Let’s Dive into Reese 59102 Rola Wallaroo Cargo Carrier Bag
The Reese 59102 Rola Wallaroo Cargo Carrier Bag promises to be a reliable solution for anyone needing extra cargo space during their travels. Manufactured by Reese, this bag is designed to fit cargo carriers, offering rainproof construction and expandable capacity. The question is, does it live up to the promises made?
My wife and I frequently embark on camping trips with our two kids. Our biggest challenge has always been fitting everything into our SUV without completely obscuring the rear view or stacking items precariously high. We’ve tried Tetris-like packing strategies and even considered a small trailer. The Reese 59102 Rola Wallaroo Cargo Carrier Bag seemed like the perfect compromise: extra space without the hassle of towing.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the seemingly robust material. The bag felt substantial, not flimsy like some cheaper alternatives I’ve seen. The construction seemed solid, with what appeared to be well-sealed seams. My initial impression was positive, a significant upgrade from the tarp-and-ratchet-strap method I’d used once in desperation (a story for another time!).
I considered other options like the Thule Sidekick or the Yakima Skybox, but both involved a significant price jump. The Reese 59102 Rola Wallaroo Cargo Carrier Bag offered a balance of price and features that felt right for our needs. The Thule and Yakima products are hard-shell carriers, while the Reese bag allowed for folding and easier storage when not in use.
I was cautiously optimistic about the Reese 59102 Rola Wallaroo Cargo Carrier Bag. It looked and felt like a good solution, but the real test would be how it performed in the unpredictable conditions of the great outdoors. The rainproof claim specifically piqued my interest.
Real-World Testing: Putting Reese 59102 Rola Wallaroo Cargo Carrier Bag to the Test
First Use Experience
Our first trip with the Reese 59102 Rola Wallaroo Cargo Carrier Bag was a weekend camping excursion to the Allegheny National Forest. I mounted it on our existing cargo carrier, a standard 60″ x 24″ model. The six straps seemed adequate, and installation was straightforward.
The weather turned predictably nasty. We encountered a steady drizzle for most of Saturday and a full-blown downpour overnight. The Reese bag was definitely put to the test. Thankfully, it passed with flying colors. Everything inside remained dry. Ease of use was also a pleasant surprise. The zippers worked smoothly, even with wet hands.
The only minor issue I noticed was some slight shifting of the bag during the drive, despite tightening the straps as much as possible. This could have been due to the way I packed it.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including a particularly dusty off-road adventure and another rainy camping trip, the Reese 59102 Rola Wallaroo Cargo Carrier Bag has held up remarkably well. There are no visible signs of significant wear and tear. The seams remain intact, and the zippers still function smoothly.
Maintenance has been simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. I did apply a fabric protectant spray after the first use, which might have contributed to its durability.
Compared to my previous experiences relying on tarps and bungee cords, the Reese 59102 Rola Wallaroo Cargo Carrier Bag is a revelation. It’s much more convenient, secure, and, most importantly, reliable. It significantly outperforms those improvised solutions, offering peace of mind on the road.
Breaking Down the Features of Reese 59102 Rola Wallaroo Cargo Carrier Bag
Specifications
Fits Cargo Carriers Up To: 60″ x 24″. This is a standard size, making it compatible with most existing cargo carriers.
Constructed From: Premium quality rainproof material with sonically sealed seams. The rainproof material is key for protecting your belongings from the elements, and the sonically sealed seams enhance water resistance.
Expandable Capacity: Multiple zippers allow bag to expand from 9.5 to 11.5 cu ft. The ability to expand the capacity is a great feature for those times when you need just a little bit of extra space.
Attachment: 6 straps for secure attachment. The straps secure the bag to the cargo carrier, preventing shifting during travel.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the bag’s performance and usability. The size compatibility ensures it fits your carrier, the rainproof construction keeps your gear dry, and the expandable capacity provides flexibility. The straps provide the necessary security for safe travel.
Performance & Functionality
The Reese 59102 Rola Wallaroo Cargo Carrier Bag performs its primary function exceptionally well: protecting and transporting cargo. Its rainproof capabilities are a major highlight. Its expandable capacity is also genuinely useful.
The bag’s strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. A minor improvement could be strap design, perhaps incorporating a cam buckle for even tighter security. It definitely meets my expectations and has become an indispensable part of our camping gear.
Design & Ergonomics
The Reese 59102 Rola Wallaroo Cargo Carrier Bag features a straightforward, functional design. The materials feel durable and well-made. The bag’s weight is manageable, even when fully loaded.
The bag is easy to use, requiring minimal setup. The zippers are smooth, and the straps are relatively easy to adjust. There isn’t a steep learning curve. Anyone can use it effectively.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience so far, the Reese 59102 Rola Wallaroo Cargo Carrier Bag appears to be built to last. The materials are holding up well to regular use and exposure to the elements. I anticipate it lasting for many years with proper care.
Maintenance is straightforward. A simple wipe-down is usually sufficient. More stubborn stains can be removed with mild soap and water.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Reese 59102 Rola Wallaroo Cargo Carrier Bag doesn’t come with additional accessories beyond the included straps. However, it is compatible with any standard 60″ x 24″ cargo carrier. Some users might consider adding an internal support frame for added rigidity, but this is not essential.
Aftermarket straps with ratcheting mechanisms could provide even more secure attachment. It is also possible to waterproof the zippers if you are seeking an extra level of protection.
Pros and Cons of Reese 59102 Rola Wallaroo Cargo Carrier Bag
Pros
- Rainproof construction keeps cargo dry even in heavy rain.
- Expandable capacity provides extra space when needed.
- Durable materials ensure long-lasting performance.
- Easy to install and use.
- Affordable price point compared to hard-shell carriers.
Cons
- Straps could be improved for tighter security.
- Lack of internal support can cause some sagging when not fully packed.
Who Should Buy Reese 59102 Rola Wallaroo Cargo Carrier Bag?
The Reese 59102 Rola Wallaroo Cargo Carrier Bag is perfect for campers, road trippers, and anyone who needs extra cargo space without investing in a trailer or hard-shell carrier. Families with limited vehicle space will also find it invaluable.
Anyone who frequently travels in extremely harsh weather conditions might consider investing in a hard-shell carrier for enhanced protection. If you need absolute waterproofness, you might need to treat the zippers or opt for a more expensive product.
A must-have accessory is a cargo carrier if you don’t already own one. Consider purchasing improved straps with cam buckles for extra security.
Conclusion on Reese 59102 Rola Wallaroo Cargo Carrier Bag
The Reese 59102 Rola Wallaroo Cargo Carrier Bag is a reliable and affordable solution for anyone needing extra cargo space. Its rainproof construction, expandable capacity, and ease of use make it an excellent value for the price.
The price is definitely justified by its performance and durability. This product offers significant convenience and peace of mind on the road.
I would definitely recommend the Reese 59102 Rola Wallaroo Cargo Carrier Bag to anyone looking for a practical and affordable cargo-carrying solution. If you are tired of cramming everything into your vehicle, give this bag a try. You will not be disappointed.