The TLDR: looking for recommendations to replace discontinued 18L REI rucksack for daily commute with laptop. Something around 20-24 L, I think. Hopefully under $200

The long version: Bought this because it needed to fit very specific dimensions for a trip. After COVID, started using it to commute with a laptop and was amazed how much lighter it was than my old shoulder bags.

Commute: bus to train to 1.5 mile walk.

Need:

*Space for laptop

*Comfortable/ lifgt feeling

*Low profile- The best thing about this bag was how close it fit to my back, if that makes sense. Really useful for public transport; can sit on bus seat without taking it off your back.

What I didnt like and would love to improve on new bag:

*Would like zippers that go further down. Top opening lead to the bag becoming a bit of a black hole.

*Pocket in the front/a separate compartment.

*maybe a side handle?

*Better waterbottle holder.

*better access to laptop when bag is completely stuffed (this isn't a dealbreaker though)

Liked but not absolutely necessary in new bag:

*That "secret" zippered side pocket for my passport

*Personal item size on airplanes.

Thanks for any suggestions!

I'm looking at the Osprey Daylight Plus and the Timbuk2 Alcatraz, so far. There's also a new ruckpack 18 from REI-- but I really would like a bag that opens up a bit more.