Here are a few useful considerations to think about.

Suitable Organization

The amount of organization you need will depend on what you use the bag for. But essentially you want your gear to be tidy and accessible – after all, sorting through a jumbled mess wastes time you could be spending on your workout. Look for organization that separates your dirty/wet clothes from your clean/dry clothes. If you already have a bag you enjoy but it doesn’t offer this feature, you could use the likes of packing cubes or breathable stuff sacks to organize your gear.

Good Access

A good gym bag should allow you to easily pack your gear and access it quickly when you need it. Consider features such as wide openings and quick-access pockets to get to your gear quickly.

Carry Comfort

Your body is already getting a workout from your exercise – don’t put it under further strain by hauling around an uncomfortable bag. Features such as ventilated back panels in packs, padded shoulder straps and grab handles, and options to alternate carry modes to suit longer and shorter distances can help reduce carry strain and keep you comfortable on the move.

Appropriate Aesthetics

When it comes to gym bag aesthetics, there’s two considerations you want to keep in mind. Personal tastes and where you’re going to be carrying the bag. First off, it should suit your personal style and preferences. After all, you’re not going to be inclined to carry something around if you don’t like how it looks. Secondly, is the bag strictly going between home and the gym, or are you going to be taking it into a work environment? If you’re taking it to the office to squeeze in a lunch break workout, go with a bag that looks suitably smart for your work environment.

Useful Features

What features are you looking for in a gym bag? Maybe you want a ventilated shoe compartment. Do you need to carry bulky items like a mat or basketball? Do you want a laptop compartment in addition to storage for gym gear? How about easily accessible water bottle pockets? Think about what features will help satisfy your carry and gym needs.

Versatility

You’ve probably heard of one-bag travel. There’s no reason you can’t apply that philosophy to your gym carry. A bag that serves as both a work and gym bag means greater carry freedom. And if you don’t need it for work, you could consider a bag that doubles as a gym and travel bag instead. Getting more out of your carry is awesome.

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Now we know that looking for bags can be fun but time-consuming. So we’ve made things a little easier by rounding up our top picks of the best gym bags to complement a range of exercise preferences and budgets. So if your current gym bag just isn’t working hard enough for you, give one of these workout partners a try…

Nike Vapor Energy 2.0 (US$59.50)

Athletic carry at an affordable price

Nike’s Vapor Energy 2.0 offers a variety of useful features, without breaking the bank. The rolltop main compartment offers flexible storage space for changing loads. Organizers will also appreciate the exterior pockets that keep quick-access items close at hand. As an added bonus, the front pocket offers inbuilt ventilation, while rear storage handles tech too. And with a choice of grab handles and shoulder straps, this pack offers convenient grab-and-go portability.

Speedo Tri Clops (US$87.41)

An award-winning pack for triathlons

The Tri Clops was designed to cater to the needs of triathletes, with dedicated storage for running, cycling and swimming gear. The pack scooped a Red Dot Award for its design, which can be opened up for fast and convenient access to your gear. The Tri Clops is hydration bladder compatible and features a removable smaller bag for keeping wet and dry (or dirty and clean) items separate.

GORUCK Kit Bag (US$95)

Rugged versatility for the gym and beyond

GORUCK’s Kit Bag combines tough construction with a simple, versatile design that works equally well as a gym bag, weekend getaway bag, or for day-to-day carry needs. The water-resistant 32L bag is made in the USA and backed by GORUCK’s Scars lifetime guarantee. It opens wide for easy packing and access and comes with a choice of interior and external pockets for storing smaller items.

The North Face Base Camp Duffel Small (US$119)

Iconic outdoor heritage for conquering workout demands

The iconic Base Camp Duffel is a legendary expedition-ready bag. And the Small option is great when you’re swapping mountains for treadmill treks. With 50L of space and a large D-zip opening, storing and accessing large amounts of gear is not an issue. The rugged, weather-resistant build is ready to tackle everyday use. And with a choice of grab handles and removable shoulder straps, you can alternate between backpack and hand-carry mode for easy portability on the move.

Topo Designs Classic Duffel (US$119)

A hard-wearing and multifunctional hauler

Topo’s Classic Duffel delivers on simple functionality and rugged durability. Crafted from 1000D nylon, this duffel can take a beating while hauling a good amount of gym or sports gear in its 25.7L volume. The bag features pockets for organizing smaller items, along with leather lash tabs, a leather grab handle, and a detachable shoulder strap. It’s also suitable for travel use, whether you’re off on a weekend adventure or clocking up the miles over several days.

RYU Locker Pack LUX 24L (US$125)

Access, looks and luxe

We doubt a portable locker ever looked this good. The Locker Pack LUX 24L exudes the same clean style of the 18L RYU Quick Pack, but with its 24L volume it may be your preferred choice if you need to carry a little extra. The pack includes an externally accessible laptop sleeve, along with a hanging loop, molded internal shell and drop front design so you can avoid rummaging for specific items.

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 40L (US$129)

Recycled meets ready to go

Patagonia’s 40L Black Hole Duffel features a 100% recycled body fabric, lining, and webbing, giving a high-five to the planet while helping you haul a diverse range of gear. The generous capacity accommodates a variety of gym gear, with a wide opening making it quick and easy to grab and store items. The duffel offers multiple carry options including top carry handles, grab handles, and removable shoulder straps. The tough, weatherproof build and padded base help keep gear safe from the elements and bumps too. And its versatile design also makes this a great duffel for short travel needs.

Thule Chasm Backpack 26L (US$129.95)

Sleek, practical style for sport and everyday use

Thule’s Chasm Backpack serves up sleek multifunctionality with a design that keeps things clean on the outside but offers a solid range of features for sport and everyday use. The laptop pocket efficiently handles tech carry, with both external and interior access. The wide-opening main compartment offers space for a variety of gym gear, while an organization panel keeps smaller EDC or work items neat and tidy. You also get an exterior water bottle pocket, a tough and weather-resistant build, and comfortable carry with the padded back panel and adjustable sternum strap. And with its pared-back aesthetics, it’s easy to hop between work, workouts, and a multitude of additional EDC settings with this pack.

RYU Quick Pack 18L (US$138)

Minimalist style with thoughtful access for the gym, travel and EDC

The Quick Pack 18L is suave enough for the office and roaming the city streets in style. But this pack is more than just appealing aesthetics. The drop front opening enables easy packing and great access to your gear, while the molded internal shell helps to protect the contents against life’s bumps and scrapes, making this a handy pack for the gym, travel or daily use.

Aer Fit Pack 3 (US$145)

Fit for work and play

If you want a pack that plays equally well in work and gym settings, Aer definitely needs to be on your radar. Their Fit Pack 3 is an excellent option thanks to its super-clean work-friendly style and clever organization that stores work and workout gear separately. The bag offers dedicated space for a laptop, EDC and work tools. But it also packs in storage for gym clothes and a separate ventilated shoe compartment – ideal for a quick run during your lunch break or hitting the gym after work without having to carry two bags.

lululemon Command The Day Duffle (US$158)

On-the-go organization

If you’re after a gym bag with plenty of pockets to organize your essentials, this might be just the bag for you. lululemon’s Command The Day Duffle offers a wide range of interior and exterior pockets to neatly store various items, including a dedicated shoe pocket to keep shoes separate from the rest of your gear, as well as an exterior padded pocket that fits up to 13″ tech devices. The duffel also offers water-repellent construction and a compressible design for storing in smaller spaces such as gym lockers.

Aer Gym Duffel 3 (US$169)

A thoughtful blend of functionality and style

The Gym Duffel 3 features a ventilated main compartment and separate ventilated shoe pocket, handy for airing out your gear when not in use. There’s also plenty of organization for your EDC and clean clothes. Additionally, the bag features a padded laptop pocket, which combined with the sleek, low-key aesthetics makes this a great work/gym hybrid.

Aer Duffel Pack 3 (US$175)

Working hard in the office and the gym

Like their Fit Pack 3, Aer’s Duffel Pack 3 provides a smart single-bag solution for carrying gym and work essentials. The front-loading main compartment provides easy packing and access for your workout gear, along with a ventilated and separate shoe pocket. A padded laptop pocket on the back keeps your tech protected on the move, and side pockets ensure your water bottle and smaller work and EDC items are organized and within easy reach when you need them.

DSPTCH Gym/Work Bag (US$224)

Practical design for grafting at work and the gym 

As the name suggests, this bag is designed to find the balance between work and gym carry needs. It does so by packing in useful features such as a ventilated shoe pocket, a separate padded laptop pocket, and a moisture-resistant lining. The main compartment features an interior water bottle pocket as well as a hidden pocket for storing your valuables.

Filson Ballistic Nylon Duffle Pack (US$245)

An adaptable and tough gear hauler for larger volumes

Filson’s Ballistic Nylon Duffle Pack doesn’t mess about in offering a host of handy features to accommodate changing needs, from three portability options to a large 46L capacity. And at 2 lb 4 oz, it won’t weigh you down either. The bag can be carried by hand, over the shoulder, and as a backpack. Dedicated padded storage keeps up to 15″ laptops safe, and there’s also separate storage for wet/dirty gear or shoes. Add in the quick-access exterior pockets and convenient wide-opening access to the main compartment and you’ve got a solid hauler for diverse sporting or travel needs.

Patagonia Stormsurge Wet/Dry Duffel 65L (US$249)

Smart separation for wet and dry gear

If you need flexible separation for wet/dirty and dry/clean gear, look to this duffel to get the job done. The Patagonia Stormsurge Wet/Dry Duffel 65L features top and bottom compartments, with a floating divider that provides maximized storage in either compartment depending on your needs. The duffel has top and side carry handles as well as a removable shoulder strap. Rounding things off is a burly, highly weather-resistant build that will embrace rugged use in all weathers and is also a great choice for water-based activities too.

Bellroy Weekender (US$249)

Understated style meets everyday/travel versatility

Bellroy’s Weekender serves up the kind of smart-casual styling that moves effortlessly between everyday and travel settings. But its thoughtful design ensures it also puts in the hard work to make your carry experience better, whether you’re stashing gym gear inside or packing for a weekend away. The main compartment folds out wide for convenient retrieval and storage of gear. The cleverly organized tool-belt style pocketing keeps smaller items readily accessible, with interior pockets for shoes or water bottles. Made with water-resistant, recycled fabric, it salutes sustainable carry too. And you benefit from a choice of top carry handles, a removable shoulder strap, and a luggage pass-through.

Lexdray Portland Sneaker Duffel (US$279)

A touch of urban luxe with gym and carry-on functionality

This duffel may be inspired by sneakerheads, but its versatile design adapts to the gym and beyond. The bag’s rolltop central compartment holds two to three pairs of shoes, with further compartments providing suitable storage for keeping clean and dirty clothes separate. There’s also plenty of pockets to organize smaller items, a removable shoulder strap, and carry handles. Size-wise it’s suitable for carry-on use, allowing double duty as a travel bag.

Stuart & Lau Regimen Gym Bag (US$395)

Luxurious versatility for work, workouts and travel

Suave and sophisticated, the Regimen Gym Bag from Stuart & Lau adds understated luxury to your gym setup. The weatherproof bag features a ventilated shoe pocket, a padded laptop pocket, and additional pockets for water bottles, EDC and other smaller essentials. A versatile and stylish piece, this bag works hard at the gym, looks good in the office and is ready to go when travel beckons.

This buyers guide was updated on June 2021

The post The Best Gym Bags for Every Type of Exerciser in 2021 appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

I’ve always liked the idea of traveling indefinitely with only a backpack, so in 2016 I decided to try it. I got rid of everything I owned that didn’t fit in an 18L laptop backpack and replaced everything else with the best version of it I could find. I’ve been living out of my backpack ever since.

My pack contains everything I need for traveling to virtually every country on earth. It works for all weather, and I’ve tested it in subzero snowstorms and on hiking trips in the Sahara and Mojave deserts. The core idea is to keep the number of things I own to a minimum but to never not have something that I need.

My bag currently weighs 13.67lbs/6.2kg and I own ~fifty things. My goal is to drop the weight to 11lbs/5kg, a carry-on limit a few airlines are implementing.

Packing

Backpack. Lately I’ve been switching between the Timbuk2 Prospect, Division, and Rogue. I haven’t yet found the perfect bag.

Travel pouch. Custom travel folio.

Tech
13″ 2014 MacBook Pro. I love how durable the older MacBooks are, but it’s a quarter of the weight of my bag so I’m thinking about replacing it with a lighter model soon.

iPhone 7. Two, one as a backup in case I lose my main phone or to switch SIMs.

Apple Watch. For health tracking and ‘Hey Siri, remind me’.

AirPods. Easily the best tech purchase I’ve made. Airpods are literally magic for travelers.

RAVPower 26,800mAh battery. It holds about a dozen phone charges and is the largest powerbank airlines allow on board. I’ll eventually replace it with the 30W version, which could charge laptops and drones, or this Kickstarter one if it lives up to the hype.

Solar Cells. Two 5.5W solar cells. These can charge my phone almost as fast as a wall outlet in ideal conditions. Great for outdoorsy trips longer than a few days.

Joby GripTight ONE Micro tripod. I replaced my larger tripod for one I could keep in my pocket. This tripod is so small it can actually fit inside that tiny watch pocket all Levi’s jeans have.

Charging

Universal travel adapter. Compact outlet adapter that works in most countries.

MacBook wall adapter. This thing is massive, I really need to upgrade my laptop.

29W Apple wall adapter. One is enough since I also charge stuff off my powerbank.

Lightning cable. Two, in case I break one.

Micro USB cable. For the powerbank. Two, in case I break one.

Apple Watch charger. 0.3m version.

Clothing

Outdoor Research Transcendent down jacket. This jacket is compressible enough to fold into its pocket and disappear in the bottom of my bag, while also warm enough to go anywhere. Eventually I will replace it with the lighter Montbell Plasma 1000 or MH Ghost Whisperer.

Outdoor Research Helium II rain jacket. Compacts to the size of a fist and is more waterproof than jackets that weigh 10x more. Undisputedly the best rain jacket ever made.

Hanes hoodie. I exclusively wore startup swag hoodies before I decided to drop branding from my clothing. I liked how durable my swag hoodie was though, so I looked it up and got the same one off Amazon. No idea how they make hoodies this good for $11.

Buff. Multi-purpose headgear. Useful as a face mask in cold weather.

Nike Flex Experience Run 7. Compact, cheap, and durable.

Next Level t-shirts. Four shirts, all in one color, no branding. Not quite as good as Outlier’s shirts, but if I break one I can replace it for less than a cup of coffee.

Uniqlo AIRism boxer briefs. Four pairs. Rated as one of the best travel boxers for good reason. They’re also the only clothing product I’ve purchased in a physical retail store in a few years.

Darn Tough socks. Four pairs. So indestructible that if they rip the manufacturer will ship you a brand new pair. I’ve walked/run 500+ miles with every pair I own and they all still look new.

Levi’s 511 Slim Fit jeans. Jeans are great for traveling because they’re durable and last weeks between washes. Worn with a canvas belt.

Swimsuit. A cheap pair of board shorts off Amazon.

Sweatpants. A cheap pair of sweatpants off Amazon.

Miscellaneous

Wallet. A minimalist leather wallet I made myself. It contains my debit/credit cards, ID, NYC/LA/SF subway cards, and Cash card ($1 off coffee shops!).

Passports. Obviously.

Sunglasses. A $1 pair of sunglasses I bought when my Snap Specs broke.

Umbrella. I compared dozens of expensive umbrellas only to find out that a $15 umbrella was the most compact. This one is even smaller, but I can’t find a place to buy it in the US.

PackTowl. These things are amazing since they dry fast and stay clean. The version I use is 3oz heavier than their ‘ultralight’ style, but also more durable and comfortable.

Screwdriver set. In case I need to replace my iPhone screen or something.

True Utility Keytool. Probably the world’s most compact bottle opener multi-tool.

Toiletry kit. Contains a Quip electric toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, a razor, and deodorant.

Medkit. Contains Advil, bandaids, gauze bandages, medical tape, antiseptic wipes, alcohol swabs, and tweezers. Also a sewing kit, fishing kit, water purification tablets, and duct tape.

Other travelers’ one-bag lists that have inspired me over the years: Tynan, James Clear, Matt Mullenweg, Vicky Lai, and James Blackshine.

Follow Jeremy on Twitter.

Enjoyed this article? You might like these too:

The Best Backpacks for One-Bag Travel

The Best Travel Shoes for Every Type of Traveler Right Now

9 Amazing Travel Pants for Long Flights and Beyond

The Best Men’s Travel Pants for One-Bag Travelers

The post Minimal Travel Packing List: 2 Years Living Out of One Bag appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

His advice stuck with me as I continued my 6-week journey through Europe: schlepping my things from train station to hostel; packing and repacking so as to fit it on a Ryanair flight; and the constant feeling of relief whenever I dropped it on the ground and abandoned it for a while. It would be nice to have a smaller bag, I thought. But what would I get rid of? Without the constraint of space, I wasn’t forced to pack less and struggled to envision traveling with less.

Five years and thousands of miles of travel later, I finally decided to act on his advice and downsize from a 48L to a 22L bag for week-long (and sometimes longer) trips. Even if it seems extreme, I recommend it for anyone who wants to:

– Avoid paying for checked bags (even on budget airlines or basic economy tickets)

– Easily take public transportation or walk a few blocks with your luggage

– Spend less time packing and unpacking

– Feel less burdened by your bags

Interested? Read on to see packing lists, tips, and inside my bag and get inspired on how to pack light for a week (or more) of travel.

The bag: Osprey Talon 22L

I’d spent the majority of my 20s traveling with the Osprey Kestrel 48. While it had begun to feel too big for my needs, it had some features I’d come to love and want in my next bag: the separate top and outside mesh pockets, comfortable hip straps, and lightweight, durable material. I also found the ability to access the main pack from the top and bottom handy, but knew it might be hard to find a smaller bag with this feature.

In the end, I decided to switch to the Osprey Talon 22, a day bag that excels at its intended purpose, day hikes and moving around town, but also, surprisingly, is a good fit for multi-day, ultralight travel. The Osprey Tempest 20 is the woman’s equivalent and, apart from fit, almost identically designed. After two years repurposing this day bag for week-long trips, here’s how it has fared:

The pros

– Value: At $110, it’s decently affordable and less expensive than some similar quality travel bags.

– Size and space: It’s small (which is a good thing for packing light) yet the main compartment feels more spacious than you might assume of a day bag. Plus, the multiple stretchy pockets on the outside and small inner pouch help keep my stuff organized while I’m on the road.

– Weight: At 1.6 pounds, it’s lighter than other similar bags in its category and a full pound lighter than the Kestrel 48.

– Comfort: The mesh-covered, foam ridge back panel and hip straps make this bag super comfortable to wear — even when full — while also breathable.

– Look and feel: The Talon 22 / Tempest 20 straddles the line between functional and stylish. While it’s not exactly what I’d call “fashionable”, the clean, rounded shape helps it look less obviously like an outdoor backpack and its simple, single color design means I don’t feel like I stick out with it.

– Durability: So far, it’s been sturdy enough to handle several years’ worth of trips and adventures — from exploring the jungles of Sri Lanka to day hikes around the deserts of California — with only some minor wear and tear.

– Warranty and support: Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee is top-notch, and it’s always nice to know they’ll repair or replace my pack if anything happens to it.

– “Hackability”: Over the years, I’ve found some hidden hacks with this bag: like using the internal hydration sleeve to stash my laptop for easy access, or that I can use the external mesh pocket for items (like shoes) that I may want to keep separate from everything else.

The cons

– Access: The top-only access isn’t ideal for travel, although it does have a half-front panel so I can usually get to most of my stuff without unloading it all. If I were to upgrade on this feature though, I’d probably opt for the Escapist 25 instead.

– Organization: Since the Talon/Tempest lines weren’t designed for travel but day hikes and commuting, they lack a few travel-specific organizational features, like additional inside pockets or an internal divider.

The packing tips: How to pack light for a week in a 22L bag

Packing this light isn’t easy, but below are a few strategies I use to pack for a week well enough to fit in a 20-22L bag:

1. Pack three days’ worth of clothes and limit your shoes

Don’t assume you need seven outfits for a seven-day trip. Instead, pack three knowing you can mix and match those items to create enough options for your entire trip — while still being prepared for every situation. Shoes also tend to take up a large portion of our bags: bring 1-2 pairs max. I usually wear a pair of boots, then slip a thin pair of flip-flops or Toms in my outer mesh pocket (if you’re more partial to a sneaker, I’d also suggest Natives, they’re great looking and slipper-like).

2. Bring travel-size items only

With limited space to use, you won’t catch me traveling with a 12-ounce bottle of shampoo. Keep everything as small as possible — you probably need less than you think, anyway.

3. Limit your just-in-case items

“The space in our pack is a precious commodity. It should be used efficiently and guarded from our own laziness of packing items ‘just in case’. Yes, we should be prepared. But let’s be smart about it,” advises the Carryology HQ team in The Best Backpacks for One-Bag Travel. Though in reference to hiking, it applies to travel as well. Trust that you can pick up most ‘just in case’ items on the road if and when you actually need them. Stick to only bringing the “know I’ll need” items.

4. Pack a couple of days in advance, then revise

When you’re in a rush, it’s easy to pack too much — or all the wrong stuff. To avoid this, set aside time a few days before your trip to gather everything you’ll need. Then, the day before, take a second pass at everything. Is there anything you forgot? Anything you could omit? Do you really need five t-shirts?

5. Use compression cubes or stuff sacks

Packing cubes help keep items in your bag organized while traveling, but compression cubes also do this and help you fit more in a small space. Make use of compression cubes, such as Eagle Creek’s Pack It Specter Compression Set ($32 for two) or stuff sacks, like those from Sea to Summit, to make your items more compact.

6. Roll or fold, it doesn’t matter

The TL;DR on this debate is no, rolling clothes instead of folding them does not save you more space in your bag — though it does better organize it. Do whichever you prefer.

An ultralight packing list for a week in a 22L bag

Although your exact packing list will vary depending on your personal preferences, trip, and time of year, use this base as an example of what will fit and inspiration for figuring out your own packing list.

Clothing

Clothes take up the most space in our bag while traveling, so it’s worth focusing a good amount of energy here. Pare down to the essentials, and pick items that aren’t overly bulky. You don’t necessarily have to go out and buy travel-specific clothing — there’s a lot you can do with just your existing closet — but there are a couple of items you may want to invest in. For example:

– Underwear: 5-7 pairs, depending on if you’re willing to do laundry or not.

– Bras: 1-2, with one as a sports bra

– Socks: 3-4 pairs, Smartwool’s Merino wool socks are easy to wash on the road.

– Tops: 3 total (e.g. 1 tank, 1 t-shirt, 1 long-sleeve). Uniqlo has great, affordable basics.

– Warm sweater or sweatshirt: 1 neutral, versatile option.

– Jacket: pack 1 or none, depending on climate. For spring trips, go for a lightweight rain jacket. For colder climates a down jacket, like Columbia or Patagonia, packs down best.

– Pants: 1 pair of jeans and 1 pair of leggings (i.e. lululemon, Nike, or ADAY) or casual slacks.

– Skirt/shorts: 1 total, not each.

– Bathing suit: Men, a multi-purpose pair of shorts like Patagonia’s all-wear hybrid shorts make the best travel swimsuits.

– Shoes: Try to limit yourself to 1-2 pairs of shoes. Toms and Sperrys are good, versatile travel shoes. For runs and hikes, aim for something that packs down small, like the APLs. 

Toiletries

For your toiletries, give yourself a “one bag challenge” (that’s right, no separate makeup and toiletry bag). Grab a small-ish bag and pack:

– Dr Bronner’s, which doubles as body wash and shampoo.

– Conditioner (optional)

– Toothbrush (I like Quip for travel)

– Toothpaste

– Lotion

– Sunscreen

– Razor

– Makeup basics

– Mini first aid (bandaids and aspirin)

To save money, put your liquids in a reusable GoToob (they have 3oz and 1.25oz, I find the 1.25oz GoToobs fit enough for a week-long trip) and avoid buying travel-sized versions of your toiletries for every trip.

Electronics

When it comes to gadgets, ask yourself: do I need more than a smartphone? If you do need something more — like your laptop for a work trip or camera for your favorite hobby — keep it as compact as possible. For example:

– Phone

– Chargers

– External battery, the Anker PowerCore is a compact and durable option.

– Adapters, if you’re going to another country. Apple has a well-made set that lets you pack only the one (or two) adapters you need.

– Laptop (optional)

– Kindle (optional)

In-flight essentials

To stay comfortable while flying, you could go extra minimalist and pack nothing but a warm jacket, phone, and earbuds to keep you comfortable and entertained. But if you have extra room (which you should), add these items:

– Headphones: To save space, I stick to Apple’s EarPods. Other headphones may have better noise-canceling capabilities and comfort but when it comes to saving space, the EarPods are hard to compete with.

– Travel pillow: I’ve never met a travel pillow I liked and don’t pack one, but friends rave about the new Trtl Pillow, which is at least much more compact than a traditional U-shaped foam pillow.

– Water bottle: Vapur is one of the most compact water bottles around, but Grayl — though larger — is still lightweight and a good option if you want water purification and filtration as well.

– Travel blanket or scarf: I don’t usually have room in my bag for a blanket, so I’ll wear a blanket scarf (Zara has good options) instead.

– Eye mask: Flight 001 and Muji make good ones for travel.

Other gear

You don’t need much beyond your clothes, toiletries, in-flight essentials, and electronics — especially since you’ll be able to pick up most emergency items on the road. But a couple of extras you shouldn’t forget:

– Passport (if traveling abroad)

– Wallet (if you usually carry something bulky, consider a slimmer travel wallet)

– Snacks

– Pen

– Book

I also consider a pocket Moleskine an essential item, but then again, I’m a writer — you may not feel the same. 

How low can you go?

Packing for a full week of travel (or longer!) in a 22L backpack may seem crazy, unnecessary, or just too difficult. But it’s also such a great feeling to travel without the burden of things on your back. So why not give it a go? After a little practice and thoughtful crafting of your own ultralight packing list, I’m sure you can downsize your bag and pack extra light for a week of travel too. Let us know how it goes in the comments below!

This article was written by Jessie Beck. Check out her blog here.

The post How to Pack Light for a Week: Tips, Lists, and Bags appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

Bags

A quality gym bag should be able to go beyond your workout environment. Backpacks and duffels should work well for the office too, whilst being large enough to swallow all your gym and work gear. That way, you just need to carry one bag, which means less hassle and makes it easier to fit in a workout before or after work or during your lunch break.

The bag should have sufficient space to store shoes (ideally separately to protect the rest of your gear). And if it offers additional storage for separating smelly gear, even better. Good access and organization is also important to avoid rummaging, especially if you’re carrying both work and gym supplies. Check out a couple of solid options below.

Aer Gym Duffel 2 (US$ 170)

Smart enough for the office and versatile enough for life beyond the daily grind, Aer’s Gym Duffel 2 includes a host of useful features such as a ventilated main compartment, ventilated shoe compartment, and dedicated padded storage for your tech. And with a choice of interior and exterior pockets for smaller items, you can avoid time-consuming rummaging and keep EDC, work and gym essentials tidy and easily accessible.

RYU Quick Pack 18L (US$ 170)

RYU’s Quick Pack 18L delivers great access with its drop-front main compartment that makes it quick and simple to pack or reach gear throughout the bag. The interior fits a 15″ laptop which can be accessed from the exterior of the pack, and a mix of pockets stash smaller items within easy reach. Additionally, the stylish silhouette slides easily between work and workout environments.

And for more options check out this buyer’s guide to the best gym bags around.

Apparel

Having functional exercise apparel can make a big difference to your workout. Look for sweat wicking properties, good ventilation, and suitable stretch to keep you comfortable and flexible during your session. Additionally, try to opt for pieces that work outside of the gym too. That way, you get more out of your gear and ultimately better value for money. Pieces just like those below.

NikeGrip Lightweight Low Training Socks (US$ 19.97)

With their anti-slip construction, top padding to cushion against pressure from laces, and top mesh fabric for ventilation these socks are great for shorter and longer workouts alike.

RYU Vapor Crew Neck Tee (US$ 57)

Available in both men’s and women’s options, the Vapor Crew Neck Tee features an almost seamless construction for reduced garment weight, partnered with sweat-wicking nylon yarn and mesh zones for increased user comfort and airflow. As an added bonus, integrated Polygiene® helps curb the growth of bacteria and fungi that cause odors.

Myles Apparel Everyday Short (US$ 58)

The Everyday Short combines minimalist aesthetics with everyday functionality, offering four-way stretch for unrestricted movement and a water-repellent finish. Two side pockets hold small essentials, and the tailored fit looks good whether you’re working hard or taking it easy on your day off.

lululemon athletica Metal Vent Tech Short Sleeve (US$ 68)

The Metal Vent Tech Short Sleeve brings a number of features together in a lightweight and sweat-wicking t-shirt that looks good during and beyond your workout. Four-way stretch and seamless construction help keep you comfortable and flexible, with mesh construction for improved breathability and Silverescent® fabric technology to combat odors.

GORUCK Gym Shorts (US$ 69)

Made in the USA with ToughDry fabric, the GORUCK Gym Shorts are designed to be quick-drying and abrasion resistant. Built with two-way stretch, the shorts feature a zippered back pocket, two front pockets and a stretch waistband with a drawstring.

Athletic Propulsion Labs TechLoom Pro (US$ 140)

The one-piece upper of the lightweight TechLoom Pro shoes is seamless for improved user comfort and fit. The midsole and outsole feature a proprietary Propelium® compound for improved shock absorption, cushioning and durability. In addition, flex grooves in the outsole and an 8mm drop work with your natural motion and foot positioning for improved efficiency.

RYU Ethos Pullover Hoodie (US$ 147)

Designed with comfort and unrestricted movement in mind, the Ethos Pullover Hoodie features breathable and four-way stretch construction. And with fewer seams and reduced bulk, it performs well without weighing you down and brings clean style to your workout wardrobe. For a women-specific alternative, check out the Ethos Pullover.

Accessories

Accessories should help make your workout easier, whether they’re supplying hydration or sweet tunes for motivation. The prime pieces below are great gym buddies.

Klean Kanteen Classic Stainless Steel Bottle with Sport Cap (from US$ 13.98)

The Klean Kanteen Classic features a durable and lightweight single wall stainless steel construction. The Sport Cap 3.0 offers a high flow rate and quiet user experience. And with a variety of colors and sizes to choose from you can pick one to suit your personal tastes.

Hydro Flask Insulated Sports Water Bottle (from US$ 29.95)

With its double-wall vacuum insulated construction this Hydro Flask bottle can keep liquids cool for up to 24 hours or hot for up to 6 hours. Available in a range of colors and sizes, the bottle is made with durable stainless steel and includes a lifetime warranty.

lululemon athletica Towel (US$ 38)

Offering a soft and lightweight construction, this microfiber towel is designed to be both slip resistant and absorbent. The towel also comes in a choice of colors to suit personal preferences.

Jaybird X3 Sport Bluetooth Headphones (from US$ 119.99)

Keen to listen to your favorite tunes during your workout? These wireless headphones offer a compact design with a secure fit and a hydrophobic nano-coating to protect against sweat, rain and snow. An 8-hour battery life keeps the music flowing and you can customize the sound with an associated app.

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Note: This is currently out of stock and pretty much a collector’s item, but we dug it so much we decided to list it. Sorry if that’s a bummer! Your best bet: eBay. 

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Boreas Erawan Duffel

The Erawan Duffel is one of those bags that is equally at home heading to the airport or slung in the back of your off-road 4×4. Stowable backpack straps and side handles let you alternate carry methods to accommodate different situations. The shoulder straps can also be adjusted to suit different torso lengths, while additional handy features include a wet/dry pocket for keeping wet items separate from the rest of your gear, external attachment points, plus a waterproof pocket to make sure your valuables stay safe and dry.

Patagonia Black Hole 60L

The Black Hole Duffel has built up a solid reputation in the world of gear bags – and it’s easy to see why. There are several ways to carry the bag, including backpack straps, top handles and end grab handles, making it easy to manoeuvre it in tight spaces or over long distances. The hard-wearing and water-resistant construction keeps the elements at bay, and a choice of interior and exterior zipped pockets keep your smaller items in order. The main compartment has a large opening for easy access to gear, along with internal compression straps, while the exterior daisy chains let you carry extra gear as needed. A particularly nifty feature is that the duffel can stuff into its own pocket, offering convenient storage when the bag is not in use, as well as a compact form if you want to take the duffel in your luggage as a day bag at your destination.

The North Face Base Camp

With a claim to fame as one of the most famous gear bags out there, the Base Camp Duffel has made its presence felt across the globe thanks to its hard-wearing construction and versatile functionality. This plucky duffel is ready to take on carry challenges near and far with its water-resistant build, multiple grab handles and backpack straps, compression straps, easy-access D-zip opening, as well as external and internal pockets for organization.

Red Oxx Safari-Beanos PR4

Tough as an ox, this is the kind of bag that never wants to stop exploring – whether it’s city surroundings or outdoor landscapes. With its rugged build featuring 1000D Cordura and durable #10 YKK zips, it’s ready to work hard and play hard. In addition to a range of day-to-day uses, the bag can also serve as a carry-on companion during your travels. While it’s sure to please anyone after a hard-working, functional and versatile bag, organizers are also sure to dig it thanks to a great choice of pockets.

Nike Eugene Duffel

After a gear bag that looks good in the city? The sleek urban design of the Nike Eugene Duffel gives it an edge over burly bags with aesthetics that suggest they’re designed to go ten rounds with the side of a mountain. But don’t let its urban-friendly looks fool you. The Eugene is ready for action with its water-resistant construction, removable shoulder strap, two sets of top handles, and an exterior zipped pocket that provides quick access to frequently used items. For even greater functionality the duffel packs into its own pouch, saving space when not in use and making it a handy second bag for storing in your luggage during your travels.

Dakine Sherpa Duffle

Whatever’s on the carry agenda, from work supplies to travel gear, this versatile all-rounder can get the job done. A choice of stowable backpack straps, a removable shoulder strap, as well as top and end grab handles provide flexible portability. Organization is also covered, with exterior zipped pockets for quick-access items and an interior mesh pocket. Speaking of the interior, it’s easy to access thanks to the Velcro/zip opening. Plus with a total volume of 53L, you won’t be short of space for travel and everyday use. As an added bonus, this bag isn’t heavy on your bank balance, making it an attractive option if you want a functional piece of kit on a reasonable budget.

MEC Duffle Bag

It’s easy to be drawn into the lure of Everest-ready duffels, with more bells and whistles than a steam train, and a hefty price tag to boot. Going to be scaling Everest any time soon? Didn’t think so. The MEC Duffle is for all the everyday and travel situations you actually do find yourself in – going to the gym, hauling work supplies, grabbing groceries and heading off on weekend getaways. It’s available in five sizes and can be carried using a shoulder strap, as well as top and end handles. Plus the two largest sizes also include backpack straps. The duffel’s exterior zipped pocket is a handy stash point for a wallet, phone, keys and the like. To add even more features to the mix, the duffel folds into its own pocket for easy storage when not in use or to form a compact addition to your luggage. Rounding things off is one of its most attractive features – its wallet-friendly pricing.

Aether Welded Duffle Small

Many duffels tend to forget that there’s a lot to be said for visual appeal. The Aether Welded Duffle Small is not one of them. This stylish duffel offers a softer approach to gear bags with its heathered body fabric, which is complemented by a rubberized base, welded construction and waterproof zippers for protection against the elements. Side and top handles provide carry options and a zippered exterior pocket lets you keep smaller items within easy reach.

Arc’teryx Carrier Duffel 50

Lightweight – check. Excellent water resistance – sorted. Multiple carry options – sure thing. This duffel packs plenty of features into its durable form. Taped seams and a WaterTight zipper with a storm flap protect the contents against inclement weather. Removable shoulder straps can share the load with grab handles on all four sides. Plus a light interior provides enhanced visibility of the contents, so less rummaging and more efficient access to your gear. This is a tough and reliable hauler that works well in a range of work and play settings.

BAD Duffel #4

It’s good to be bad…well, a BAD duffel, that is. Why, you may ask? Because this hard-wearing hauler is built to last so it can enjoy years of adventures with you. With build features including water-resistant 1000D Cordura with taped seams, rugged #10 YKK zippers and reinforced stitching, this duffel will withstand demanding daily use and the not-so-loving caress of baggage handlers. With further features such as locking zippers, an ID holder, compression straps, as well as side and top handles, this duffel is all set to prove its usefulness across a range of casual and challenging carry environments alike.

Black Diamond Demon Duffel

Choosing a cragging bag can leave you between a rock and a hard place. Sometimes they’re hard to carry, not comfortable or lack versatility. Not so with the Demon Duffel from Black Diamond. Grab handles let you carry it easily over short distances, while backpack straps and a hip belt help shoulder the load over longer distances and can be stowed away when not in use. The framesheet and padded back panel offer user comfort, and the full-length zip provides convenient access to the contents, whether you’re using it outdoors or tackling varied carry demands in town.

Exped Tempest Duffel

Expedition duffel, waterproof gear bag, lightweight and protective luggage…the Exped Tempest Duffel is a versatile creature that works around your lifestyle. Its high frequency welded construction combined with a waterproof YKK FlexSeal zipper gives you peace of mind that your gear will stay dry, even if you don’t. Unexpected downpours, monsoons, watersports, escapades in the snow – wherever you find yourself, rest assured you’ll find dry gear afterwards. The duffel is available in three sizes and features a pared-back design to offer an attractive weight to volume ratio. The carry straps can double as backpack straps, and there’s also a grab handle for enhanced portability.

Gustin Waxed Canvas Duffel

This handsome duffel offers a suave combination of relaxed and refined, making it equally great for stylish and laidback holiday carry or serving as a casual-chic about-town bag. Water-repellent waxed cotton canvas partners with full-grain leather and brass hardware to create a tough and attractive bag that will take on even more character as it ages. Three exterior slip pockets provide fuss-free storage for small items, while the main compartment is secured with a #10 YKK zip that opens wide and has two sliders for convenient packing and unloading.

Haglöfs Boda 70

The Boda 70 knows how to haul gear in style. This chic piece of carry wouldn’t look out of place in the office, an airport lounge or hitting the streets as you get on with your day-to-day tasks. The duffel features two exterior pockets and two internal pockets for organizing your smaller items, along with a durable waxed polycotton canvas construction and leather detailing. With its elegant, clean design, this is an appealing choice if you’re looking for something that ticks both the fashion-friendly and practical boxes.

Maxpedition Fliegerduffel

With its ready-for-anything, takes-no-messing vibe, the Fliegerduffel looks like the kind of bag that fares equally well in rugged wilderness and bustling city environments. But it’s not just looks. The tough and water-resistant ballistic nylon construction can handle demanding use, while top grab handles, a shoulder strap and backpack straps provide versatile carry options. Throw in a multitude of pockets and a clamshell opening for fast packing and access to your gear, and you’re sorted for urban and outdoor adventures alike.

OverBoard Waterproof Ninja Duffel

A lot of bags claim to be waterproof when they’re not. This bag is ready to prove its claim wherever, whenever. The roll-top opening and high frequency welded construction keep water at bay, so the duffel can be fully submersed for a short period of time while still keeping the contents dry. Top and end carry handles and a removable shoulder strap take the frustration out of getting the bag from point A to point B. In addition, your bits and pieces are kept in line with internal pockets including a wet/dry pocket, plus an exterior quick-access pocket. Whether you want a waterproof bag for your travels, water-based activities, or daily use, this one lives up to its label.

Red Flag Design Heavy Duty Mark II Duffel

A killer combination of sleek looks, functional design and hard-wearing construction makes the Heavy Duty Mark II Duffel stand out in a sea of average gear bags. Water-resistant zips and an abrasion-resistant Hypalon body protect your gear from scuffs, scrapes and Mother Nature. The durable mil-spec nylon webbing handles can double as grab handles or backpack straps. Stash the items you need within easy reach in the zipped exterior pocket, and when it’s time to pack or access the main compartment you can do so quickly and easily thanks to a large zipped opening.

Simms Fishing Dry Creek Duffel

Whether you’re white-water rafting or caught in a torrential rainstorm, opening your bag to discover soggy gear is a sure way to put a dampener on your mood. However, the Simms Fishing Dry Creek Duffel will float your boat with its waterproof and fully submersible construction. The roll-top construction offers a flexible volume to suit different loads, while external Hypalon attachment points accommodate extra items as needed. Compression straps and a choice of grab handles or a shoulder strap further enhance the functionality of this versatile duffel.

Watershed Yukon

Ever been caught in a storm during a camping trip or your travels and opened your bag to find your gear was completely soaked? Had the unfortunate experience of your mildly water-resistant bag going overboard on a boat trip or getting drenched during water sports? This bag is the one that should have been along for the ride. With its RF welded seams and ZipDry closure, you don’t need to worry if this fully submersible bag takes an unexpected plunge or receives a wet welcome at your latest sightseeing destination. Its generous 70L volume provides plenty of space for multi-day trips or large loads, and compression straps play their part in keeping the contents under control. If you need to carry oddly-shaped or extra gear, external attachment points come to the rescue, making this a bag you can really tailor to diverse environments and carry needs.

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What was the very first piece in your collection?

The first piece that I can remember is a Madrid Skateboards skateboard bag.  It’s a sack to put your skateboard and gear in.  It has the infamous flypaper pattern all over it.  It served function and fashion.

And do you remember where and why you picked it up? 

I picked it up at my local bike/skateboard shop because I was bringing my skateboard on vacation with me.  I got it in the late 80’s.

When did you begin to feel more than what might be called an “average obsession” for bags?  

It was in the mid 90’s.  I had moved to NYC to go to school at F.I.T. and was skateboarding all over the city.  If I knew that I was going to be out all day and into the night, I’d have a backpack.  If I was only going out for a few hours I had a hip pack.  One day I stumbled across a bag that was both by a brand called Triple Five Soul.  It was a hip pack that could transform into a backpack.  My mind was blown!  That was when I realized that bags could serve a specific purpose and weren’t just for holding my stuff.

What do you look for? What makes a bag a must-have? 

It usually starts with a purpose. Then I look for a bag out there that can meet the purpose.  The constant is always to organize my gear, whether I am skateboarding, riding my bike, out for a night out on the town with my friends, or to hold my camera equipment.  The question is what do I want/need to have with me.  I will always have my keys, phone, portable phone charger, wall phone charger, phone charging cable, Ollo Clip iPhone lens, wallet, camera and small pouch with necessities with me.  So the bag must-haves are compartments and storage.  Also, extra space or a tight fit depending on what my plans are for the day/night.

“The constant is always to organize my gear, whether I am skateboarding, riding my bike, out for a night out on the town with my friends, or to hold my camera equipment.“

The other big things are bags that have either a dual purpose or transform into something else.  I have several packable bags that I can bring with me when I travel.  I even have a Burton jacket that can transform into a backpack.

Do you have a certain fetish? A brand crush? 

There are a few brands that are constantly on my radar because for me they don’t disappoint.  Burton/Gravis usually have something that I want.  The latest Burton bag that I purchased is the Snake Mountain pack.  It’s supposed to be a good concert/festival pack that can double as a photo bag.  The lower third of the bag is insulated to use as a cooler and comes with a divider so you can use it as a camera bag.  I’m using it as a discreet photo bag.  And so far it’s perfect.  Incase is another brand that I like, I have several messenger bags from them, they take the time to think about organization and where things go. 

“One day I stumbled across a bag…by a brand called Triple Five Soul.  It was a hip pack that could transform into a backpack.  My mind was blown!“

I also admire SAGLiFE.  They did several collaborations; the ones I was able to pick up were MASH SF, DQM and Benny Gold.  They had many innovative styles and included a lot of reflectivity which is great for being seen at night.  And finally Supreme, they launch new bags four times a year and I have several that I really like.  My favorite backpack has a mini iPad stash in the back of the pack, a rain fly and tons of storage.   

Was there anything from the past that you hesitated on that you would kill to have now? 

The SAGLiFE X FTC Megatron 2 bag designed by John Igei is one I wish I had.  Burton made a snowboard bag that had a tent in it.  And I wish I bought doubles of the SAGLiFE X Mash SF bag.   

How many bags do you have in your quiver? Can you run us through an itemized list? 

I have just about 100 bags.

Damn! Maybe just hit us with your top 30 or so…

The bags that started it all

Madrid Skateboard bag

Triple 5 Soul hip pack convertible backpack

Gap EDC hip pack

Skate Bags

Supreme backpack

Nike SB backpack

Supreme X The North Face duffel

The Hundreds Messenger skate bag

Vans backpack

Nike hip pack convertible backpack

Diamond Supply Co. backpack

Supreme backpack

Madrid Skateboards Flypaper skateboard bag

Nike SB Skateboard bag

Burton Bags

Gravis X The Hundreds Flight Deck wheelie bag

Gravis X The Hundreds backpack

Burton packable Tinder backpack

Burton Mark XIII mini duffel

Burton Mark XIII rucksack

Burton Warren Jacket convertible backpack

Burton Cruiser Lil’ Buddy bag

Burton Cruiser gear bag

Burton Cruiser backpack

Burton tool bag

Burton Beeracuda

Burton sling pack

Gravis Plaid hip sack

Gravis Plaid camera bag

Gravis Plaid Metro backpack

Gravis Plaid duffle bag

Burton MNug Snowboard

Bike Bags

Incase X HUF messenger bag

Incase X DQM messenger bag

master-piece sling

SAGLiFE X DQM bag

SAGLiFE X Mash SF

SAGLiFE X Translate Talon bag

SAGLiFE X Benny Gold

SSCY Bandolier sling

Chrome Niko Sling

Chrome Cardiel O.R.P.

Camera Bags

Lowepro Photo Runner bag

Burton Shooter case

Lowepro Trim Trekker bag

Burton Snake Mountain backpack

How do you store your collection? 

I have converted my attic into a walk-in closet and they are stacked flat on shelves. The room is air conditioned and cooled at 78 degrees.

Can you tell us a favorite carry memory?

Man this is tough.  I keep going back to the SAGLiFE X Mash SF bag.  This was the first bag I spent over $100 on.  I had to do a lot of convincing to my wife and myself.  I ordered it online and it was in my cart and removed about 5 million times.  I finally bit the bullet and I’ve gotten use out of it tenfold.  It’s traveled with me from skamping (skateboarding and camping) to numerous tradeshows, bike rides, etc.  It’s pretty beat up, but I still use it occasionally.

If your house was burning down and you only had enough time to grab one bag, which one would it be and why?  

This is a really tough one too. I would say it would be the Snake Mountain bag right now because most of my camera equipment is in it.  But I’d already have the SAGLiFE X Mash bag on. hahaha

What’s next on the wish list? 

There are a few bags I’ve had my eye on.  I was introduced to the brand DSPTCH through their camera straps.  I haven’t been able to get anything from them yet, but I am looking at the Slingpack and Daypack.  The Incase Ari camera bag looks as if it could be a good way to transport my camera equipment while riding my bike.  The SSCY Tack or Tack Sling (can’t decide), I like the idea of a backpack that transforms into a tote.  And finally Burton has a small Filson capsule that will launch in the Fall that I have my eye on. 

Bags are an obsession for me because brands are constantly thinking up new ways to transport what I need to carry with me in a better way.  And as my life moves in different directions I will always feel the need to have the perfect bag for the adventure.

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And just to clarify for the masses: when we say the word ‘active’ we’re not generally talking about big, lumbering hiking backpacks that you can shove your entire life into. We’re talking about adaptable bits of kit that give you freedom to move, accelerate and push through space. Whether it be military issue rucks, slimline outdoor or bike packs, these all should haul diverse loads in comfortable ways.

In our nominees you’ll see a eclectic bunch. Each of them has a target activity that they excel in, but each is also versatile enough that you can use it for travel or just for day-to-day activities. This is a hard one…but have fun and go for it!

Your voting form is latched to the bottom of this post. You have two votes to use as you will…

Allocate your 1st choice with 2 points

And your 2nd choice just with the 1 point. 

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Osprey Atmos AG 50

Sometimes there’s an itch that takes awhile to scratch, which was apparently the story with the AG (Anti-Gravity) suspension system for Mike Pfotenhauer, the still active founder of Osprey. The AG wraps and warps and bends around you like a Playdo sculptured mesh, with awesome levels of comfort, breathability and movement. This is a substantial innovation, well deserving on any kudos fired into its atmosphere.

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Triple Aught Design FAST Pack Litespeed 2.0

This cult classic has been updated in a slew ways – the team at TAD worked closely with their customers, penciling down the qualms and queries over the past 4 years of use and abuse, and came out with one seriously wicked update – resulting in an even more versatile and dialled pack. We got our paws on one of the first if you need a reminder – it’s totally rad.

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Boreas Kezar

While Boreas was founded with a very outdoor vibe, the brand is just starting to creep into more urban aesthetics. The Kezar mixes a great geometric silhouette with the awesome Bootlegger system, giving you a well resolved suspension for a very versatile pack. This is a legit all-rounder with styling to boot – it’ll look equally sharp gunning down stretches of tarmac atop your vintage Triumph or traipsing up mountain passes for a weekend spent among the sticks.  

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Black Diamond Axis 24

You have to try the Swingarm shoulder straps to understand how good they are, but for now, take our word that the slight movement you get as your pack straps adjust to a tilt is awesome. The pack then combines beautiful welding, forming and proportions for a versatile outdoor play piece. This is BD at its best. 

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Porter Stealth Daypack

Every time we’ve spotted this pack slung across traveling Japanese, it’s turned our heads. The details are nailed, the proportions are interesting, and the division of pocketing and sections works well. We love seeing Porter play with more youthful shapes, and it’s something we’d love to see more of in ’15.

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Ember Equipement Urban Pack

Somewhere between Steampunk and Star Wars lives the modular Ember backpack. Utilising Fidlock magnetic clips and a stack of modular pocketing, you can customise and tweak this pack in countless ways. And as far as 2014 was concerned, this was the one pack that thrust shockwaves through the community, sparking imaginations of Carryologists everywhere – there’s certainly an X-factor here, and we dig it. 

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Arc’teryx Nomin

Ridiculously beautiful. All performance, no frills. Silly expensive. And incredibly hard to get your sweaty little claws on (we’re telling you, this thing is a unicorn!). Pretty much a winning formula for an instant cult classic. Well played, Arc’teryx [insert over zealous applause here].

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NikeLab ACG Responder Backpack

The Nike SFS Responder was perhaps a little too inspired by Mystery Ranch’s 3Zip format. But when NikeLab has taken that pack, and pushed it much further, they’ve created something really interesting. You can lay this pack wide open, access any part of it, and configure in multiple ways. It’s kinda rad.

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Aarn Liquid Agility

We’ve fallen in love with this innovative Kiwi brand, and the Liquid Agility brings their awesome load carrying into a versatile smaller capacity setup. If you need to carry heavy loads over irregular terrain, this is probably your single best way to do it.

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ILE Apex Daypack

ILE have been making neat bike and camera packs out of SF for several years now. The Apex is a simple roll-top – think the less in more mantra – made for less demanding excursions, but it wins you over with charisma and purpose. 

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Timbuk2 Especial Tres Backpack

This is an update and a darn good one. If you want an urban pack that does it all, this should be on your list. Sleek styling, big capacity, lots of features, ventillation and improved visibility are all there in spades – Timbuk2 called this their Especial, for a reason. 

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Vote Now!

*Voting closes 22nd Feb.

The post Best Active Backpack Finalists :: Third Annual Carry Awards appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

And more than ever, we’ve got options – airport hangars full. I’m serious, the luggage category is as diverse as Ando’s iTunes playlist. From casual to formal, from outdoor to airport only, you will find both a format to suit, as well as an emotional connection to inspire.

While there’s more variety than ever in check-in bags, there are also some emerging themes. One is that weight sucks! Very few folk have unlimited baggage allowance, and so it’s rare for us to recommend a heavy bit of luggage these days.

The other is that you want something that stirs some emotions in you. If you ask science, it says that most of us are happier before and after our holidays, than actually on them, so you need kit that brings on the warm and fuzzies across the entire experience.

So please, help your favorite win the gong…

You have two votes to use as you will…

Allocate your 1st choice with 2 points

And your 2nd choice just the 1 point. 

Note: any votes made over the allotted limit will be wiped from the voting tally. 

Boreas Erawan Duffel

Duffels with backpack straps are plentiful, but most of them suffer the same few issues. The first is too many straps that get in the way of your load access. Next is collapsing forms with loads that ride too low and inhibit your motion. And last is an inability to tuck straps away for air travel. The Boreas Erawan solves all of these things, with a format that is fundamentally better. It’s cheap enough. It’s light enough. It’s not tops in looks or durability, but it puts toughness where you need it most. This is clearly one of the best duffels in the world.

Nike Eugene Duffel bag

Lots of weekenders look great, but very few of them can fit into a tiny kit bag and slide into your backpack. As with lots of their NSW ranges, Nike treat new fabrics in classic ways, elevating synthetics to be as classy as leather. While this bag has been getting released and sold out for a couple of years now, its elusiveness has helped it win nomination for this year.

Rimowa Topas Stealth Multiwheel

Eagle Creek Morphus

There are not many trips we do where your outgoing load equals your homecoming load. Whether it’s gifts you’re giving, samples you’re leaving, or shopping you’re bringing home, some versatility with luggage makes a big difference. The Morphus lets you split your luggage, wheel it, backpack it, shoulder carry it, or just compress the heck out of it. This is a two-part luggage solution that will do anything you need it to, without much of a compromise on weight.

Samsonite Cubelite Spinner

So, the Samsonite stuff has kinda been creeping up on us. It’s not as immediately striking as some, or as dolled up as others, but darn it just works. We’ve had a Cubelite wrap its way around the world a couple of times so far, and this spinner is still box fresh and awesome. The wheels are large enough to skip over bumps, and clad in a resilient but vibration-deadening rubber so they stay quiet. The hardware is smooth, tight, and stiction-free despite plentiful abuse. And the case has been dented on drops, but keeps popping back. Put simply, this is the spinner than has converted several of our contributors over to spinners, where historically they’d never go near the small wheeled things. Oh, it’s also light, featured and almost affordable…almost.

Pacsafe Toursafe AT29

We talk a bit about the Security Theatre around air travel at Carryology, as most of the billions of dollars spent on this stuff is silly. However, there are times when you need to protect your luggage, and Pacsafe are good at it. Their double-coil ToughZip resists pen punctures (a radically easy way to break into luggage), their Exomesh resists slashes, and the AT range is really quite light considering the safety feature set. There is an update currently flushing through, so the still great and prior model is at discount. Happy saving!

Rip Curl Global F-Light

Tanner Nomad Duffel

Tanner Nomad Duffel

– VOTING HAS NOW CLOSED –

What’s not in?

The post Best Check-In Luggage Finalists – The Second Annual Carry Awards appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.