I love my 21" trusty wheeled case and have a system to easily travel with it for over for 3 weeks, but needed to re-evaluate when flying the first leg (of an already packing-challenging trip because of a week far north of the Arctic Circle) on the lowest fare on Norwegian Air. It weighs 6.5 pounds, empty.
The allowance is 22 pounds for bag and personal item, with also a significantly smaller allowance than my usual tote. I was going to admit defeat but for 2 reasons persevered: recent reviews of cancellations or delays on Norwegian, as a solo traveler carrying on might make the difference in other options and, using a luggage service for the NIN as well as a couple of regional flights on small planes in Finland. It took a couple weeks of trial and error and lots of time online so I wanted to share my 2.2 lb find:
http://www.eddiebauer.com/product/maximus-duffel---45l/82302367?showProducts=&color=938&sizetype=&size=
With the Memorial Day savings, about $65. It is not very attractive, like a shiny masculine gym bag but the zippers are super strong and it's water repellant. (When I was sure I would use it I cut off the 4 sets of grab handles, saving some more ounces!) Norwegian allows only 9" wide, but when packed loosely and by sort of stacking my packing cubes it squishes to the 9" (although could expand to 11").
Another big selling point were the two end pockets, big enough to hold shoes and a jacket. I will wear my 1 lb hiking sneakers and my almost 1 lb anorak rain coat during the check in process, then can easily stuff both away and swap to the Allbirds I love, after, without having to open the main compartment.
I learned here how all the little things do add up! Thank you for all the tips and advice! I know there are cheaper options for lightweight duffels but really needed it to hold up for the journey- this is thicker, although that probably adds a pound...
Posted by
Sapulpa, OK, USA
6552 posts
Congratulations! You're right, the bag isn't exactly attractive, is it? But it holds a lot and does the job. Your trip sounds fascinating. Have a wonderful time.
Posted by
1961 posts
That 's a durable expedition bag! North of Artic Circle - Neat! Great for biology. Perhaps, reindeer? Russian Oil Field? I would love a trip report from you on that.
My only concern about the bag is the size and lack of wheels. I don't have a clue about your body size and physical shape. I am a medium-ish woman. I would have much difficulty carrying that over one shoulder or crossbody. I would need backpack straps or wheels to manage it.
I'm not trying to be a wet blanket here.
Posted by
OP
West Coast
302 posts
I, too, thought my shoulder strap/backpack days were over ( 5'2" and 105 lbs) and so had treated myself to the Away bag for my 60th and bade a fond farewell to my former convertible carryon. This upcoming trip then evolved to first visiting more rugged northern locales (collecting folklore and sightseeing, not oil or scientific samples!) but I will finish in Helsinki and Copenhagen at which point my trusty zip-into-itself flimsy weight travel duffel will quickly emerge from my very ugly new bag and fill with massive shopping!
( I use the lightweight duffel for my carryon home to the US, and put all my laundry in the first carryon.)
The challenge was not only the weight restriction but the dimensions. Ironically the Away bag is precisely the limits, one of the main reasons I bought it- but due to the wheel weight and hardshell case too heavy.
Posted by
1961 posts
I kind of like the funky burnt orange one. The gray/red one should serve you well if you find yourself near a Russian oil field. It has a bit of that drab Russian communist "flare" to it. The red will help it stand out in a luggage bin or rural area. It's not as ugly as you may think. Just heavy durable, water resistant material which you may need. I hope you see some fantastic nature. What a great trip!
Posted by
OP
West Coast
302 posts
😎yes, I should blend right in at Kirkenes while awaiting my $$$$ shuttle into Finland. (I might've just tried rocking the funky orange option but the local store didn't have it for my self- imposed deadline to quit obsessing and make a decision). Thanks for the encouraging words! Happy and safe travels to all...