Who It Suits

This series of carry products is made for kayaking, rafting, boating, yachting, fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, etc. It’s fully IPX7-rated for the most demanding amphibious adventures. 

Who It Doesn’t

It’s dedicated waterborne gear, so obviously not for winter mountaineering, skiing, climbing, or bushcrafting. It’s also neither a commuter’s dream nor an office pack… except maybe if you’ll be commuting by Venetian gondola.  

Specifications

1. All Terrain Duffel 60L:
Weight: 37.6oz
Length: 23″, Width: 14″, Height: 12″

2. All Terrain Duffel 45L:
Weight: 33.6oz
Length: 20″, Width: 12″, Height: 11″

3. All Terrain Pack 24L:
Weight: 41.6oz
Height: 20″, Width (max): 11″, Width (min): 9″, Depth: 7″

4. ATP-1 pouch (small):
Weight: 0.8oz
Length: 4.0″, Width: 1.0″, Height: 3.0″

5. ATP-2 pouch (medium):
Weight: 1.4oz
Length: 6.0″, Width: 1.25″, Height: 4.5″

What the IPX7 Rating Means

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The IPX rating goes from 0 to 8 (0 means no protection at all, and 8 is rated for deep submerging). The PDW All Terrain series is IPX7 rated and the number 7 is very important here. Ratings up to IPX6 define waterproofness against splashes, rain, waves, waterfalls, and other ‘above surface’ flowing water. However, IPX7 is the first level which guarantees no leakage when the bag is fully submerged under the surface. To be exact it means that the object would withstand being submerged to a depth of at least 1 meter for at least 30 minutes without letting any water in. Could it survive even deeper submerging? Sure, usually way deeper and for a longer time – these values in the IPX7 norm are MINIMUM values. And since you ask – IPX8 is assigned for dedicated diving equipment, not really for all-terrain amphibious gear. So in other words – as long as you don’t take these new bags deep to the bottom when scuba diving, they will keep your stuff dry.

They are actually so well sealed that they could be used as floatation devices. And I checked that (with some help from my son) quite extensively as you can see in the photo – needless to say, the bag didn’t let even one drop of water in. Just be sure all zippers are fully closed, with the sliders clicked into the end gates – this is crucial. And last but not least – for extended longevity and ease of operation use the supplied zipper lubricant every now and then, preferably when you clean your gear after an expedition.

Materials and Design

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The whole series is made of fully laminated 1000D and 600D RPET (recycled polyester fibers) with high-frequency welded seams. Critical areas (like carry handles) are first sewn for strength and then sealed with an extra layer of 600D RPET by frequency welding – so yeah, it’s tough stuff. The main zippers are almost oversized scuba-diving style, fully watertight within the IPX7 norm, of course.  

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The overall design of the series is quite consistent, and it immediately says: Hey, I’m not just super heavy-duty but waterproof too! The central zippers are big and bold, with a massive diver’s style T-shaped handle instead of a standard zipper pull. And they work great, just make sure you close it to the very end so that it clicks into the closing gate – only then is the waterproofness guaranteed. PDW also supplies a special zipper lubricant, which makes the zipper easier to close and open and ensures full waterproofness (and longevity).

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The duffels in both volumes are equipped with oversized handles and additional padded shoulder straps for easy pack-like carry. If you’ve ever been boarding a sailing yacht you know how crucial it is to have your hands free, so that you can grab railings, ropes, etc. The shoulder straps can be quickly removed if required. 

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The pack, however, is considerably more advanced – it’s not only waterproof but also has a full-blown, really comfortable harness – not a common thing on a drypack. So you’ll find a padded back panel and lumbar pad with an integrated venting channel. Add to this wide, also fully padded shoulder straps with attachment D-rings and MOLLE slots. The pack comes equipped with a padded waist belt too, which has MOLLE slots on for easy pouch attachment. The padding is made of closed cell foam, so it doesn’t absorb any water. Side gear leashing points accept standard 1″ webbing straps with locking buckles (4 of them included) which I mostly used to carry my fishing rod or a big camp knife in a Kydex sheath.  

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There’s small daisy-chain webbing at the front (for carabiners, etc.) and a D-ring too. Plus MOLLE slots on the bottom so I could attach an additional pouch, small drybag, or other gear. The main compartment features a half-opening with a diver’s zipper (of course), and there’s even a front pocket with a smaller T-handle on it. As I said, this thing ain’t a simple roll-top drypack. And I admit, this pack looks cool.

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Features

The key feature of the All Terrain series is waterproofness as you can imagine, but not only! To ensure the required buoyancy you need to control the volume of air inside the bag. And for that, you can use a spring-loaded valve, installed in both bags and the backpack. You can inflate it to keep it floating, but you could also deflate it and make the package submersible – depending on what you need. For me, such a valve is simply a MUST on a serious amphibious product. Well done, PDW!

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As you can see in the photos, PDW added multiple leashing points, daisy-chains, D-rings, and MOLLE slots to all products – so you can not only attach extra gear to the bags but also clip on a carabiner or tie a safety line. And finally, all bags have full-size Velcro panels on them, which are good not only for patch junkies (like me) but more importantly for easy personalizing and identification. This could be useful when similar bags are used by several people. And I can imagine this when kayaking or rafting with friends.

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And What About The Pouches?

If you need to protect some of your smaller equipment against aquatic conditions, the ATP pouches are the way to go. Imagine stuff like batteries, a power bank, cables, a Swiss Army Knife, maybe a fire-starting kit, or simply a mobile – all that fits there. Both the ATP-1 and ATP-2 are watertight too. Also, both feature translucent windows on the front for a quick and easy content check – this comes in really handy if you use more than one pouch of the same size. 

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Both pouches feature MOLLE on the back, so you can attach them to a pack, bag, boat, RIB, or kayak. There’s also an admin pouch available at PDW, which I haven’t tried so far (but it looks good). You can notice that the zippers (or rather sliders) on these pouches are a bit harder to operate than regular non-waterproof zippers, but that is how they work to keep water away. So don’t pull it too hard and don’t try to zip them in a split second – they are designed for a perfect seal, not for speed.

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Space and Access

The All Terrain series philosophy is simple; it’s a waterproof space for your gear, that’s it – nothing more and nothing less. Both provide easy access via oversized divers’ zippers, which open the bags really wide. The 60 liters of space in the big bag is more than enough for any sailing trip. Just keep it slightly open when stored in a cabin to allow for air circulation. The 45-liter bag is not just a great weekender, but also the perfect bag for multi-day canoeing in summer. The organization inside is very straightforward – just one big cavity, plus a small internal pocket welded inside, which works fine for small valuables like a wallet or car keys (the Swiss Army Knife in the photo is for a size reference). 

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In the 24-liter pack there’s also an additional flat front pocket, right below the main compartment’s opening. It is IPX7 rated as well and I used this one to keep a map in there, a miniature compass, and a fishing license. The pack’s size is perfect for any day trip in a kayak, canoe, or on a small RIB fishing boat (which is what I used the pack for a lot). Plus there’s a small hanger loop inside the backpack, so you can clip on your water bottle there or attach a fixed blade knife inside for covert carry. Of course, it’s not a hydration-compatible pack – there’s no way a tube port would be waterproofed enough to keep the construction well sealed. 

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Comfort

The duffels work fine for all kinds of carrying – as a backpack, on one shoulder, in hand, and also when grabbed by the front and back carry handles. Sure, it’s not a backpack per se, but to carry even a heavy duffel from a car trunk to the boat’s deck this system is more than adequate. 

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The backpack carries great! The fully adjustable shoulder straps are equipped with not only load lifters but even integrated webbing management D-frames and a quick-release buckle system (which in my opinion is a must for safety when wearing the pack on a boat). The waist belt can be easily removed, and I used my pack mostly without one for easier carry. Even just the shoulder straps, lumbar pad, and back panel did a good enough job of transferring the pack’s mass to my body. Any grab handles? Absolutely! Four of them, one on each side, for easy loading on a vessel or safe passing from hand to hand.

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The Good

– Fully waterproof – IPX7 rated

– Lightweight for the size

– Super tough laminated material

– Multiple attachment points outside

– Velcro patch panels for easy ID 

– Good price point

The Not So Good

– No organization inside the bags, a side zipper pocket would be welcome

– Limited versatility, dedicated to maritime adventures

– Only one color is available now (grey/foliage)

Verdict

There’s a lot to like about the new PDW All Terrain series stuff – it is lightweight, tough, and waterproof. They have all the features you need, but they are not overbuilt with them. I’m also glad to see they released the whole series, not a single bag or pack just to test the waters. It’s quite an audacious move for PDW, as this sort of product is not mainstream – you need a reason to own one. But of course, even that badass tactical look alone could be a good reason to get one, if you don’t have a drybag in your carry collection yet.

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However, if you plan any rafting, fishing, boating, or other maritime adventure, such a duffle or pack is a must. The price starts at $163 for a 45-liter duffel, which is in my opinion the most versatile model in the whole series. Sure, it’s not dirt cheap, but do a quick search and you will find out that for an IPX7-rated duffel (considering all the features, IPX7 and valve) that price is fair, to say the least. And even the most expensive, the backpack, at $218 is not a bad deal on the market. This is an interesting series in PDW’s lineup for sure and priced well.

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Care to know which is my personal favorite in this series? Well, surprisingly the big 60-liter duffel! Big enough even for me. I could easily pack for a full two-week cruise on a sailboat… and I’m notorious for packing too much gear, especially knives and gadgets to test later in the outdoors. Combined with the All Terrain pack it makes an outstanding pair for any kind of amphibious adventure for me. 

The post Prometheus Design Werx | All Terrain Bags Review appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

Now they’re back with a new product, The Dex Duffel. This is designed for the eco-conscious traveller who wants both incredible products, and environmental responsibility. Available in both 30 and 45L sizes, the Dex Duffel has the instantly recognisable Black Ember aesthetic, and is sure to be a crowd pleaser. Under the hood, it has all the hallmarks of excellent design and construction.

Materials and Aesthetic

Black Ember are the first brand in the world to partner with Cordura® and use their new Cordura® re/corTM RN66. This is the first 100% recycled nylon from the fabric powerhouse, and as recycled nylon six, six it has the same incredible durability qualities that Cordura® is known for. In hand that means you can trust this bag to take years of abuse and likely look no different than the day you bought it. Paired with laser cut hypalon panels and YKK® AquaGuard zippers, the Dex is ready to travel.

The back panel has a high density frame sheet that flexes with you on the move and is supported by the stowable 3D shoulder straps made from an EVA foam that are both comfortable and supportive. A mixture of Fidlock® V buckles and G-hooks are used on the duffle to great effect, and make opening the bag and transforming carry methods an efficient and satisfying experience.

Aesthetically, the Dex Duffel is as clean and streamlined as you would expect from Black Ember. Their understated and urban style make for great crossover bags that carry just as well in hand as they do on your back. Tidy attachment points, matte zippers, and clever handles all contribute to a look that makes a statement, but quietly.

Functional Design

Like all of Black Embers products, the Dex Duffel series aren’t just about looking good. They are incredibly well thought out products that are a joy to use. 

The Dex Duffels are best described as a myriad of clever pockets and expanding volume. They really are tardis’ when it comes to all that they can hold in a polished package. The wide opening is reminiscent of a doctor’s bag, and the full length AquaGuard zipper is folded and secured by two magnetic Fidlock® V-buckles. Once your bag is closed, it stays that way until you need to have it open again. This easy view and easy access volume isn’t just a bottomless pit, but rather a curated selection of zippered pockets for all of your EDC and travel needs. These line the wall of the main cavity to allow you room for packing cubes and your primary carry. 

Once secured, the rear of the bag has a suspended laptop sleeve, keeping your tech protected on the move. Behind this sleeve is where you’ll find the aforementioned shoulder straps, which can be swiftly stowed to refine the look of the Dex even further. When in use, the shoulder straps also have a sternum strap with magnetic Fidlock® closure. Once you’ve used one of these straps, it’s hard to go back to the analog closure we all grew up with!

On either side of the Dex are useful exterior pockets which are well sized to hold a water bottle, jacket, or other quick grab item. There are some slip pockets for organisation and magnetic key leash also, providing quick access on the go.

At the top of the 45L Dex, under the Fidlock® V Buckle, there is your boarding kit. This separate pouch stores everything that you could need on the move, from your iPad, to your headphones, and not forgetting your passport, this quick grab kit will likely become your best travel companion.

On the bottom of the Dex is a shoe pocket with space for a pair of shoes and a second zippered pocket for your Dopp kit. The two grab handles either side of the main zipper remain flush to the body of the duffle until you deploy them. By a short and sharp tug, these straps come to life and become your comfortable hand carry in an instant.

The 30L model is more geared towards your EDC crowd. With enough room for your daily loadout, and perhaps a little extra, this is the perfect size for running from the office to the gym with one bag to take all that you would need. While the 45L is definitely geared towards those weekend trips or short business trips. Whichever size you go for, you’re going to end up with an incredibly well designed and constructed bag. We have always been inspired and impressed with how Black Embers innovative designs are pushing the envelope in the carry space, and we’re delighted to see that tradition continue with the Dex Duffles. 

The Dex Duffle is now available for pre-order on Kickstarter.

The post Black Ember Launches Their Dex Duffle Range on Kickstarter appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

However, if you’ve been around Carryology long enough you’ll know that not all bags are created equal – far from it, in fact! At Carry HQ, we’re a unique bunch. We all have our own tastes and preferences regarding carry – and that story is the same with weekenders. In a bid to try and present a wide range of options, I’ve spent the last six months trying a plethora of carry options.

Our buying guides aren’t designed to be direct comparisons; rather they are supposed to be a celebration of what is out there in the carry realm! You won’t see weight comparisons here or which is the #1 duffel or weekender. What you will hopefully see is a cross-section of bags that could work for you based on your preferences.

How did we choose and test these bags?

For this buying guide, there were pretty simple criteria.

1. Is it carry-on friendly, i.e. under 50L?
2. Will it hold enough for 2-3 days on the road?
3. Is it either a newer innovation or a timeless classic? 

So without further ado, let’s dig into some of the best options on the market.

Db Hytta

Price: $299/$329/$359

Capacity: 50L/70L/90L

Carryology Credential: Structured carry, protective construction, sleek.

Db are the Norwegian powerhouses whose whole mantra is built on disrupting a crowded market. That thought process is clear in the Hytta (translation; small house in the wild) series, a collection of duffels designed to be functional and not “sag on your ass”. The result of this is an extremely capable adventure duffel that fits into city life also. Thanks to their proprietary rib cage technology, the Hytta maintains its structure while still being lightweight, malleable, and protective.

The Hytta can be carted around by handle or backpack carry. It is hands down one of the best harnesses I’ve had the pleasure of wearing on a duffle bag. Sometimes they can appear to be afterthoughts but that is not the case here. Contoured and padded, the shoulder straps are enjoyable to wear as you navigate through airport terminals or on your way to the cabin. A magnetic sternum strap makes the on/off process a breeze.

Internally, the Hytta is inspired by the suitcase. Two large zippered compartments allow you to keep all of your items organized, rather than a jumble of possessions – something that has long plagued traditional duffels. An intelligently placed handle on the interior spine allows you to move the duffel easily when open rather than the traditional juggle. Pair these two compartments with a few choice zippered mesh pockets and you have all that you could need.

Externally, the branding is subtle, with a matte Db logo printed on the 100% recycled 840D nylon. Tough stuff that will take a beating and keep coming back for more. A simple zipper pocket is an easy spot for your keys or lock once you’ve arrived at your destination. I’m impressed with the Hytta, it has taken a whole array of gear over the past six months – ranging from disgusting rugby gear to smarter attire for wedding weekends; it’s even made the odd appearance as a camera/video gear hauler (when paired with cubes). It’s Norwegian heritage to live for adventure weekends, so it makes perfect sense that they’ve built a bag capable of helping you do it all!

Cotopaxi Allpa Del Dia

Price: $170 / $195

Capacity: 28L / 35L

Carryology Credential: Fun style, great value for money, environmentally friendly.

Cotopaxi are a brand who are doing all the right things, from the way their products are made to the message their company promotes: “Do good!” Their Del Dia line is made from waste cuts of fabrics, and the seamstresses choose which offcuts to use, meaning no two bags are the same! I love this – such a simple step for both unique products and the empowerment of workers in the traditionally wasteful industries associated with soft goods. 

As a pack, this is an out-and-out travel pack. A very good one at that. Carry-on compatible, made from the aforementioned repurposed nylon, and with dual carry options (briefcase and backpack), the Allpa is an enjoyable bag to use. I particularly like the separated compartments that become apparent as you unzip all the way with the suitcase-style opening. While your configuration may vary, it’s easy to find a spot for small, medium, and large items while keeping them in place with the zippered mesh. Other pockets include an easy-access admin pocket (including a zip section), which is the perfect place for EDC items on your travels. It’s also large enough for a puffy jacket. I really like the side access to the main compartment too, the zipper runs the full length of the bag, so depending on your packing ninja skills, you can always grab things on the move. There is also an external access laptop and tablet sleeve, both padded, so that you can stay connected on the road. 

Subtle lash loops allow you to attach any extras to the pack, and the YKK security zippers offer you some more peace of mind. The waistbelt is removable if you’re traveling a little lighter, while the included rain cover keeps you prepared. That’s quite a list of features for a sub $200 pack. My wife has loved using this pack, and thanks to the unique Del Dia patterning, it’ll never be confused with someone else’s!

KUIU Waypoint 2800 Duffel

Price: $199 / $239

Capacity: 46L / 90L

Carryology Credential: Easy access, comfortable carry, stealthy appearance.

KUIU are known for their tough-as-nails and reliable hunting packs. They’ve now transferred that expertise into their new Waypoint duffels. These packs are simplicity elevated. What I mean by that is that they do the basics, and they do it really, really well. 

The Waypoint Duffel is made from a TPU-coated nylon ripstop fabric that will survive most abuse, and is reinforced by a waterproof welded base. These duffels were meant to go into the wild with you and support you in your adventures. The side walls are nicely padded, meaning that you can comfortably carry more expensive possessions like your electronics without worrying about them. Highly water-resistant zippers keep moisture out, while the interior is also lined in an excellent camouflage ripstop – throw in whatever you like, it can take it.

The organization is simple with two stretch mesh pockets running the length of the interior, while buckle cinch straps give you the ability to either squeeze a bit more in or keep your items in place. There is also a slender zip pocket on the lid, which is the perfect spot to store the removable backpack straps if you want a cleaner look. Aside from that, I found this to be a good spot for a jacket or two when folded. The backpack harness is surprisingly comfortable, and I had no issue carting it around on my back for a couple of hours through terminals or city streets. The reinforced handles are exceptionally comfortable – even under load.

The easy top-loading, the comfort, and the simplicity make this a winner in my books – I’ve grabbed it more than I thought I would. Sometimes it just works, and that’s the case here with the Waypoint Duffel.

Tom Bihn Techonaut

Price: $360 / $370

Capacity: 30L / 45L

Carryology Credential: Comfortable straps, complete travel system, great materials.

Tom Bihn are one of the original innovators in the carry world, and with the Techonaut, they’ve updated a fan favorite, the Aeronaut. Now ready for the digital age, the Techonaut comes in two sizes – 30L or 45L. 

You can carry this on your back, in your hand, or over your shoulder – whatever the situation dictates! The ultralight bluesign® approved 400d (exterior) and 200d (interior) Halcyon are wonderfully lightweight and available in an array of color combinations, which is something Tom Bihn is famous for; you can pretty much find any combination you’d like. I’m a big fan of their newer Night Walk colorway – it’s subtle and stylish and will work in almost any situation.

One of TB’s hallmark features is their USA construction, and the high quality you see from their Seattle factory is apparent here. Two #10 YKK lockable zippers adorn the main U-shaped compartment, while there are four #8 zippers around the rest of the bag and all of its useful pockets. These are all highly water-resistant – keeping all of your goodies dry. The edgeless straps, in conjunction with a breathable closed cell foam back panel, give great comfort over long periods of use. Although it is worth noting that there isn’t a framesheet, so if you aren’t carrying a laptop the shape of the bag can alter based on what’s inside. There is a removable sternum strap and waist strap too.

The real strength of the Techonaut is the customization possibilities. If you head over to the accessory page of their website, you’ll see a plethora of options that allow you to refine your carry to your own individual style. Any number of combinations really elevate this bag (and any of Tom Bihn’s) to the next level. Through a combination of O-rings and sneaky pockets, you can have an EDC pouch, a wash pouch, or even a collapsible backpack within your travel bag.

Even without these though, the Techonaut is a great travel companion. My 45L continued to take more and more stuff whenever I needed it to – it felt like a Tardis. I liked the organization it gave me when on the move – with a small side pocket for my keys and wallet, a larger bottom pocket for my shoes, and even the laptop sleeve I mentioned earlier. While I wouldn’t use this as a daily carry, personally, it is the perfect base camp for your traveling adventures.

YETI Crossroads

Price: $200 / $250

Capacity: 40L / 60L

Carryology Credential: Nigh on indestructible, great organization, attractive profile.

YETI love to overbuild everything they set their hands on. Coolers and drinkware came first, and now they’ve followed up with bags in their newest Crossroads collection. Just as overbuilt as the rest of their products, there is a lot to like about the YETI Crossroads duffel.

The structured nature of the Crossroads duffel is its biggest strength as it makes it easy to pack and unpack. Foam walls and a sturdy base give you plenty of protection, but that’s not all that the Crossroads provides. The organization is very well thought out – giving opportunities for storage on both the exterior and interior of the duffel. Two divider panels internally give you three sections to the bag if you’d like, easily separating into a shoes, wash bag, and clothes section for example. If you prefer one big cavernous opening – no problem, just tuck them out of the way. A mixture of zippered and elasticated pockets adorn the side walls and are perfect for smaller necessities, keeping your bag organized and tidy. Removable cinch straps can either be used in the main compartment for clothing or externally to attach a jacket. The lid also houses even more storage, on both sides! Internally I found the large mesh pocket is the perfect spot for documents or an e-reader, while the zippered pocket on the exterior of the lid has two admin slots that are EDC sized. 

I’ve also been impressed with how tough and easy to maintain this duffel is. I’ve used it for travel, rugby, and snowboarding. No matter how dirty it gets – a simple rub down with a wet towel, and maybe some soap if it’s really bad, makes it look as good as new. I even had to check it on one flight, and it got the usual VIP treatment in baggage claim. A quick wipe down when home and you’d never know it left my side. A removable shoulder harness gives you carrying options, and the lockable zippers came in to save the day when I had to check it (pro tip, always keep a TSA lock with you!). I think that the Crossroads Duffel is an extremely versatile piece of luggage and between the build quality, intelligent design, and functionality, it’s right up there with the best I’ve used.

Filson 48-Hour Tin Cloth Duffle Bag

Price: $475

Capacity: 34.5L

Carryology Credential: Heritage materials, MiUSA, timeless style.

Heritage. It’s the most apt word to describe all that Filson creates – in particular their USA-made Tin Cloth bags. You’ve seen them before, all over your TV screens. Whenever a character needs to look either outdoorsy or old-school – you’ll likely see a Filson tin cloth bag.

I’ve had the pleasure of testing this 48-Hour Duffle, and I must say it’s magnificent. Out of the box you’re transported back to simpler times, and you can imagine hauling this with you as you prospected from town to town. It is in fact true that many of Filson’s heritage designs haven’t changed since their inception over one hundred years ago. The 48-Hour is a wonderful marriage of 14oz oil finished tin cloth on the exterior, 6oz cover cloth on the interior, and British bridle leather just about everywhere else.

Aside from its good looks and heirloom-worthy construction, what else is there to like? Well, firstly, it carries really, really well. By hand or by shoulder – this bag will only get better the more you use it. Already the leather on my handles and zipper pulls is softening up, the cotton webbing shoulder strap is wide enough to carry a heavy load, and there’s a simple luggage passthrough on the rear if you’re pairing with a wheeled carry-on. 

Internally it’s very simple; a nice 30L space to hold all you need for a long weekend of travel. I think you could comfortably push this to a 72 or even 96-hour bag if you’re a smart packer. On the front you have two zipper pouches that include good EDC organization, and behind those are two open pockets. I’ve found these to be great for gloves, a hat, or my sunglasses case. If you’re looking for a bag that you can pass on to your children, and even their children too – this is the one.

Tecovas Weekender

Price: $285

Capacity: 39L (approx)

Carryology Credential: The classic weekender – Texas style.

Tecovas are known for their excellent boots, and that know-how and knowledge has transferred across to their weekender. Made from a robust duck cotton cloth that is treated with Martexin® wax, this weekender was made to travel. When you pick this bag up out of the box, you know it can take a lifetime of abuse, and look better with each outing. Presidio leather adorns the handles, the corners of the bag for a little extra protection, and a few other choice locations throughout the bag such as the monogram patch and key snap. You’ll find a UCAN zipper (complete with leather zipper pulls) to the cavernous main compartment and there are interior and exterior zippered pockets for your organization, which pair well with the rugged outdoor style Tecovas are gunning for.

The bag is also compressible on either end of the main zipper, so if you find yourself not using the full capacity, or just wanting to keep things high and tight, you can streamline the look of your weekender with two quick snaps. I like this feature more than I thought I would; it’s proved useful on a couple of occasions and while this bag comes in just shy of 40L it feels cavernous – you can fit a lot in here. The Tecovas Weekender is old-school cool and will happily take any task you throw at it – all while looking the part too.

Fjällräven Greenland Duffel 30

Price: $170

Capacity: 30L

Carryology Credential: Clean Scandi styling, user customizable, thoughtful touches.

Fjällräven have always been clean. I mean that in every sense, from their design all the way through to their production practices. The Greenland Duffel is part of that philosophy. A magnificently simple but timeless piece of luggage that can serve you for years to come. It is made from their now famous G1000 Heavy Duty Eco – a 65/35% mix of polyester and cotton – a robust but sustainable material that is designed to be abused in all that the outdoors can offer. You can even make this more weather resistant by treating it with their Greenland Wax – I’ve not felt the need to do that, as it has withstood the snow and rain pretty well, but it’s a nice option to have, particularly if you intend to use this in the outdoors a lot. 

Internally there is a main volume, with a separate large zippered pocket on one side. As this bag is one of the smaller ones that I’ve tested, I haven’t felt the need to use that pocket, as once the duffel is full that pocket can be a little tricky to use. Two small zippered pockets (one internal and one external) are the home for your EDC.

There are small touches throughout this bag that show why it is still a firm favorite after decades of existence. Touches like the asymmetrical shoulder strap attachment that reduces the swing of the bag as you walk, the finger loops under the snaps that make closing the bag easier when it’s full, and of course the tiny woven Swedish flag that reminds you of its heritage when in use. A simple leather patch with their Arctic fox logo is the extent of the branding for this bag. A true classic – I just wish they made a bigger size!

Mystery Ranch Mission Stuffel

Price: $89/$99/$109

Capacity: 30L/45L/60L

Carryology Credential: Lightweight and packable at a good value

Chances are you’re no stranger to Mystery Ranch if you’ve kept up with Carryology over the past decade. The Bozeman, MT based powerhouse is known for their rugged military and outdoors packs, but the Mission Stuffel is quite the departure from the standard fair.

The Mission Stuffel is made from 330D Robic nylon, which pushes these duffels to the lighter side of this list. That doesn’t mean they’re any less capable – we’ve thrown these around for months, fully loaded with everything from travel clothing to camping gear. Even when designing lightweight gear, Mystery Ranch doesn’t slouch on durability. This is all tied together with #8 YKK zippers on every compartment.

The real benefit to the lightweight material is that the Mission Stuffel is completely packable into its own boot compartment. We love packable duffels, and if we ever anticipate coming home with more gear than we brought with us, we always bring one along. Throw your extra souvenirs, laundry, whatever, into the Stuffel and send it on to checked baggage or strap it to the roof of your car. In our trials, even the TSA couldn’t put a snag in the Mission Stuffel.

The pocketing is simple and effective, with two zippered sleeves on the front side of the horseshoe-zip panel. Each pocket uses a see-through mesh so you know what you’re digging for. Our favorite pocket though was the boot. It was a great place to stash our toiletries and it fits the new Large Spiff Kit perfectly (or two Small Spiff Kits). For organizing your clothing in the main compartment, look no further than the new Zoid Cubes. You can see a Large Zoid Cube in the 30L Mission Stuffel here.

The Mission Stuffel and new travel accessories are a perfect accompaniment to Mystery Ranch’s usual heavier affair. Check it out for your next trip through the mountains or to the coast.

Peak Design Travel Duffel

Price: $129.95/$169.95

Capacity: 35L/65L

Carryology Credential: Excellent recycled materials, packs flat, understated style.

Now in two sizes – 35L and 65L – Peak Design has a duffel for every situation. A large cavity, flanked by useful organization makes this a travel duffel that is hard to ignore in a crowded marketplace. A 600D recycled nylon outer shell paired with a #10 Ultra zipper provides a tough fortress for your travel. My favorite feature on this bag without doubt is the wide opening. Reminiscent of a 1940s doctors bag, this opening allows you to see every inch of the interior so you can find the contents in a flash.

I have found myself using this for a vast variety of situations. It has been a gym bag, a weekend tripper, and even a carry-on. You can even use it for camera carry when paired with PD’s modular cubes. There are two internal pockets and four external pockets. The internal pockets are simple mesh zippered pockets, while two of the external pockets have great EDC organization. I also found these a good place to store the removable grab handles or shoulder strap depending on your carry preference. Leather detailing on the handle completes the subtle style. This duffel also packs almost completely flat! Easy to store under the bed at your Airbnb or even keep in your car as an emergency duffel! 

Bellroy Weekender

Price: $249/$279

Capacity: 35L/45L

Carryology Credential: Excellent recycled materials, genius internal design, function through the roof.

One of my all-time favorites. For such a multitude of reasons. The materials feel great in your hand. The rich canvas weave appears hearty, durable, and tasteful. It’s water resistant too, making this a good year-round bag. Snow and rain showers will bead off nicely. While the casual yet suave styling of this bag makes it seem just as at home in the back of a truck on the way to a mountain cabin for a lads’ stag do, as it would in an ornate five star hotel lobby.

Besides its looks and materials, fundamentally the Bellroy Weekender Plus is easy. Easy to use. Easy to handle. Simple to choose. I know that all sounds a bit convenient, but I’m serious. It assimilated into my lifestyle seamlessly. When you pack this bag it opens up wide. You can see every inch of the 45 liters and work out how to configure it best for your trip. The clay red interior makes it easy to see things, without a neon explosion stinging your retinas. There are pop water bottle pockets at either end of the bag, there is a lined tablet/laptop compartment, and excellent EDC organization, with both internal and external pockets to keep you in line.

The clever design of the profile means the bag becomes almost wedge-shaped when full. It fills upwards rather than outwards and becomes a little taller, not wider. It means that it slots perfectly beneath your arm when slung over your shoulder. It also increases the amount of contact points with the bag; it is no longer just bouncing along on your hip. By having contact with other parts of your body, it invariably spreads the load. This is as good as all-rounders get.

The North Face Base Camp Duffel

Price: $129 – $185

Capacity: 50L – 150L

Carryology Credential: The Icon. Classic, rugged, and ready to go wherever you’ll take it.

When you think of adventure duffels, this is quite likely the bag you think of. It has been seen in advertisements the world over. You’ve likely seen it on the side of mountains, on the roof of trucks, and being dragged mercilessly through airport terminals.

I’ve had an XL duffel since 2010. It has traveled all over the world with me, to some rather wonderful places, and also some not so wonderful places. When I first moved to America, this was the bag that came with me and carried everything I needed for a year. I still use it regularly even if it’s just to haul things around. Sure, it has a few scuffs and scrapes, and my initials that I wrote on with permanent marker aren’t so legible anymore, but it lives on and will continue to do so.

However, I’ve recently moved from the 150L behemoth to the more manageable 50L and 70L sizes. With some simple upgrades, The North Face Base Camp Duffel continues to be one of, if not the best gear hauling duffels on the market. The body is now made from an upgraded 1000D phthalate-free, recycled PVC with non-PFC Durable Water Repellent (Non-PFC DWR) finish and it’s supported by an 840D recycled ballistic nylon base. Basically, it’s as tough as old boots. While this isn’t waterproof or submergible, it’s pretty damn close. You needn’t worry too much about your clothing here.

Beefy YKK zippers allow you in and out through the D opening, and you’re straight into the main cavity where you can stuff away to your delight. There is a mesh pocket on the lid of the bag to keep essentials close by. Another upgrade over my original is the addition of the shoe/laundry pocket at one end of the bag. I found this fit a pair of boots or my dirty laundry easily.

The backpack straps are comfortable; not “I’m taking you hiking with 50L of gear” comfortable, but definitely “I can walk to my hotel and not worry” comfortable. Padded handles make it easy to toss around from place to place, and an ID window on the lid makes sure everyone knows it’s yours at the baggage claim.  They now also come with a stuff sack that keeps it folded and out of the way when not in use.

I love the Base Camp Duffel. It will always hold a special place in my heart. And now with its new upgrades – including being The North Face’s most sustainable product, the love affair will continue!

Well there you have it, a cross-section of some of the best weekenders and duffels on the market today. While we couldn’t look at every duffel out there (that guide would be long!) we think there’s something for everyone in this list – a true cross-section of the carry world. If you don’t have a duffel yet, hopefully these suggestions will help guide you to the perfect carry option for your next set of adventures!

The post The Best Weekender and Duffel Bags for Every Traveler 2022 appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

With the pandemic, the way we travel has changed. The team at Pakt took that into consideration as they built their new collection that stays versatile regardless of what your travel looks like these days. 

Something I really appreciate about Pakt is their commitment to environmental sustainability. Their mission is to “produce products as responsibly as possible, building them to last, and designing them to be versatile, so the buyer can minimize the number of products they need.” This versatility was apparent during my testing; I could tell the design of each piece had been carefully considered. The main fabric used in this collection is PET that has been recycled from single-use plastics.

5 Liter Sling

First up is the Pakt Anywhere sling. This is designed to be your quick-access pouch while en-route, and work as an everyday carry item once you get to where you’re headed. It is spacious enough to fit common travel items like your phone, wallet, and passport, as well as a couple of larger items like over-ear headphones, a glasses case, and a snack. While testing out the bag I mostly used it as my everyday sling. But it also quickly attaches to either of the two duffels which makes it a really great travel piece. Carry the two together through the airport and then once on the plane, slide off the sling and toss the duffel in the overhead bin. You can easily tuck the strap away and it becomes a pouch/organizer.

25 Liter Duffel

At first, this bag seemed small for a travel duffel. But after carrying it a few different ways I found it really useful when paired with a wheeled carry-on. You’ve got the duffel handles and a removable shoulder strap, plus a luggage pass-through on the back. Like the sling, it’s great for your quick-access travel items, but is large enough to carry work gear as well. It just barely fits my 15″ MacBook and has a bit of extra space for cable and toiletries pouches. When you’re not using it with wheeled luggage it works as a small overnight bag, as long as you’re not trying to pack any large boots. 

50 Liter Duffel / Pack

I think that this is the piece that really deserves the “Anywhere Travel” name. It gives you multiple ways to organize your gear, multiple ways to access your gear once packed, and multiple ways to carry it while traveling. The main access works a lot like a suitcase with a center zipper and interior dividers that are great for organizing. But those interior dividers can also be taken down, letting you use the bag as one large duffel. Whether you pack it like a suitcase or a duffel, you can get access to each of the compartments from the exterior. 

While using it I always carried it like a backpack or used the duffel handles. But it does also come with a removable, padded shoulder strap. The designers sized it right so that it just fits within the carry-on dimensions. The focus on versatility means this bag has a bit less structure and padding than a typical travel backpack would. But I still found it fairly comfortable to use even when loaded up.

Gear Hauler

This bag is both interesting and strange. To start off, this thing is huge. I can literally climb inside of it. It starts as a 60-liter tote and can expand into a 120-liter duffel. It arrived packed flat with these plastic panels that you are meant to zip into the lining of the bag to give it structure. Once those are installed, it really turns into a useful gear crate. 

I will say that I see this as a car travel accessory. It just seems too big to carry, fully loaded, through an airport. But in the back of your car or SUV, this thing is great. Find yourself going on frequent car camping trips? This is a great way to store your tent, sleeping bags, ground pads, and camping chairs all in one place. Just toss the thing (get a partner to help you) into the back and you’re ready to go. Or like I found myself using it, you can keep it in the back of your car and place your groceries in it, so they don’t roll out onto the ground when you open the back end.

Verdict

The Pakt Anywhere Travel Bag Collection has an interesting line-up of bags that can be used together in a bunch of different ways to fit your different travel needs. Their form is boxy and won’t win any real style awards, but there’s a utility to the collection that would appeal to folks who put function first.

Check out their Indiegogo campaign for some great image and video explanations of all the little details of each of these bags. 

Many thanks to Aaron Puglisi for this article.

The post Pakt Anywhere Travel Bag Collection Review appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

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.

So when they put their minds towards rethinking the humble weekender, I got excited. Not only does the Bellroy Weekender Plus feature recycled water-resistant materials and premium environmentally certified leather, all in a universally good-looking silhouette, but there’s some smart new upgrades to a classic form.

Let’s dig in!

Who It Suits

Anyone who travels, big or small. This luxurious adventure companion comes in two sizes, 30L (Weekender) and 45L (Weekender Plus) reviewed here.

Folks who care about ethically sourced / sustainable products, and brands who operate responsibly across the board (Bellroy are a certified B-Corp).

And those who want that fine blend of form and function.

Who It Doesn’t

If you need backpack straps, this bag doesn’t have them. But stay and read anyway, I think you’ll like it.

The Weekender… A Classic

Growing up, there are a few “things” that are considered coming-of-age items. For some it might be their first leather wallet, a dress watch, a suit for a school prom, a fancy jacket, or any other seemingly luxurious item to a youngster. However, for me, it was always the weekender. I can’t really tell you why. Even as I write this, I’m trying to decide if it was the mystery around what secrets lay within them, or was it just because they looked bloody cool? “Paul Newman sitting in a vintage Porsche” kind of cool. I remember seeing men I admire just disappear for these seemingly exquisite adventures with just this one, predominantly leather, bag.

My first weekender was a freebie with some cologne; laughable, I know. It looked great for the twenty minutes it lasted. My next, a hand-me-down (stolen) from my brother, was very functional, but not quite the demure man-about-town look I was going for. On and on the saga went, with many bags laid to rest or tossed aside in frustration. There always seemed to be a compromise; while some design features were good, the materials were bad. Or if the materials were great, they were just too small or too cumbersome. Why oh why after fifteen years could I not create the perfect partnership with this sodding bag? Honestly, I’d just about given up on the idea of luggage love with a weekender.

Enter the Bellroy Weekender Plus.

The Good

I kid you not, this may be the closest thing to a perfect bag that I’ve come across.

Earlier on, I alluded to some of those coming-of-age items that are special the moment they arrive in your life. Whether taking the watch out of the box, or taking the dust cover off the suit, these items become more than a purchase, they become an experience. Bellroy have nailed that with their new transit line. From the moment you unbox it it’s different to other bags. It comes in an individual dust cover which doubles magnificently as a travel laundry bag. Small notes filled with well-thought-out offerings guide you through the bag before you even use it. Through these small gestures, you are conversing with the bag. Honestly, it’s an experience that I imagine is traditionally reserved for bags four or five times the price.

Now that you’re questioning if I’m having an affair with this bag, let me tell you why I think it is the one weekender to rule them all.

The materials feel great in your hand. The rich canvas weave appears hearty, durable, and tasteful. It’s water resistant too, making this a good year-round bag. Snow and rain showers will bead off nicely. Not only does it feel good, it is good. Alongside being made from recycled materials that actually reduce energy consumption during production, the Weekender Plus has leather handles, zipper pulls, and tabs that all come from gold rated Leather Working Group Tanneries. It’s nice knowing that what you spend your money on isn’t just going into a corporate executive’s pocket, but rather to a collective who really think about their process and values. Oh, also, it has locking zips to protect your valuables from would-be thieves while traveling! This shouldn’t be exciting on a travel bag, but it is as so many companies seem to ignore them.

The casual, yet suave styling of this bag makes it seem just as at home in the back of a truck on the way to a mountain cabin for a lads’ stag do, as it would in an ornate five star hotel lobby. The Bellroy Weekender Plus looks elegant, but robust. Tough, yet gentle. It is an enigma, and one that I’d been searching for. Before I’d even used the bag, I felt good about it. You can tell, from my preamble, and my initial hands on, that I was excited about this bag.

Then I got that sinking feeling. What’s wrong with this bag?

Usually, when you get a bag for the first time, you notice the great things, but quite quickly a couple of niggles stand out. They’re mostly inconsequential and you can deal with them, but still, they’re there. However, this bag threw me off. I was ten days into using the bag, and I couldn’t figure out what I’d improve.

Then it hit me. Nothing.

Fundamentally, the Bellroy Weekender Plus is easy. Easy to use. Easy to handle. Simple to choose. I know that all sounds a bit convenient, but I’m serious. I didn’t have much to pick at, because it assimilated into my lifestyle seamlessly.

When you pack this bag it opens up wide. You can see every inch of the 45 liters and work out how to configure it best for your trip. If you’re OCD about your clothes folding like I am, your selection moves from drawer to bag with consummate ease, without having to finagle or refold. Alternatively, if you like to just toss it all in there, then there is space aplenty and it will keep swallowing one more item. The clay red interior makes it easy to see things, without a neon explosion stinging your retinas.

The selection of pockets gives you a spot for everything you’ll need, but not too much. The lined device pocket cradled my 12.9” iPad Pro gently, without the use of an external sleeve. I grabbed it easily when I craved some Netflix or needed to respond to an email. The pop pockets are a genius innovation to a classic form, with one on either end of the main compartment. While designed for water bottles up to 36oz, they equally supported dopp kits or shoes (in the included recycled shoe pouch) admirably. If you don’t want to use them? No problem, they magnetically close out of the way and return some interior real estate. Every single pocket is wonderfully malleable stretch polyester. It makes this bag a breeze to pack. Items naturally find their way into the available nook or cranny and utilize the space available.

On the exterior, you’ll find a spacious “oh shit” pocket, which I find is an absolute must for any travel bag. All of your receipts, parking tickets, half used chewing gum, and other “my gate is closing!/my train is leaving!/I’m late!” paraphernalia go here. The OS pocket also has a convenient luggage pass-through, in case your weekender needs to join you on a seven-day jaunt.

On the opposite side you’ll find the organized side of your travel experience. You know the one, where your passport, boarding pass, pen, wallet, keys, sunglasses etc., etc., etc. go. They all fit nicely into the appropriate pockets (again made from the wonderful elasticated mesh) which lay atop another lined tablet pocket. That’s right. You can have your 13” device accessible from inside or outside depending on your packing needs. I hope you’re getting the picture. This bag works FOR you, rather than trying to make YOU work.

Now I know what you’re thinking, “If you can pack everything it sounds heavy!” Well yes, it can be. You can fit a lot in here. However, the team at Bellroy saw me coming. They must have read my journal and my deepest secrets about the pursuit of the perfect weekender. Often, when these sleek bags begin to fill, they become cumbersome and fat, a little like me after an all-you-can-eat buffet. Not the Bellroy Weekender Plus.

The clever design of the profile means the bag becomes almost wedge-shaped when full. It fills upwards rather than outwards and becomes a little taller, not wider. It means that it slots perfectly beneath your arm when slung over your shoulder. This really surprised me, so simple and effective: why hadn’t others done this before!? It increased the comfort of a loaded bag immeasurably. It also increases the amount of contact points with the bag, it is no longer just bouncing along on your hip. By having contact with other parts of your body, it invariably spreads the load.

Not only is the shoulder strap detachable (in case you’re a suave type with swag who casually strolls with the bag by your side), it’s really comfortable. A mix of leather, light padding and more nylon weave helps avoid a fully loaded companion separating your shoulder. The handles are simple strips of leather, scored down the middle so that they fold in and become molded to your hand the more you use the bag.

Then there are the geometric-looking loops at either end of the bag. At first these look integral to the structure of the bag, however in use you quickly realize these serve dual purpose as grab handles for packing or unpacking an overhead bin, a car boot, or a shelf. The comfort factor cannot be denied. Often bags of this size become tiresome to use when loaded. In this case the multitude of different carry options allows this to be a bag you want to use, rather than dreading the packed weight. This isn’t going to be a bag you hike with, but it is more than comfortable enough for the scenarios it is designed for.

While we’re talking about scenarios, I was pleasantly surprised by how versatile the Bellroy Weekender Plus proved itself to be. Often, I’ll throw in a small canvas tote or packaway backpack if I’m one-bag traveling for 3-4 days. However, I decided not to with this bag, and I’m glad as I ended up using it in a multitude of situations. It performed well as a beach bag, spacious enough for two bottles, two beach towels, flip flops, books, and a lunchbox full of snacks. I took short trips where it fit all of the necessary clothing, shoes, and toiletries for 4 days away from my abode. It even did a stint as a reusable grocery bag when I realized I had forgotten mine on arrival. I’d hazard a guess you could make this work as a gym bag, an office bag, and probably even a tool bag.

I know that all of this gushing seems too good to be true, but this bag really is a pleasure to use. It doesn’t force me to change my habits, it works with me, and for me. When I travel, I want to be focused on where I’m going, not “I just wish that it would…”

Not So Good

Honestly, if you hadn’t already guessed, there aren’t many things I would improve on the Bellroy Weekender Plus. I truly mean that. However, it is my duty here to try and find all of the faults, and a few small idiosyncrasies finally came to mind after months of use. One, is that lint can stick to this a little. Nothing crazy, but enough that I would take a lint roller to it after every couple of uses.

Two, the laptop compartment is a little too snug. On a couple of occasions when the bag was full I had really focus and ease my iPad past the zippers.

Three, when you are carrying the bag with the shoulder strap attached, it finds its way across the zipper and it can make accessing your items take four seconds instead of two.

Four. I lost my little leather strap keeper. Probably my fault, but could it be stitched to a strap to avoid losing? Probably.

Verdict

Fundamentally, Bellroy has fused the simplicity of a cavernous weekender with the design prowess of an architect. The design language is simple, understated, and thoroughly overthought. From the “notes” on the packaging, to the reusable laundry, shoe, and accessory bags, this is an enjoyable experience from the moment it arrives. On top of that excitement, this bag has every bit of space, zip, or pop pocket you could need for a weekend of adventure, and not a thread more. It is simply a joy to use, because in line with their philosophy, Bellroy wants you to focus on the exploration at hand, and nothing else. If you ask me, that sounds like a good weekend, plus some.

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Troubadour Explorer Embark Overnight Bag ($295 USD)

Luxurious carry often goes hand in hand with premium price tags. However, British brand Troubadour have set themselves apart with their take on affordable luxury. The Explorer Embark Overnight Bag provides a premium and refined look and feel, without an exorbitant cost. Clean and elegant in style, it features a durable, waterproof fabric made from recycled materials and partnered with vegan leather detailing. Designed with travel ease in mind, the bag has a separate externally accessed shoe pocket with a waterproof lining, as well as a padded external pocket for a 16″ laptop. Further pockets inside the bag provide additional organization inside the main compartment. In terms of carry convenience, the bag offers top grab handles, a non-slip removable shoulder strap, plus a luggage passthrough. Suitable for both work and leisure trips, it’s a classy piece that even does double duty in the gym when you want to step up your workout style.

Le Tanneur Quentin 48h Travel Bag ($295)

If chic elegance, superior craftsmanship and straightforward functionality sounds like your ideal travel mix, make sure the Le Tanneur Quentin 48h Travel Bag is on your short list. The French brand have been crafting premium leather goods since 1898 and their timeless quality and style is well showcased with the Quentin 48h Travel Bag. Expertly crafted in France, the bag is made from full-grain leather and polyamide canvas. A large exterior pocket makes it easy to access frequently used items, while further pockets inside provide minimalist organization for small pieces. The bag has an adjustable and removable strap and while designed with business travel in mind, makes a decidedly dapper addition to leisure trips too.

KILLSPENCER Weekender 2.0 ($450 USD)

KILLSPENCER are old hands at creating carry that’s effortlessly cool in style, tough in build, and designed to perform when you need it to. The Weekender 2.0 offers all of this in a classy piece that moves smoothly from work trips to casual weekends away. Handmade in their Los Angeles HQ, the weekender is crafted with 18 oz. filter twill waxed canvas, water-repellent Riri AQUAzip zippers, and a fire retardant, waterproof lining. The bottom and side panels are lined with foam, providing cushioning for gear and structure for packing. A selection of interior and exterior pockets neatly store smaller items, while the removable mil-spec nylon webbing shoulder strap works in tandem with the carry handles to help you adapt to changing carry needs.

Filson 48-Hour Duffle Bag ($475 USD)

Filson’s bags are instantly recognizable, exuding enticing outdoor heritage vibes you’ll want to venture the world with. And their 48-Hour Duffle Bag is a travel companion that’s eager to embrace adventures near and far. Made with Filson’s signature oil finish Tin Cloth and bridle leather detailing, this weather-resistant bag is tough enough for years of travel use, wherever your trips may lead. The reinforced, structured base helps protect the contents while also enhancing packing ease. A removable shoulder strap, top carry handles, and luggage passthrough provide flexible portability for getting your gear where it needs to go. And with exterior access pockets, your travel essentials stay secure but within easy reach too.

Troubadour Adventure Weekender ($645 USD)

A weekender that looks sharp in the boardroom but is ready to embrace relaxation on a last-minute getaway? The Adventure Troubadour Weekender ensures you’re always exuding elevated style, whether you’re zipping through the airport on business travels or getting packed for some well deserved downtime. The weekender has a quick-access exterior pocket for travel essentials, along with an interior padded laptop pocket for up to 16″ tech and a zippered pocket to securely store valuables. And since travel isn’t always kind on your luggage, Troubadour have designed this bag accordingly. It’s made with a lightweight yet durable and waterproof fabric, complemented by Italian vegetable-tanned leather detailing for a luxurious touch. The bag can be carried by hand, over the shoulder with the detachable non-slip shoulder strap, or using the luggage passthrough. And for added functionality, the luggage passthrough can also be zipped to create an additional pocket. All in a chic and travel-ready form that weighs just 1.5 kg (3.31 lb).

Frank Clegg Aiden Duffle ($1250 USD)

For over 40 years, Frank Clegg has handcrafted exceptional quality leather goods in Massachusetts. Goods like the Aiden Duffle, a piece created to honor the founder’s father who also worked in the brand’s workshop for over 25 years. The bag is crafted with shrunken grain leather, a vegetable-tanned leather that is shrunk to enlarge and enhance the character of the grain and provide added resistance to water, heat and stains. Durable yet soft to the touch, it’s an undeniably handsome piece with an eye-catching curving silhouette. The bag offers a spacious interior with a zippered pocket for smaller items. A removable shoulder strap, solid brass hardware and Swiss Riri zippers round off the finishing touches to a bag that was made to travel the world in timeless style.

If you enjoyed this, you might like these too:

8 Rugged and Durable Duffel Bags Built Tough for Adventure

The Ultimate Guide to the World’s Best Duffel Bags

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Who It Suits

The traveler who prefers to be a bit old school and carry their gear instead of rolling it around. Or someone who wants the perfect complement to shrinking luggage requirements to double up their efforts.

Who It Doesn’t

The traveler who lives in one or two outfits and owns nothing but merino down to his or her underwear. This bag is too big to effectively suit your needs.

The Good

As a bag that’s designed for travel, one of the bright spots of the Duffel is its ability to grab and go no matter the context. Between the backpack straps and horizontal, vertical, and back handle, there’s literally always a fix point to reach for. At 45L, the size is ideal. It’s not so small that you have to ration what to bring for extended trips. Nor is it so big that you have acres of unused space. Plus with the airlines every year reducing the size of the overhead bags, it’s a great alternative or companion as it fits perfectly overhead without taking up a lot of space.

As with any Fuller Foundry bag, the devil is in the details and this bag is chock full of them. The clamshell design makes it easy to organize with two primary “pockets” to fill. On one side you have your dedicated clothes section held secure by the always fun to play with Fidlock Slider compression straps. I might have when packing and unpacking stopped just to mess around with them. The snap sensation of the magnets coming together is pure joy. Not to mention their ability to help reduce wrinkles.

The other side is where all the fun stuff is. I loved using this bag both as a weekender and for much longer, 10-day-plus trips. The back side of the bag has its clamshell for access and a variety of dedicated compartments to simplify your options. There’s a laptop sleeve with magnetic closure to prevent it from moving about. A smaller sleeve can be used for cables, chargers and the like. Nestled inside this same compartment is a dedicated toiletry “sleeve”. I tended to throw my cologne in there (in a ziplock) as it’s been known to leak in my Dopp kit. 

This compartment connects to what is one of the great features of this bag: a dedicated shoe sleeve. Depending on your shoe size and type of shoe you’re looking to carry, this deep pocket can load as many as 2 shoes or 1 boot (up to size 16). Or if you’re interested, it makes for a great natural internal laundry bag.

Two other features worth noting. First, the back handle is designed as a passthrough for luggage which worked great when I tested on a few of our trips. The thing to note is that when your bag is fully loaded, you’re adding a ton of weight to the top half of the luggage and if you’re not careful, gravity will have its say. But overall it was nice to be able to have one less bag to tote with all the rollers in the group. Secondly, there is a “hidden” pocket close to body that is ideally sized to stow your passport or other slim items you’ll want quick access to.

Now we move into the materials portion of the review. It boggles my mind that Fuller Foundry can make money on this bag, given the features they’ve packed into it and the quality of materials. There is a ton of Hypalon on the back and bottom of the bag for extra durability in obvious wear places. The YKK weatherproof zippers are tough to start but eventually wear in. The Cordura fabric is treated to be water resistant and I can attest that in a few rainstorms, it held up with nothing inside even remotely close to wet. 

Not So Good

As you might have seen from my review of the Fuller Foundry Briefcase, the Fidlock Snaps and I did not see eye to eye. Part of this is due to the design of the snaps and the various angles of attack I go at picking up the bag. I’ve never had to be conscious of that before because they have always been sewn or buckled in. My experience with the Duffel is very similar with a few key differences.

For one, the shoulder straps matter when you’re carrying a heavy, packed bag for 10 days. While the handles are comfortable, I’m an equal opportunity employer when it comes to how I carry a duffel – shoulder straps, handles, etc. Whatever will work in that given situation. And yet here I found myself constantly fighting the snaps going through the airport. It’s worth noting that I had just got the bag and wasn’t as familiar as I am now with the snap nuances but it was a frustrating endeavor nonetheless.

Secondly, there is a weird design quirk to this bag which caught me by surprise. It’s the only bag I’ve ever used where the front of the bag is also the back padding. My initial struggle with the bag was simply because I was actually using the straps backwards, causing them to fall out of place. Here, my advice to the team is to provide something in the duffel or affixed to the straps so a user knows first time round what makes sense. 

The other carryover items which hold true are that the Whiskey color is truly something to behold, and not in the best of ways. But on the bright side, you’ll never lose it amongst a sea of bags! The other is the excessive amount of logo details throughout the bag. There are fifteen total logos on this bag, not including the name written out on both handles. This moves past the point of design detail and into an eyesore. For a bag that is subtle, the branding is not, which is why it stands out so much.

Others to Consider

If you like the idea of a pack/duffel hybrid, check out Peak Design’s Travel Duffelpack. It provides backpack and duffel flexibility, with a standard 45L design that expands to 65L for when you really need to haul a lot of gear.

And if you’re looking for general duffel inspiration or durable adventure pieces, our guide on the best duffels and our roundup of rugged adventure duffels are good places to start.

Verdict

For the price, size and quality of materials, this bag is a steal at $329. The design is smart and optimized for whatever you are doing. The various carry options ensure you can grab and go without any issues. The 45L means you have plenty of space for whatever it is you’re packing. The bag is wonderfully thought out as a travel companion and will be part of any trip I make for the foreseeable future. It’s going to take something special to knock it off its pedestal. As noted, it’s not perfect with the Fidlock Snaps proving to be a worthy adversary. If you’re in the market, you’d be foolish not to give this one a serious, loving glance.

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Let’s dig in. The T.O.A.D. (Tactical Operations Amphibious Drybag) is a fully ultrasonically RF welded bag that’s adaptable to any environment, “from aquatic to arid”. Yes, that means it’s legitimately waterproof, but we’ll get to that later. Surprisingly, even with the heavy-duty 500D Cordura with waterproof TPU coating and the extreme waterproof construction, this bag is shockingly lightweight. Coming in at 1.7 lbs total, this makes my comparable YETI Panga waterproof duffel feel extra heavy at 5.2 lbs. So you’ll only have to worry about the weight of the stuff you throw in here. Fun fact, this is my first Multicam bag…chosen specifically for its form factor and I’ve got to say that it’s growing on me. But hey, it’s also available in black, which if you’re on our Carryology Classifieds Facebook group, you’d know is my favorite.

Despite being lightweight (which can often mean “light use”), this is a serious gear duffel for your domestic or international travels. That being said, don’t expect all kinds of extra pockets to organize your stuff everywhere. For me, this isn’t a negative, since I’m a big fan of Inception Packing, where I’ll have all my gear divided up into their own respective pouches. There’s a big beefy YKK AquaSeal waterproof zipper that runs the length of the bag, providing full access to the cavernous interior compartment which eats up 40 liters of goodness. Having no divisions or small pockets means you can shove large and bulky items in here with ease.

Being in the bag design game myself for a dozen years or so now, it’s a mind-boggling feat to me that such a small brand can manufacture these bags in the USA. Particularly because of how they manufacture these “military inspired technical travel goods” with high-end materials and expensive (and hard to find) methods of manufacturing within the borders of the US. I’ll say, materials-wise, they nailed it. How about the hardware and trim?

ITW military spec hardware keeps everything nice, strong, and adjustable on the carry handle shoulder combo straps. I’ll admit that at first, I was wary of the non-padded straps, but surprisingly, when being worn in backpack mode, the thick and wide military spec nylon webbing straps distribute the weight of gear comfortably and evenly. Sure, they’re simple, but in some cases, like the end use for this product, that’s a good thing.

As mentioned in my opening paragraph, I’ve used this thing across a variety of environments and methods of travel and it was a pleasure to use. But CDW was making bold claims about the T.O.A.D., stating that it has an IPX7 rating (1 meter below water for 30 minutes without a single leak). Well, we wouldn’t be Carryology if we didn’t try to see if that claim held up. So my friends and I took a hike up to the 272-foot Watson Falls in Oregon’s Umqua National Forest to get this thing dirty and wet.

Putting a whole lot of trust into the T.O.A.D. (and maybe I was a little lightheaded from the freezing cold hike), I put my high-end camera gear into the bag, the YKK AquaSeal sounding like an angry hornet as I zipped it up tight, made sure it was fully inflated via the included exterior locking buoyancy valve, said some final words, then sent it down the fast-moving creek originating from the waterfall above.

I held my breath and my buddy Cole Fazio snapped photos as it bounced off the jagged rocks and down several 1-2 foot drops over rapids for about a quarter mile or so. The bag almost snuck by me, and would have likely continued on to the Pacific Ocean, but I did manage to nab the heavy-duty grab handle and pull it up to safety for inspection.

Well, folks, the bag came out unscathed. My gear was pristine, dry, and the T.O.A.D. casually brushed it all off like it never even happened. If you ask me, that’s a serious win. Since then, the bag has seen rain and ice and continues to hold air, even when I give it my heaviest and hardest bear hug to check for leaks.

Now I’ll be the first to admit that one doesn’t always need waterproof…but for that extra peace of mind, the Colfax Design Works T.O.A.D. ($345) delivers as an ultimate adventure duffel backpack for those who are serious about gear. Whether it’s strapped to a Ural sidecar motorcycle in a stereotypical PNW downpour or floating down a fast-moving snow-melt creek with expensive camera gear inside, it will keep your gear bone dry…and in my opinion, looks pretty badass while doing it.

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