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Welcome to Skimm Tested, where we put products to the test and then give them a report card. (Check out all of our tried-and-tested faves here.)
The assignment…
Paravel’s fold-up tote ($75) is made of durable, water-resistant nylon and zips into a storage-friendly pouch apartment dwellers dream of. Can it stand the test of time and nonstop use?
Straight A’s in…
Functionality. This duffel does exactly what it says it does. When not in use, you can fold it up and zip it closed. When collapsed, it’s a mere 8 inches by 9.75 inches by 2.75 inches, so smaller than a standard piece of paper (and less than 3 inches wide). When expanded, it’s 18 inches by 11.5 inches by 11 inches, so it can easily hold a pair of sneakers, pants, sweaters, a toiletry bag, and other random items (like a hair brush). If I’m packing lighter clothes, it can hold double the amount. Transparently, I’ve shoved a lot in this thing since it’s unstructured.
Aesthetic. I own the Safari Green and love the richness of the color paired with the black detailing and straps. It’s sleek-looking and comes in muted tones and some brights (hello, Bebop Red).
Durability. I have taken this duffel many places. I have shoved it underneath plane seats and squished it into trunks. I’ve even carried food in it — which sometimes has spilled (oops). Fear not though, I’ve put in the wash (gentle cycle) and then air-dried it. Good as new. The nylon has never ripped; zippers still work like a charm.
Pockets. There’s a zippered pocket inside of the bag, which is great for valuables you don’t want roaming free. There’s also an outside pocket that opens to become a luggage sleeve.
Room for growth…
None. I love this bag, a little too much. And this review isn't even sponsored.
Works best for…
Any traveler of any kind. From quick overnight stays to three-day weekend getaways to longer expeditions where one needs an additional roomy carry-on.
Those with limited storage space in their home. If you’re already storing luggage, you’re most likely running tight on space for anything else travel-related. Since this duffel folds up, you can easily fit it in a drawer.
Those with kids. This thing is durable. I’ve gotten it dirty and popped it in the wash.
Gets extra credit for…
Sustainability. Paravel utilizes a “Negative Nylon,” made from 22 recycled plastic bottles. They truly pay attention to detail, so even the zippers are recycled. They even designed and manufactured the first carbon-neutral suitcase, the Aviator.
How I did my homework…
I’ve owned this bag for over a year. Probably over two years, but my memory fails me sometimes. I’ve taken it quite literally everywhere — on trains, planes, and road trips. I’ve used it as my sole weekender bag and as an extra tote paired with checked luggage when going on longer trips. I’ve washed it, folded it, zipped it, stored it, unzipped it — rinse and repeat.
Footnotes…
Available in six colors (Scuba Navy is currently sold out)
Personalization is available but at a $15 added cost. PS: Personalized items are nonrefundable and take a bit longer to ship.
Meets TSA carry-on requirements
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