A Robust, Multi-Purpose Carry-On Bag for Frequent Travelers

Finding the ideal carry-on bag can be quite a challenge. Often, they tend to be either too small to accommodate everything you require or too large for cabin clearance.

Hard-shell cases on wheels eat up a significant portion of your weight allowance, whereas backpack-style bags are typically equipped with multiple straps and lack sophistication, particularly in high-end hotel settings or boardrooms.

The creators of the Minaal Carry-On 2.0 Bag assert they have solved these problems by designing a practical, multi-functional piece of luggage tailored for frequent travelers.

The product gained significant traction with a Kickstarter campaign for the original version, which surpassed its funding goal. After a second crowdfunding effort raised over $700,000, the latest version was launched, incorporating various upgrades to enhance its functionality.

Impressions

Upon first impressions, the Minaal Carry-On resembles any standard carry-on backpack. Constructed mainly from heavy-duty 600D Cordura fabric in options like grey or “Aoraki black,” this bag features minimal straps and zips, with only a subtle logo near the top, ensuring it remains understated.

However, the true differentiation appears upon opening the bag. The Minaal boasts a lie-flat main compartment design, mimicking the ease of a suitcase for loading and unloading. This functionality significantly reduces the time required to pack and unpack, especially for individuals living out of a single bag.

The suitcase comparison extends further; the bag’s harness can be zipped away with a roll-out cover, allowing the Minaal to function like a large briefcase. While carrying it in this style may depend on the weight inside, it proves convenient for navigating security, stowing in overhead compartments, or arriving at a business meeting without hassle.

A secondary, full-sized zipped compartment caters specifically to electronics, featuring a floating sleeve that accommodates both 15” and 11” devices at once. This sleeve is positioned centrally to safeguard your electronics from impact when dropped, and it can be removed quickly from the top or side to expedite security checks.

Additionally, this compartment includes a versatile section for essential items such as your passport, business cards, a dedicated document sleeve, and a lanyard for keys, complemented by a padded pocket for a smartphone.

Furthermore, an integrated rain cover can be deployed in seconds to protect the bag, while the pouch it resides in incorporates a removable hip strap, alongside a chest strap that enhances comfort when the Minaal is loaded and worn as a backpack.

Regarding security, the zippers for both primary compartments can be locked together, though those on the smaller front pockets lack this feature.

Overall, the bag exudes a robust and well-crafted feel, reflecting a thoughtful design process. The team has even released an instructional video for new users, an excellent touch to facilitate proper setup.

Real-World Testing

Ultimately, every piece of luggage must perform effectively in real-life situations. To evaluate the Minaal Carry-On, it was packed with many items from my existing backpack. Its rectangular shape and full-length zippers minimized wasted space, comfortably accommodating even a pair of hiking shoes.

Several days’ worth of clothing, toiletries, and miscellaneous goods fit effortlessly into the remaining compartments, with electronics stored in their designated area. For a carry-on, the Minaal felt surprisingly roomy.

When used as a backpack, the Carry-On 2.0 maintained comfort with about 25 pounds of weight, including during stair climbs and lengthy walks. It also functioned well in “briefcase” style at this weight, although exceeding this heft may prove cumbersome.

Accessing items was straightforward, particularly because of the separate electronics section. This eliminates the need to repack entirely after each security check, significantly benefiting frequent flyers.

Final Thoughts

The Minaal Carry-On 2.0 bag represents a high-quality and resilient luggage option for frequent travelers. Since its initial launch, it has only grown better. While it may not be the most economical option available, its superior design and quality materials elevate it above competing products.

For anyone seeking to travel with just one bag for just a few days or extended trips, the Carry-On 2.0 should be at the forefront of your choices.

Specifications

Dimensions: 21.65″ x 13.77″ x 7.87″

Weight: 3.1 lbs

Capacity: 35 liters (though the company expresses reservations about standard capacity metrics)

Price: $299