When you’re choosing a trekking backpack for long Himalayan journeys, four things matter most: comfort, ease of use, durability, and capacity. A large pack doesn’t automatically make your trek easier — it needs to distribute weight well, stay balanced, and support your back over long hours.

In this detailed Tripole Colonel 80L Rucksack review, I’ll walk you through how this heavy-duty metal-frame pack performs on these parameters after being tested on the Hampta Pass trek.

Comfort- (3/5)

The first thing you notice with the Tripole Colonel 80L is its solid padding. The shoulder straps and back support feel comfortable, and the bag sits securely when tightened properly. For trekkers who carry a lot of gear, this cushioning does make a difference.

However, the pack’s biggest drawback also shows up here — its weight. Even when empty, it feels noticeably heavy, and this heaviness amplifies once loaded. The internal frame adds structure but also contributes to a bulkier feel. Weight distribution is another issue; despite the adjustable torso and load straps, the pack doesn’t distribute the load as smoothly as expected.

If you prefer lighter packs or frequently trek long distances, this heaviness becomes hard to ignore.

Ease of Use- (3/5)

The Tripole Colonel offers generous space — truly enough for long-duration treks if you pack carefully. The multiple pockets and compartments, though not many, are practical. The included rain cover is useful, and the detachable daypack adds convenience for short hikes or daily use.

But the sheer size of the bag makes handling it slightly cumbersome. Lifting it, adjusting straps, or accessing certain pockets can feel tedious because of the overall bulk. Beginners may also unintentionally overpack simply because the bag allows it.

For trekkers who genuinely need a large-capacity rucksack, these usability concerns may be manageable. For others, it might feel like too much pack for the purpose.

Durability- (4/5)

Durability is where the Tripole Colonel truly delivers. Built with tough materials and reinforced with a fibre-and-aluminium internal frame, the bag feels rugged and built for long-term use. The stitching is solid, and the construction is noticeably heavy-duty. For the price, it offers impressive robustness.

Many customers also affirm its durability — reporting that it survives rough handling, long travel days, and extended outdoor use with ease. The bag easily accommodates 4–6 days’ worth of clothing, layers, and accessories without showing signs of strain.

Tripole also offers a 3-year warranty, which adds assurance for trekkers looking for long-term reliability.

Capacity-  (3/5)

With an 80L capacity, the Tripole Colonel sits at the extreme end of large rucksacks. There is ample space for extended travel, expedition-style packing, or treks where you need to carry bulkier gear.

However, for most Himalayan treks — especially guided ones — 80L is simply too much. This size encourages overpacking, adds unnecessary weight, and often becomes tiring on long climb days.

Most trekkers will find a 60L pack more than enough for multi-day Himalayan trails.

Price and Value for Money- (5/5)

Priced at ₹3,665 on Amazon (and purchased for around ₹3,200 during offers), the Tripole Colonel offers strong value for trekkers seeking a large-capacity, heavy-duty rucksack without entering the premium segment.

For the price, you get:

• A metal + fibre internal frame
• Good padding
• A detachable daypack
• A waterproof rain cover
• Very solid build quality
• A 3-year warranty
  
  

The main trade-off is weight and average load distribution. If you’re sensitive to pack weight or planning long-distance treks, these drawbacks may outweigh the benefits.

Final Verdict: Is it worth it?

The Tripole Colonel 80L is a tough, value-for-money rucksack designed for trekkers who need a large-capacity, heavy-duty pack. Its padding, durability, and spacious design work well for long journeys.

However, the pack is heavy, and the weight distribution isn’t ideal. For many trekkers, a 60L pack will offer a more comfortable, balanced experience.

If you can stretch your budget slightly, there are better options in terms of weight and ergonomics. But if you’re looking for a rugged 80L rucksack at an affordable price, and don’t mind the heaviness, the Tripole Colonel delivers on performance and durability.

This review was sourced as part of our Gear Circle Project

While we can tell a lot from features and specifics, nothing quite matches the confidence that comes from real, on-the-trail experience. At Indiahikes, we’ve always taken pride in sharing gear reviews based on exactly that — products we’ve tested thoroughly in the mountains.

But with the trekking gear world growing so quickly, it’s become impossible for one team to try everything. That’s why we launched The Gear Circle — gear reviews written by trekkers who’ve actually used them, bringing you honest, experience-based insights.

In this post, Mandeep shares his review of the Tripole Colonel 80L Metal Frame Rucksack after testing it on the Hampta Pass trek.

Mandeep is a banker by profession and a traveller at heart. He began his trekking journey five years ago, starting with the Tungnath trek — and there’s been no stopping since. He tested the Tripole Colonel 80L on the Hampta Pass trek and continues to explore the mountains whenever he gets the chance.

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So if you’ve used a piece of gear and have a story to tell, come be a part of The Gear Circle. We can’t wait to read your review.