NBC Select puts Calpak Luka Duffel at top of travel gear review
Editors said they tested or owned more than 13 Calpak items, with the Luka Duffel, Hue Carry-On and several work and packing pieces standing out.
By Priya Raghavan · Science Reporter
3 min read
NBC Select has named Calpak’s Luka Duffel its best overall pick in a review of the travel-accessory brand’s bags, luggage and organizers. The ranking matters for frequent travelers weighing Calpak’s higher-priced items against cheaper travel basics.
NBC Select described Calpak, originally known as California Pak, as a California-based company that sells carry-ons, checked luggage, backpacks, personal items, toiletry cases and purses. Its editors said they collectively own more than 13 Calpak products, including items they bought themselves and samples supplied by the brand.
The review’s top picks were the $138 Luka Duffel for best overall, the $215 Hue Carry-On for best carry-on, the $168 Haven Laptop Tote for work and the $48 Water Bottle Holder for an under-$50 option, according to NBC Select.
What editors liked
NBC Select said the Luka Duffel stands out because it comes in three sizes and includes padded handles, an adjustable removable shoulder strap and a shoe compartment. The mini version does not include the shoe pocket, according to the review.
NBC Select reporter Zoe Malin said the duffel’s exterior and interior pockets, luggage-handle sleeve and soft structure made it useful for travel and storage. Editor Mili Godio said she had taken the bag on trips over the past two years, including to France, Italy and Argentina, and found it roomy enough for weekend essentials or as a companion to a larger suitcase.
The Luka Expandable Laptop Tote, priced at $138, was another item the review praised. NBC Select said the tote comes in mini and regular sizes, has a laptop sleeve with a securing strap, multiple side pockets and padded shoulder straps; the bottom can unzip to create more space for weekend travel.
For daily work use, NBC Select also highlighted Calpak’s insulated lunch bag, a $48 nylon item with side pockets and a drawstring-style top. Malin said she uses it to bring lunch and snacks to work and that it keeps food fresh, according to the review.
Luggage, packing and tech accessories
NBC Select said Calpak’s $68 packing cube set includes four cubes and a zippered pouch. The review said the cubes use light mesh, collapse when empty, include label pockets and allow travelers to see what is packed inside.
The $44 Luka 14-Inch Padded Laptop Sleeve also drew a positive assessment from Malin, according to NBC Select. The review said the sleeve comes in 14-inch and 17-inch sizes, has padding, a pocket and a soft interior lining meant to help protect devices from scratches.
Godio praised the Hue Carry-On after using it on more than 10 trips, according to NBC Select. The review said the suitcase is expandable and includes a built-in TSA-approved lock, 360-degree spinner wheels, an adjustable handle, side handles, interior compartments and buckled straps to compress clothing.
NBC Select also listed the $85 Medium Clear Cosmetics Case among reviewed Calpak items. The review said it has a top handle, opens into two compartments and zips easily, while noting that its clear surface can show smudges.
This story draws on original reporting from NBC News.