Review: Thule Subterra 2 Backpack and Carry-on
As a disclaimer I would like to mention that I was given this product so that I could write this review. All opinions on this page are my own and based on my own experiences with this product. I’m not compensated for the opinions on this review. Your experience with the product may be different.
From Thule
Before I get into my thoughts on this luggage, I wanted to see exactly what Thule is saying about their product. From their website this is what they say about their carry-on, “the Thule Subterra 2 55cm carry-on spinner is a versatile carry-on suitcase that helps you maximize packing space and organize your items.”
Here are some more of the stats and details about Thule directly from their website.
Specs
Price*
$139.99 for Backpack
$379.95 for Carry-On
Sizes*
Backpack: 12.6 x 7.9 x 18.1 in Volume 21 Liter
Carry-On: 13.8 x 9.1 x 21.7 in Volume 35 Liter
Weight*
Backpack: 1.87 lbs
Carry-On: 7.17 lbs
Features and Benefits
Backpack
Padded Laptop and Tablet Sleeve
Internal Organization Panel for Keys, Pens, Cords and Essentials
Dedicated Power Brick Storage
Padded Soft Line Pocket for fragile items like sunglasses.
Back Panel Securtiy Pocket
Two Large Side Water Bottle Pockets
Protection from Theft
Air Mesh Back Panel for Comfortable Carry
Attach to Rolling Luggage
BlueSign Certified
High Quality Construction
Carry-On
Fold Flat Divider Separates Items
Quiet-rolling spinner wheels and V-tubing telescoping handle offer effortless maneuverability
Removable Compression Panel
Quick Access Exterior Pocket
Compression Straps to Maximize Space
Bag design absorbs the impact of travel with its durable, molded polycarbonate back panel
Built in ID card slot simplifies identification of bag
Bluesign Certified
High Quality Construction
All information from Thule.com Check the website for full details and options.
What I liked about the Thule Subterra 2 Backpack and Carry-On
Growing up in an active family with a mother who worked at a ski shop for 23 years, I’ve known of Thule for a long time. It was a brand plastered to my Mom’s car on our road trips and a name she always spoke highly of. I knew that anything Thule put their name on- it would be top notch. I would later purchase my own products from their company for my adventures and learned how consistent they were in their commitment to excellence.
When I received this travel set, I was ecstatic! I immediately noticed the bold, but subtle and sleek design of the bags. Very sharp! After staring in admiration, I began touching the bags and exploring the inside of them to see what I was working with. I knew right away these were two quality pieces that I was going to fall in love with.
The Carry-On
This carry- on is the perfect size for all of my frequent traveling. Not too big, not too small- justttttttt right! My first trip with it was to upstate New York for a big photoshoot. I was required to bring clothing, shoes, and other items necessary for the client. I wasn’t sure if it all would fit, but surprisingly it did. Despite its compact size, it deceivingly maximized every inch of space and the structure held up great even when I shoved extra stuff in the bag that possibly could’ve broken it.
I continued to bring this bag on all of my photoshoots, as well as weekend getaways to see friends or head to the mountains. There’s not one person who didn’t immediately compliment it, which is funny to say because it’s “just a black carry-on.” But again- when I say it’s subtly bold and sharp- it stands out and is certainly different from a normal black bag. Knowing how it performs just as great as it looks is- I’m here for it!
Storage
This bag replaced my tried and true carry- on case that I’ve had for 5 years. While the other one was quality, as well, the Thule’s storage and compartments blew mine out of the park. It was very well designed for those who like to be extremely organized in their travels. I’m certainly one of those people! Tidy bag= tidy mind…. For me, at least
My favorite part of this carry-on spinner was the fold flat divider in the middle of the luggage. It made it so easy and convenient to separate all of my belongings. I always use that section for my intimate wear (bras and undies) and socks to keep them separate from my clothing and shoes. I also love the removable compression panel and straps. Both features really help to compress everything down and maximize the space. I also used the detachable panel in other bags and suitcases for extra organization.
Portability
The exterior of this luggage feels soft(er)at first touch, but is what I’d consider more of a hard shell. The structure holds its shape incredibly well, even when not fully packed. It is extremely durable, reliable, and water-resistant. I’ve had to run through the rain with this bag a few times and the hard shell protected all of my belongings from getting soaking wet every single time. Another thing to mention is that this bag is environmentally friendly, which I’m a HUGE fan of. The face fabric is free from PFCs- chemicals that can be harmful- and the materials are blue sign approved, meaning they’re sustainable and better for our Earth.
Another feature I loved were the 360 wheels. In my experience, the wheels made it extremely easy traveling through and to airports, hotels, and the thousands of miles I have put on this bag since receiving it. They were extremely smooth and nearly silent. I wasn’t sure how well this bag would hold up considering how rough I am with my belongings, but I have not had any issues and it has offered effortless maneuvering in all of my travels. I consider it a highly abrasion resistant bag, considering the beating it continually takes from me!
The Backpack
I love a great backpack! They are one of the material items I take very seriously. I use them every day and for almost EVERYTHING in my life. I live a very nomadic lifestyle,between my profession and play. And a backpack just so happens to be the easiest thing for me- to go from town to trail and vice versa.
One of the most important things for me in a backpack is the support it gives me and how comfortable it is with weight in it, as well as a quality bag. While I used this bag more for my travel for work, coffee shops, and every day life- it still worked for a day hike. I just didn’t prefer it as much for that, but you could still definitely use it. I wanted to preface that before reviewing.
Backpack Features
This sturdy backpack has two zippered sections. In the back, it is relatively spacious and allows me to always put a lot of my belongings in there. I love the padded compartment in there, which I typically use for my MacBook. The other soft lined pockets I use for computer accessories and hard drive. The front pocket was great to really ensure all of my other essentials were in order. It had just the right amount of panels and zipper sections for even more organization. I always write about my love of organization in my reviews, but it is SO important to me!
The exterior of the backpack- back and front straps- are extremely comfortable! The padded, well-ventilated air mesh on the back made it an effortless carry. I barely felt like I had anything on my back! The straps on the front helped evenly stabilize the weight and whatever I carried in the bag. It kept everything extremely comfortable. Two other features that I really loved about this backpack were the two water bottle pockets and a luggage sleeve that allowed me to put this bag on top of my carry-on. It is an absolutely perfect travel/ day-to-day backpack!
What I Didn’t Like
I hope Greg doesn’t take my blogging card away from me, but I could not find anything wrong with these bags! I really tried, but I absolutely loved them. They’ve now become my new go-to for all short trips- personally and professionally. The only thing I would say is the price, as it is high and could be a lot for some to spend.
Final Thoughts of the Thule Subterra 2 Backpack and Carry-On
It’s no surprise that I couldn’t find anything wrong with these bags. I’m sure if I was an extremely technical person and was writing from that perspective- I could find some flaws. But as an everyday consumer- this duo does the job! And it does it more than well!
Thule has always been a quality company. They continue to impress me with everything they make for active, adventurous travelers like myself. While these pieces do come at a heftier price point, they are worth every dollar, quarter, dime, nickel, and penny. A great investment and one that I believe will last you a long, long time.
