Duffel bags aren’t for everyone. I was hoping to find a carry on size duffel that would also have a decent carry option (maybe there isn’t one?). I had high hopes for the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag. It’s definitely a high quality bag at a decent price, but the backpack straps don’t work well for me.
Here are my thoughts on the 45L version for one bag travel, as well as a long form blog post and a YouTube video review if you want to see more. I’d love to hear from anyone who uses this bag, why you like it/hate it, or have different thoughts from mine. Thanks!
Photo Gallery: https://imgur.com/a/4eNG8Kt
Materials and Size
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Fabric: This is my first experience with the Black Hole material. It’s super sturdy and durable, I like when bags are stiff enough that they don’t flop over when not fully packed. But it’s shiny and less low key than other fabrics, so I can see why not everyone would like it.
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Hardware: The hardware is all solid. #10 YKK zippers on main compartment, and #8 on the front pocket. They aren’t locking, but you can easily put a carabiner on the zipper pulls. The hardware and buckles are high quality Duraflex.
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Size: Dimensions are 19" x 10" x 10.3" (48x25x26 cm). Duffel bags I’m finding out always seem to have at least one side that is bigger than standard carry on dimensions, but at least its soft sided. The 10” width and height make the bag a little boxy, and it’s shaped like a trapezoid, with the small side on top. This isn’t the best shape for carrying as a backpack, it sits kind of weird on my back.
Carry Options
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Backpack Straps: These aren’t my favorite. For being a totally solid bag in almost every other aspect, the backpack straps fall short. They only have a slight curve to them, are kind of firm, have no back mesh, and lack a sternum strap. They are removable, but have no dedicated storage pocket.
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Carry Handles: They did a good job with the top carry handles. They’re simple, but work well. My biggest problem is they aren’t removable. There is nothing you can do with them when you carry the bag as a backpack.
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Shoulder Strap: The previous version of this bag came with a shoulder strap, but this one doesn’t. Why they got rid of it I have no idea. Lack of a shoulder strap was the biggest complaint I read on reviews. And since the backpack straps aren’t all that comfortable, it would be really nice as a carry option.
Exterior / Interior Organization
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Exterior: It has a simple exterior organization. The zippered front pocket is kind of big because it’s the foldable pocket the bag comes in, in reverse. There are also two side end handles, and 4 rows of daisy chain loops. Probably a little overkill, but good if you like to attach things to the outside of your packs.
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Interior: Again, pretty simple interior organization. It’s just a large duffel compartment, with no separators, or laptop compartment. There are two small zippered mesh pockets on the underside of the lid. It’s a convenient location to access small items, but since there’s no back padding, anything you put in there will be poking into your back if you carry it as a backpack.
Cheers,
Videos
I received the Patagonia Black Hole MLC (45L) in the mail today. I intend to use it as a carry-on for international travel. Did I make a bad choice, or is it a decent or good purchase for my intentions?
I pack light on electronics (usually just a laptop and charger/phone charger). I feel I pack heavier on medicines (several prescriptions/other medication bottles) and toiletries than the average person. I normally try to pack 3 pairs of shoes (usually 1 sandal). With this bag, I'd hope to bring at least 1 week worth of clothing.
I am going abroad soon for nearly 2 weeks. I want to bring it as a carry-on. I plan to stay abroad longer (possibly move abroad for the long-term) so I may check a large suitcase but that is undecided. Regardless if I do check one or not, can the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L fit my needs for international travel as a carry-on? I hate returns so would love your opinions.
Any alternative recommendations for those who argue against the bag?
Thanks!