A Suitcase Perfect for a Long Getaway– TUMI Large Wheeled Split Duffel 22043 – Review

2017-06-09 Ken

Carry ons, backpacks, wallets and other bags

This mega suitcase can fit an Acton Blink S electric skateboard

Usually when I travel, I prioritize nimbleness and agility and that is why I always use a carry-on whenever possible.

My current go-to carry-ons are:

TravelPro FlightCrew 5 (go see review)
Briggs & Riley Baseline (go see review)

Once in while however, there would be inescapable occasions where would I need a bigger suitcase, whether it be for longer trips or simply because of the amount of luggage that I have to take with me.

The suit case that I rely on for such occasions is the TUMI Large Wheeled Split Duffel 22043.

This suit case is mega huge.

I will be staying in Hokkaido for two weeks starting yesterday and I had a lot of things that I needed to take with me so I’m currently traveling with the TUMI Large Wheeled Split Duffel 22043.
(This photo was taken when I went to Hokkaido in April. You wouldn’t be needing a down jacket like this in June!)

Today, I’ll be reviewing the TUMI Large Wheeled Split Duffel 22043!

Large Wheeled Split Duffel 22043 – Review

Size

There is no way they’re going to let you carry-on this bad boy so you will definitely be checking the bag.

You can see how large the bag is compared to the Briggs & Riley Baseline.

Main compartment

The bag has three outer pockets but you’ll probably be using the main compartment.

The unique feature of this bag is the split configuration that allows you to divide the main compartment into two layers.

You can use the lower layer for stuff like shoes and equipment and segregate it with items in the upper layer.

If what you need is packing space, you can unzip the curtain that separates the two layers and use it as one large compartment.

I personally use the lower layer for my running shoes, hair dryer and other miscellaneous items.

My clothes go in the upper layer.

I tried to see if I could fit my Acton Blink S in the lower layer and guess what?

It fits perfectly!

I don’t want to mess up the inside of the bag so I got a cheap skateboard case on Amazon.

Let’s start packing!

This is what I packed for this trip.

In the lower layer, I packed an

electric skateboard,
lamp for reading books,
running shoes and
an umbrella

With everything inside, the bag weighs 21 kg so it is massively heavy.

Moving around with it is a pain but on the other hand, I will be able to spend the two weeks on the road comfortably as if I was at home.`

In terms of security, the largest outer pocket and the zippers that allow access to the upper and lower layers are lockable, so you will be needing three locks if you want to lock everything up.

Benefits of the duffel bag design

The duffel bag design allows easy access from the top of the bag.

For that reason, I think it is easier to use in hotel rooms compared to regular suitcases.

I personal find this to be that largest benefit.

I also think it looks cool too!

The TUMI Large Wheeled Split Duffel 22043 in action

Summary

The TUMI Large Wheeled Split Duffel 22043 is a suitcase that will come in handy if you have it in your arsenal.

One small concern that I have about the bag is how it tips outward when you stand it up.

However, I have not found this to be a immediate problem because the legs are very sturdy and seems to prevent the bag from tipping over even when it is packed full.

I don’t have good impressions about the TUMI ALPHA2 series suitcases but this one I like!

Now that I know that it fits the Blink S, I’ll be taking the board with me on more trips to come!