I ordered the 40L and it was definitely bigger than expected. Initially I had imagined it to have the width and length of a large school backpack. It was pretty hard to unstuff and I wish that this bag had more internal compartments and pockets, but those are my only complaints. The quality of this bag is amazing. It has very sturdy fabric, seams, ... Read Moreand zippers and I really appreciate the fact that it is water-resistant. I dont mind the price of the bag since I know that it will be able to last me awhile and I will always support businesses that have sustainable and ethical practices. Im not big on outdoorsy stuff outside of glamping, but this bag is great for traveling, camping, and daily use.
I use this for extra gear, snacks, drinksin the boat for late autumn Musky Hunting. Bag sits out in weather on boat, shore back of F150. I have hauled building materials in this bag too. Lasted travels to Finland it was my carrying. Navy blue and chartreuse are super attractive and I am proud to carry it everywhere. Utility of size, pockets, zipper... Read Mores, straps, handle work great for my life. I also love how the bags are measured in Liters. I love this brand so much. Had first stand-up shorts 30 years ago and was hooked.
I swim in the ocean four times a week. I need a durable and handy bag to carry my wetsuit (a Patagonia R3) and all of the related stuff. It is much easier to access the contents of a duffle than with the backpack style bag most of my friends use. The bag is very well designed and has been made to last a long time. The previous Patagonia bag that I ... Read Moreused for this purpose lasted almost 20 years. The new bag has the right number of pockets and the detachable shoulder straps are a great feature, plus I could pick the size that was correct for how it would be used. I buy Patagonia products because of their quality and the knowledge that everything about the design, materials and the production of my purchases is based on an very high environmental ethic.
I bring this to work as my gym bag, but also regularly fly with it. It is the perfect size and the build quality is very nice. I like the water resistant exterior.
I bought this bag as a travel carry-on, and it is fantastic. The size is perfect, and I didn't look like a tourist with a rolly bag when I made my way around the city after landing. The straps are easy to tuck in if needed. My only qualms were that it was really hard to unstuff upon recieving it- so I definitely won't be able to stuff it ... Read Morein the future- and that the straps aren't super comfortable after a while, which is to be expected. Still definitely love it, and would recommend to everyone.
Purchased this bag for a trip, wanted something easier to carry onto planes for checked baggage. The backpack straps are incredibly convenient, felt that the price was slightly high, hence only the four-star rating. Overall quite a nice bag.
I've been eyeing this bag for a while. I wasn't sure it would be big enough for my needs, because it looks small. But this thing really is a black hole! I crammed a ton of gear in it as a carry on on a trip and had a lot of extra room to spare! I like the option of backpack straps too. The outside pocket is accessible inside too, which is... Read More convenient. I really love this bag!
This BlackHole bag will fit everything you need for a long weekend getaway! These bags will take a beating and still look great. I have several sizes now for all travel and camping occasions and do not travel with out them. They are great for hauling all your gear for a trip too.
Great Bag! Versatile, durable, and lots of space. I would recommend adding a few internal pockets on the sides or ends to provide additional space for small items that get lost inside the larger bag.
Super useful product. The size is perfect for a weekend trip or to pack up a bag to the gym. Overall I love the black hole duffel bags and enjoy that I don't have to worry about wear and tear
Having had two of the 60L Black Hole Duffels for five years now, I ordered the 40L for my son. It's perfect, just a smaller version of the bigger bag I've taken to multiple countries, 20+ states, countless trips and campsites. Holds up well, great material. My only complaint: the 40L is a lot more difficult to fold back into the little po... Read Morecket than our 60L bags. I want to buy myself a smaller one now, too!
the 40l version is the perfect size for a gym bag. it is not too big and not too small. also doubles as a travel duffel. the material is high quality and water resistant. could not have asked for more. the backpack straps also add a good way to comfortably cary the bag.
Your review is based on clothing. My past purchases have been Black Holes. Which are some of the best built traveling/adventure duffles built. Water proof, they take a beating and are easy to transport. I do have a large selection of Patagonia clothing. Have not purchased anymore lately. They just do not wear out.
These are so helpful. Use one all summer to keep mtn bike stuff in the truck. That way there are always extra gloves or water bottles when needed.
Then throw the babies clothes in for a night at Grandma's, and you are dialed.
Ok This is a durable incredibly constructed piece of travel gear that I had to replace because my daughter "borrowed" my first one when she went to college. Suspicously she hasn't returned in. Great gear!
I have been intrigued by the Black Hole line of duffels and finally bought one at 40 liters in navy. It is just what I hoped it would be, a versatile travel bag or back pack that fits enough clothing for a California (read mostly warm weather) week.
It is light weight, but built well. I am quite satisfied with this purchase.
The bag is durable! Its a perfect size for short trips or busy weekends or anything in between. The strong material looks like itll stand the test of time
Bought this for weekend trips and it does the job. I don't pack heavy but you need to pack smart as things get tight pretty quick. It's mostly one space, and I wish there was a section for shoes or toiletries (I used a smaller bag for them). Not sure how useful mesh in the top flap is either. Shoulder straps are great, as are the other ha... Read Morendles. Fits in overhead bins nicely.
We love this bag, use it for camping, traveling, sports, etc. Its great to fold up and store after using and not taking up a lot of space like other bags. Definitely would recommend to anyone.
This bag has been excellent. I have used it as a carry on for planes as well as for car trips.
The backpack straps are comfy and, of course, if you need a shoulder strap, just use one backpack strap at it's longest length, diagonally. The handles on the bag are excellent, and the water resistance is a nice touch.
The bag is quite aesthetical... Read Morely pleasing to my eye. I have received several compliments on it.
It fits enough clothes for about a 5 day trip, especially when supplemented with a small backpack. Great for flying when checking a bag is not favorable.
Overall, really couldn't be happier!
I travel out of town for work. This 40L duffel holds all I need for 3 to 4 days out of town. No extra nonsense just a big cavernous bag that swallows my gear. Love the bag.
I use this bag for transporting my motorcycle helmet, boots and gloves to the race track. My race leathers go in an original Black Hole Bag purchased in 1992. Great products, but I would expect nothing less from Patagonia.
I use this bag for the gym. At first I thought it was kinda small but after reorganizing my items that I keep in there such as my foam roller, a jump rope, two pairs of training shoes, and extra clothes for work, everything fits like a glove with room to spare. I love this bag! All black color-way looks so sleek too.
My trusty duffel from decades ago functions as well as it did when it was new but this will be much more appropriate for the travel I do these days, and the removable backpack straps and waterproof materials are a huge improvement in functionality.
Dont worry the old one will still work great for winter equipment hauling!
Excellent material, brown color and orange logo is really nice. The posibility to carry it as a bag or as a backpack is the best thing overall. The only thing that it could be better is that there could be a pocket especially for carrying things vertically as a backpack.
I used this on my trip to Hawaii. Perfect for the beach with sand cleaning easily off without getting the inside wet. I wish there was a pocket for a water bottle, but love the backpack straps.
This bag cubes out perfectly to fit under the seat in front of you perfect for 3-5 days of travel.
Both my partner and I each have one as well as the kids.
I've had a 55L Black Hole bag for years, and used it for everything from camping out of the truck to hauling gear to AK for remote trips. But its too big for a carryon bag. With air travel back, and baggage fees thought he roof, I was looking for a carryon bag that would hold enough for a flight east to catch up with my family, my daughters an... Read Mored grandkids after this long break. The 40L back was perfect, fitting in enough clothes, a little extra gear, and still fit in the overhead. And it looks to be every bit as durable as my larger bag.
I love using the 40L black hole bag for everything from 7+ day vacations to long weekend car-camping trips. The padded, removable shoulder straps are great for hauling it around airports, and it's spacious enough to store everything I need.
However, I took it for a very rainy weekend in Yosemite and mistakenly left it on the floor of my tent,... Read More which got very wet. I was feeling comforted thinking about the waterproof black hole fabric until I realized that every part of the bag EXCEPT the bottom is lined in black hole fabric. It was pretty unpleasant having damp, smelly clothes all weekend when I thought I could count on the durability of my black hole bag.
My 13-year-old grandson loves it
This was a birthday gift for my 13-year-old grandson who is a man of very few words. He must've used the word "cool" six times And actually said he loves it. He used it the very next weekend to go to a family wedding
Amazing duffel! It is built to last. Im really happy I purchased it. It is used multiple times a week. Its the perfect size for quick short trips. I like that there are multiple ways to carry it. I really like the side handle, I use that the most.
First bag from Patagonia, and expectations were quite high. So, when arrived I was blown away by the thoughtful details. 2 way zippers, minimal wasted space, flap covers zipper, easy on-off backpack straps, when backpack main compartment is against back (safer, harder to steal from).
First trip was family vacation to Lake Tahoe. Knew we needed a s... Read Moreimple pack for food, water, towels, etc for full days outdoors. Put on the backpack straps and didnt look back. No, it is not as comfortable as a real pack, but more than amazing for light tourist hikes and climbs. Sand from beach simply shakes out.
Searching for a reason to buy next size up its that perfect, go-to weekend pack.
Bought the item for a rafting trip down the Grand Canyon and the size limit was specified. The bag had extra spots to put stuff and the backpack straps made it super easy to carry around.
Thanks for the feedback, Robert! Even though the Black Hole bags are not waterproof, we're glad this duffel worked for your trip.
June 18, 2021
Easy carry-on
This duffle bag was just what I was looking for. I wanted a carry-on suitable bag, compliant with size restrictions, comfortable for carrying and sufficient space for my clothes. It met all of those with total satisfaction.
I bought this bag as a gift for my husband and he used it as a carry-on for a recent airline trip. He loves the size, sturdiness of the bag, and the shoulder straps that make it easier for him to carry.
Not too much to say, it's a great bag! Perfect size, made from recycled material, comes in all black, what more do you want from a duffle bag? I purchased it for fishing, and then grabbed a second for travel (because it's the perfect size). 10/10 would recommend.
If you're trying to decide between this and the MLC 45L, go with this. I've lived/traveled out of both for extended periods of time and can say that if you can manage with 5 liters less, you are going to get a bag that has much better backpack straps, balance, and structure. Separate from your carry-on many airlines allow a small 10-15L b... Read Moreackpack as a "personal item," allowing you to more than reclaim that extra 5L anyway.
Love these travel duffels, I ended up buying one of each size so I always have the perfect sized bag for travel. The backpack straps are great. 40L is perfect for carry-on, 55L is borderline too big. Can get away with it if it isn't packed too full.
Bought this for two main purposes: 1) carry my snowboard boots, binding and helmet/goggles; 2) biz trips (less than week). The quality and durability are amazing and designed incredibly well. Love the backpack straps, which can come off. Also, love all the color options. It's a keeper.
I have a few black hole bags in different sizes. The 40L is my favorite. Its my go to weekender and short trips. Love the backpack straps for navigating airports.
Absolutely an amazing bag! Great structure, perfect size for a day out or a weekend get away.
Converts to back back and I love it!
I bought the Hot Ember (orange/red) LOVE IT!
I have the 40 and 55. At 59, the 40 is very comfortable to use as a back pack when fully filled. One thing I would change... instead of the bag being able to be packed inside of the side pocket, I wish it was made to be stored into a stuff sack that wasnt a part of the bag itself. Like how TNF base camp is. Being realistic, 9/10 people arent going ... Read Moreto be able to pack it back into its pockets. Luckily that pocket is reinforced because I almost ripped it apart trying to get it out of the original packaging. Other than that, great bag. Fits my needs better than the 55.
Nice well made bag, feels durable. The 40L size is perfect for my needs. The lack of a long single strap for throwing over one shoulder seems like a pretty big oversight. The backpack straps work as intended, but I bought a duffel not a backpack. I added my own strap by hooking it diagonally to the lashing loops and it works ok, but looks a bit out... Read More of place.
This bag is amazing! Love the size, The color is shiny even tho its black.
I did have a lot of trouble trying to open it since it comes packed in the actual inside pocket for the duffle bag itself, it took me a good 5 minutes. I wish they just shipped it in a small box instead.
The black hole duffle is the bag you have been looking for. I have the 40 L one and have gifted it to many people who also love it. It is the perfect size for a weekend trip. Looks small but can hold so much more than you think! The back pack straps can be removed but I keep them on to throw over my shoulder for easy transport. These bags are so du... Read Morerable I have had them on top of cars for long road trips, camping, on sail boats, just about everywhere your adventure takes you. Upgrade your adventure luggage game and buy this bag!!
I am an EMT starting out. This bag is the right size for all my personal needs on the ambulance. It fits perfectly in the ambulance. Im very satisfied with this purchase
I wish the zipper was different so I can secure them and be more confident it wouldnt get snagged and unzip on the conveyor belt for checked bags. But its a nice bag.
I purchased my first Black Hole 55L duffel bag for a trip to Thailand. The ability to turn the duffel into a backpack with ease is what made me excited about this purchase. I found the black hole backpack was one of my favorite bags. I went on to purchase the 25L backpack and the smaller cubes for my travels. This most recent purchase of the 40L ba... Read Moreg was to use as my carry on bag for a trip to Singapore. These bags are extremely strong and work well on your back or strapped to the roof of your vehicle for an off road trip.
what a great purchase! I am stunned at how much I can fit into this duffle, the bomber construction and the technical features. Wonderful design and execution Patagonia!!
I used this bag for the first time for a camping trip this weekend and it worked great. Nice size (I got the 40L bag) and good side pockets. Plus the straps and pack away pocket make it flexible for different uses.
The 40L duffel is amazing. For one, it packs into itself for storage convenience. You'd be surprised how much clothes you could fit inside. You can carry it in your hand or use the detachable backpack straps. I recommend anything in the black hole collection.
This duffel bag has been very convenient for every activity I do! I got it in black so it wouldnt stand out but many people have complimented on it. From the courts to the gym and the trail it has really maintained its quality. My only recommendation would be for it to have a typical duffel shoulder strap for when I only want to sling it onto one s... Read Morehoulder.
I love this bag. It's very spacious with a nice inside pocket. It's great for a long trip because it fits everything and it can be used as a backpack or duffel. The smolder blue color is actually a charcoal - love it.
The 40L duffel is amazing. For one, it packs into itself for storage convenience. You'd be surprised how much clothes you could fit inside. You can carry it in your hand or use the detachable backpack straps. I recommend anything in the black hole collection.
This duffel bag has been very convenient for every activity I do! I got it in black so it wouldnt stand out but many people have complimented on it. From the courts to the gym and the trail it has really maintained its quality. My only recommendation would be for it to have a typical duffel shoulder strap for when I only want to sling it onto one s... Read Morehoulder.
I love this bag. It's very spacious with a nice inside pocket. It's great for a long trip because it fits everything and it can be used as a backpack or duffel. The smolder blue color is actually a charcoal - love it.
Patagonia has invented a new form of geometry, because their latest iteration of Black Hole Duffels all seem to have more capacity than their rated liters. MY 40L is no different. It holds my 4 pairs of climbing shoes, harness, chalk bag climbing shorts and t-shirt and a Patagonia Down Sweater Full Zip, all with some room still to spare. Plus, when... Read More I get to the gym and change, I can throw my pants and work shirt in there. The Cobalt Blue color is nice; elicits compliments.
I used this bag to camp, ski, bike trips. Its great for everything and you can just drop it in the dirt, snow slush, in the rain, doesnt matter your stuff will stay dry. Also very heavy duty and zero concerns about it !
Love this bag. Easily convertible to backpack- the size of the 40L bag is surprisingly big enough for a short trip but also not too big for your back. Not sure why they had a sale on the color I bought but it was the one I wanted and ended getting it for 50% off. Not a bad price in full and an amazing value at $70. Durable zippers and water resista... Read Morent.
I used this bag to camp, ski, bike trips. Its great for everything and you can just drop it in the dirt, snow slush, in the rain, doesnt matter your stuff will stay dry. Also very heavy duty and zero concerns about it !
The Black Hole Duffel 40L is the perfect carry-on for international travel! It passed as my carry-on to and from Belize. It was perfect for a 15 hour travel day that included a bus, a plane, another plan, a boat, another boat, and a golf cart. Would highly recommend to anyone that travels light. Also, my wife has the same bag from last year, and we... Read More noticed that the 2020 edition is slightly bigger than the 2019 edition - the extra room was seriously appreciated!
One of the best purchase I've made. Absolutely love this bag. Carryon sized and always fits more than I expect. The straps are an awesome addition too!
Having already invested in several Patagonia packs - the old Kid's 15L no longer avail, replaced with Refugio 28L for my son's school backpack, the old 60L Black Hole Duffel, the old MLC Headway 45L - I decided it was time to invest in another Black Hole - the new 40L. This one is for my son (I truly believe in quality over quantity with ... Read Moregear and clothing - even though he is 6 and will outgrow everything eventually!) - so he can have his own camping/ski weekend pack. Aka so I can reclaim more room in my own duffel! Bonus - the 40L will also double as his carry-on pack (while I use my old MLC Headway) for plane rides. As always, the quality and functionality are top-notch. I have been a long-time supporter and customer of Patagonia for so many reasons, including the Iron-Clad Guarantee. And just like all my Black Hole Cubes (I have Small and Medium) and the previous 60L Duffel, I know I will be able to stuff a lot of clothes, shoes, dopp kit, and gear into this 40L. I also appreciate the bright, clash-y, and somewhat garish colors, for the immediate recognition especially when camping with friends or on plane trips. I got the Roamer Red for my son. The easy latching for the backpack straps are great! And the burly exterior and bottom are awesome for throwing around in the wilderness and an overhead bin or under the seat. I know this 40L will be used for so many years to come on all our adventures! Thank you, Patagonia!!
Dimensions don't seem to be as advertised. Otherwise a useful and seemingly rugged bag.
I carefully measured my husband's trusty old travel bag (that is coming apart at the seams) and it seemed that this new bag would replace the one he has used for years and loves. When it arrived, I couldn't figure out where the dimensions advertised online came from. The new bag, although it was advertised to be larger, actually fit insid... Read Moree of his old bag. It seems like the dimensions advertised don't account for the fact that the bag actually tapers quite a bit from the base to the top. This reduces the total area and makes the bag smaller than it appears to be based on the specs. I'm going to return the bag because it's not the size my husband wants, but if you're not worried too much about size, I think it would probably make a great smallish/carry on-sized duffel.
I bought this for travel and am so pleased I did. The size is great for easy lightweight travel, and fits in the overhead compartment of planes. I like the rugged nature of all the black hole products and can see myself using this for a very long time. Space wise it challenges me to be more go light which is good, best use is for a long weekend or ... Read Moreweek long trip.
40 liters is a perfect for a long weekend but doable amount of space for up to a week or so, depending on how you pack.
I ordered the 55 L and took on a horse pack trip where it rained for 7 days. All my stuff stayed dry. Got the 40L for an upcoming trip to Africa where we are weight and size limited. Love the back pack straps as well as the ability to carry it on my shoulder.
Super cute color! Will fit perfectly for an extended week trip (I pack small). Or even on day trips when you need a spare bag for anything. Ample pockets and perfect use of space. Fits on my back perfectly. Going to use it during my holiday travels going home.
I am SO happy with my purple duffel! The quality is beautiful, the size ideal and with it being waterproof too and with removable backpack straps, I think I'll use this for the rest of time.
The durability and packability of this bag exceeds all standards set by any angler. I can throw in some clothes and essentials as well as some spare tackle, load up the truck and set out on a new fishing adventure!
Favorite new bag. Hands free and wheel free, and carry-on friendly with no questions or dirty looks from flight attendants. I pack light and managed to go on a 9 adventure with only this bag and small sling as "personal item."
Awesome, functional piece of luggage. Stands on end without falling over, great wheels for uneven surfaces. Tough outer fabric. Just traveled to Peru and it came home unscathed. As long as you're not packing bricks, it will hold about 50 pounds of normal travel/clothing/shoes/gear.
This bag is sturdy and fits everything I need for a trip to the gym or for a weekend trip. The backpack straps are awesome, and it overall seems very durable. I'm very happy with this purchase.
Love this size for small, short trips. Slings like a backpack for easy maneuvering. I think it will house my mountain biking gear to and from the trail head so I always know where everything is.
I chose Patagonia because I wanted something that would last more than a decade and still look good. I wish I was someone who could be gentle with expensive things but this bag makes it unnecessary. The little while I've had it, I've shoved it into lockers, spilled water inside, and loaded it with food, snacks and clothes and it took it i... Read Moren stride looking brand new. I was a little concerned about the fabric holding creases but it goes back to it's smooth shape immediately. When I spilled water inside, the fabric didn't absorb it so I could just tip the bag over a sink and all was good. I packed it full with clothes, a towel, books, a lunch, and lashed my yoga mat to the side and the seams didn't look the slightest bit strained even though it was really heavy. I'd recommend this bag for any activity.
The included shoulder straps are too short. I have them at full length when the bag is full and they barely fit my shoulders. Not very functional to wear as a pack.
I bought this bag as I live abroad and travel with my small children (currently 1 and 3) by myself on the 24 hour journey back to my parent's house annually. Between carrying one child and pulling the other in a wheeled kid's suitcase, I don't have hands for anything else. BUT a regular backpack doesn't carry enough diapers, sna... Read Morecks, changes of clothes, etc for the long flight, and a hiking backpack isn't very accessible for placing on the floor of the plane when you're holding a kid in your lap. While I haven't gotten to test this bag out on the plane yet, I have used if for a full day outdoors outing for the family. We have no problem storing all of our stuff and when water bottles exploded and soaked kids jumped around we didn't need to worry about the things in the bag getting wet or soggy diapers - everything stayed dry! I would definitely recommend planning to compartmentalize with this bag though since there are no pockets except a mesh pocket only large enough for papers (I kept a dry washcloth) and the pocket which doubles as the bag for packing the duffle back up (though I am not confident I will ever get it back in there) which was large enough for a small wallet and my iPhone.
I had heard for a long time that the Black Hole was a fantastic bag. I decided to grab the small version as I generally only need a few days and pack light. It held all I needed for a four day trip to Chicago for a race with space to spare. Easy to carry and fit in the overhead bin with no difficulty, the Black Hole was fantastic.
I bought the smallest size for my 6’ tall husband. It is plenty big, he can pack everything he needs for normal noncamping travel and carry it easily. Better than his backpack for regular trips, because it has a suitcase interior. Love the blue color combo!
So I have been wanting this type of bag for a while due to its versatility as a backpack/duffel combo. I recently went on a trip that I specifically needed a sturdy duffel for, which gave me a great excuse to spring and buy one. At first, I reasoned that the 55L would be a better fit for me, as in the past I had considered the 60L. After watching a... Read More video on youtube of someone comparing the two versions, the 55L looked noticeably bigger for whatever reason. Even so, I ordered and received the 55L. I am a 5"2', 135 lb woman and wearing the 55L as a backpack made me look like a kindergardener. The bag was long and flopped over in a weird way when I tightened the straps. Even with the extra space, I could not justify the largeness of it, especially because I planned to use it for the gym regularly. The 40L is perfect, and it is what I would classify as general duffel bag size. It looks fairly normal as a backpack too. Now I look super cool whenever I bring it around- exchanging was definitely the right choice for me. The blue is GORGEOUS, it is honestly more of a deep blue/purple which is my favorite color. Very satisfied!
I bought this as a bag to use for short trips when a roller bag isn’t necessary. A typical duffel isn’t practical for me because I am not strong enough to comfortably cannot carry one through airports and train stations. That’s why I love my Black Hole Duffel! The backpack straps are extremely comfortable and allow me to haul it around with ease. P... Read Morelus the deep plum color is so pretty. :-)
my sister had this bag before me and I borrowed it once and LOVED it. Had to get my own- it’s the perfect bag for a weekend flight somewhere. I can fit three pairs of shoes and a bunch of clothes in it. Would highly recommend.
Love this bag - got the 40L but then sent it back and upgraded to the 55L. I use these bags for the extreme adventures when I need my stuff to be secure and water tight. Love the bright blue color too!
I bought this because I can bring it to soccer and lacrosse fields and leave it on the wet grass and the gear inside stays dry! It’s great that you can wear it as a backpack. Nice size for extra sweatshirts water bottles - I can even stuff a blanket in it.
I’ve taken this on a week-long car camping trip and now a cheap flight where nothing but a backpack are allowed. This bag has worked perfectly in both situations. Love it’s tough exterior, how much it actually fits, The wide 3 side opening of the zipper, detachable backpack straps, and side handles. I went for the blue though I debated a while betw... Read Moreeen that and plum. I don’t know if I’ll ever get it back in the pocket-packbag, that was thought pulling it out. But I’m not sure I’ll ever want to because I’ll be using it so much.
I have been a long time user of the black hole bags and love them! I honestly have more then I need! They stand up to the test of travel for sure. The old 90L was my go to when I needed to check a bag when flying and the 60L was perfect for a carry on. They are durable, waterproof and all around awesome to take anywhere!
I recently bought a new 55... Read MoreL to help me with moving and was surprised to find that it was much bigger than my old 60L. I could easily fit my old 60L in the new 55L and once I packed it it was clear is it way to big to carry on a plane. I ended up buying a new 40L which I found to be similar to the old 45L but it's actually a little bigger which was nice. I used this as my carry on and checked the 55L.
My one suggestion is that if you are in the market for a new black hole bag look at the dimensions. The new ones are a bit different from the old ones so check the dimensions to make sure you get the right size. A huge positive on the new bags is the main opening, it closer to the edges of the bag so it seems much bigger than the old ones!
This is a very well made duffel. For me the 40L is the most versatile, since it can be used as a daily carrier or for a long weekend. I would not say that this bag is better than TNF, Osprey, Mammut or any other bag from top manufacturers of outdoor gear. It certainly is way overpriced, which is why 4 stars are given. Also, branding is a bit large ... Read Moreand obscene.
I return the bag without using it. Bag was not a functional duffel. No separate pocket for wet or dirty gear — OK if you want to carry around only clean clothes; not OK if you want to carry around wet, sweaty or dirty clothes. No shoulder strap to carry in a horizontal way over one shoulder, like a duffel. Can be rigged to carry on end as a backpac... Read Morek, but the backpack straps are padded in a way that does not enable single strap duffel type carrying. Great looking bag, great material...tried to make it work ... but it isn’t functional.
Well, this is the fourth Black Hole I have purchased (to have one in every size) and I could not imagine going back to using regular luggage. Perfect size for the plane. Fits about 7 days worth of clothes and an extra pair of shoes. Love the colors.