EVERGOODS CTB35 | Best Travel Bag or One Bag Companion!!

[@KelvinHew7]

Hi i am 5'7 and after comparing the CTB26 and CTB35 side by side, the latter looks way bulkier, feels heavier after strapping it on and its not proportional to my body size. Due to my weak back after surgery, i can only carry up to 10kgs max on my back. The CTB26 is an easy choice for me and i have it in OD Green, which is beautiful. On top of that, the CTB26 can fit under most of the airlines seat when its lightly packed out, which means i don't need to fully rely on the overhead cabin.

[@ECsEDC]

The OD green is a solid choice for the CTB26!! If you’re not one bagging you’ll be more than ok with using this paired with some other item like a roller bag or duffel. I mostly fly AA and have never had an issue fitting this under a seat either.

[@OnlyThe1Son]

"which means i don't need to fully rely on the overhead cabin". this is important information nowadays. reviewers should be discussing this option. under the seat.. passing budget airline requirements etc...

[@KelvinHew7]

@@OnlyThe1Son I share this information based on my personal experience. The flight was at max capacity, so the overhead cabin was full. I was offered by the airlines to check in my carry on luggage for free. Thankfully after arrival, I didn't have to wait too long to get my luggage. I don't like waiting to be honest, so I would prefer not to check in any baggage and risk the possibility of the luggage being lost or mishandled.

[@ECsEDC]

@@OnlyThe1Son I do agree but with all the different airlines having different size requirements it can be tough to give accurate statements if you havent physically tested the fit for all of them.

[@sashinger5230]

Nice in-depth review! How'd you decide between the CTB35, the PD 45 and the Able Carry Max in terms of comfort?

[@ECsEDC]

The PD45 is not comfortable for me at all. Tried on a friend’s and the straps were not what I needed. Their design language also does not speak to me so I don’t own one. Able Carry Max is by far the comfiest of the bunch with the CTB35 in second. The Max has big cushioned straps and back paneling to give you superior support. I will say the straps on the CTB35 are ok up to a certain weight, and that weight will vary person to person, but it’s a phenomenal bag otherwise.

[@sashinger5230]

@@ECsEDC Thanks for your reply! Yeah, I figured that as well. Already ordered the Max and it looks and feels excellent. Just not sure if it's a bit too small for my needs, especially if a have a water bottle with me... Also still having an eye on the Aer 35L because it might be the overall best compromise between size, comfort and features. But I guess the perfect bag doesn't exist. :)

[@ECsEDC]

@@sashinger5230 It's definitely a smaller 30L but it's still sizable. The TP3small is a great bag too, but I disliked the way they did the bottle pocket. If they had incorporated a stretch mesh like EVERGOODS or how Matador does it on the GlobeRider45, then it would have been my hands down favorite 35 bag out there. We're all searching for that 'perfect bag'!

[@sashinger5230]

@@ECsEDC Yeah, you're right. Aer's bottle pocket isn't very good indeed. And I've also heard their laptop suspension could be a bit more generous and I'm quite picky when it comes to the security of the tech compartment. Able Carry's is top notch! And since the TP3 is already in its 3rd year Aer might be coming up with a new version next year and fix these issues. Maybe I'll just keep the Max cause I really like it. It might be one the most beautiful, comfy and versatile bags around because it's right in between office/edc and travelling, at least for shorter trips or in combination with a small duffel/suitcase. And then maybe add the v4 of the Aer 35 for one bag travelling in the future.

[@epretto]

I use this bag a lot when road traveling. BTW , I removed the back framesheet ... I really don't miss it.

[@ECsEDC]

Feels good under weight of the bag packed out without the frame sheet?

[@motow9544]

Great review! Does the CTB35 fit underneath the airline seat? I have the CTB26 and it fits on most airlines that I’ve been on (international and domestic). Also, it’d be cool if you did a review on the EG sling that you packed.

[@ECsEDC]

When I’ve flown with the CTB35, I put it up top and use a sling (1.5 bag travel) for in flight needs. That gives me ample leg room which is definitely preferred. My CTB26 fit under the seat on every flight I’ve taken it on and based on that, I think the CTB35 is hit or miss. Depends on how full you packed it, which airline and which size plane you’re on. Stay tuned! I’ve got a bunch of sling reviews coming soon!

[@adamw6343]

Which other bags are you referring to when you mention there are other bags in this size with more comfortable shoulder straps? Also, wouldn’t using the hip belt help with shoulder discomfort when carrying the CTB 35 fully packed out for extended periods of time?

[@ECsEDC]

I don’t find the hip belt to be all that useful. It’s not super rigid and won’t transfer the weight from your shoulders to your hips as it needs to be flexible and stowable. Goruck and Aer makes very comfortable straps and they offer a 35L bag which would be a direct competitor. Additionally, there are many other travel bags in this ~35 range with comfy straps.