Ditching Baggage Fees AND Cramming More In – HOBOROLL Review

One of my biggest travel mistakes while globetrotting for 14+ months was checking my luggage. I shudder to think about what that cost me but with travelling full time and for that duration, carry-on only just wouldn’t cut it…or so I thought. Now with the HOBOROLL, I can cram as much into my bag as possible, making carry-on only travel a reality. What is a HOBOROLL exactly? Let’s find out.

What is a HOBOROLL exactly? Let’s find out.

Pack More

Although designed with camping in mind, the HOBOROLL is a compression sack that travels well. I took one for a test run on a recent sailing trip along the Canadian coastline of British Columbia. There was 5 of us travelling on (and sleeping in) a small sailboat so space-saving was our key to comfort. With the HOBOROLL I was able to squeeze a little more into my duffel bag, which in turn allowed me to pack my food and other items in the same bag.

The HOBOROLL comes stuffed in its own pouch, but don’t let its small size fool you. You really can pack a lot in and once expanded you can see how it gets its name. The roll has 5 compartments inside for you to stuff and cram your clothes and belonging in. Once done, compress the HOBOROLL by tightening its straps.

Easy, simple, yet oh-so-smart.

Get Sorted

With the separate compartments, you have the ability to sort your belongings. Instead of simply cramming everything into a duffel bag or other type of compression bag you can organize. For me, this was socks and underwear in one, pants and shorts in another. A bulky sweater got a slot of its own as did my shaving kit and T-shirts. This made finding certain items in the dark hall of the boat that much easier.

Also, the pouch pocket doubles as a secret pocket inside the HOBOROLL. This is perfect for things like keys and wallets. For me, it was the perfect spot to keep my contact lenses case on this trip. Again, less stumbling in the dark the better.

Carry On

Although this test run was short, I am sold on the HOBOROLL and will use it to go carry-on only going forward. The savings from baggage fees alone make this a smart pickup. Of course, you can ditch stuffing it into a carry-on bag altogether and go true nomad by using the optional strap. Think a modern elevated bindle.

What say you?
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For more reviews from Travel Gear and beyond see HERE.

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I was provided a complimentary HOBOROLL to review thanks to Gobi Gear.
As always the experience, opinions, and crammed bags are my own.