I've wasted a lot of $20 bills in my life, mostly on beer and mostly when I was much younger. But I've blown plenty on a lot of tools and pocket knives...things that I think will be useful, but end up in a drawer. Don't know why, but losing a $20 here and there doesn't really register on my radar. I guess that's lucky for me, not that I don't value my hard earned dollars, I'm just pointing out the large disconnect in my brain between losing $20 and having feelings about it. That way-too-long intro brings me to the Northstar 1050 HD Tuff Cloth Diamond Ripstop Gear/Duffle Bag. This has been a great use of $20, and it's been a repeat purchase for me a few times over.
In terms of finding a bag that combines, the size and strength I need for hauling stuff too and from a campsite, I can find no other bag in this price range that comes close. The bag material is some very heavy duty fabric (similar to canvas) with dura coating for protection. The zipper is #10 construction grade and can handle abuse well. Also, you'll notice that the webbing is reinforced on the handles. The bag also comes with a detachable shoulder strap which I personally use often. They quote an internal capacity of 75 liters. I typically use my bags as storage and hauling for my tent, other camping gear (kitchen gear, bug spray, etc), and tools. Two of these guys can handle a weeks worth of car camping -excluding food and water. I'll generally weigh each bag down with 20-40 pounds and they can handle it just fine.
Northstar 1050 HD Tuff Cloth Diamond Ripstop Series Gear/Duffle Bag (14 x 30 inch)
There are a few caveats here, and ones worth considering when buying this bag. As I said, it's a steal at $20, but you'll have to keep in mind that this bag can't do everything. It is not waterproof, not even close, which I why I carry tools and other supplies I don't mind getting wet if it were to rain. This has only happened once, briefly, and the contents were wet...not soaked. This is a good bag for hauling, not necessarily for leaving around. It does not have backpack straps, which some people enjoy. I find the shoulder strap comfortable enough, so having backpack straps doesn't seem super necessary. If you can live with both of those things, I think you'll find this to be an excellent bag for the money.
Price: $20
Available from Amazon
