REI Roadtripper Overview | CleverHiker

Backside Line

For these in search of a easy, reasonably priced, no-nonsense duffel bag for lugging tons of substances in a single journey, the REI Roadtripper is a stable choice. It’s tolerably sturdy, tremendous spacious, and is the lightest choice on this record, making it a superb alternative for these journeys whenever you may want an additional bag for the journey dwelling or simply have to lug a bunch of unwieldy gear to the automobile, campsite, or gear shed. 

And haul gear it will probably, regardless of which of the a number of sizes obtainable you choose to get. We match all we would have liked for a weekend tenting journey inside and nonetheless had loads of room to spare. The entire bag packs into an impressively small storage pouch when not in use. It will not be as climate resistant or sturdy as different baggage on this record, but when all you want is a reasonable, compact bag to hold gear or items, this can do the trick properly.

Carry Consolation

In the case of carrying choices, this duffel solely provides two: an over-the-shoulder strap and prime seize handles. Neither are padded, so that they weren’t probably the most snug when the bag was totally loaded, and we needed to carry it for quite a lot of yards. They have been nonetheless greater than purposeful and the seize handles by no means bought in the best way when packing. There may be additionally a sturdy seize deal with at every finish.

The shoulder strap is detachable and repositionable through webbing loops and sturdy plastic toggles so you possibly can customise it primarily based on which shoulder you like to hold it over or when you’d slightly put on it throughout your physique. The bag itself is gentle and pliable so it simply conforms to your physique. This was useful when it was full of soppy items like sleeping baggage however much less so when full of exhausting items like tents and trekking poles.

Compressibility & Packability

Whereas this duffel could also be spacious, it’s not straightforward to pack. There’s no construction in any respect within the partitions or base, so material tended to only flop downward after we tried to stash tenting gear inside. Fortuitously, the great lengthy zipper helped with that by advantage of providing a gaping mouth into which you’ll load issues shortly. There are not any compression straps or different bells and whistles inside the primary compartment, although, so pack correctly.

In the case of storing this bag between makes use of, no different duffel we examined beats the REI Roadtripper for a way gentle and small it packs down. Which means for journeys the place you’re anxious you’ll be touring dwelling with greater than you left with–say, to go to household for holidays or to buy groceries after an expedition in Argentina–it’s straightforward to pack into your baggage and unfurl whenever you want it.

Sturdiness

Sadly, this bag was the least sturdy of all of the duffels we examined. That doesn’t imply it gained’t stand as much as some abuse, although. The truth is, after we dragged the bag totally loaded across the campground just a few instances, all it picked up have been just a few scuffs and a little bit of free grime. What’s extra, the straps appear sturdy and the attachment factors and webbing lash loops appear safe. The zipper isn’t as burly and strong as we would have favored, however it’s doubtless extra sturdy than most waterproof zippers.

We felt good about loading it with cumbersome gear that doesn’t match effectively in additional compact duffels however have been reluctant to shove in pointed gadgets like trekking poles that might doubtlessly puncture the comparatively thinner materials. There isn’t any padding within the partitions or base, both, which means it’s purposeful however not fairly as protecting of its contents as different baggage.

Climate Resistance

As a budget-friendly duffel, the Roadtripper will definitely comprise all of the gear you want, however it gained’t maintain it dry. The supplies and zippers are usually not water-proof, so after we left the bag within the rain for an hour, it was near soaked by way of in most locations. The truth is, after we put paper inside to see simply how moist the inside bought, it was utterly sodden. So when you assume it’s possible you’ll be exposing your bag to any inclement climate, you shouldn’t count on a lot from this duffel.

Group

Because the accessible value level may recommend, there are only a few bells and whistles constructed into this duffel bag. The truth is, there is just one small exterior zipper pocket. Apart from that, it’s only one huge compartment. This makes for a easy and simple bag, however not one well-suited to group. We discovered if we wished to maintain issues separate or discover small gadgets quicker, packing cubes used contained in the bag have been the best way to go.

That stated, when you require a spot to stash additional massive and hulking gadgets, small pockets and dividers could solely detract from a bag’s attractiveness. So, for these extra fascinated about hauling helmets, snowshoes, puffer jackets, or the like, this bag is for you.

Ought to You Purchase the REI Roadtripper?

There’s no denying that this duffel bag is a steal. It’s a budget-friendly choice positive to attraction to anybody who wants a bag to comprise all kinds of obligatory clothes or gear. It additionally works effectively for individuals who prefer to journey with a further packable duffel for a bit of additional storage and peace of thoughts on journeys which will contain returning with greater than you left with. Certainly, the worth it provides is stellar.

However that doesn’t imply it is best to count on it to carry out or stand as much as the identical abuse as costlier duffel baggage. The truth is, the vacationers who will get probably the most use out of this duffel aren’t those planning to hold their baggage regularly or far, however those that often want a bag to comprise their mountaineering gear, cart cumbersome gadgets from the automobile to the campsite, or stash cumbersome gadgets.

What Different Duffel Luggage Ought to You Contemplate?

In case you’re unsure the REI Roadtripper is best for you in any of the obtainable sizes, it’s possible you’ll need to take into account one of many different stand-out duffels we’ve examined.

The North Face Base Camp Gear Field Overview: In search of extra of a gear hauler than a standard duffel? Try The North Face Base Camp Gear Field. It is available in a number of sizes and provides a superb approach to retailer gear at busy base camps or behind a car. It folds flat when empty and stacks simply when full.

Nemo Double Haul Convertible Duffel and Tote Overview: In case you like the concept of hauling a number of gear however would favor a bag that’s simpler to pack, extra sturdy, and provides just a few extra carry choices, take a look at the Nemo Double Haul.

The North Face Rolling Thunder Overview: In case you want extra capability, take a look at The North Face Rolling Thunder Wheeled Duffel 28”, a monster duffel assured to suit all of your gear. It provides much more house and is outfitted with sturdy sides and wheels to make heavy masses extra manageable.