Off-Roader
After 18,000 air miles and transits to mucky Thai elephant camps, this agile 3,965-cube convertible sustained only negligible knicks. The drop door’s main compartment easily assimilates ten days of garb and gear, while side exterior pockets can hold camera lenses and H2O. We stashed maps, documents, and a netbook in the large zippered front pocket. The oversize treaded wheels loved dirt, and the muscular wheel housing worked like a bumper guard during rocky transits. The hideaway backpack suspension isn’t as ergonomic as some but is fine for short hops. And high praise for the footlocker, which sequestered pachyderm-fouled boots. 7.9 lbs;
Practicality: 4.5
Durability: 4.3