Helikon-Tex Bergen 18 l Backpack - Rhodesian Camo

M... Review confirmed by purchase

100%

11.09.2025

Review for model:

First off, let me point out that the manufacturer recently states a capacity of 25L – in my opinion, 18L is the main compartment, and the side pockets make up the rest. This is a great backpack for a one-day trip or an overnight stay outdoors, as long as you know how to pack efficiently. The carrying system is adequate for a small backpack, and even when fully loaded, it's comfortable to wear. Three external pockets allow you to stash, for example, a first aid kit, rain poncho, or stove. BONUS for the cleverly hidden molle strap, to which you can attach small items with a carabiner, like gloves or a cup. The through pockets work great for things like a small axe. I think it's a very functional backpack for those who want to spend several hours outdoors hassle-free. PS. The color is amazing – whoever came up with it deserves a Nobel Prize in bushcraft!

A great backpack for shorter trips to the forest, but it is also suitable for other occasions. It has large external pockets and is made from durable Cordura, so you can be confident that nothing bad will happen to it. This is a very good product that I wholeheartedly recommend. In the video, you can see a backpack that is already slightly used.

The backpack is solidly made—the seams, straps, and shoulder straps all show high quality. The smaller pockets will easily hold the most important items, and the main compartment is quite spacious. Available in interesting colors. Unfortunately, the price is definitely inflated—400 PLN would still be acceptable, but 630 PLN is definitely too much. I previously used a Wisport backpack, and if it hadn't been damaged by defective pepper spray, I would still prefer it due to its greater durability. I should add that both the defective spray and the Wisport backpack were also purchased at Militaria.

H... Review confirmed by purchase

40%

04.01.2025

Review for model:

In a word, the backpack is disappointing for me. The biggest downside is its intended use – the "Bushcraft Line" series doesn't work very well even for a short trip, unless it's just for a walk in the park. As a city backpack, it's also not the best – when carrying a laptop, planner, or book, there's already not enough space. There are other small backpacks that handle this better. If someone is considering buying it, I recommend checking it out in person first. On the plus side, I can say that it's quite comfortable to wear, fits well against the back, and you almost don't feel its presence.

A very nice and atmospheric backpack in the style of an old trapper. Thoughtful, small pockets for small items and an exceptionally durable material.

M... Review confirmed by purchase

60%

16.03.2024

Review for model:

A small backpack at a high price – that’s probably its biggest drawback. An 18-liter backpack costing 500-600 PLN is definitely too much. As for the quality – it's good, Helikon has improved over the last decade, although there’s still a long way from perfect. They used Cordura, but only 500D, not the more durable (and probably more expensive) 700D. The buckles feel rather delicate and breakable. A plus – not visible in the photos – is the camouflage on both sides, also on the back. The construction is very nice, and the three separate side pockets are practical. The backpack hardly conforms to your back. The ventilation system is small and not very efficient. I still have to test how the straps handle moisture and sweat (for example, in the rain). The handle between the straps is too narrow (even though I have small hands) – it would be better if it were sewn on wider. The weight is quite high for 18 L and 500D Cordura (not 700D), probably because of heavy back padding. The backpack was made in Vietnam, which I see as a plus – diverse production supports the global economy. However, I noticed that every new backpack package is a bit different (I looked through a few new “Bergen” models).

This is definitely the most durable backpack I've ever owned, although the buckles can be easily damaged by accident. I've been using it for 5 years now, the zippers work great, and not a single thread is coming undone. If this one breaks—which is unlikely—I'll buy the same one again. Helikon works great <3.

I bought this backpack over a year ago and since then I haven’t taken any other to the forest. Officially it has a capacity of 18L, but that refers only to the main compartment – with the pockets, it can easily hold 25L. It’s comfortable, not too big, very spacious, and durable – ideal for one-day trips. If it has any flaws, their character makes them stop mattering.

This backpack works great for trips to the forest; it’s exactly the model I was looking for. The through pockets are very practical – you can slide in an axe or knife. The molle straps on the backpack allow you to attach various things, and three large side pockets increase its functionality. The material is solid. If you can pack well, this backpack is absolutely enough. The color also stands out and is an interesting alternative to the traditional green associated with military style. I definitely recommend it!

Together we’ve been camping in the forest, hiking up Śnieżka, and even took a flight together. It was supposed to be just my forest trip backpack, but turned out to be so practical that it became my main everyday backpack. At first glance, it seems heavy, but it’s very comfortable, and if someone packs well, you can really fit a lot in there. The side through-pockets, e.g. for a hatchet, knife, etc., also work great. Another plus for the Molle system – I could attach a first aid kit or gloves on a carabiner. I give it 5 out of 5.

This backpack is really adorable, I couldn't find a similar model for a long time. Finally, I managed to get one! The back is reinforced with plastic, so nothing presses uncomfortably, and there's a metal frame inside. The side pockets are perfect for tools like an axe or a saw. The size is ideal for a two-day summer trip or one night in winter (I carry the sleeping bag outside and put the mat inside). It's really hard to put into words how much I like this backpack. I'm thrilled!

Great backpack not only for forest trips. Very spacious for 18 liters according to the catalog. Very comfortable, you can attach things both at the top and at the bottom.

The backpack is comfortable and relatively lightweight. It works well for hiking and bushcraft trips. I used it in the Karkonosze Mountains and it did its job, although my back got a bit sweaty—but it wasn't too bothersome. I rate it five stars with a small minus.

The straps could be a bit wider, but it's clear the manufacturer focused on lightness, and indeed, this backpack is lightweight. Keep in mind it has an 18-liter capacity, while typical small backpacks have 20 liters. It looks bigger than it is because the main compartment is flattened. Well-organized contents mean comfortable carrying. If someone likes to carry more things, it's better to choose the Matilda model, while the Bergen is great for short, one-day outings.

Great, traditional backpack for trips to the forest.