Before I get into the details of this bag, let me mention one thing. It costs $23 including shipping to the U.S.
The Goodhope Convertible is an economical, smaller than maximum legal carry-on.
It’s measurements are 18” x 12” x 6.5” and it weighs 2.2 lbs with the shoulder strap.
The exterior is 600 denier polyester and the inside lining is vinyl.
On the front of the bag are two smaller pockets one large enough for a 3-1-1 bag but neither large enough for a standard magazine.
The smaller front compartment contains a sewn in organizer strip consisting of two open pockets, one zippered mesh pocket and 4 penholders. The zippers on this compartment go down about a third of the way on each side. It is large enough to hold a netbook or tablet but there is no protection for those items.
The main compartment has two unique tie down straps. They don’t unclip. To use the straps, you have to loosen them, stick whatever you want them to hold down underneath and then tighten. The bag opens wardrobe style with the zippers fully opening on three sides.
BTW—did I mention this is a $23 bag with free shipping within the U.S.?
The bag also has two backpack straps that hideaway when not in use. Functional, but I wouldn’t want to walk very far with them. A shoulder strap is also included with the bag.
There is only one grab handle located where you’d expect one if you carried this like a suitcase. All connectors are made of plastic and the main zipper on my bag slightly catches on the vinyl lining. There is an extended flap meant to cover the zippers of the main compartment in case of rain.
If you’re looking for a smaller than average carry-on bag, aren’t looking to take it into the deepest jungle, nor expect to check it often, this might be an inexpensive bag to consider.
It would also make a decent laptop briefcase but there is no padding so a sturdy protective sleeve would be necessary.
It’s available in black or green.
Bottom line: I doubt Tom Bihn, Red Oxx, Briggs & Riley or Tumi are very worried about this bag stealing their customers. However, if you’re on a budget, are looking for a smaller convertible bag, and will mostly do car or light air travel, this bag may work. It’s no Western Flyer, which has the same basic dimensions, but it will do in a pinch.
Did I mention it was only $23 including free shipping in the U.S.?
(Frank II)
CSN Stores supplied the Goodhope Convertible for review.
Frank@OBOW