Cabin Zero Backpack Review – Best Carry-On Backpack for Long Trips

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I’m always on the hunt for new luggage for my travels. Since I almost never check in luggage, I look for carry-on size bags – backpacks, duffle bags, and roller bags. This review is for the Cabin Zero 36L, a trusty backpack I’ve been using a lot. I find it to be the best carry-on for long trips I’ve used so far. Read on to see if this is the right bag for your travels.

What should you look for in a carry-on bag?

1) Cost – save your money for experiences. How much should you spend? I’d say $100 or less.
2) Comfort – a padded back panel and shoulder straps will save you from back pain.
3) Great design – simplicity is key. You can’t go wrong with a classic, functional design.
4) Space – It should be big enough to fit everything you need for at least a week but small enough to be allowed as a carry-on.
5) Laptop compartment – A designated laptop compartment makes carrying your computer so much easier.

The Cabin Zero 36L Bag checks off all those boxes.

What is Cabin Zero?

Cabin Zero is a British luggage brand that specializes in cabin sized, lightweight luggage for adventure seekers. I came across Cabin Zero on the Instagram page of another travel blogger. I liked the design and functionality of their bags so I did some more research. That’s how I learned about the 36L Bag Cabin Bag. Right away, I knew I had to have it!

I immediately reached out to the Cabin Zero marketing team, and they were kind enough to send me the bag for free. I got the one in the color Naga Red because I just love how the color pops. The bag also comes in three other colors – absolute black, navy, and orange chill. It measures 44 x 30 x 20 cm and costs $76. Here are the main features

1. It’s Water Resistant

Cabin Zero makes its backpacks with waterproof polyester material. If you get caught in the rain, you don’t have to worry about your belongings getting wet. The water-resistant material can withstand even harsh weather conditions.

2. It’s Spacious

With a 36L capacity, the cabin Zero 36L can accommodate enough belongings for a month of international travel. I’ve used mine for three 1-month solo trips so far and couldn’t be happier. Cabin Zero bags meet most airline carry-on specifications so you can travel light. You can pack all your essentials into the backpack without it getting bulky. So far, I haven’t been using packing cubes, but I’d imagine they would make the load even easier to carry.

3. You Can Track Your Bag if It is Lost or Stolen

I think this is probably the best feature. Cabin Zero bags have lost and found tags built in so you can trace your bag if it’s lost or even stolen. How much peace of mind would that give you? Also, every bag comes with a 10-year warranty – the company will cover the cost of fixing any defects or send you a new bag. I didn’t even know backpacks could come with a warranty! Good to know.

After using this bag nonstop for more than 14 months, this is what I think. I’m going to tell you both the pros and cons because I believe in being transparent.

The Pros

• You can carry it as both a backpack and a suitcase.
• It has a simple design with lots of space for your belongings.
• The shoulder straps are padded so it’s comfortable to carry. This is important for times when I have to stand in long lines the airport.
• The size is perfect for everyday too – I use it regularly to carry my laptop, iPad, camera, and books. They all fit in there with room to spare. I find it to be the perfect carry-on for long trips.

  

  

   

  The Cons

• The main thing I don’t like so much is the front compartment. You have to open the zipper from the side, not the top. Maybe it’s just a personal preference, but I’d rather reach into a bag from the top where I can see everything clearly.
• The main compartment opens from the top so that’s where I put most of my things. That said, it is so spacious that it can become a bottomless pit. You need to organize your things well or you may have to dig for a while to find them. I’d recommend using packing cubes.

I reach for my Cabin Zero 36L all the time so I know it’s definitely a keeper. If you’re looking for a lightweight carry-on that’s comfortable and affordable, the Cabin Zero 36 L is a great choice. I’ve been using mine for over a year now and plan a new one sometime down the road.