in law after almost 6 years! We live in NY and when I saw this bag, had to have it…hubby got it for my birthday, which is today, yay! It will fit all essentials for my on board travel and even after. Beautiful cloud color!!
Pura Vida in Costa Rica! My sunshine yellow backpack's inaugural trip was 10 days in Costa Rica. The design of this bag is perfect on the flight under the seat, with the outer pocket holding my phone, e-reader, power cord and tissues with easy access. When I needed my sweater, the smooth zipper and wide top makes it easy to see what's in the bag. It held enough that 2 of us had 1 suitcases, the Cascade, and a smaller bag. Going to the beach? 7 of us didn't have a cooler with the rental, but the design and thickness kept beverages cool enough, with sunblock, books, phones, and sunglass access super easy. Yes we brought some sand home but easy to clean out. This is the best backpack ever!
This is the coolest backpack ever! I love the color, how easily you can see inside and it holds a ton of stuff! Can’t recommend it highly enough! This color is pure happiness! Thank you!
This backpack is amazing! Truly cannot believe how much it can hold. Just today, a passenger in the airline seat next to me asked if it was from Portland Gear!
Loving my new Portland gear backpack. Can’t wait to take it on a trip . Perfect size for holding everything I need Thank you
I am tossing my Away bag. My Portland gear is so much better. I love it. So much room, I love the shoulder straps. But most of all I love the band that fits around the handle of my suitcase. There’s so much room in this bag highly recommend.
I bought this backpack over a year ago and had some zipper issues. They mailed me a brand new one and made right after I sent in photos. I am so happy to continue returning if this is how they treat their customers. Plus, I love their products!