Kathmandu Litehaul 38 Carry-On Luggage

Here’s a piece of gear I’ve been sitting on for a while. I was slated to test this carry-on luggage from Kathmandu right about the time COVID-19 was unleashed upon us. Grinding my air travel to a rapid halt, until recently. A three-leg flight from Northern Michigan to Chattanooga to compete in the Red Clay Rally. This was my first opportunity to see how the Litehaul 38 would fare as carry-on luggage.

At first glance, the Litehaul 38 doesn’t look much different than any other midsized pack on the market. But there are a few features that make this perfect for airline travel. For one, its 38-liter volume allows overhead storage on even the smallest of commuter aircraft.

Once stowed in the overhead compartment, with the top handle facing towards the aisle, you’ll find convenient access to a pair of zippered compartments. No need to pull the bag down just to grab a jacket or sweatshirt. One of the pockets is large enough and designed specifically for a coat. The other top-accessed fleece-lined pocket is best suited for a tablet, headphones, book, or something about the same size. A small zippered pocket within the fleece pocket is perfect for keys, wallet AirPods, or spare change.

Get on Board with the Litehaul 38 from Kathmandu

A large “C” shaped lockable zipper accesses the main compartment. This shape allows the flap to be flipped out of the way for easy suitcase-like packing and unpacking. However, If the top pocket is loaded with a jacket, the main compartment will be reduced by almost half. Another lockable zipper along the side of the pack accesses the 17″ laptop sleeve. Padded for bump protection on the exterior and fleece lined on the interior side for scratch resistance.

The Lighthaul 38 easily carries my essentials for a 2-3 day trip. The Air Pod System (APS) harness features a pattern of air channels adding breathability along the back. A substantial waist belt can be used to secure the pack when hustling through a busy airport. Or be stowed behind the back panel if not needed.

Both the padded shoulder straps and waist belt can be stowed by zipping them into the back panel with an attached cover. Allowing the Litehaul to be carried like a briefcase with the lightly padded side-mounted handle.

If for some reason you’re required to check the Litehaul, zipping in all the straps would prevent further damage and reduce the chances of it getting caught in a conveyor. Or thrashed by the baggage handlers. A stretch water bottle pocket with a cinch strap can be found on the same side as the briefcase handle.

Litehaul 38 Features

• Air Pod System (APS) harness featuring channels for airflow and breathable mesh – expect extra comfort and cushioning
• Nylon and Polyester outer fabric is certified as bluesign® approved – this material was produced using sustainable chemistry with minimal impact on people and the environment
• Easy-to-reach compartment to fit your laptop – up to 17 inches (43 cm)
• Travel-friendly accessible top compartment – for storing your absolute essentials
• Suitcase-style, wide front zip opening – so you can pack easier
• Detachable shoulder strap plus top and side grab handles – to make your transit easier
• Cover – to zip your harness away when it’s time to check-in
• Lockable main zipper with reliable YKK zips – you can trust their durabilityOuter bottle pocket – plus an inner mesh pocket for storing your important travel documents
• Attaches to our Litehaul Plus 1 and is compatible with our Litehaul RFID Pod – which fits perfectly in the top compartment

In addition to its airline-inspired design, the Litehaul 38 also served as my only bag on a 3-day 700-mile overland rally through Kentucky and Tennessee. Driving with a friend in his 80 Series Land Cruiser, the Litehaul 38 fit neatly behind the passenger seat. Storing my Dopp kit in the top compartment, I could easily access my toothbrush and essentials without needing to pull the pack out of the vehicle.

About Kathmandu

Final thoughts

It took a little getting used to because I own a travel pack that I’ve been using for years. And I keep it packed with several travel-specific items. When transferring chargers, cords, flashlight, pens and other small items, I had trouble finding an organized way to carry them in the Litehaul 38. An admin pocket would be a nice feature to add to this commuter. Also, the water bottle pocket is located on the same side as the side handle and can interfere with it.

The opposite side to the handle is void of anything so I find it odd that the designers didn’t place the water bottle pocket there. The lockable zippers and stow-able straps are a nice feature if you’re checking the bag. And the slender shape and dimensions will find room in almost any overhead compartment.