Bonfus Iterus 38 Ultralight Backpack

Product detailed description

Bonfus and Its Philosophy

Bonfus is a young Italian family-owned brand founded in 2019 by passionate adventurers Niccolò and Stefania Bonfadini. Their design philosophy is based on the principle of “less is more”—this doesn’t just mean using ultralight materials, but truly stripping things down to the essentials of what you actually need in the mountains. Every backpack and tent is created in close collaboration with experienced trekkers and undergoes thorough field testing to not only meet but exceed the expectations of demanding outdoor enthusiasts.

Unlike many other brands, Bonfus keeps both production and development firmly in-house. Their 13-member team ensures not only top-notch quality but also fair working conditions in a respectful and inclusive environment. Sustainability is at the core of their approach—they use more eco-friendly materials, such as Ultra fabrics with recycled fibers or bio-based Dyneema®, to minimize their impact on the planet.

Bonfus isn’t just about products—it’s about a story of adventure, resilience, and a deep connection with nature. We are thrilled to welcome this innovative brand to our lineup and bring you gear that redefines freedom of movement in the mountains without burdening nature.

Revolutionary Materials

The most significant difference from commonly available materials is the use of ULTRA 200 X™.& nbsp;This material combines 66% ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) with 34% recycled polyester, giving it exceptional properties.

UHMWPE fibers are the lightest and strongest commercially available fibers – their tensile strength is 15 times higher than that of steel. They are manufactured using a special gel spinning method that creates extremely long molecular chains, perfectly aligned along the backbone of the material. This arrangement effectively transfers the load to the fiber and ensures high elasticity and strength.

Compared to DCF2.92 (Dyneema®), ULTRA 200 X™ offers three times higher tear resistance, seven times higher abrasion resistance, and contains three times more UHMWPE fibers. Lamination with recycled polyester film gives it a water column of 20,000 mm, ensuring excellent water resistance. Additionally, the material is reinforced with Ultra CrossPly technology for better dimensional stability and long-lasting durability.

Minimalism to the core

Bonfus builds its products on two pillars: pure minimalism and maximum functionality. After years spent on the trail, we know exactly what’s truly needed for a long journey—and the Iterus 38 has it all.

Don’t expect any unnecessary extras that would just add weight. The main compartment of the backpack essentially functions as a dry bag (waterproof bag)—thanks to its water-resistant material and taped seams, it provides excellent protection against moisture. However, it is not 100% waterproof, so we recommend using a pack liner inside. The roll-top closure is long enough that if you’re carrying extra food for a longer stretch, you can simply inflate the backpack, roll it up, and secure it with the buckle. There’s also a strap on top for attaching additional gear.

The Iterus does not have a rigid back panel, but there are elastic straps on the back that allow you to attach a foam pad as an improvised support. Whether you choose thin EVA foam, a section of a Therm-a-Rest Z-Lite, or another foam pad is entirely up to you. If you don’t need the support, the straps can be easily removed.

The backpack is available in one size and is suitable for back lengths up to 55 cm. Thanks to the height-adjustable hip belt, the length can be adjusted as needed.

Because it has no back padding, the Iterus requires a bit more thought when packing. Once you get used to it, you’ll appreciate the incredible freedom and comfort this minimalist approach provides.

Comfortable shoulder straps and other details

The shoulder straps are padded with 11mm EVA foam and 3D mesh, ensuring comfortable wear even on longer hikes. The left strap features an elastic mesh pocket that easily fits a phone or other small items. The right strap remains open and features several loops for attaching additional accessories – so everyone can customize the backpack to suit their needs.

A height-adjustable chest strap with a buckle helps stabilize the backpack.

Practical pockets for quick access

The side pockets are made of durable UltraGrid™ material with an elastic hem that keeps the contents securely in place. They easily hold water bottles or other small items. Minimalist side straps are used to compress the backpack.

There’s also a large front mesh pocket, which we love on ultralight backpacks and can no longer imagine a backpack without. It’s ideal for gear you need to have quickly at hand—waterproof clothing, a water filter, or a snack.

An interesting feature is the elastic pocket on the bottom of the backpack, which you can use for trash while walking. Some hikers swear by it on long-distance treks, but we recommend using it with caution—it’s more prone to mechanical damage, and sometimes you can’t hit it while walking, which means trash might end up on the trail.

Minimalist hip belt

The Iterus is equipped with a basic, very minimalist hip belt that helps stabilize the backpack and partially transfers the weight to the hips. The strap can be easily detached or attached to one of two height positions depending on your back length.

Missing pockets on the hip belt? No problem, you can purchase them separately. If you would like a more padded hip belt, that can also be purchased—though we don’t currently have it in our selection.

A companion for long treks

The Iterus isn’t a backpack for everyone. It’s a model that will be appreciated primarily by experienced hikers who are familiar with the ultralight world, have their gear fine-tuned, and know exactly what they want. If you’re one of them, you’ll gain a companion that will support you even on the longest adventures—and you can just as easily take it on a minimalist weekend trip in the mountains.

Bonfus Iterus 38:

• Taped seams.
• Roll-top closure.
• Mesh pocket on the shoulder strap.
• Side compression straps.
• Height-adjustable chest strap.
• Loops on the shoulder strap for attaching additional accessories.
• Large front mesh pocket.
• Side pockets with elastic hems.
• Height-adjustable, detachable hip belt.
• Elastic straps on the back of the backpack for attaching a foam sleeping pad.
• Mesh pocket on the outside at the bottom of the backpack.
• Loop for attaching an ice axe.

Technical Specifications:

• Weight: 417 ± 5 g (including hip belt).
• Volume: 38 L (30 L internal volume, 8 L external pockets).
• Dimensions: 76 × 38 × 18 cm (full length of the collar when not rolled up).
• Suitable for back lengths up to 55 cm.
• Load capacity: 8–9 kg with a hip belt, 6–7 kg without a hip belt.
• With a padded hip belt (not included with the backpack), load capacity up to 10 kg.
• Water column: 20,000 mm.

Materials:

• ULTRA 200 X™ (130 g/m², Ultra 400 X™ (168 g/m²) on the bottom of the backpack.
• Side pockets made of UltraGrid™ material (146 g/m²).
• EVA foam with 3D mesh.