Osprey Transporter 65L Evaluate | CleverHiker

Backside Line

Maybe not surprisingly, The Osprey Transporter, one of many extra capacious duffels we examined this yr, tops the checklist for probably the most snug duffel to hold as a backpack. It’s, in spite of everything, designed by a model that makes a speciality of making backpacking packs. Consequently, whereas there could also be fewer carry choices general, these hauling gear totally on their backs will discover the padded straps (with sternum strap) extremely cozy for longer intervals of time. 

However even for those who don’t plan to have it in your again for prolonged intervals, when testing it over a weekend of bikepacking in Utah, we beloved how straightforward it was to pack and unpack every night time and morning and slide out and in of rooftop cargo bins within the assist car.

Continual overpackers are certain to like this bag, too, thanks to 2 inside compression straps that assist hold smooth items cinched down so you’ll be able to shut the burly zips on the lid with ease. Bonus: two medium-sized accent pockets assist hold small gadgets straightforward to search out.

Carry Consolation

In case you are in the hunt for a duffel that you just before everything plan to hold as a backpack versus over the shoulder, the Osprey Transporter is for you. Maybe not surprisingly, provided that this bag is from a model identified for its backpacks, this one is likely one of the most snug duffels we examined for backpack carry.

The straps are padded and adjustable and embrace a sternum strap to assist handle heavy masses and are stowable in a devoted lid pocket when not in use. They’re the primary option to carry this bag, however you might additionally handle an over-the-shoulder carry in a pinch. There’s no seize deal with on high, although. There are sturdy and comfy cargo handles on every of the 4 sides, nevertheless, which makes pulling it out and in of a rooftop cargo service straightforward.

Compressibility & Packability

When it got here time to load up the bag with all the pieces we wanted for a multi-day bikepacking journey in Utah, it held all of our necessities, thanks partially to 2 inside compression straps that helped cinch down smooth items like clothes and sleeping luggage. It was straightforward to pack and unpack because of a spacious wide-mouth opening that hinges at one of many brief ends. And even when the pack straps have been hooked up, they didn’t get in the way in which when digging round inside.

When empty, the duffel packed pretty simply into its personal separate sack for simple storage. The presence of loads of exterior lash factors means the bag is straightforward to safe or connect to anchors or different duffels.

Sturdiness

Even after dragging this bag across the desert full of substances, there was hardly a scratch or scuff on it. The outer materials, manufactured from bluesign authorized recycled supplies with a TPU coating, is extremely sturdy and strong and even resisted grime and dirt, so by the point we introduced it house after an extended weekend, it nonetheless seemed almost as brilliant and recent as if it have been new.

What’s extra, the seize handles are a lot heavy obligation, and the burly zippers have been easy and straightforward to make use of. We had no drawback zipping the bag shut even when it was packed to the brim.

Climate Resistance

Whereas the bag wasn’t probably the most waterproof, its efficiency on this space was nonetheless spectacular sufficient to rank this duffel extremely. One exterior pocket stored issues utterly dry, and the primary compartment solely dampened a bit alongside the perimeters after the bag was not noted within the rain for an hour. Expansive rain flaps stored out a lot of the moisture, so a lot of the inside of the bag stayed dry. Packing delicate gear in waterproof packing cubes is probably not a foul thought.

Group

Whereas this bag is probably not an organizational powerhouse, compression straps inside the primary compartment are a welcome addition for persistent overpackers. They have been a god-send on one journey the place we needed to cram in cumbersome winter sleeping luggage and puffy jackets alongside loads of different gear.

There aren’t any massive separate compartments for sneakers or soiled clothes and just one small accent pocket on the skin and one inside. They have been useful for stashing headlamps and loo kits, however it took a bit longer to search out smaller gadgets throughout the bag in consequence.

Ought to You Purchase the Osprey Transporter Duffel?

The Osprey Transporter could also be on the pricier finish of the duffels we examined, however for these in search of a duffel bag with loads of cupboard space that’s additionally snug to hold as a backpack for lengthy intervals of time–say when touring throughout Europe or hopping on and off trains or planes from one expedition to the subsequent–this one shines brilliant among the many relaxation.

On the flip aspect, for those who choose a duffel bag with extra carry choices, organizational pockets, or separate compartments for soiled gear, you might discover your new favourite duffel elsewhere.

What Different DuffelS Ought to You Take into account?

If you happen to’re unsure the Osprey Transporter is best for you in any of the out there sizes, you might need to take into account one of many different stand-out duffels we’ve examined.

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Evaluate: Product of extremely sturdy supplies and extra massive pockets for cumbersome gear like boots or helmets, this bag continues to be straightforward to pack, a lot spacious, and comfy to hold.

Cotopaxi Allpa Duo Evaluate: One massive predominant compartment and detachable shoulder straps make it just like the Osprey Transporter, however with the addition of a backside zippered compartment for soiled clothes.

Patagonia Black Gap Evaluate: For a extra conventional duffel, take into account the basic Patagonia Black Gap. The massive single opening, restricted pockets, and several other carry choices make it a stable alternative for a lot of vacationers.