THIS BAG GROWS ON YOU:

It may not be exactly like pulling a rabbit out of a hat, but pulling Eagle Creek’s enormous new Cargo Hauler Duffel XL out of its 15-inch by 13-inch by 4-inch-deep integrated end pocket is quite a nifty trick. Unzip the pocket and the Cargo Hauler unfolds to become a rugged 31.5-inch by 15.75-inch by 13.75-inch-thick water-resistant polyester duffel bag. For extra resistance to abrasion and stress, the Cargo Hauler has a foam-padded bottom and reinforced seams throughout. A big U-shaped double-zippered lockable “lid” makes for easy top access to the main compartment. The large-toothed tough zippers are meant for rough handling and have reflective finger-friendly pulls that can be manipulated even while wearing heavy gloves. Two spacious zippered end pockets (including the one into which the entire duffel stashes) are great for retrieving shoes, jackets and other gear without unzipping the main compartment. Six sewn-in heavy duty webbed loops spaced along the sides are for lashing the duffel to a roof top or clipping on other gear. You can carry the Cargo Hauler by its adjustable removable contoured padded backpack straps, two padded top-haul handles or side grab handle. Or use the backpack straps as double shoulder straps. Perhaps the most magical aspect of the Cargo Hauler Duffel XL is that, despite the heavy duty material, multiple pockets, straps and other features, the bag weighs in at barely 2.5 pounds. The duffel comes in a choice of five colors. It is also available in three smaller sizes, but I’m partial to maximum storage potential in a frameless duffel like this, especially at such a light weight.