Carry on bag

I don't think so. I tend to buy the cheaper bag simply because I have less at risk it lost or damaged. Over the years I have several bags damaged and none lost.

Peter, If either Bag is fully packed, I suspect you'll have trouble using it for carry-on either due to size or weight limits. If you're used to travelling light, that may not be a problem. I've encountered this situation numerous times, as my primary Backpack is about the same size as the RS Convertible and therefore "theoretically" carry-on size (with the Daypack removed). However there's no way it will fit either in the overhead bins or under the seat, and it's usually over carry-on weight. Cheers!

FWIW, the RS backpacks are designed for carry-on; they're within the dimensions given by the carriers. I have extensive personal experience with taking them onboard, and they fit just fine in the overhead compartments - even when a bit 'poofy' (shhh).

@Eileen, I'm still working on the "pack light" method of travelling, so most times my main pack doesn't fit the carry-on rules. Having a Camera bag also complicates matters. I don't really mind checking the Pack and so far no problems with that approach. Cheers!

I was using ebags weekender, similar to, but half the price of Rick's bag. It weighs about 4 1/2 pounds. I then saw the Campmoor essential carry-on. I was hesitant to buy it because it was only $30 and weighed under 2 pounds (afraid it would be too cheaply made). Now that I've used it, I consider it a decent substitute for either Rick's bag or the ebags weekender. All three will do the trick, I have yet to see the utility in paying so much for the Red Oxx.

Just price I think.... for the money, the Covertible Carry On is a well thought out, sturdy bag that does everything it's supposed to. I use it as my only bag, carry it on, and am completely satisfied. Combined with the Civita day pack and you have a winning combination for lightweight travel in my books. I have no problems fitting my bag under my seat, or in the overhead bins

I agree with Ken, most everything is in a RS convertible carry-on bag and it gets checked. I carry a small day pack onto the plane with my essentials and one change of clothing (except pants). My checked bag is mainly clothing so I don't worry about it being 'tossed' around a bit. The bag has held up well and is worth every penny. We usually fly from point to point without changing planes and so far I have not had a problem. The last time my bag was lossed (for 4 days) was on a trip to Mexico when we changed planes in LA. That was over 30 years ago. Luggage seems to get unloaded a lot faster nowadays and is usually ready for pick up shortly after arriving at the carousel. Most of the airlines we fly to Europe on are getting stricter on size & weight of carry on luggage. Next month our flight to London allows only 5 k. and only 1 item. We pack light but we don't carry a big bundle onto the plane.

Currently my only carry-on bag is a 22" expandable Atlantic wheelie. While it has served me well, especially in the US, if I were to buy a convertible bag it would be the MEI Voyageur ($130). Why? Because of the rave reviews it gets on the One Bag site. Before you buy any bag, read what One Bag says you should note for material strength and quality of zippers. There is lots of good information on the site, including tips on how to pack light.

Red Oxx is a little smaller than RS classic (which is not the RS "convertible," that's another and bigger bag). Both seem too large for me, but I think it's a popular size range.

The Weekender intrigues me. At 22"x14"x5.5 it's about 1700 cu in, closer to what I need. The 22" is greater than that allowed on many European airline, but if it is not packed tight, it will probably squash down a little less than 22". However, the 3.6 #!?

Thanks all for the great leads. The MEI Voyager looks like a great bag and made in the USA.

Let me answer your original question. There is a big difference in the RS Bag and the Skytrain. Let's start with construction. They skytrain is made of 1000 denier Codura Nylon and has #10 YKK zippers. Both are top of the line in durability and construction. The RS bag is made of recycled polyester and the zippers don't come close. The Skytrain is heavier because of the better quality material. If you will be traveling a great deal, or your bags will be takng something of a beating, then get the Skytrain. Otherwise, the RS bag should suffice. As for the Voyageur, well, personally, I'd pay the few dollars more and get it over the RS bag. The Voyageur is also made of 1000 denier Codura but is desinged more like the RS bag. There are rumors that MEI has designed a new lighter weight Voyageur made of Ripstop Nylon. Any type of nylon is sturdier than polyester. The Ebags Weekender is a well built, well designed bag--if not a little too over designed. But it is cheap--costwise.