carry on luggage

Photo of the day: Travel luggage perfection?

I’m a traveler, adventurist and part-time explorer. Well, at least that’s how I see myself. Whether traveling to foreign countries or domestically, having the proper luggage remains a key factor. Unfortunately, there is no “one-size-fits-all” luggage. Because of this, the storage area under my stairs is chalked full of various sized bags for different missions. Large gear duffels for SCUBA or ski trips. Bombproof rollers for medium range trips. And now the Deuter Transit 40 for those weekend getaways where you don’t require much gear at all. Or don’t want the hassle and expense of checking luggage.

Check out our full review of the Deuter Transit 40

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Deuter Transit 40 | Overhead travel luggage perfection

Deuter, a German company known for their high-end trekking and climbing packs, has a rich 120-year history. Currently, they offer packs in the following categories; Winter, Daypack, Trekking, Family, Climbing, Travel, Bike and Hiking. The Transit 40 is the smallest of seven packs found in the Travel category. And the smallest of three within the “Transit” model. Designed to fit into the overhead storage compartment on commercial aircraft, the Transit 40 maintains a sleek design profile with several grab and carry options.

Deuter Transit 40 Features:

Deuter includes many compulsory features found on common travel packs. Like an organizer panel for small item storage. Writing implements, flashlight, passport, notebook and even airline tickets for those old folks that still insist on printing them. A padded laptop/tablet sleeve that can accommodate up to a 17″ notebook is accessed from the top. And a large main compartment opens via a heavy duty “U shaped” YKK zipper. Another nice feature for “type A” personalities like myself, are two adjustable clothing straps. I like to keep my clothes as wrinkle free as possible and these straps keep everything in place while moving.

Another key feature for frequent travelers is the isolated bottom pocket. This zippered compartment is perfect for keeping dirty footwear separate from clothing. Or stowing a jacket for quick access. Additionally, the bottom pocket divider can be opened up to increase the main compartment volume. On the outside of the Transit 40, there are three different pockets. A mesh water bottle pocket on the left side, good for bottled water but not much larger. A similar sized zippered pocket on the opposite flank is good for electronics chargers, cords and other small items. Finally, a vertical slash pocket in the center of the pack is where I stash my Bose Headphones for quick access.

Carry options:

Transporting the Transit 40 can be handled several ways. The most obvious is with the Aircontact System. This padded back allows airflow to help prevent a sweaty back when using the padded shoulder straps. An adjustable sternum strap along with a stowable padded hip belt help fine-tune and distribute the load comfortably. Deuter uses an X-Frame to maintain the shape and contour of the Transit 40. I also found a rigid plastic panel along the back that I ended up removing. Placing my Crye Precision Ballistic panel in its place. Finally, a hidden panel on the bottom can be zipped up concealing the shoulder straps while a removable briefcase strap can be used for alternate carry.

Transit 40 Specs courtesy of deuterusa.com:

Color: anthracite-moss (grey-green)
Article ID: 4510017-4220
Weight: 4 lbs 2 oz
Volume: 40 liters
Size: 22 / 13 / 9.8 (H x W x D) Inch
Laptopcase:15 / 13 / 1.2 (H x W x D) Inch
MSRP $150

Final thoughts:

There are many features I like about this backpack and not much I don’t. It works perfectly for a quick warm weather get-away or a weekend trip. I hate paying baggage fees so anything I can carry on the aircraft has my attention. The 600D exterior fabric is rugged enough to withstand the rigors of airline travel. Several carry options and handles make it easy to haul when not on your back. I only wish the zipper for the organizer pocket extended the full length of that compartment. Although I can live with the gray/green color way, a few different options would be welcome.

Despite the Transit 40 liter being the smallest of the three Transit models, it is the only one approved for overhead storage. The 50 and 65-liter packs are not, unfortunately. For longer trips, the “Traveller” and “Quantum” models offer packs ranging from 60-70 liters of volume. Take a look at the variety of offerings from this renowned pack manufacturer. And know that over 120 years of German expertise will be apparent in each model.

DC FLT Line Roller by 5.11 | Luggage I can live with

We are a tribe of travelers. As a child in a military family, we were constantly on the move. And always had to travel to visit our stationary relatives. This mobile theme has carried on to my family as well. My oldest son was flying the friendly skies at the ripe age of 5 weeks old to attend my cousins wedding at Pebble Beach. And we haven’t slowed down since then. Our baggage has to be durable enough to withstand the punishment the baggage handlers dish out. And practical enough to haul and organize our belongings for various length trips. 15 years ago I purchased all four of us North Face Double Track carry on bags. Bombproof! But very basic inside. Recently, I tried out the DC FLT Line from 5.11 Tactical.

A recent trip to Outdoor Retailer in Denver offered a good initial test of the DC FLT Line Roller. Traveling alone, I decided to pack everything into just a carry-on piece of luggage for this trip. The rectangular shape maximizes its volume offering 56 liters of total capacity. More than enough for a week on the go. And a much better shape than the tapered design of my North Face roller. Additionally, there is an expansion zipper that can extend the thickness by two inches. A nice feature for an extended trip. Or in my case, returning home with more cargo than I left with.

Features of the DC FLT Line courtesy of 511tactical.com

Meets US carry-on guidelines when unexpanded
Durable multi-stage collapsible handle
Integrated laser-cut web platform
840D Ballistic Nylon blend for lightweight resilience
Three reinforced grab handles
Integrated stationary supports
Removable mesh toiletry bag
Insulated laptop sleeve
Hypoallergenic foam padded interior
Locking zippers on main and secondary compartments
Heavy-duty wheeled base
Hard corner protection
YKK® self-healing zippers throughout
22” H x 14” L x 11” D main compartment when fully expanded
3388 cubic inch / 56 liter total capacity
Tandem luggage strap w/ quick release buckle included
Supports 5.11® Stay Secure Snap System
Water, stain, and soil resistant finish
Extensive Bartacking at stress points for durability
Flag patch attachments at left and right side
Supports custom embroidery
MSRP $159.99

DC FLT Line Exterior Overview

The outside of the DC FLT Line features two zippered pockets. A smaller one on top that allows quick access to travel items. And a larger padded pocket for a laptop, or in my case, an iPad Pro. The multi-stage pull handle was comfortable and stable enough. A little bit wobbly but not too bad. This is a distinct difference between the sturdy aluminum handle on my North Face bag and the DC FLT Lines handle. But it does the job fine and time will tell if this “handle” can handle the abuse. No pun intended. The large ball bearing wheels did a great job and felt very smooth on the pavement as well as the airport walkways and escalators. Three reinforced handles can be found on the top, side and bottom of this luggage. Making handling the bag a snap in the trunk of a vehicle as well as overhead compartments. Another nice touch are the two velcro MOLLE panels on either side for a patch or identification. Finally, all corners have additional protection to help stave off the abuse of flying.

DC FLT Line Interior Overview

On the interior, you’ll find a basic open rectangle shape that fits stacks of shirts, pants and shorts. Maybe it’s the way I fold my clothes, but this thing seems built for me. I had plenty of room to spare after packing for a 6-day trip. In fact, I returned home with several items that were given to me at Outdoor Retailer from several vendors. Concerned with the number of additional goods acquired over three days, I was put at ease once it all fit without needing the expansion feature. A large mesh compartment on the inside of the lid is perfect for flip flops, flat shoes or a beach towel. Two heavy duty straps and buckles easily secure the contents from shifting in flight. Another nice touch is the inclusion of a mesh toiletry kit.

Final thoughts

5.11 Tactical has been producing high-quality goods for our service members and law enforcement officers for years. I own several of their clothing items, backpacks and tactical gear. And I have always been happy with the products. The DC FLT Line is the first luggage piece I’ve used from them and I’m pretty happy with it. The size and shape are wildly efficient for me. Plus, having a grab handle on three sides proved to be helpful. I feel a little beefier handle would help increase it’s stability and using 1000-1200D fabric would make this a killer carry-on. Overall it gets a passing grade. I’ll continue using the DC FLT Line Roller for business travel to see how it stands the test of time.