Rolling duffel bags

[JohnBrew]

Sorry if this isn't posted in the correct place. Michael refers to packing certain items in a "rolling duffel bag". Can someone give the name of the manufacturer Michael uses or does anyone else have a recommendation? Specifically I need a bag which will hold a 26" tripod.

[Robert DeCandido PhD]

Does it have to roll? The added weight of the frame/wheels of such a duffel bag cuts down on the amount of "stuff" you can bring on an airplane. On the other hand, if flying is not a consideration then a duffel bag from REI is the best quality bag I know (made for REI) - for the price. North Face makes some really expensive duffel bags that are waterproof...

try a search at REI...and also do a search for duffel bags via Sierra Trading Post - there are deep discounts sometimes for well-known brands (I saw a good deal for a North Face duffel the other day)...

Look for one with a YKK zipper (meaning heavy duty large large zipper that is easy to open/zip), and heavy duty taslanated nylon exterior. You want to be able to lock the zipper with a small external lock (TA approved for airline travel)...a small external (zippered) pocket is nice to have too.

There was a time when high quality duffel bags of all sizes were easy to find...Eddie Bauer carried a line that had nice leather padded handles - I still use one purchased in 1979 (when a Freshman in college) today...

[JohnBrew]

Thanks, Robert. Yeah, unfortunately it does have to roll. My back isn't what it used to be. This search is due to the fact that I can't gate check my tripod (I checked with the airline) and I don't want to check it separately because I feel it's chances of getting to the destination are poor and insurance won't cover the replacement cost.

[jjj]

I think the issue you may have is that cabin allowance sizing won't accommodate a 26" tripod. Though if it is placed diagonally it may fit, but may make packing other stuff tricky.
I usually put tripod in my checked luggage if I'm taking one.

[acktdi]

This survived my flight to China as checked luggage. 
http://www.walmart.com/ip/Protege-32-Expandable-Rolling-Duffel-Bag-Black/11069689

For the price, it's nearly disposable.

[aduke]

I have a 30" Load Warrior rolling duffel made by Eagle Creek. It was not cheap but is well-made. The 22" tripod disappears inside. When I travel, I tend to take a minimum of clothing, but even on 28 day cruises, I've yet to fill it up. If it were to be full, it would probably be overweight. The empty duffel weights about 8lbs, 4Kg.

Alan

[JohnBrew]

Thanks for all the replies. Wow, you're not kidding when you say the Walmart bag is almost disposable for the price. I did find Kevin Raber's article on his bags after doing a search. The Club looked okay, but with no dividers inside and separate boxes for your clothing it didn't push any buttons for me. I finally settled on an Eddie Bauer Travex Expedition rolling duffel in the large size. Since it listed an overall length of 26" I called them to find out the inside diagonal measurement and they informed me it was 40", more than enough to accommodate my tripod. I liked several features but the bottom section being all hard plastic (or whatever it is) and separate from the clothing area was a winner for me.

[DeanChriss]

This survived my flight to China as checked luggage. 
http://www.walmart.com/ip/Protege-32-Expandable-Rolling-Duffel-Bag-Black/11069689

For the price, it's nearly disposable.

I laughed when I clicked the link and saw the bag. We got two of these in 2003 as "disposable" bags and we're still using them! These things have been everywhere and they're still undamaged.

[Telecaster]

I finally settled on an Eddie Bauer Travex Expedition rolling duffel in the large size. Since it listed an overall length of 26" I called them to find out the inside diagonal measurement and they informed me it was 40", more than enough to accommodate my tripod. I liked several features but the bottom section being all hard plastic (or whatever it is) and separate from the clothing area was a winner for me.

I have one of these. Does the job very well. I usually stow my shoes & belt in the bottom section after I arrive at an airport (and wear slippers on the plane).   

-Dave-

[PhotoEcosse]

I am able to get my Manfrotto 190CXpro4 tripod easily into my hand baggage - but after twice being ordered to take it out and re-stow in my checked luggage (because it could be used as an offensive weapon!!!), I no longer try to sneak it past security at airports.

[Wayne Fox]

I've used this one for about 5 years. Still in great shape.

http://www.rei.com/product/846054/rei-wheely-beast-wheeled-duffel-34

[tektrader]

Ours lasted 2 trips until the stitching gave way. $14 is a bargain

[ripgriffith]

I am able to get my Manfrotto 190CXpro4 tripod easily into my hand baggage - but after twice being ordered to take it out and re-stow in my checked luggage (because it could be used as an offensive weapon!!!), I no longer try to sneak it past security at airports.

Since 2001 I've never ever been allowed to take a tripod into the cabin; monopod, yes (sometimes disguised as a walking stick), but not a tripod.

[JohnBrew]

I used to be able to get my Hakuba into hand luggage without a problem and never was questioned over it (but once overheard the TSA inspector say "oh, that's a tripod. It's ok" as it passed through the x-ray machine). I actually got more trouble with my Leica rangefinder. But when I went to an RRS tripod, the length was just too much. BTW, the Eddie Bauer 26" turned out too small and I had to get the largest one - a 34" which worked out well. The so-called "easy returns" process was anything but, however.