I don't fly without my CalPak!
Written: Mar 10 '08 (Updated Mar 10 '08)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Tough, attractive, roomy, rolling...
Cons: Handle doesn't always lock, rolling sometimes unstable...
The Bottom Line: This is a rugged and roomy yet attractive bag that is great for the wear and tear of the frequent flyer.
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| xiphoid's Full Review: Calpak Arctic Circle TW5031 Rolling Duffle |
I take a lot of trips that don't require huge amounts of luggage. So, I needed a bag that was big enough to stuff all of my things into, but easy enough for me to manage while running through airports. I definitely wanted something with a few separate compartments (I like to keep potentially leaky items separate) and I also wanted it to be on wheels.
While browsing through my options, I came across the CalPak Arctic Circle rolling duffel (I have the grey version, but all of the colors are the same model). What caught my eye first was the design - it looked just like something I would enjoy using. That wouldn't be enough, though, if it were a sub-par quality bag. So, I felt the fabric, and it certainly felt tough enough to handle being tossed around. It is made of a heavy rip-stop fabric with a waterproof lining. It also had wheels and a whole bunch of compartments, so I decided it would be a good buy for me.
The bag's dimensions are 31 x 15 x 15 inches, and it weighs about 10 pounds on its own. The weight comes mostly from the framing for the wheels and handle, but it doesn't feel very heavy at all, especially if you're going to be wheeling it! There are 2 large zippered pockets on the side, and 3 smaller pockets on the front of the bag.
Using the bag...
The bag is certainly roomy enough for a short trip, or probably longer if you're not an overpacker like I am. The thing I like most about packing in this bag is the side pockets - they are quite large. I can fit sneakers along with a few other items in one pocket, and then use the other for all of my toiletries. There is no hard separation between the pockets and the main bag section, so if there is some wiggle room left in the main section, you can overstuff the side pockets and vice-versa.
The front pockets are different than the side pockets. There are 3 on the front - one wide pocket that runs the length of the main bag area, and two smaller ones that sit flat on top of the long pocket. These pockets are tighter, but again, they share a soft wall with the main bag section, so you usually won't be crushing anything you put in them. I usually use these pockets for things like phone chargers, hair clips and elastics, and other small (or flat) items. The zippers are the same on all of the pockets and they have proven to be strong (I really stuff this bag tight). The bag does come with a lock for the main zipper, but most people won't be using this because of airline security regulations.
Wheeling the bag is nice and quiet - there are two inline skate wheels and they glide smoothly. They have worked perfectly on every terrain I have rolled them across. My only issue with wheeling is when I come down off a curb and the bag rolls upside-down. It's partly my fault for not stabilizing the bag, but it is also very top-heavy, so it's important to keep an eye on what you're rolling on.
The handle for wheeling hides in its frame and pulls out for use. When you pull it out, it locks in place, and you press a small button to unlock it and hide it away again. I have an issue with the handle as well, because I can never seem to get it to lock in place when I'm wheeling. This leads to annoying back-ups where the handle starts to retract into the bag instead of rolling backward. Keep in mind that this may just be my particular bag. If you find this bag in a local store, try it out beforehand. Aside from my non-locking handle, wheeling is quite simple. The handle itself is large and has finger grips on the underside to make it easier to pull.
If you'd rather carry the bag, there is a handle on each end, plus top handles and a removable shoulder strap. The handles all have velcro-fastened fabric grips for more comfortable carrying. These may be removed if you wish. I have never used the shoulder strap because the bag is just too heavy for me when it's packed, but the top and side handles are comfortable and easy to hold.
All things considered I find this to be a perfect bag for me. It is attractive yet tough, and is versatile enough for my various trips. I have watched this bag get thrown around going on and off planes, and it has come out looking pristine after every flight. I definitely recommend the CalPak Artic Circle rolling duffel!
Recommended:
Yes
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