Osprey Transporter 65L Evaluation | CleverHiker

Backside Line

Maybe not surprisingly, The Osprey Transporter, one of many extra capacious duffels we examined this yr, tops the record 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. In consequence, whereas there could also be fewer carry choices total, these hauling gear totally on their backs will discover the padded straps (with sternum strap) extremely comfortable for longer intervals of time. 

However even if you happen to 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 simple it was to pack and unpack every evening and morning and slide out and in of rooftop cargo packing containers within the assist car.

Power overpackers are certain to like this bag, too, thanks to 2 inside compression straps that assist maintain gentle items cinched down so you may shut the burly zips on the lid with ease. Bonus: two medium-sized accent pockets assist maintain small objects simple to search out.

Carry Consolation

If you’re seeking a duffel that you simply initially 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 hundreds and are stowable in a devoted lid pocket when not in use. They’re the primary option to carry this bag, however you may 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, nonetheless, which makes pulling it out and in of a rooftop cargo provider simple.

Compressibility & Packability

When it got here time to load up the bag with every little thing 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 gentle items like clothes and sleeping baggage. It was simple 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 straightforward 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 accredited recycled supplies with a TPU coating, is extremely sturdy and sturdy and even resisted dust and dirt, so by the point we introduced it residence after a protracted weekend, it nonetheless regarded almost as brilliant and recent as if it have been new.

What’s extra, the seize handles are lots heavy responsibility, and the burly zippers have been clean and simple to make use of. We had no downside 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 fully dry, and the primary compartment solely dampened a bit alongside the edges after the bag was overlooked within the rain for an hour. Expansive rain flaps stored out many of the moisture, so many of the inside of the bag stayed dry. Packing delicate gear in water-proof packing cubes is probably not a nasty concept.

Group

Whereas this bag is probably not an organizational powerhouse, compression straps inside the primary compartment are a welcome addition for power overpackers. They have been a god-send on one journey the place we needed to cram in cumbersome winter sleeping baggage 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 toilet kits, but it surely took a bit of longer to search out smaller objects 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 space for storing 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 facet, if you happen to choose a duffel bag with extra carry choices, organizational pockets, or separate compartments for soiled gear, it’s possible you’ll discover your new favourite duffel elsewhere.

What Different DuffelS Ought to You Think about?

In case you’re undecided the Osprey Transporter is best for you in any of the accessible sizes, it’s possible you’ll wish to take into account one of many different stand-out duffels we’ve examined.

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Evaluation: Manufactured from extremely sturdy supplies and extra massive pockets for cumbersome gear like boots or helmets, this bag remains to be simple to pack, lots spacious, and comfy to hold.

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

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