A Suitcase You Can Carry! The Two-Way Bag from Renowned Swiss Outdoor Brand "Exped" that Combines the Best Backpack Features

Work-related luggage can sometimes be heavier than hiking gear. To alleviate the physical burden while carrying, high-quality outdoor brand bags are optimal; however, there are many cases where looking like you just came from the mountains (or before a hike) is not suitable for a business setting. On the other hand, conventional carry cases are cumbersome to move around with. Is there a bag that allows for agile transport while still being appropriate for business use?
 
The two-way bag "Cruiser" from the esteemed Swiss outdoor brand Exped solves this dilemma. We visited the Japanese distributor SOHSHIN and spoke with marketing manager Jun Hosokawa.

From a Comfortable Backpack to a Business-Savvy Shoulder Bag

"Born in the bicycle culture of Switzerland, the 'Cruiser' is designed with attention to water resistance when worn as a backpack. The front uses a durable 840D nylon fabric with TPU laminate, achieving a waterproof rating of 10,000mm. It's rain-resistant and easy to wipe clean, and the zipper and pocket openings are concentrated on the back side for easier access when the bag is placed front-down."
 
Indeed, when placing the front, made of highly water-resistant robust material, down on the floor or a table, the openings for access are gathered on the top side (the back of the backpack). With a neat front, it is easy to store in overhead bins on planes or under the seat in front, as well as on train racks.

"I personally use the larger 'Cruiser 45' for my daily commute, and it's very convenient. When it reaches a certain weight, whether or not there is a sturdy waist belt makes a significant difference in the physical burden while wearing it as a backpack. The waist belts found on outdoor backpacks are also present on both 'Cruiser 35' and 'Cruiser 45,' which gives a big advantage in terms of stability and ease of transport."

"The waist belt is easy to remove; however, I sometimes use it in a clever way as a strap for the shoulder bag. This allows me to keep both shoulder straps of the backpack while securing the shoulder bag's strap, making the two-way switching even easier."
 
It was insightful to hear unique ideas from someone who regularly uses the product. Switching straps between the backpack and shoulder bag can be a hassle, so using the waist belt as a third strap to have both readily available is indeed clever.
 
"The bag itself includes a handle, allowing it to function as a handheld bag, which technically makes it a 3-way bag rather than just a 2-way. When the weight of my belongings increases, using it as a backpack with a waist belt reduces the burden on my body significantly. The adaptability based on different scenarios is another major feature of this product."

It felt like a suitcase you can carry when I looked inside. Whether shouldered as a backpack or hung as a shoulder bag, it allows for swift movement without worrying about stairs, escalators, or steps in business districts.
 
"It can accommodate business trips, but I often use it for my work items and gym necessities. The front, sides, top, bottom, and back are all padded with EVA, which absorbs a certain amount of impact. There is a pocket for a PC on the back, but since my PC is relatively large, I place it in the main compartment and store documents in the PC pocket."

In the long mesh pocket on the right side, I often keep a 600mL insulated bottle. It's also fine to store a folding umbrella there. In the smaller mesh pocket on the opposite side, I usually organize accessories and cables for digital devices. There are so many essentials like a mouse, pocket Wi-Fi, and mobile battery.
 
The two zipper pulls for opening and closing the main compartment can accommodate a security lock (padlock). Additionally, there is an independent pocket at the top, which also opens and closes from the back. It's convenient to keep frequently used items there, just like the rain cover on a mountaineering backpack.

This bag embodies the craftsmanship of "Exped" that is meticulously designed for practical use.
 
Founded in 1983, the Swiss outdoor brand "Exped" is deeply loved in Japan for its commitment to functional products. A notable example is their insulated camping mat, patented in 2001, which became a topic of discussion due to its high insulation performance that prevents melting on snow and sinking into it.
 
While other manufacturers have since produced similar items, it was an innovative product that significantly enhanced comfort on winter mountains. This brand particularly focuses on developing the sleeping system, which includes tents, mats, and sleeping bags, alongside backpacks. The "Cruiser" is a versatile product that can be utilized for business as well as for cycling and hiking, making it highly recommended for those who seek multi-purpose usage.
 
If you're looking for a bag that works for both work and play, consider the "Cruiser 35" or "Cruiser 45" based on the amount of your belongings.