Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag Review

First Impressions of Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag

The Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag promises rugged durability and ample space for hauling gear on any adventure. Rab is known for its high-quality outdoor equipment, and this duffel aims to live up to that reputation with its tough construction and weather-resistant design. With an 80-liter capacity, it seems ideal for extended trips or gear-intensive activities.

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’m always searching for reliable and versatile storage solutions. My recent trip to Alaska highlighted the need for a durable and water-resistant duffel bag to protect my clothing and equipment. I needed a bag that could withstand rough handling and unpredictable weather.

Upon unboxing the Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag, my initial impression was positive. The material felt robust, the stitching appeared solid, and the overall design seemed well-thought-out. The weight was surprisingly light for a bag of this size and apparent durability.

I considered the Black Diamond StoneHauler 90L and the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 70L before choosing the Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag. The Rab stood out due to its combination of water resistance and reasonable price point. The other two options seemed either overpriced or lacked the necessary weather protection for my intended use.

My first impression was excitement. This Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag seemed like the perfect solution for my gear-hauling needs. I looked forward to testing its real-world performance in demanding conditions.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag on a week-long camping trip in the Pacific Northwest. This region is known for its unpredictable weather and rugged terrain. I wanted to see how the duffel would handle rain, mud, and the general wear and tear of outdoor use.

The Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag performed admirably in the wet conditions. The Tough 600D fabric with TPU water-resistant film kept my gear dry even during sustained rain showers. The duffel was easy to load and unload, and the various handles provided convenient carrying options.

The duffel required no getting used to. It was straightforward in its design and function. I was immediately comfortable with how to pack and carry it.

The only minor issue was a slight difficulty zipping the main compartment when the bag was fully packed. This was likely due to the sheer volume of gear inside. Overall, the first use was a positive experience.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag has held up exceptionally well. I’ve used it on multiple camping trips, as well as for transporting gear to the shooting range. The bag has proven to be a reliable and durable companion.

There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear. The fabric still looks new, and the zippers operate smoothly (even when the bag is stuffed). The reinforced stitching has prevented any seams from fraying.

Cleaning is simple. I just wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth. Mud and dirt come off easily, and the water-resistant material prevents staining.

Compared to previous, less durable duffel bags I’ve owned, the Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag significantly outperforms them in terms of durability and weather resistance. I no longer worry about my gear getting wet or damaged during transport. This duffel bag has exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Rab. Rab is a trusted name in outdoor gear, known for quality and innovation.
• Pack Application: Expedition. Designed for demanding expeditions, the Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag is built to withstand harsh conditions.
• Pack Volume: 80 liters. This provides ample space for clothing, equipment, and other essentials.
• Fabric/Material: Tough 600D fabric with TPU water resistant film. This combination of materials offers excellent durability and weather protection.
• Length: 74 in. The dimensions are suitable for carrying a wide range of gear without being excessively bulky.
• Gender: Unisex. The bag’s design is suitable for both men and women.
• Age Group: Adults. Intended for adult users who need a reliable and spacious duffel bag.
• Application: Travel. Versatile enough for various travel applications, including camping, hiking, and general travel.
• Weight: 2.4 lb. The bag is lightweight for its size and durability, minimizing the burden on the user.
• Pack Type: Duffel Bag. The classic duffel bag design offers simplicity and ease of use.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag’s performance in the field. The durable fabric and water-resistant film protect gear from the elements. The 80-liter capacity ensures ample space for all essentials. The lightweight design makes it easier to carry heavy loads over long distances.

Performance & Functionality

The Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag performs its job exceptionally well. It reliably protects gear from the elements and provides ample storage space. It allows easy transport of all my essential equipment.

The bag’s strengths include its durability, water resistance, and ease of use. The main weakness is the occasional difficulty zipping the main compartment when the bag is completely full. This is a minor inconvenience rather than a major flaw.

The Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag has exceeded my expectations. It has proven to be a reliable and versatile gear-hauling solution. I’m very pleased with its overall performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent. The Tough 600D fabric feels durable, and the reinforced stitching inspires confidence. The bag is lightweight for its size, making it easy to carry.

The design is user-friendly, with a large main compartment and multiple grab handles. There’s no learning curve. I was able to start using it immediately.

Durability & Maintenance

The Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag is built to last. I expect it to provide years of reliable service. The durable materials and reinforced stitching ensure it can withstand heavy use.

Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed. The water-resistant material prevents stains and makes cleaning easy.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag does not come with any specific accessories. However, you can add your own organization by including packing cubes or zippered pouches. This allows you to customize the interior to suit your specific needs.

The Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag is compatible with accessories from other brands. You can easily add a shoulder strap for more comfortable carrying, or attach external gear using carabiners and the bag’s various loops and handles. The simplicity of the design makes it very adaptable.

Pros and Cons of Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag?

The Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag is perfect for outdoor adventurers, campers, travelers, and anyone who needs a durable and water-resistant gear-hauling solution. It’s ideal for extended trips, gear-intensive activities, or situations where weather protection is essential. Anyone who travels to remote locations will definitely benefit from the robustness of this duffel.

Someone who only needs a small bag or prioritizes internal organization should skip this product. Look for a smaller backpack with dedicated compartments. People who are very organized might find the lack of internal organization limiting.

A must-have accessory is a good set of packing cubes. These will help to keep gear organized within the large main compartment. A padded shoulder strap can also improve carrying comfort, especially when the bag is heavily loaded.

Conclusion on Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag

The Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag is an excellent gear-hauling solution that offers a great balance of durability, water resistance, and capacity. Its robust construction and weatherproof design make it ideal for outdoor adventures and demanding travel conditions. While it lacks internal organization and can be difficult to zip when fully packed, these drawbacks are minor compared to its overall performance.

The price is justified by the Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag’s quality and durability. It is an investment that will pay off in the long run by protecting gear and providing reliable service for years to come. You are getting a high-quality bag for an affordable price.

I would personally recommend the Rab Expedition Kitbag II 80 Duffel Bag to anyone who needs a rugged and reliable duffel bag for outdoor adventures or travel. If you value durability, weather resistance, and ample storage space, this bag is an excellent choice. Grab yours today and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your gear is protected!