Rab Expedition Kitbag II 50 Duffel Bag Review

First Impressions of Rab Expedition Kitbag II 50 Duffel Bag

The Rab Expedition Kitbag II 50 Duffel Bag promises durability and weather resistance in a manageable size, a sweet spot for weekend trips or as a secondary bag on larger expeditions. Rab, a name synonymous with quality outdoor gear, has designed this duffel to withstand the rigors of travel, whether it’s tossed into the back of a truck, strapped to a yak, or crammed into an overhead bin. I was particularly drawn to its compact 50-liter capacity and Rab’s reputation for using tough, reliable materials, hoping for a bag that could handle the abuse my adventures dish out.

I was looking for a bag that could bridge the gap between a standard backpack and a full-sized expedition duffel. My old military surplus duffel, while incredibly durable, is overkill for short trips and lacks organization. The Rab Expedition Kitbag II 50 Duffel Bag seemed like a more refined, practical option for those times when I don’t need to haul the entire contents of my gear locker.

Upon unboxing, the bag felt solid and well-constructed. The Tough 600D fabric with TPU water-resistant film gave it a reassuringly robust feel, and the overall design was clean and functional. It felt lighter than I expected, a definite plus for a bag designed to be carried.

Compared to similar duffels from brands like Patagonia (Black Hole Duffel 40L) and The North Face (Base Camp Duffel 50L), the Rab stood out with its more streamlined design and focus on weather resistance. I chose the Rab because I valued the TPU water-resistant film and the overall impression of ruggedness that it conveyed. I felt like this would offer superior protection for my gear, a must when trekking in unpredictable conditions.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The bag appeared well-made and thoughtfully designed, but the true test would be how it performed in the field. The materials and construction seemed promising, and I was eager to put it through its paces.

Real-World Testing: Putting Rab Expedition Kitbag II 50 Duffel Bag to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Rab Expedition Kitbag II 50 Duffel Bag was a weekend rock climbing trip to Red Rock Canyon. I primarily used the bag to carry my climbing gear, including ropes, harness, shoes, and a small selection of clothing. The bag sat comfortably in the back of my truck, jostling along the dusty roads, without any noticeable damage or abrasion.

During the trip, we encountered an unexpected rain shower. I left the Rab Expedition Kitbag II 50 Duffel Bag out in the open as I was certain the TPU water-resistant film would protect my clothes. I returned later to find that the contents remained completely dry, a testament to the bag’s weather resistance. The ease of accessing my gear through the wide opening was appreciated, particularly when quickly grabbing a jacket as the temperature dropped in the evening. There were no immediate issues after the first use, and I was impressed with its performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Rab Expedition Kitbag II 50 Duffel Bag has held up remarkably well. I’ve taken it on multiple camping trips, hauling everything from sleeping bags to cooking equipment. While the exterior shows some minor scuffs and dirt marks, there are no signs of significant wear and tear.

The Tough 600D fabric has proven to be exceptionally durable, resisting abrasions and tears even when dragged across rough terrain. Cleaning the bag is a breeze; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Compared to my previous experiences with less robust duffels, the Rab Expedition Kitbag II 50 Duffel Bag has far exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Rab Expedition Kitbag II 50 Duffel Bag

Specifications

The Rab Expedition Kitbag II 50 Duffel Bag boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance.

• Pack Volume: 50 liters. This provides ample space for weekend trips or as a supplementary bag on longer expeditions.
• Fabric/Material: Tough 600D fabric with TPU water-resistant film. This combination offers excellent abrasion resistance and weather protection, making it suitable for demanding environments.
• Weight: 2 lb. The relatively light weight ensures the bag doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to your load.
• Length: 55 inches. This measurement likely refers to the circumference when laid flat, impacting the bag’s overall volume.
• Pack Type: Duffel Bag. This classic design provides easy access to contents and is generally more durable than backpacks.

These specifications translate to a bag that is both durable and practical for a wide range of outdoor activities. The TPU water-resistant film is a particularly important feature, as it provides essential protection against the elements. The 50-liter capacity is perfect for shorter trips, and the low weight helps to minimize the overall load.

Performance & Functionality

The Rab Expedition Kitbag II 50 Duffel Bag performs its job admirably, offering a reliable and convenient way to transport gear. Its strength lies in its simplicity and durability.

The bag’s wide opening allows for easy packing and unpacking, and the Tough 600D fabric ensures that it can withstand rough handling. While the lack of internal organization can be a drawback for some, the spacious interior allows for flexible packing arrangements. The weather resistance is excellent, providing peace of mind in unpredictable conditions. The design could benefit from internal dividers to keep things organized, and external pockets for quick access to smaller items would be a welcome addition.

Design & Ergonomics

The Rab Expedition Kitbag II 50 Duffel Bag features a simple, functional design that prioritizes durability over aesthetics. The materials feel robust, and the construction is solid.

The bag is comfortable enough to carry for short distances using the grab handles, but it lacks dedicated shoulder straps for longer treks. The minimalist design means there is virtually no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Rab Expedition Kitbag II 50 Duffel Bag is built to last. The Tough 600D fabric and reinforced stitching suggest a long lifespan, even with regular use in demanding conditions.

Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime, and the TPU water-resistant film helps to prevent stains and water damage.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rab Expedition Kitbag II 50 Duffel Bag is a fairly basic duffel, and doesn’t come with many accessories.

No official customization options are offered by Rab. However, users could potentially add their own external attachment points or internal organizers to suit their specific needs.

Pros and Cons of Rab Expedition Kitbag II 50 Duffel Bag

Who Should Buy Rab Expedition Kitbag II 50 Duffel Bag?

The Rab Expedition Kitbag II 50 Duffel Bag is perfect for adventurers, travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts who need a durable and weather-resistant bag for weekend trips or as a supplementary bag on longer expeditions. It is particularly well-suited for campers, climbers, and anyone who needs to transport gear in challenging environments.

Individuals who prefer highly organized bags with multiple compartments and dedicated carry systems might want to skip this product. They might be better off with a more technical backpack or a duffel with more integrated organization.

A set of packing cubes or dividers would be a must-have accessory to maximize the bag’s storage potential. Additionally, aftermarket shoulder straps could be added for more comfortable carrying.

Conclusion on Rab Expedition Kitbag II 50 Duffel Bag

The Rab Expedition Kitbag II 50 Duffel Bag is a dependable and rugged duffel that delivers on its promise of durability and weather resistance. While it lacks some of the bells and whistles of more technical bags, its simplicity and robust construction make it an excellent choice for anyone who needs a reliable way to transport their gear.

The price is justified by the quality of materials and construction. While other bags might offer more features, the Rab’s focus on durability and weather resistance makes it a worthwhile investment for serious outdoor enthusiasts.

I would definitely recommend the Rab Expedition Kitbag II 50 Duffel Bag to anyone looking for a simple, durable, and weather-resistant duffel. If you value reliability and are willing to sacrifice some organizational features, this bag is an excellent choice. Get out there and start exploring, knowing your gear is well-protected!