Tom Bihn Aeronaut 30 + 45 Review
"Durability + Simplicity"
A massive, ultra-durable duffel/backpack built to last forever.
The Aeronaut from Tom Bihn is an excellent duffel/backpack conversion bag with minimal organization and insanely durable materials and construction.
Tom Bihn makes two Aeronaut bags — the 30L and the 45L. These bags are great picks for travelers who a). want a good bag that’s going to last forever, b). doesn’t need a laptop or tech organizer built into their bag.
These are awesome — they do have backpack straps, but they’re huge. Massive main compartment, plus side compartments on each side. Made with a lighter-weight Hypalon material, and one clever detail: what looks like an extra zipper is actually a removable divider between the external pocket and the main compartment. Almost no pocketing on the outside beyond those two big side pockets, and no laptop compartment — this one’s built for capacity, not tech organization.
My personal take: If you don’t need tech stuff while you travel, this is one of the best options out there. Massive capacity, excellent build quality, easier to travel with than a roller bag.
More on the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 30 + 45
What I like
- Extremely well made. It's going to last a long time, and it's a delight to use.
- Huge main compartment plus big side compartments. The outside compartments are big enough for a whole category of clothing.
- What looks like an extra zipper is a removable divider between the end pocket and the main compartment.
- Backpack straps that feel comfortable when you use them. Easier to travel with than a roller.
- The Aeronaut 30 is the ultimate Rick Steves bag. Carry it on, fit it under the seat, and be amazed how much you can fit.
- My pick in the "bring everything" category of my duffel roundup.
Watch for
- No laptop compartment and no tech pocket. I'd only use it when traveling without tech needs. Tom Bihn sells a padded laptop cache if you want one.
- Almost no pocketing on the outside beyond the two big side pockets.
- Not a heavy-duty hiking bag.
- I'd go with the 30 instead of the 45, and pair it with a packable daypack like the Tom Bihn Daylight.
Specs
- 30L and 45L
Where I've covered it
- Top 25 Duffels... and the only one you need at 14:30
- Tom Bihn Aeronaut 30 + 45 Bag Review at 0:00 (full review)
- Adventure Tote Bag: Tom Bihn Truck at 3:31
- Peak Design Travel Bag vs Nomatic, Wandrd, GoRuck at 24:36
- Mystery Ranch Rover Travel Backpack at 21:55
- Setout Divide Travel Pack Review at 16:44
- Aer Travel Pack 2.0 Update at 22:15
- Timbuk2 Blink & Wander Travel Packs Compared at 10:53
- Pakt One Travel Bag Massive Review at 29:07
- Peak Designs Travel Bag at 45:30
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