I recently got the opportunity to try out the WideMouth Carry-On from Hummingbird. Since Hummingbird strives to provide the ultimate adventure travel luggage, it was only fitting that I used it one of BikeHike Adventures’ biking and hiking trips in Costa Rica, which departed on March 9th.
Hummingbird products are built with multi-purpose versatility. Since this tour offers numerous outdoor activities, I knew it would be a grand opportunity to test what this travel bag can do. Here’s a recap of my experience with the WideMouth Carry-On in Costa Rica.
Easily Packed
On my journey from Canada to Costa Rica, I carried with me two bags – the WideMouth Carry-On and a larger 60 L travel backpack. Since I didn’t need my WideMouth Carry-On for this flight portion, I opted to pack it in my other backpack to be checked with the airline. I found that the WideMouth Carry-On is very stowable, as it folds up incredibly small and thin.
Whitewater Rafting
The first real use I found for the WideMouth Carry-On was during the whitewater rafting portion of the trip. Leaving the Orosi Valley, we embarked on a two-day rafting adventure down the Pacuare River. Since we would be camping that night, our main baggage was left with the bus – the WideMouth Carry-On took centre stage.
To begin with, I was surprised how much I was able to fit inside. Since I was one of the only travellers with a waterproof bag, I managed to fit my own supplies as well as my girlfriend’s and numerous other traveller’s (sunscreen, toothbrush, towel, sandals, etc). The WideMouth Carry-On rolled up into a dry sack and protected everything from the abundant river water – including our cameras and passports!
Sea Kayaking
After the rafting portion, we set out for a day of sea kayaking. What started out as a tame day on the sea, quickly turned into a fight against the waves. As our seven kayaks attempted to land on an offshore island, we were surprised by relentless pounding waves. Most kayaks flipped, including my own. Fortunately I had bound the WideMouth Carry-On to the back of my kayak’s seat using the adjustable straps. Although it was completely submerged in the salty pacific, the waterproof barrier held true (RF-welded seams make it exceptionally strong). I kept my camera in the zippered external pocket on the way back for quick access to snapshots.
Biking
The final two days of biking were hot. This made the support vehicle very necessary in order to stock up on sunscreen, water, and snacks as the day rolled on. Although I didn’t take the WideMouth Carry-On with me while I biked, it stayed in the van serving as my on-the-go refreshment center. Its wide mouth and easy access saved me from thirst and frustration.
An Efficient In-Flight Carry-On
Unlike the flight to Costa Rica, I did use the WideMouth as my carry-on luggage for the flight home (back to Canada). The WideMouth Carry-On meets most international carry-on requirements and easily passed through customs and boarding.
Specs
Volume: 40 L (2440 cu. in.)
Weight: 794 g (1 lb. 12 oz.)
Size: 56 x 30.5 x 30.5 cm (22 x 12 x 12 in.)
Summary
If you haven’t noticed already, I am a fan of the WideMouth Carry-On from Hummingbird. Its practical uses for adventure travel are magnified in situations involving water. Fortunately, it’s small enough that you can keep it on hand for situations that call its name. After all, the less you bring, the more you enjoy the journey.
