The D3 Traveller is a strong, compact, and understated duffel designed by the American brand SDR Traveller. Originally commissioned for a fieldwork trip, the bag is designed and handmade in the USA. Though intended for outdoor adventure, the luggage is suitable for urban travel as well. We can imagine anyone from a hiking enthusiast to a photojournalist getting a lot of use value out of this one.
The minimalist design is made of two layers of Cuben Fiber, SDR Traveller’s signature material. Cuben Fiber has fourfold the strength of Kevlar at approximately half of the weight. The double layer of this fabric ensures that the bag won’t rip, soak through, or appear overstuffed. Finished in “oil black,” the material is handsome but low-key, a great match for this design, which has no exterior branding.
The lightweight, low-bulk bag fits under an airplane seat, so it won’t be tagged for cargo, instead staying safe with its carrier. Rolling down the size of a single garment, the 42-liter bag can be made even smaller as needed. Outfitted with YKK zippers, aircraft-grade aluminum hardware, and Petzl Ange S carabiners, the design is study throughout. These components allow the duffel to be sealed, reshaped, and strapped to one’s person in a number of ways.
Additionally, the design is decorated with pebble zipper pulls that are handpicked from the Kyi Chu river in Tibet. An inspired choice, the stones add a touch of naturalism to an otherwise blank slate of a bag.