Rab Expedition Kitbag 80

Product Information

This is another duffel bag that impressed us for its eco credential, so much so that we decided to include it in our prestigious Green Gear Guide this year. Each end also has compression straps to make the bag a bit neater when it’s not completely full, and on the side are tie-in loops to help in securing the bag to a vehicle.

Yes, I’ve already listed the fact this bag has wheels as a pro. However, not all safari companies or airlines recommend bags with wheels as they can be more difficult to fit into the hold on small aeroplanes. That said I have seen wheelie cases being used widely across Africa – just make sure you do your research first. It’s comfortable to carry (as long as you’ve kept within the weight limits!) using the short grab handles, as well as the longer over-the-shoulder strap.That’s why we’ve pulled together this list of key factors for Rab Kit Bag II 80L below, to help you choose if it’s the right product for you and your budget.

To give that price some context we then looked at all of the products available from Cotswold Outdoor in the duffel bags category. We found 24 items in total. What’s the price of duffel bags? Despite the bag’s soft material, it is one of the most structured bags, particularly due to the plastic high road chassis that holds the wheels. That means it won’t be as flexible or as easy to squeeze into luggage compartments and you may get some disapproving looks from the pilot when loading. But the bag’s manoeuvrability is a worthy trade-off if your airline will allow it. There’s so much information available online when we’re shopping now, that it’s easy to find lots of detail about products like Rab Kit Bag II 80L. This is of course really helpful, but there’s almost too much information available, so it’s important to know exactly what you’re looking for. The downside to buying online is that you can’t actually get hold of the product to try it out first.

There are however some methods that you can use to determine a product’s quality without needing to physically have it. These bags can be pricey once you’ve already shelled out for the safari itself, but if you go on safaris fairly often, it’s a great investment for the future. The classic North Face holdall is hard-wearing and durable, while also being made from water-resistant, recycled materials. This makes it a sustainable and practical choice too. Secondly, 40l was just a little bit tight for a full week’s worth of clothes and phys kit, plus wash kit, books, chargers and so on. Especially so if I need a towel, which I frequently do either for the gym or because of the type of places I’m staying.