Street Transit III Backpack vs Carry Case: which is safer?

Garmin Carry Case is the clear pick. Columbia Street Transit III Backpack carries a failing PFAS grade, and we never recommend buying a failing product.

Columbia

Street Transit III Backpack

PFAS grade

F 40/100

Overall grade

F 28/100

Verdict

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Hazard flags

⚑ 3

Material

Nylon/polyester with water-repellent coating water-repellent treatment

Confidence

45%

Possiblewater-repellent coating degradation and microparticle release

PossibleVOC off-gassing from synthetic materials and adhesives

PossibleBacterial growth in moisture-retention areas if improperly stored

Why this grade

Our pick

Garmin

Carry Case

PFAS grade

B 85/100

Overall grade

C 73/100

Verdict

Buy

Hazard flags

⚑ 3

Material

Neoprene or polyester with nylon hardware

Confidence

72%

PossibleAzo dyes in polyester or neoprene coloring

PossibleNylon hardware degradation and microfiber release

PossibleHeavy metals in polyester dyes or pigments

Why this gradeBuy

Both products run through the same public rubric: materials, coatings, brand disclosure, lab findings, and recalls, plus a beyond-PFAS hazard analysis. Grades are model-based estimates, not lab tests. How grades work →

More waterproof outdoor bags & luggage: see the full ranking