I have been using my Thule Subterra Carry-on for over 6 years now, and it’s easily my favourite luggage to use whenever we’re not doing a backpacking trip.
I’m generally not one for expensive jewellery or fancy clothes. If you really want to treat me, it would be with travel gear – camera equipment, camping equipment, or good quality luggage (Santa, I hope you read this blog?)
With more short-haul adventures on the horizon, I figured it was time to retire the fraying backpack that’s seen me through travels across Asia and Africa. This travel mum was ready for something a little more stylish… and practical. So I was thrilled when Thule gifted me their sleek and durable Subterra carry-on to review. It’s exactly what I needed.
Disclaimer: I was gifted this case in return for an honest review. This post does contain affiliate links. Should you click to purchase, it is at no additional cost to you, but I receive a small commission.
- A sleek and durable carry-on spinner
- Oversized rear spinner wheels easily glide over rough terrain
- Smaller, recessed front wheels increase interior packing space
- Internal compression panel maximizes packing space and minimizes wrinkling
- Durable exoskeleton and molded back panel absorb impact of frequent travel.Divided main compartment…
What I love about the Thule Subterra carry on
First off, the size is spot on for most standard carry-on requirements, though not the ultra-budget airlines that only allow a small under-seat bag. For our short breaks, we always stick to carry-on only, and this fits the bill perfectly. It’s also ideal for weekend getaways closer to home.
Beyond the size, it’s incredibly robust. The durable exoskeleton and moulded polycarbonate back panel make it tough enough to handle the bumps of travel, and the water-resistant fabric is a bonus, especially when the inevitable airport drink spill happens (thanks kids!).
The compression panel
But, the best bit is the compression panel inside to maximise packing space and minimise wrinkling. I’ve not actually seen this before; such a clever design. The actual panel is then handy for storing any flat documents or, more importantly, art work from your kids that need to keep safe and flat before mounting on the wall at home.
The two separate compartments inside the case, mean that you can keep your clean, pressed clothes on one side underneath the compression panel, and shoes and laundry can be zipped away on the other side.
As well as…
On the top at the front, is a zip which opens a protective compartment to store travel documents, sunglasses etc. and is also big enough to store the kids’ tablets (because what parent travels without them?)
In conclusion
I’ve been using my Thule Subterra carry-on for over six years now, and it’s still going strong. It’s travelled with me across Europe and it’s even been used by my kids for their overseas school trips.
Whether it’s a short break or a longer adventure, this is the bag I keep coming back to. The built-in compression panel is a game-changer; it allows me to pack far more than you’d expect, without sacrificing organisation or space.
- A sleek and durable carry-on spinner
- Oversized rear spinner wheels easily glide over rough terrain
- Smaller, recessed front wheels increase interior packing space
- Internal compression panel maximizes packing space and minimizes wrinkling
- Durable exoskeleton and molded back panel absorb impact of frequent travel.Divided main compartment…
Technical specifications of the Thule Subterra Carry on
The Thule Subterra Carry-on comes in dark shadow (dark grey), mineral (dark teal) and ember (maroon).
| Dimensions | 55 x 35 x 23 cm |
|---|---|
| Weight | 3.18 kg |
| Volume | 36 L |
| Colour | 800D nylon |
Head over to The Discoveries Of for a comprehensive review of alternative carry on luggage.
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