I can only imagine what happened. One day, the designers at Ebags decided to come up with a convertible bag that had the best features of its near competitors while improvings all the downsides.
The result: The Ebags Motherlode TLS Weekender Convertible.
The basics: The bag is 22 x 14 s 9. With shoulder strap and waist belt, it weighs just over 4 lbs. The bag is 3300 cu in and expanble. It’s made of 840 denier twisted polyester.
Now for the details. I could start listing them but ebags has done such a good job making a promotional video for this bag, wouldn’t you rather watch that then read my prose?
So, sit back, watch the video, and then come back to get my take on it:
Now for the extras….the bag is expandable but that would make it too big for carry-on.
The orange interior is bright but will allow you to see everything you’ve packed.
For those who are worried about thieves breaking into your locked bag using the moveable zipper method, Ebags has place small rings allowing you to lock the zippers in one place making it more difficult for a thief to hid their tracks. (If you don’t know what I’m talking about, search Youtube for videos on opening up a locked suitcase.)
The laptop pocket is convenient and fuctional. The adustable sling fits most size laptops and having it in it’s own pocket makes the laptop easy to remove for security. I’ve tried both my 15” laptop and netbook in the sleeve and fit with no problems.
Now for the negatives. The bag is heavy at just over 4 lbs. The D rings are made of plastic and the ones for the backpack straps are exposed and could be torn off if you checked—gate or regular.
While I prefer a nylon bag, the polyester used seems durable. It may also, believe it or not, be overdesigned. Just too many features.
All in all, for the money, you can’t beat this bag. It retails for $100 but I’ve never seen it not on sale for $90. Wait a few weeks, or join their email list and you’ll get discounts down to $80 or even less. If you buy it through Ebates,, you’ll get free shipping and a 6% rebate.
According to a conversation I had with Ebags PR guy, this bag is Ebags #1 seller of all the thousands of bags they have for sale.
If you’re looking for an inexpensive but feature full bag, you can’t beat this one.