Pay 'n Pak Backpack
Carry a piece of Pacific Northwest retail history with a Pay 'n Pak Backpack. Founded in Kent in 1962 by Longview retailer Stan Thurman, Pay 'n Pak grew into a western home improvement chain known for its ambitious stores and distinctive Kent flagship mall. Its departments were arranged as separate electrical, plumbing, and lumber stores, with a coffee shop at the center of the experience. This design makes the brand a memorable reference for collectors and anyone drawn to the story of regional retail.
Pay 'n Pak was a home improvement chain based in Kent, Washington. Stan Thurman, an electrical and plumbing supply retailer from Longview, Washington, established the business in 1962. In 1969, Pay 'n Pak merged with Eagle Electric & Plumbing, a company led by Thurman's protégé David Heerensperger, and went public. Thurman was voted out that year, and Heerensperger became chairman, serving until 1989. The chain's original Kent flagship, Pay 'n Pak Mall, arranged its hardware departments as separate electrical, plumbing, and lumber stores and included a coffee shop. A larger store was built beside the mall by the 1980s, and the mall was sold. In 1987, the company faced a hostile corporate raid attempt; in 1988, it went private for $226 million. It filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 1991 and liquidated its remaining stores in 1992. Thurman Industries bought four former locations in Butte and Billings, Montana, and Moses Lake and Wenatchee, Washington, operating them as Thurman Pay 'N Pak home centers. Ernst took over the Kent store and distribution center. Thurman Industries liquidated and closed its four stores in March 2003. Heerensperger left in 1989 to form Eagle Hardware & Garden.
A rugged, everyday 20L backpack designed for days that move fast and demand durability. Built from water-repellent 600D polyester, it shrugsoff drizzle and light rain while protecting what matters inside. The padded laptop sleeve holds up to a 15" device snugly, and a fleece-lined pocket keeps sunglasses or small screens scratch-free. Two mesh side pockets keep a water bottle within easy reach, while roomy compartments organize chargers, notebooks, and daily essentials. Clean lines and practical pockets make this a dependable companion for commutes, classes, and short travel stints.
Product features
- Durable 600D polyester construction with water resistance
- 20L capacity, one-size carry for everyday use
- Padded sleeve fits up to a 15" laptop
- Fleece-lined pocket for eyewear or media devices
- Mesh side pockets for water bottles and quick access items
Care instructions
- Before cleaning the bag, remove all the items from the bag. Suggested to pretreat visible stains with stain remover. Mix warm water with laundry detergent and clean the bag with terry washcloth or soft bristle brush. Let the bag air dry.
| One size | |
| Width, in | 12.50 |
| Height, in | 19.00 |
| Depth, in | 5.50 |