*Editor’s note: Melissa left the tags on the zipper of this roller bag to drive us all crazy. Let her know your thoughts in the comments.*

Introduction

With frequent trips (both leisure and military), I really needed something a little bit larger than what I owned, but compact, durable, and easy to carry on a plane. I was using the 5.11 Mira 2-in-1 pack, which is 25L. Love it! But its berry-colored deliciousness was a bit too small at times. When the opportunity arose to try out 5.11’s Load up 22” Carry on 45L in Ranger Green, I had to give it a shot – it’s double in size almost!

Dimensions

Wheels Included – 22″H x 14″L x 9″D (11″D with expansion)
Without Wheels – 21″H x 14″L x 9″D (11″D with expansion)
Capacity – 45L / 2746 Cubic Inches
Expanded Capacity – 55L / 3356 Cubic Inches
Weight – 3kg / 6.6 lbs

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First Impressions:

Initial looks were encouraging as the carry on was very neat, compact and efficient. The green was muted, but just enough to be distinct. The Velcro on the front was a neat feature for a nametag or patches…’cause who doesn’t like to accessorize their backpack and suitcase? In fact, there could’ve been more spots for patches! Yes, I know, they may fall off…But I still like to personalise my stuff. I liked its hard shell, and the sturdy feel to the wheels and handle. I could tell that the zippers were lockable by its obvious tagging, which I left on for an obscene amount of time and a quick google confirmed that it was water resistant.

With a quick opening of the case, I could tell there was lots of space to work with. There were dividers and sleeves to quickly and easily organize my gear. The very top of the suitcase opened for easy access items, such as papers, liquids or cords that may needs to be removed for security.

European Trip:

My first trial was a European trip that was coming up. We would be gone for about 8 days, and I had to make sure to pack enough. I was able to squeeze in enough underwear, socks and bras (including my sleeping bra and pillowcase – don’t ask) for the duration. Bigger items were: 2 pairs of jeans, 2 leggings and a skirt, 6 shirts, 1 dress shirt, hat, pajamas and flip flops. On the top flap I threw in my wash kit and electronic cords along with my book. I was able to get all of this in without overextending the suitcase, because I was afraid it would be considered too big if I did that… Which means – I could’ve packed more while expanding the zipper for that extra 2 inches!

I had no issues travelling on different terrains – be it concrete, cobblestone, marble or gravel. The wheels were sturdy. But as a thought, why are wheels hard plastic? Why not rubber to lessen the noise as it clunked over cobblestone? I did find that grating, but that’s the case for all suitcases.

Extending and unextending the handle was always smooth and quick. There was also an in between option for the handle extension if need be. Since the handle was easy to maneuver, lifting with the thick handles were a breeze (even when packed heavy); and it fit like a glove in the plane’s storage compartment. It was easy to squeeze between my legs on packed busses or subways. There were times though, that I wished I could just throw it on my back, but without something to soften the case, that wouldn’t be easy to incorporate. As the trip wound down I used the different layers to organize and separate my dirty clothes from my clean clothes, which were very handy.

Overall Impressions:

I was extremely happy with this carry on. It could hold a lot but small enough to fit on a flight. Easy to maneuver and to organize my clothes. In fact, I was so impressed with it I threw out my old purple luggage that carried me through university and my first move with my husband. I have officially upgraded. Some cons, as mentioned were:

1. the wheels are noisy on cobblestone (as with most luggage bags);
2. I wish there was a way to incorporate backpack straps (probably just me reminiscing
   about my 5.11 backpack); and
3. a front pocket on the top of the hardcover for essential paperwork – instead of having to
   open the bag at all and of course, more Velcro!

To learn more or get yourself one head on over to here.