Chasm 70-Liter Convertible Duffle Bag

Replaced a prior duffel one of our daughters grabbed for a semester overseas. What I like: 1) It's made of extremely sturdy materials - heavy-grade coated fabric, big zipper, and looks very well made, stitches and handles aren't coming loose from normal use - on par with other duffels at this price point (I have a very large Gregory Alpaca as a point of comparison); 2) nice design features - pretty easy to remove the shoulder straps, which are more comfortable than most duffel bags; good interior pockets and an exterior pocket; extra wide opening when unzipped; the 'briefcase carry' straps can be snapped down and secured out of the way when carrying like a backpack. If you like single strap over-the-shoulder carry this doesn't offer that.

I purchased this a month ago to carry my work gear in. The size and design is great with soild zippers and nice mesh pockets for organization. However, the ad said it was water resistant and the first time the bag got wet in a mild rain storm it allowed everything inside to get soaked and the zipper was zipped tight. I'm unimpressed with it's inability to keep things dry.

I decided on the Thule 70litre duffle after much research, following the demise of my 30 year old well travelled duffle of a similar size. This duffle is so well constructed it will outlive me! It is ideal for the travelling we do. It can be locked, the zipper is very sturdy and protected. Convenient inside pockets have been thoughtfully included. It comes with detachable straps so it can be carried as a backpack. It arrived in a sturdy bag of the same material, which can be used as a very solid packing cube. I am so impressed I am going to buy a second one.

I bought the Thule Chasm prior to a month-long trip with my family to Europe. We wanted something packable that we could use for souvenirs. Rolled up, the Chasm fit comfortably in our suitcase on the way over. On the trip, it held up wonderfully, from one overhead bin to the next…durable and expandable, just as advertised. And though I cannot confirm this scientifically, there may be something magical about it, too, as it was the only bag that wasn’t misplaced on our return trip home… Buy this duffel with confidence! It’s a terrific product.