If you are looking for a versatile duffel that works as your main bag or functions as an extra bag, Eagle Creek’s Cargo Hauler Duffel is for you.
From the Outside
The Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Duffel comes to you in a tiny package weighing in at only 1lb 12oz. That alone is noteworthy. The shipping, and your storage size, is due to the innovative way the Cargo Hauler Duffel packs into its front-end zippered compartment.
The exterior is constructed from an extra durable, water repellant coated Bi-Tech Armor Lite fabric. The color is on either end and the handles.
Handles are everywhere on the Cargo Hauler Duffel. Both ends have padded handles as well as the side so you can quickly grab it from the top of your car or off the luggage carousel with ease.
Speaking of airports, running through one? Attach the removable backpack straps and go. They are quickly attached with buckles at the bottom of the bag and a heavy-duty plastic clip at the top. The Cargo Hauler Duffel straps can be stored easily into the main compartment or into either gear pocket. They are surprisingly comfortable and have a nice curve to them for a more anatomical fit.
The Cargo Hauler Duffel is square shaped and can easily be stacked on your rolling luggage or onto another Cargo Hauler Duffel. Daisy chains are located on either side of the bag for tie down or attachment points for gear, water bottles, etc. Daisy chains can also be found on the backpack straps.
Don’t worry about tossing this bag from the roof of your car, the bottom is foam padded to protect your items from impact. To keep the weight down, the padding isn’t as thick as most bags but it can get the job done.
Cargo Hauler Duffel is meant for all seasons. Zippers are protected with storm flap shields while the pulls are large enough to grab with gloves on in the cooler weather. The colorway can be found on the zipper pulls.
What’s Inside?
Two compartments are the bookends to the Cargo Hauler Duffel. They hold a surprising amount of gear including shoes, jackets, camping mattresses, etc. I packed mine with three pairs of shoes, toiletries, curling iron, hair brush and hair dryer.
The main compartment is accessed through a U-shaped lid and gives a wide berth for packing the Cargo Hauler Duffel. We used this for a long weekend trip to Seattle where I needed to pack for a concert, fancy dinner, hiking/running gear and general travel clothes for exploring the city.
I had plenty of room in the Cargo Hauler for all the necessary items to make this weekend trip happen. My packing cubes easily fit into the bag. I do suggest packing the Cargo Hauler with some thought. Although the back/bottom is padded, it does not have a support frame and thus any item(s) packed in that are sharp or oddly shaped, you will feel. Think Princess and the Pea.
There are strategically placed loops sewn into the bag that allow you to attach keys, a first aid kit or other items you need to secure within the bag.
Flying and Overhead Compartments
Cargo Hauler is versatile as we discussed above. With the ability to pack into itself, you can bring this bag with in your luggage and then fill with all your treasurers before you head home. The Cargo Hauler fit easily into the overhead bin on our little Delta plane and when not packed to capacity would probably fit under the seat.
Need to check it because you picked up some amazing Rum? I know we aren’t the only ones! The backpack straps come off quickly. The finger pulls on the zippers can easily be locked together with a small luggage lock if you feel the need to.
Overview
Eagle Creek has always made quality pieces and the Cargo Hauler Duffel is no exception. This bag can handle a city friendly weekend trip, be strapped to your car roof for a camping trip and will take you to the top of a mountain. That is a lot of bag for under $100. Pair this with Eagle Creek Pack-It Cube Set and you are ready to travel the world!
Eagle Creek’s Cargo Hauler comes in black, fern, flame, and concord and all colors are available in the 45L, 60L, 90L or 120L. The Cargo Hauler Duffle 60L retails for $99.99.
Pick one up from Eagle Creek’s website or Amazon.com.
For additional reviews of Eagle Creek click HERE.
Safe travels!