AIR BOSS

THE AIR BOSS AND COBBLESTONES

By: Hanne kooy - Newton MA June 29, 2009

I have been eyeing the Air Boss for some time now and finally found an excuse to buy one (although which excuse escapes me now). I needed (wanted?) a new bag for my frequent travels to Europe. If your travels are limited to airports and hotels in between, you can live with a rolling suitcase. If, however, you need to walk in any nice European city, cobblestones will soon turn your rock and roll trip into a very unpleasant experience. My Air Boss was fully packed yet carrying it (what does make that strap so nice?) was easy, cobblestones and narrow bridges be damned, and quite effortless. My computer bag at 8 lbs was more of a burden. The Air Boss, with its three compartments, is a great organizer (I need any help I can get) and, because of its lack of an internal frame, packs more than an equivalent external size roll-on. The lack of a frame, of course, also helped getting it stuffed in the overhead. Finally, the bag simply exudes quality (Made in the USA). Now I only need another excuse to get my wife one.

Best travel purchase ever!

By: Jamie - Houston, TX June 26, 2009

After a most frustrating trip to the UK with too much luggage, my boyfriend heard Doug Dyment talking about one bag travel and the AirBoss. He was skeptical; I was more skeptical.
Nevertheless, the frustration of that trip was enough to make me give it a try. My first test was a 10-day cruise that required casual and evening wear. No problem! I could not BELIEVE how much could be stuffed into the bag! Now, dozens of trips later, I can't imagine checking a bag--oh the hastle of that!
I'm a petite woman and I admit to being a bit of a wuss--I often bring along my travel cart when going for serious business trips. The bag gets a bit heavy with a computer, files, and books added to the personal and clothing items. If you get your AirBoss to the edge of the overheads, the travel cart slips in on its side, wheels first, b/n the bag and compartment edge and the flight attendants have not yet asked me to remove it.
On my upcoming 7-day business + leisure trip to the UK, I'm once again taking the AirBoss. I won't bore you with the list, but suffice it to say that I have more than enough stuff in my bag with room to spare and I can carry it on my shoulder--no cart needed. Mix and match, laundry lines, and bundle packing....it's the way to go!
So, the skeptic has been sold. My objective now is to convert my boyfriend...who is still skeptical. I've just bought him the Safari-Beanos PR5 as a birthday surprise for our trip. Let's hope he is converted...and I'll write back if he is!

Gets better over time

By: E Autio - Hurst, UK June 25, 2009

I have had the Air Boss for three years now, I think, and I travel perhaps twice per month by air, on all continents. I must say that the experience keeps getting better over time. The bag really works, and it is amazingly light weight even for longer travel. You can easily do two weeks with this bag.
Over time, I have particularly learned to appreciate its ruggedness. After three years, the bag is still like new. This is so much unlike any other bag I have ever owned.
During these three years I have used check-in luggage only once, as I was traveling to Chile and wanted to ski there, and you cannot fit ski boots into your bag. Big mistake: I only reconnected with my luggage four days after returning home. I cannot imagine how much hassle the Air Boss has spared me of.
After three years of use experience, I can recommend without any reservation. This is the best bag I ever had, by miles.

1-year review

By: Anonymous - Baltimore June 25, 2009

I have now used this bag for a year, traveling both domestically and internationally. It is a good bag, allowing for organization and maximum space. Plenty of room here, with planning, for you to travel indefinitely (with the possible exception of the problem of shoes--you will fill the limit on shoes more than that on clothing). My high rating confirms the positive features foregrounded by other writers.
Cons: Be aware of what you are getting. When you stuff this bag with travel things, it gets heavy. You pay a price in the weight you carry for not checking your bag and not having wheels. This bag (like anything carried) can be hard on your back, and it will pain your shoulders where it is carried. But adding wheels would change the nature of the bag, and the space in it. You can't have everything. Also, the side pocket with the snap should be higher, to permit you to put papers in the pocket and still snap it shut when packed. It needs a better zipper design for easier and more secure locking with a padlock. Despite these, I will use this bag until my back can't take it. Nothing like walking away from an international flight before everyone else.

Goes the Distance

By: Bev - Missoula, MT June 24, 2009

I traveled for 3 weeks in very rural Tanzania with this bag and it allowed me to be organized and lightweight. I especially appreciate the bundle-wrapping idea. The 3 compartments allow great ease of access. I never checked my bag, except on a Tanzanian flight where they made me check it. {which leads to this question: how do you lock this bag? I assumed I would have it with me at all times, and didn't bring a lock of any type. I was concerned about airport theft when I was made to check it because of limited overhead storage area. THX}
Simply lock the zipper tabs together. Another tip is to loop the Monkey's Fist through the opening on the zipper tab.
Red Oxx

Wouldn't Have Beleived It

By: Steve H. - Tennessee June 11, 2009

When considering this bag, that I got word of through a Kiplinger Magazine review in 2008, I was amazed at the web-site reviews. Everything about Redoxx luggage was superlative. Hey, read em yourself if you don't believe me! The reviews are SO good, it makes you think the company employees write them! However, a few months into owning this bag, which I thought seemed "pricey" when I bought it . . I'm convinced it's a bargain. This skeptic is a believer!! I own several other more expensive pieces of luggage that are honestly, less practical to pack, less "intuitive" in design, and are gathering dust in my closet now that I have the Airboss. Among other features, I love the Zippers on this bag which are the best design on the market! "Airboss" is my first choice bag for any trip including a one week cruise I just completed . . . apart from one other small 'carry on' bag, it held everything needed for eight days away. I humbly join the ranks of outstanding reviewers of RedOxx luggage . . and no . . I don't work for the company but am one satisfied customer!

Love this bag

By: Robin White - So. Cal June 9, 2009

This bag has traveled to Taiwan, Shanghai, Israel, Germany and Israel. No carry on and all trips for over 10 days. Plenty of room. I also have the Gator and the brief case. Easy access and outstanding quality. I am set for life!

My ONE Bag

By: Carole Smith - Ashland, OR June 2, 2009

The Air Boss is my ONE bag. It goes everywhere and holds all the things I need for a two week vacation. I love the compartments and I am a big fan of bundling which keeps my clothes relatively wrinkle free. Because it is carry-on sized, I never have to wait at baggage claim to pick it up. I've had my Air Boss 4 years and it looks as good as new. The construction and materials are first class. I LOVE THIS BAG!!!!

As good as it gets...

By: Dan Kirsch - Watertown, MA May 26, 2009

Just returned from my brother's wedding where I was finally able to use the Air Boss I had purchased several months ago. Fantastic! I was able to pack all of my casual/semi-casual cloths, dress shoes and various other items all with lots of room to spare.
...and the construction is top notch. The reviews do not lie. One bomb proof bag!
I can't wait to travel more with my Air Boss. It is easy to pack, easy to find things in and generously proportioned.
Excellent product Red Oxx,
-Dan

Easy Travel Companion

By: Howard G - Billings, MT May 18, 2009

Back from a Chicago conference. I used a Roadster Mini Rucksack for the Burning Man Festival last year, and since it survived BM, while 2 pairs of shorts did not, I decided it was time to upgrade my airline luggage. Permanently embedded with Playa dust, my Red Oxx Ruck does daily duty without complaint.
Most bags are made like clothes. Single stitching, light fabrics, made in foreign sweat shops, etc. Figured with a flight to Chicago, it’s time to try this Red Oxx "carryon philosophy" and get some more of their gear.
Scored a matching Metro and Air Boss in Bordeaux. Not quite the color I was expecting. Hope they won't fade to pink! In retrospect, I'd go with the Mariner blue or Safari. The AirBoss and Metro made a great team. The Metro, which I carried my laptop, fits nicely inside the Air Boss’ middle section! Now I had only ONE bag to carry.
I’m not used to carrying "over the shoulder" and despite the strap that DOES NOT slide off, next time I’d pay extra and get the Sky Train with the convertible backpack straps. I like to evenly distribute extra weight across my back.
Pleased my clothes really didn’t end up wrinkled. Their claim is true. I like it’s squish able soft baggage – I can jam it in all kinds of places whether in a jet, bus, taxi or the trunk of my sports car. Plus, it’s American made and I can get them replaced should they implode.
I’d get another Red Oxx bag and would recommend them to others, not just airline travelers, but anyone traveling by bus, car, train or even camel. If I had shorts built like these bags, they'd survive Burning Man for years to come.
Well done Red Oxx,
~Howard

Like the Bag

By: David - Los Angeles, CA May 17, 2009

Most of the comments that I've read on the site are spot on. Great quality bag. As a business traveler, however, I'd really like to have a few small, zippered compartments to stash things such as blackberry, wallet, keys or other small items that are too difficult to find or access when dropped into one of the larger compartments of the bag.

Nice bag - one suggested improvement . . .

By: Dave - Saint Paul, Minn. May 11, 2009

Well made bag, practical design. Sturdy construction. Great zippers and I really like the monkey ball zipper pulls. Perfect size bag for my trips, and a very nice strap.
The only suggestion I would make, is why not pad the bottom of the center compartment? It is perfect for holding a laptop computer, but it is a totally unpadded bottom that is too harsh for a laptop. One firm "set down" and it could be trouble for a computer. A removable laptop sleeve does the job, but it takes up precious space when implementing the "one bag" concept...
Short of padding the bottom, if you offered a small pad to put in the bottom even that would suffice.
Thanks for considering the suggestion.
Dave
From: Red Oxx
The removable pad is something we can make as needed. So give us a call at the factory. 1-888-733-6999 We appreciate the suggestion but would not want to compromise the fold flat feature of the Air Boss.

Perfect purchase

By: Thomas - Grozny, Chechnya April 16, 2009

I purchased this bag (and a sun chaser) about a month ago. I couldn't be more pleased. I sent a compliment along to the company and got a quick and pleasant response, which is amazing customer service. The compliment went something like this:
I work for the International Rescue Committee, directing humanitarian assistance programs in conflict zones, I'm currently working in Chechnya, and also have to do a lot of travel to donor base-cities such as New York, Washington, London, etc. So, I needed something very versatile that could handle rough environments as well as a suit and high-level meeting, and airlines that can't be relied on for checked baggage. The bags are exactly what I hoped for. Over the last month they've made the trek from Boston to New York to Moscow to Chechnya superbly, I'm already looking forward to the rest of my travels this year and never checking another bag.
I used a Jansport wheeled bag for years before this and don't miss the wheels at all, nor do I miss the extra weight I was lugging around. I doubt I'll ever miss the constant and random charges for overweight bags one incurs as you move between international airports in different countries and local/regional flights. If your bag search brought you here, then I can say you've found what you need for your travels, I looked at 15 or 20 other companies before placing an order at RedOxx, this was the best option available.
Thanks to Jim and co. for a great product!

Review Update 1.5 Years With Air Boss

By: Ed P - Dallas, TX April 15, 2009

After living with the Air Boss for some time now, I wanted to update my review.
The Good:
The capacity and ability to pack everything you need for a week's trip is excellent. I actually have room leftover and like another reviewer have learned to pack just right. No fluff.
I like the 'if you can't carry it, don't pack it' approach to travel. It makes you think about what you are taking and you become very weight conscious. And since you are carrying everything, it is somewhat gratifying to pass by other travelers that have to stop and fiddle with their wheeled bags to get everything situated only to have the bag they place on the top of their wheeled bag fall off and then they start wrestlemania in the jetway trying to get their bag situated.
The Bad:
I am disappointed with the durability. After just shy of 1.5 years, the shoulder strap is starting to rip away from the bag creating a hole and the zipper is starting to lose its stitching and will soon start separating. I thought I had found my 'bag for life', but apparently I was mistaken. I don't mind paying more for luggage since I travel frequently, but at $225, a bag lasting only 1.5 years before it starts breaking down is far below expectations.
While Red Oxx does offer their legendary Lifetime Warranty, I have yet to receive a response to my first inquiry a week ago. Additionally, if I have to send my bag in, then I have to figure something else out to use for my travels while I go through the hassle of repair or replacement. At only 1.5 years, I would not expect to have to be going through this.
So after experiencing the lack of durability, I would say in my case the Air Boss comes in as an 'average' bag.

The Air Boss Grows on You

By: Anonymous April 11, 2009

When I first got the Airboss, I thought it was a well made piece of junk: everyone's rolling their load, how come I have carry mine. I didn't like it, but I paid $225, so I figure I'll give it a shot. Well it grows on you. You learn how to live with it. For instance, if you pack it too full it's too heavy to carry, so you learn to pack light. At first I thought it was too small and now I think it's too big. Like I said it grows on you. Now I carry it around the world and I love it. If you're like me, give it a chance before you return it. The bag will teach you how to pack and teach you how to travel. And that is why everyone loves it.

AMAZING!!

By: Joey - Austin, TX April 10, 2009

This is one amazing carry on bag! I have been using it for three weeks now and have nothing but great things to say about the AIR BOSS.
The construction is without equal. The zippers are tough and will not fail and the shoulder strap works as advertised. It is seriously overbuilt, yet it is extremely light. There is no way the website can illustrate the quality invested in this bag.
Too be honest, I was skeptical I could fit everything needed for a one week trip inside this bag without having to "overstuff" it. I was wrong. The "bundle packing" system has worked great and I have more than enough room and my clothes have very few wrinkles. I truly believe I could fit two weeks worth of travel inside the AIR BOSS with no problems at all.
To anyone still undecided, my advice to you is to purchase this bag...you WILL NOT be disappointed. It is worth every penny!
Great product, great company. Thank you Red OXX!

Best bag I ever bought

By: Duke - Las Vegas April 10, 2009

I got one of these maybe a year ago and it's the best thing that I ever bought for travel. I can fit more stuff in it than 22" wheeled carry on bags and have an easier time fitting it into the overhead compartment. Fantastic product and well made - probably the best zippers I've come across on anything.

Air Boss: plenty of room and flexibility!

By: Ties Molenaar - Amsterdam April 9, 2009

Red Oxx's AirBoss is a fantastic bag for packing leisure and business attire. This last march I had to go to India for a study trip part of an executive MBA I'm attending. Because I was looking for a ticket from Amsterdam (Netherlands) to Hyderbad (India). I found a British Airways return ticket with one stop-over on London Heathrow for 900 EURO. Seeing that the British pound was at a relatively low value compared to the EURO I tried to book in British Pounds. Unfortunately I could not make this booking in British Pounds as the departure airport wasn't British. The solution 3 separate tickets.
1. From Amsterdam to London.
2. Return ticket London - Hyderabad - London.
3. London - Amsterdam.
Final sum 640 EURO's saving 260 EURO for the total trip.

These multiple individual tickets forced me to rethink my luggage policy, as the airline would not be passing my luggage through from flight to flight and I would be passing through the high security checks at London Heathrow. Searching the internet I stumbled on onebag.com which led me to redoxx.com and the finally to ordering the AirBoss. Within 6 days it was delivered to my home address in the Netherlands. At a local travel shop I purchased 2 Eagle Creek pack-it folders (the 18 & 20). I used the 18 folder for holding my T-shirts, polo's and one sweater. The 20 folder held my business shirts and throusers. The 20 folder precisely fits into one of the outer compartments of the AirBoss.I packed the AirBoss with quite an impressive set of clothes for this 10 day trip to India:
Outer compartment 1: 5 pants, 6 shirts (EagleCreek 20 Folder)
Outer compartment 2: 6 t-shirts, 2 polo, swimming trunk+shortpants (EagleCreek 18 Folder) + 1 pair of step-in shoes
Inner compartment: 6 shorts, 8 pair of socks (Pack-It-cube from Eagle Creek) 1 pair of formal shoes, 2 suits (bundle wrapped), 9" laptop, Ipod, Nintendo DS, 3 books, digital camera and sleep pillow/-goggles

All clothing came out wrinkle free, despite crowded buses, walking through Indian crowd fighting to be of service to you. Before I bundle-wrapped the suits I inverted one of the shoulders of each jacket and tucked it into the other shoulder. This method leaves the jacket absolutely wrinkle-free. Travelling and packing in between destinations in India was real easy with the AirBoss and the Pack-It folders.
Obviously I was way over packed with respect to my 10 days of travel. Nonetheless everything fitted nicely into the AirBoss. Next time I'll pack less and do some laundry.

Because I only travelled with hand-luggage and I passed through security rather quickly, I was able to catch an earlier flight at London Heathrow to Amsterdam. Way to go AirBoss!!!
The bag itself is very nicely constructed. The centre compartment is ideal to use for those books, gadgets and other stuff you want to be easily accessible to during flight/travel. The outer zipper pockets are very good for storing itineraries and tickets.

Advantages of the AirBoss:
1. Mobility in crowded buses
2. Mobility through a crowd and you do not look like the lost tourist.
3. Lots of room
4. No reclaiming of check-in luggage --> Easy to book separate tickets (Pounds vs Euro)
5. Catching earlier flight (Time saving)
6. Perfect with Eagle Creek Pack-it Folders

Best Boss Ever!

By: Barbara - Milton, Delaware April 8, 2009

The Air Boss is the most wonderful bag I've ever had - period. End of story.
To travel to the islands on connecting flights, mid-winter, with a whole bunch of clothes for every occasion PLUS all my snorkel gear (including full size fins, mask, etc.) and be able to pack it all in this bag and then effortlessly fly through airports and customs was a dream come true. This bag easily transported more clothes than I took in TWO similar sized bags the last time I took this same trip AND it held all my snorkel gear, too. Amazing.
The shoulder strap is SO comfortable, even when carrying 25 lbs. And, unlike every bag I've had before, it did NOT gouge or slide off my shoulder once! Hallelujah!
The Air Boss is one boss I'll always respect and want to work with year after year! It is handsome, well built, and highly effective. No regrets.
The Air Boss is simply the best! If you value style and performance as much as quality and comfort, choose your color and order now!

2 weeks, 3 countries in the winter PLUS ball gown = 1 bag

By: Linda Simovic - Pennsylvania March 28, 2009

I bought this bag after reading extensively about how to accomplish one bag travel on onebag.com. I am a frequent international traveler to Europe and Asia, as well as very frequent business travel within the US. In the past, I have had luggage lost in Eastern Europe, and I wasn't about to let it happen on this trip. As a woman, I'm faced with the ever present desire to pack a million things as a "just in case" preventative measure. Scaling down was a HUGE challenge for me. This bag, combined with some practice in packing, allowed me to recently take a 2 week trip to Eastern Europe in the dead of winter. I was on a school trip that required me to wear business attire for 5 days, and at the end of the trip I went to an Opera and had to wear a floor length ball gown!! I got it all into this bag. Plus the week after, I went skiing. Believe me - It is possible!!, but you need the right tools. This bag was paramount in my ability to travel around the world like this. By bundling my clothes, I was able to get all of the things I needed into this bag. I also bought and stuffed an additional 2 dresses, a bottle of perfume, and some small gifts into the bag on my way back!!! I had no idea there was going to be extra room but there was! I wish I could give the product an additional star. The bag is worth the price, and I am going to throw out or give away some of my other bags. I don't need them anymore.

Fantastic bag - you will probably get rid of most of your other luggage

By: Bill Parr - Shanghai, China March 25, 2009

This is a great bag. It is an ideal carry-on bag. It can be big enough for extended (two-week) travel, or for just a couple of days. I routinely carry it and either the Metro or the CPA Briefcase (and the trifold shave kit). I have taken over 25 international trips with it in the time (less than a year) since I purchased the bags - and they have always been adequate to the task.
Well-designed, tough as can be. The Metro and CPA Briefcases --- I use one or the other daily.
Buy the Air Boss now - you won't regret it. I have traditionally been an owner of high-end (expensive, very high quality - I won't mention the brand names...) luggage. In my assessment - I upgraded going to the Air Boss.
Bill Parr

Outstanding

By: Kathryn - Houston March 10, 2009

I had been eying the Air Boss for a while, and finally purchased it to take on a two-week business trip. Verdict: OMG THIS IS THE BEST PIECE OF LUGGAGE EVAH!!!
I was impressed from the very moment I pulled the Air Boss out of the box and admired the heavy-duty blue (”Mariner”) canvas. I fiddled with the zippers, which are also heavy-duty, and continued to be impressed. Those zippers will never fail. They are sturdy and well-made. In fact, the entire bag is sturdy and well-made - and yet, it weighs less than half what my comparable Samsonite wheeled bag weighs.
The Air Boss is designed to be the only bag you need on a trip. I was able to easily pack two weeks’ worth of business clothes (plus casual wear for the weekend) in the two side compartments, while my toiletries, paperwork, phone charger, and other miscellaneous items slid neatly into the center compartment. A laptop fits in the center compartment as well. All three compartments are zippered all the way around, allowing the Air Boss to open flat for easy packing, and allowing for easy access to laptop and toiletries at security (just unzip the side and pull the laptop out).
Even stuffed with all those clothes, the Air Boss still fit easily into the plane’s overhead compartment. When it isn’t so overstuffed, it can actually fit beneath the seat of larger planes, which is a huge bonus for those of you who, like me, are too short to easily reach the overhead compartment on said planes. (The tricky part is lifting a 30- or 40-pound bag that far over my head. I weigh only 100 pounds myself, and when I am holding something that is 40% of my body weight as high as I can reach, that’s quite a moment. [In the physics sense, not the time sense.])
I can’t wait to go on another short trip on which I can take the Air Boss. Two weeks’ worth of clothes was so heavy that I carried my laptop bag separately, but a weekend trip or a one-week trip would allow me to pack the laptop in the center compartment, thus using only one bag (plus purse). I’m excited just thinking about it. Yes, I am more excited about my luggage than I am about the putative trip.
The only disadvantage of the Air Boss on this trip was that, as mentioned, two weeks’ worth of clothes is quite heavy. The Air Boss doesn’t have wheels, because wheels add a lot of weight to a bag and significantly reduce the capacity (there is no way my comparably-sized Samsonite wheeled bag could possibly have held all that clothing), so I had it on one shoulder and my laptop bag on the other shoulder as I trundled around the airports. OUCH. My shoulders were sore for three days, and were covered with tiny bruises that looked almost as if the capillaries had burst. (They’re fine now - not a mark on ‘em.) But if you, like me, are a wuss, you can buy a set of folding wheels and strap your luggage to them for airport travel.
The Air Boss is a very well-designed bag that allows me to satisfy my engineer’s desire for efficiency. I am totally in love with it. It was worth every penny.

Air Boss Goes Around the World

By: Jerry Hubbard - Houston, TX March 5, 2009

I travel extensively for both business and pleasure and had been dragging around a huge suitcase on wheels for the last couple of years convinced that I needed all that room for my 50 pounds of junk. Plus, I had to start carrying a bag on-board since the airlines kept losing the checked bag (try 5 days with no clean clothes in Cape Town...thanks, Emirates). And both of these bags in addition to my computer bag. I feel stupid now just writing this!
Anyway, in January I returned from a 10 day trip to New Delhi, unpacked the big green monster and took it directly to Salvation Army. I had had enough and I knew there must be a better way. I found www.onebag.com and then the Red Oxx website and immediately fell in love with the Air Boss. Bought it on the spot.
I just returned from its maiden voyage...a 26 day, 5-city, 4-country around the world trip to Sydney, Perth, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and London. And the Air Boss is fantastic! It weighed 26 pounds with two suit coats, three pairs of dress pants, four dress shirts, four golf shirts, three pair of shorts, two pairs of shoes, one tie (a mistake...should have been two), a kit bag and all the boxers (was that TMI?), socks and t-shirts required for about a week's run before laundry.
This trip included a week of holiday to start and then two speeches (hence the suits), a three day industry conference, a two day industry conference and five different business meetings. And in climates as varied as Oz, the Middle East and the UK. I was able to carry everything I needed in the Air Boss, no problem. And, with a bit of ironing and using hotel laundries, I didn't look like an unmade bed. Most of the time anyway.
Mea culpa...even though I violated the onebag.com rule of one bag (I still had to have my laptop bag) and the carry-on only rule (BA wouldn't let me take two bags on from Bahrain to London), the Air Boss was a dream to schlep around airports, train stations, taxis, hotels, etc.
Bar none, this is the best bag I've ever owned. Next up; Bangkok for a week. With a goal of 20 pounds total Air Boss weight and carrying on all the way. Well done, Red Oxx.

Works well for me

By: Chip Jarvis - Tucson March 3, 2009

I first heard about this bag from the "onebag.com" (Doug Dymet) website. While I have not completely gone "one bag", I like the idea. I finally bought an Air Boss for myself, and have had the chance to use it on one trip so far. I traveled with the Air Boss and a backpack containing two laptops.
The bag is very well constructed, and LIGHT. I am surprised at just how much lighter it is than the roller bag carryon which I had been using. It also fits more stuff than the roller bag did -- though stuffing it full has greater consequences in the sense that you have to carry all that stuff without wheels! It is MUCH easier to fit into an overhead, due to its light weight, and the ability to "give" a bit.
Since I was traveling with a fairly large backpack as well, the Air Boss shoulder strap didn't seem to work well for me. I just carried the bag by the handles, and it was fine -- heavy stuff was in the backpack.
I travel frequently internationally, and bought this bag as a "commuter" bag. I have tried the "bundle packing" system, and find that I have not been able to successfully pack in this way and keep wrinkles out of what I'm packing. So I, too, use the Eagle Creek "packing boards", and they do fit the AirBoss very nicely.
I find it easier to manage escalators, curbs, and cars without wheels. However, I think it would be much easier traveling with the Air Boss only, and no backpack, since that would allow me to more easily use the Air Boss shoulder strap. I look forward to traveling with this bag again.

Ideal bag for speed travel

By: John G - New Orleans, LA March 1, 2009

I was happy with the bag before it even arrived. I placed my order only to find that it was slated to arrive after I departed on my trip. One call to Red Oxx and the shipping was upgraded free of charge. I could not ask for better customer service. As far as the bag goes, it held a suit, an extra pair of shoes, two days worth of casual clothes and a laptop easily. I frequently travel to DC and LA for three-five day business trips and this bag is perfect. Comfortable to carry and keeps me from the baggage carousels. Excellent construction. I highly recommend this product.

Fantastic Bag, will be even better with practice

By: Jo - Decatur, IL February 27, 2009

We bought two of these bags, and as a couple, we did pretty well on our first trip out with them. I packed about 25 pounds in mine, including a laptop in a padded sleeve, and had no problem fitting it into the tiny Embraer regional jet storage area. He packed considerably lighter, had room to spare (the bag was even a bit too big for his needs!) and trekked around the airports with ease.
I, on the other hand, was wishing for about 5 pounds less of a load. I am a tall woman and reasonably fit, but lugging 25 pounds across two terminals at DFW got to be a bit much on my shoulder. The shoulder strap was marvelous -- the weight (though easily accommodated by the Air Boss) was not. I intend to trim my packing list for the next trip!
I didn't pack with the bundle method, and it still worked. However, I will try the bundle method next time, as I will have more business-type clothes and wrinkles will be more of an issue. The center compartment was perfect for a spare pair of shoes (which I stuffed with adapters, chargers, etc.), my laptop, books, and snacks.
I loved the deep, accessible zipper pocket for travel documents. If I were designing Air Boss v. 2.0, I would do something similar with the area currently occupied by the snap pockets. Lose the snaps, divide this area in three (one on either side of the straps, one in the middle) and put zippers in. This arrangement would be fantastic for carrying smaller items that need to be accessible during the trip. I also second what other reviewers have said -- it would be nice to have some sort of clip for keys.
The construction of the Air Boss is outstanding, the customer service is great, shipping is fast, and we so appreciate a quality product that is made in the United States. Thanks, Red Oxx!

I've been converted!!!

By: J Cantwell - Atlanta February 27, 2009

I was skeptical, but after having read glowing reviews on the airboss, set myself up for a challenge of going to France for a week only with carry on. I go to EUR often enough and can typically check two large bags in addition to toting a carry-on.
I packed for an entire week, using only the airboss and the suggested roll-up packing system. The only other bag I carried was a small computer case that I emptied and just used for flight papers, a couple of books, and toiletries while traveling.
I need to add that I just went to Paris in February while they were having an unusually frigid spell, so all the clothes I took were heavy, thick, warm. In other words, bulky.
I made it fine for the week. In fact, I even came back with several articles I never wore while there.
I am completely sold on never ever checking luggage again even on (or especially on) international flights and stays of a week or more.
I've been converted! Thanks, REDOXX, for my new-found freedom!!!

This one's a winner!

By: Patsi - Houston February 27, 2009

I'm an event planner and was making arrangements to attend a conference in LA a couple of years ago. I was in the market for some new luggage since what I had was extremely big and very heavy and that was before I had anything in it. And OK, I wanted something that looked good, too. Anyway, I had been reading about the one bag way to travel and the Air Boss was so highly recommended that even though I did not think I could do without a rolling bag, I decided I would make the investment. The lifetime guarantee was a good selling point, too. I bought the red. I have to confess I had some serious doubts when I first got the bag - it looks so small - but I was pleasantly surprised. I did a test run before the LA trip when I went home for Christmas. Without doing the bundling method and not really paring down my wardrobe, it still fit plenty plus gifts, boots and toiletries. Amazing!!!
The conference trip was even better because I followed the bundling method of packing and had room for all of the goodies, samples and books I acquired while there. I travel a couple of times a year and it has never let me down. I am now planning my first trip to Europe in the fall. I'll be spending a week in Florence and another in Paris and maybe a few days in Spain. I already have a Gator but was thinking of buying the mini roadster ruck and taking that along with my Air Boss. If anyone has any thoughts on this, I would appreciate the feedback.

Air Boss is a Beast

By: Rick M - Arlington, MA February 21, 2009

Build quality is extraordinary, versatility and flexibility is un-matched, and its ability to swallow clothing computers and shoes is nothing short of magical. From Alaska to Dubai this bag has become my definitive bag. For trips of a week or less it is my only bag and for longer trips, or trips requiring multiple suits, it has become the chosen carry-on playing a great supporting role. Thanks Red Oxx!

Move Over Roller Boards

By: Charlie - Austin, Tx February 17, 2009

I "happened" across this bag when surfing the web for more efficient travel techniques, One Bag was my first stop. I travel for business about 100 days a year and have used a roller bag for the last 7 years. My last bag of 5 years was a flight roller board (Purdy Neat), steel frame, which pushed 15+ pounds empty. I was never happy with how to pack it either, always tweaking to get the load configured just right. I used the eagle creek packing system and with the weight of the roller board for 2-4 days of business travel my load would push 50 pounds, not including laptop bag. Needless to say it’s not easy getting around with a heavy roller board in cities like New York, Chicago, and Minneapolis: in and out of Cars, buses, taxis, subways, airplanes (different storage bin sizes/plane side check); And on and through revolving doors, escalators, elevators, stairs, curbs, rain (puddles), snow covered sidewalks/parking lots….should I go on…
So I bit the bullet and purchased the Air Boss and used it last week… I also used the bundle packing system, so I was all in, cold turkey!!!.......and WHAT A DIFFERENCE. I love having two hands free again and I’m able to move around with ease. The only problem is 90% of the travel population has roller boards and they slow “us” up now… The bundle packing system makes it lighter; I think with more time I can master that…I do think there were a few less wrinkles, it’s toss up, but I’ll take it because it lighter.
We now need a RedOxx lane….please move over… :)

best bag ever!

By: Anonymous - pittsburgh February 6, 2009

bought this bag back in sept, finally had a chance to use it on my vacation to Mexico. this bag is GREAT! can stuff a ton into it and is just so well made. very easy to lug around despite not having any wheels and can fit in the overhead very easily you won't be disappointed. best of all it's made in America!

Best Bag Ever

By: Anonymous - Atlanta, GA February 2, 2009

One bag. Everything for two weeks of business and casual travel. I've been doing law enforcement and public safety traveling for over 3 decades and figure this is the bag for the next 30.

Air Boss: My Other Bags Remain In The Utility Room

By: Jerry S. - Denver, Colorado January 30, 2009

I've always purchased the best that I can afford and having purchased the Air Boss, Gator Bag, Beano PR5 (for me) and the Metro Briefcase (for my nephew), honestly and w/o reservations, these bags ROCK!
This review is for the Air Boss and I've found it to be a bag that I can literally take anywhere... and I usually do. I try to keep the weight under twenty pounds which the Air Boss with standard strap handles extremely well. When traveling with the Air Boss, I usually carry the Gator Bag and I find the combo exceptional.
If I want to fly with only one bag, I just take the Air Boss and slip my personal items, laptop and running shoes into the center compartment and woila, I have one bag travel!
Having been a long time mountaineer, I'm accustomed to wear and tare on equipment and with that said, the high quality equipment that I buy always gets the job done w/o any problems.
I purchased the Air Boss and Red Oxx gear with the expectation that they'll last me MANY years and if I do run into problems, their guarantee cannot be beat.
My Andiamo Valoroso roller carry-on, which was much more expensive than the Air Boss is currently gathering dust in the utility room as I have not taken it on an airplane since receiving the Air Boss.
I wish the Air Boss and other Red Oxx gear had a removable clip whereby I could affix my car and house keys to so I can clip 'em in and forget about. However this is a very minor wish as the bag(s) just simply do their thing... well!

Great Bag ... Twp Suggestions

By: Wes - Phoenix, AZ USA January 27, 2009

I acquired the Air Boss as a replacement for my old Land's End overnight attache which "gave up the ghost" after twenty-five years of almost daily use and many continents. This bag is of superior design and utility. The quality of manufacture is of the same standard.
My suggestions for improvement are to add some sort of lanyard and clasp inside the outside "ticket pocket" for the purpose of clipping a key ring or other light weight item. The second is to add several open top "pockets" inside the other outside zippered pocket. These would be extremely useful for such items as cell phones, pocket notebooks, or glasses cases ... as well as pencils or pens or any other small item. We all dig for items like these sitting in departure lounges or on an airplane, and their ready retrieval is really handy.
I highly recommend the Air Boss bag to serious travelers.
Thanks to all at Red OXX!

without equal...

By: Etienne Gadient - San Francisco, CA January 18, 2009

I have been using this bag for more than 3 years on an active basis. I recently took a trip where I tried a wheeled carry on and it was such a let down that I realized just how much better my experience was with this bag. After three years, I got spoiled.
I am one who tends to read reviews, however never leaves them. Actually, this is my first ever review. This bag is that good. This is an excellent bag and comes with very few reservations.
Let's start with the bad.
* It is a shoulder bag. Before you go any further, you need to completely understand that everything you pack is going on your shoulder. For a week long trip or longer trip, I tend to pack about 35 lbs for my kind of traveling in this bag. If you are also carrying a laptop bag, this can get another 25+ lbs which is a little silly in terms of shoulder bearing weight. As a result, you shouldn't plan to walk miles with this bag. It that is your goal, perhaps you should be looking at a backpack (I believe the very similar sky train is better for this goal, but cannot attest to it) With a little planning, however, no wheels becomes its strength.
...yeah, that is about it....
Let's move to the good.
* this bag is seriously overbuilt, yet without the hardware of wheels, etc, is amazingly light. The quality is something that I expected to be exaggerated...and happily, it isn't. The zippers are insanely overbuilt and the bag fabric is still looking like it did when it arrived.
* bundle wrapping/pack it folders - frankly, I love the idea, but just couldn't make it work for me. Why is this a strength then? The eagle creek pack it folders fit really well in any of the three slots in this bag. This has become my system and admittedly, got me to the point where I haven't lost anything travelling for more than three years. My system is simple. If something comes out of the folder, something goes in. it makes living out of the bag simple and with a couple of other small steps (if its dirty, turn it inside out & put it on the bottom of the folder). Yes, the folders add a few ounces, but for me they are well worth the weight.
* three slots are simply brilliant. I have to agree with Doug Dyment on this concept. For me, the two outside sleeves are for clothes and the center sleeve is perfect for that spare pair of shoes (I try to always travel with fitness shoes) and any toiletries (which consequently get protected from crushing by your clothes). It also becomes a space for spare stuff that would normally have to be carried in my briefcase (that travel power strip, ipod cable, ac adapter for that cell phone, etc)...basically anything that you use in the hotel and don't need prior. For those thinking this through, that may seem odd, since all I am doing is shifting weight from one shoulder to another. This actually speaks to the amazing shoulder strap...
* Shoulder Strap - This often overlooked item is actually the key to this bag being a success. IF this bag had an inferior shoulder strap, this bag would fail with the requisite soreness after running through airports and hotels. The strap has two very key concepts that need to be understood to be appreciated. 1. It grips your shoulder. I wish my much more expensive briefcase shoulder strap were half as good. It stays and does not try to rearrange your clothes in the process. 2. It actually distributes load over a more generalized area than any other shoulder strap. To appreciate this, you have to consider why the weight of a backpack seems lighter pound for pound than a shoulder bag (besides dividing the weight by 2 straps). Take 35 lbs and put it in a decent quality backpack (wearing only one strap) vs. a standard shoulder bag. The 35 lbs is less taxing on the backpack because the part that contacts you is malleable. As a result, that weight is distributed over the entire area that contacts your body, rather than a very localized 1 sq inch or less. This is the difference between having to constantly switch shoulders and being able to carry it for long periods of time on one shoulder without taxing you. This strap is simply best of breed.
* Simple is better - I remember when it first arrived, my first thought was "I paid $200 for a simple ballistic nylon bag with some zippers?" My initial thought was that this bag was seriously overpriced for essentially being a couple of pieces of ballistic nylon with some very big zippers. I SIMPLY COULDN'T HAVE BEEN MORE WRONG. The bag is an absolute value for what it provides. The simplicity of this bag is its strength. it is the right amount of organization without limiting your options in terms of what you pack. And the proof of it is that have used the same bag year over year...my first ever to accomplish that.
* hardware really does get in the way - Remember I mentioned that I recently tried a trip with a wheeled bag? Due to some specific weight requirements, I used an Eagle Creek carry on for a trip recently. Admittedly for a wheeled bag, it is excellent...yet absolutely pales in comparison to the Air Boss. It wasn't even close. I found that in order to fit a similar grouping of items in that bag, it became overstuffed...technically still carry on legal...but with the airlines having a financial incentive to check bags...Those 22" wheeled bags cannot use their outside pockets to remain carry on legal. It was forced to be checked both ways... completely defeating the purpose of a carry on bag...and I was carrying LESS!!! I have never been forced to check my Air boss due to its size.
Conclusions:
1. Manage your weight - This bag forces you to really think about the weight you are packing. For example, I pack all of my toiletries into two ziplock bags. one for the TSA and one not. It has worked better than any purchased toiletry bag. I tend to not pack "just in case" stuff as a result. Isn't that the whole point of traveling light? do you really need 2 pairs of dress shoes on this trip? Traveling lighter makes the trip easier and puts less wear and tear on the bearer.
2. Wheels are actually an inconvenience - have you ever tried to climb a set of stairs with a wheeled bag? All of the hardware, plus your stuff make the process seriously inconvenient. Since you didn't have to manage your weight in the first place, your traveling heavier and now all of that hardware needs to be lifted. Wheeled bags are in their element in the terminal and the hotel lobby. Ever tried walking a long distance on sidewalk with a wheeled bag? The Air Boss simply is in its element almost anywhere.
3. This bag helped me find a traveling system that worked. It took me 10 years of heavy traveling before finding this bag and developing a decent system for traveling. I genuinely believe that the catalyst for my system was the eagle creek pack it folders and the three slots system of this bag.
4. Speak to the Red Oxx team. - When I called in, Jim answered the phone and we spoke about 15 minutes about the ideas behind this bag. I genuinely got the sense that he would stand behind his word of "send me enough of the destroyed bag to recognize that it is mine and I'll ship you a new one." I hope I never have to find out personally...but he had stories that left me amazed.
Simply Five stars and my personal thanks for an excellent piece of kit.

Incredible Human Engineering Quality

By: Stefan Topolski - Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts January 8, 2009

Wonderful, incredible, awesome design and rugged construction. You have to pay for quality, and you can get the best quality in the U.S.A. I am so excited that i should be able to depend on it for years to come.
My wife had a heart attack when she saw the receipt, but she respected me for putting our money behind real value.

It's very good!

By: Bill - Block Island, RI January 7, 2009

It was great. I took a 2 1/2 week business trip to Brussels and the Air Boss did everything that you said it would. Being the first one out of the terminal was quite an experience given all my years of waiting for my bag to come in from the plane. I've off to Asia next month for 3 weeks so....
Best

two annoing bits

By: Air Boss - Houston January 6, 2009

I own 4 Red Oxx products, an Air Boss, a Gator Bag, a Sky Train, and a CPA Briefcase. I use them all, all the time. The Sky Train is great for traveling without a suit. The Air Boss is great for traveling with a suit. The bright yellow CPA Briefcase provokes many comments, some of them actually admiring, some of them comparing it to a popular tool company's tool bags. The Gator is just great, though my wife says a purse is still a purse. all of them are fun.
I have two complaints.
First, I wish like everything there was a key snap in one of the pockets. Some kind of snap hook attached to a strap inside a pocket would be greatly appreciated. When I get back into the car at an airport, I love those things. Otherwise my car keys are a source of anxiety and mystery. It's even worse for rental cars.
Second, for the bags with outside pockets, why use metal snaps? I hated those things when I was a kid with winter coats, I hate them now. They take two hands to snap, and I never do. Velcro might not be as secure, but at least I'd use it. Plastic buckles would be a whole lot easier.
This is not really a third, but the snap hooks and rings for the shoulder straps would be lighter, I suspect, if plastic. I suspect that's all the Colin Fletcher I read as a child, though, and not a real complaint. The shoulder straps are surprisingly comfortable.

It makes other bags cry

By: ha3rvey - Dallas, TX January 6, 2009

I have taken a round-trip flight almost every week since August, 2008. I used to struggle with a wheeled bag, trying to get my size-15 shoes and 40/34 pants into it without wrinkles. I especially hated having to "gate check" it due to overcrowding.
I got the Airboss in November, and have made several trips with it. The pictures don't really do it justice. When I opened the box, the bag looked HUGE. But when I set it next to my wheeled bag, I realized it's actually smaller overall.
Here’s why this is the best bag I have ever used: 1-It holds my stuff without bulging. 2-It's light when empty. 3-The internal straps keep my bundle-wrapped clothes wrinkle-free. 4-The claw strap is comfortable and doesn't slide. 5-It fits in the overhead compartment of every plane I've flown in, even those annoying “regional jets.”
It's only drawback I've seen is that it might tempt you to overpack: "I still have room for this, and this, and this..."
Thanks, Red Oxx and onebag.com.

Customer Service Good

By: Sue - Arizona January 2, 2009

I tried the Air Boss on a trip to Alaska and it did not work for me. I communicated this fact and the reasons to Red Oxx. They were responsive to my concerns and I commend the company for good customer service.

Best bag ever. Period.

By: hmcl - Italy December 20, 2008

Almost a hundred 5-star reviews; no surprises here: This is one heck of a bag. It's been my companion on 12 trips in as many weeks, and I'm forgetting how I used to travel, or rather: how I managed to travel before without the AirBoss. The folks at RedOxx were most helpful with advising on the color, and their explanation on some tech details of the bag. Not my first RedOxx bag, but the first one I write a review about.
An additional advantage is that although the bag may be a big outside the limit for carry-on restrictions (sigh) when completely stuffed, it doesn't look like it. And nowadays with the low-cost carriers charging you for everything ranging from printing a boarding pass to one kg extra weight, you won't have to worry with the AirBoss: Roll-ons are put on the scale and banned to the cargo hold if exceeding 10 kg, but a shoulder bag like this one won't be examined. And it fits in the overhead lockers of commuter planes, too.

10 WEEKS IN AFRICA 1 BAG!!!

By: Douglas MacMillan - Doylestown, PA December 19, 2008

Awesome bag, I just got back from a fairly hardcore trip to Africa. It took me to Zambia, Angola, DR Congo, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia and South Africa. We were always on the go, sleeping in Land Rovers or tents. Then pack up and go to the next town or village. This bag was covered in mud, fell off the roof of a Land Rover at 40 mph, and basically abused. It did great, it held all my kit and nothing inside got wet. Having 1 bag for everything is the key to this kind of travel. I will be going back this Jan. and I will only be taking the Air Boss with me.
Upon my return I took the Air Boss to my local car wash, power washed it and let it dry, waterproofed it, and it is as good as new!!!!!!!

As Great as Expected

By: Scott Jones - Alpharetta, Georgia, USA December 14, 2008

After coming across www.onebag.com, I decided to take the carry-on only plunge. After much research, I selected an Air Boss.
I just returned from a 4 day business trip and the Air Boss performed flawlessly. I 'bundle wrapped' everything I needed and the shoulder strap was extremely comfortable -- no discomfort at all despite lugging a week's worth of gear through a variety of airports and hotels.
Safe to say, I've checked my last piece of luggage and will heartily recommend Red Oxx to all who would listen!

Air Boss Rocks

By: Anonymous - Chatsworth, GA December 12, 2008

Great product and you cannot imagine how much stuff you can put in the bag its amazing! I am glad I got it! Its well worth the money.

Compartments with zips on three sides

By: Dunstan Cooke - London, UK December 9, 2008

There's nothing really I want to add beyond that which others have said countless times below, but one thing I have found very convenient is to be able to position the zippers on the side of the AirBoss before storing it in overhead lockers end on. The bag sits very securely, and I find I can get most things out without having to lift it down mid flight.

One bag is the only way to go!

By: Brad - Champaign IL December 8, 2008

I bought this bag for a two week trip to Australia. Last year I spent three weeks in London and took two full sized suitcases plus my backpack. It was nightmare dealing with all that luggage for three weeks. After this trip I decided to try the going with just a carry on bag and chose the Air Boss to take with me on all my trips (4 business trips each year). The Air Boss was worked great on my trip and saved a ton of time. I was able to beat everyone on my flights through customs because I didn't have to wait to claim a bag and was the first one in line.
I was able to easily fit 3 pairs of pants, 2 pairs of short, 4 polos, 4 t shirts, underwear, toiletries, a Canon 40d, and a book. My wife was so impressed that we will be getting her one for our family trips!
My only recommendation would be to offer Tom Bihn's Absolute Shoulder Strap as an alternative to the claw strap. When packed for the trip my bag weighed just over 20 pounds and the claw strap cut into my shoulder. The Absolute strap was much more comfortable. I now have a $20 claw strap in the bottom of my closet.

request to expand range

By: kevin - sydney australia December 5, 2008

This is a good product. Non US airlines tend to have tighter restrictions for carry ons. I would like to see a second slightly smaller version of this bag introduced for this reason. Additionally, if the lining and logos could be available in black rather than bright red I would prefer it.

Great bag - but too big

By: Lasse - Denmark December 1, 2008

I bought this for a three month assignment in London (UK), where I have to travel each week. It is great with a bag that carries itself on your shoulder (Thanks to the claw) and which can hold all you need for one or two weeks. But when I have checked in to the hotel and emptied the bag of my clothes etc. I have to carry a bag with only my computer (and power supply etc.). It would be great to have a detachable part with just room for the computer and accessories.
I am looking forward to trying it out on a backpack vacation in Scotland next year or next year again. I have every confidence that no matter if is in two or three years the bag will still be in "mint condition".
BTW. I am 53 and love to travel light.

Linear inches

By: James - DC November 10, 2008

Air Boss still within limits - demonstrating it's continued awesomenessitude. With the new bag restrictions, some carriers have reduced the size of allowable carry-on items from 51 linear inches (length plus height plus width) to 45 linear inches. Airboss is 42 inches.
Airlines are making substantial money with the a la cart pricing for bag fees and have a clear financial incentive to enforce carry-on requirements. (It also gives rise to some evil ideas about additional inventive uses of the monkey fist.) Outstanding luggage concepts like AirBoss can now represent a cost savings over time - plus, you know, cool bag.
**Note to RedOxx: maybe this linear inches measurement would be good to add to the dimensions description tag or up front.

I’ve always know Red Oxx.

By: Sara - Northfield, Minnesota November 10, 2008

I’ve always know Red Oxx. I am from Montana and number of fire fighter friends have giant gear bags made by them. While searching for the perfect back pack for a backpacking trip to Argentina I rediscovered Red Oxx while on onebag.com. While I did not pick the Air Boss for my trip to Argentina I did get one for business and leisure travel within the states. My Air Boss has been with me all over the United States. Through many airports, the subway, packed shuttle vans, the mega bus between Minn and Chi. This bag has provided itself! I am a 5’ 8” 130 lb female and I have no problem carrying this bag packed full through airports and long distances when needed. I have fit two pairs of heels, 3 pairs of jeans, a dress, a light coat, at least 5 shirts, a hair straightener…way to much in this bag. I laugh at the businessmen in suits as they try to rush through the airport with their ‘carry on’ rolling bags.
My only regret is that I picked the blue and black bag. The charcoal and black one is screaming my name :)

Yes, You Want To Buy This Bag

By: M Alana Bell - Seattle, WA October 28, 2008

Really. You want to buy an Air Boss, if: You want your bag to be built to last. You want it in your preferred color. You firmly believe that it's carry-on or not-get-on. Best of all, you would like to own a quality piece of luggage made in the USA.
I was also a convert after reading the review on onebag. I've had my Air Boss over two years now, and it looks as new as it did the day I happily unboxed it. Believe me, it hasn't sat in a closet! Yet you wouldn't know by looking at it. Sure, it costs more than luggage at discount shops or big-box stores, but you will get every penny's worth of use out of this bag, and then some.
I can travel out of this bag for a weekend, or six months straight, with no worries. It's overbuilt and will take any load you can fit inside. Yet it handles lighter loads without wrinkling your clothes or sagging like a lump.
One bag travel really is a state of mind and a philosophy all its own. With this bag you will never be one of the rolling masses again-and you will save money and time in the long run by avoiding baggage fees, cab hire, and waiting for luggage with the rest of your fellow travelers. Go green-you can easily take public transport with an Air Boss, once you're freed from your old LUGgage.
Join the growing users of Red Oxx - you'll be glad you did! You probably won't stop here. I also own a Travel Basket, a Gator, a Lil Roy, a Market Tote, and a Metro Briefcase. I'll probably buy more in the future, too.

These guys are insane!

By: Michael Slavitch - Ottawa, Ontario October 22, 2008

This bag is insanely over engineered.
I went the bag today and I've picked through it, and the actual craft evident in the bag is obvious. It is a bargain.
There are two manufacturers of bags that have my loyalty now: Glaser Designs in San Francisco and Red Oxx in Montana.
Myron Glaser makes what I consider to be the most beautiful and elegant leather bags in the world, and they are as over-engineered as the Red Oxx bags are. They are very expensive, three times the cost, but like Red Oxx worth every penny. The zippers feel the same. There is care in every aspect.
I had a Glaser Designs litigator's bag but it was stolen in an office break-in. It is sorely missed. The Red Oxx is its replacement for business travel in a one-bag world. Myron's bags have a multi-week lead time, as they are a custom product for people who can afford to wait. Red Oxx is all about now now now.
Myron Glaser makes elegant executive bags. They make a statement while being useful. Red Oxx is different, they are about hustle and go go go and get things done. If the two companies ever collaborated on leather bags perfection would ensue.
Boys: Give Myron a call.

Great Bag

By: David - Ann Arbor, MI October 19, 2008

Like several other reviewers, I was directed towards the Air Boss from onebag.com. That was a year ago, and I have not checked a bag since (and I travel a LOT, at least two plane rides per month). Even after taking a real beating hauling it up a mountain in New Mexico, it still looks brand new. The reason I am deducting a star is because for some reason, my claw strap started marking up my clothing. I just got married, and I was on my honeymoon trip with my two best decisions, my wife and my Air Boss. Imagine my distaste when I found out at a fancy restaurant that my claw strapped had left strap-shaped black marks on my $200 Nat Nast white silk shirt! I went to the bathroom at a certain point, looked in the mirror, and gasped! Worse yet, a week later after dry cleaning, those marks are there to stay, and I'm out my favorite shirt! I called Red Oxx, and they immediately sent me out a new claw (I haven't tried it yet), but I was really hoping for more commiseration or maybe some kind of good-will free stuff. Anyway, it says a lot that I still give it four stars- what a bag! Just make sure you have a good claw before you carry it in from the car in your best shirt.
From Red Oxx:
The composite of the rubber will not transfer any of the dye. But if the strap is set in something dirty it can pick up and transfer whatever it was set in. We have contacted the molding company and they assure me that it is not possible for the rubber to transfer any of its dye.
Red Oxx

Can't speak highly enough

By: Pete - San Jose, CA October 15, 2008

I'm a consultant, traveling by air on a weekly basis, and I've had the AirBoss for two months now. First off, it's incredibly well designed and put together. Previous bags would be showing marks of wear and tear by now, but this thing still looks brand new.As others have mentioned, it holds an amazing amount. I pack business clothes in one side, casual clothes on the opposite and shoes in the middle. I've never even come close to filling it. My wife and I recently went on a weekend trip and were able to share this one bag between us - we took one side each. It was amazing.

THE BLACK HOLE THAT SWALLOWS UP EVERYTHING

By: Chris Kostman - Oak Park, CA October 14, 2008

I swear, the Air Boss holds three times what it should and keeps all my clothes wrinkle-free at the same time. It's like a black hole or something, just swallowing up everything that comes within sight of it. In the way that more clothes can be packed by putting them in airtight ziplocks, the Air Boss does the same thing, only better. I also like how the middle section, the only one without strap-downs, holds my cowboy boots (pushed way to the bottom), my Tri-Fold Shave Kit, belts, and all the left-overs and "odds and ends" which are not cinched down nicely in the two other pockets. Those two main outer pockets hold shirts, socks, and jackets on one side, then shorts, pants, and underwear on the other side). I even slide reading material (for the plane) into the outer pocket. This bag, plus my Metro Briefcase, are all I take, and all I need, for most plane trips - and I don't have to check anything!

Holds a LOT

By: Anonymous - Allentown, PA October 9, 2008

Got this and a Boxcar shortly before packing all my stuff and heading back to college. Was able to fit
2 cargo shorts
7 dress shirts
3 jeans
1 dress pant
11 boxers
16 pair socks
4 t-shirts
1 pair cowboy boots
Very impressive for a carry-on size bag! Also top quality workmanship and hardware as expected.

Great Bag!

By: Mike - Florida September 30, 2008

I travel to Mexico and the Southwestern US several times a month. I have tried every type of bag and was using a rolling ballistic bag until I found the Air Boss made by Red Oxx. I try to be careful with my luggage but because of the various modes of transportation I use regularly my luggage always is thrown about, stepped on, dropped on tarmacs pavements and one time run over by the back wheels of a rickety bus in Mexico City! Amazingly this bag does not have one blemish on it and it looks exactly as it did when I purchased it!
I have used this bag as my sole bag every time and have always been able to carry it on both small and large aircraft and it fits nicely either under the seat or in all overhead bins. You can pack this bag until you think it is full and amazingly you can then put other things into it! The pictures and description of this bag on this website does not do it justice! The quality and craftsmanship is unmatched and I am not sure if you can wear this bag out!
You are also going to find that the Customer service at Red Oxx is without question the best you are going to get anywhere! I have never received better service and dealt with nicer people in my life! Buying products from this company is an absolutely pleasurable and rewarding experience!
Thanks, Jim, Amanda and everyone for the best bags and service that a person can find!

No Other Bag Comes Close!

By: Elizabeth - USA September 28, 2008

My introduction to Red Oxx bags happened last year when I was looking for a good bag to use for traveling for work. I've had the Air Boss for over a year now and find it to be a great bag for all kinds of occasions.
I am a rather small-framed woman, and the bag is not too bulky, even when fully packed for a five-day conference. In addition to clothes, I also pack a couple pairs of shoes, a sizable toiletry kit, and typically take a jacket or two.
The compartments make it easy to separate work-out clothes from work clothes. At first I thought that the packing space on either side of the main compartment would hold only the slightest things, but I am happy to say that I was wrong about that. I can fit quite a few things into those winged compartments. In fact, I got all of my conference clothes into just one side!
I loved it so much that I bought a Flying Boxcar for my husband, who likes a duffel design as much as he likes to push limits!
Thanks, Red Oxx, for your good designs, sensible packing tips, and easy-to-use website. I have had nothing but good experiences with this company.

Wheelis are for Wussies

By: Al - Lake Zurich IL September 26, 2008

I debated for a long time before converting to the Air Boss after wearing out my third wheelie. I would never go back.
I always carry-on. With my Air Boss on my shoulder (and maybe a laptop bag on the other shoulder), I glide up and down the wide-open stairways while others clog the escalators, I don't have to kick my bag through the customs/immigration lines, my hands are free to carry a cup of coffee and sandwich to the gate or to present my ticket and passport, and my bag is securely with me as I go through a cafeteria line. I can even use the restroom and the bag never touches the floor. Because it fits in the overhead on the regional jets, I smile as I breeze past all the wheelie gate checkers shivering in cold jet-ways.
By the way, I am 57 years old and in average shape. I remember when only flight crews used wheelies. Maybe they have to carry a lot of heavy paperwork or something, but a week's worth of clothes and an extra pair of shoes is certainly manageable on the shoulder.
Others have commented adequately on the many features of the Air Boss except for one thing; The Claw--not only does it not slip, but it is double sided--you don't have to flip it to make sure the padded, non-slip surface is on your shoulder.
Oh, I had another unexpected positive carry-on experience a couple of weeks ago. I returned to ORD Terminal 3 after a week in Brazil. Our plane had already parked on the tarmac for 45 minutes in heavy rain waiting for an open gate. No one was allowed downstairs because the baggage claim area had flooded. I'm glad I didn't have to wait for my bag in that mess.

Could Not Be Happier

By: Steve T. - Mansfield, MA September 22, 2008

I am so impressed with this bag. I was able to pack 5 days worth of clothes, laptop and everything else for a business trip. The amazing thing is that there was still room after that. I am now a convert to the church of "One Bag". I was so glad I took this bag and this bag only. I was able to even fit it under the seat in a Boeing 757 when all the overheads were completely full.

Love it after two years

By: Chris in Pa. - Pa. September 22, 2008

Everything you hear about Redoxx bags being durable and overbuilt is an understatement. More than one fellow traveler has remarked "damn, those are some serious looking zippers!" I've used an Air Boss for a two plus years now and love its lay-flat design. Lighter, nimbler, and more "stuff able" into overhead compartments than roller luggage.
Can it be improved? Maybe a key hook in the small compartment. I can't think of anything else.

This Bag Rules

By: Ken S - NH, USA September 21, 2008

I just took an 8 day vacation with this bag and a small briefcase. The Air Boss holds an amazing amount and most items were relatively wrinkle free with the 'bundle' packing method. I am relatively athletic, and with the bag at 18 lbs I could negotiate the airports with ease and often left my wife stranded at the escalator with her roller while I took the stairs (I had to wait for her at the bottom).
Fitting in RJ overhead bins is an added bonus. This is a keeper!

REPLACED A ROLLER AS CARRY ON

By: Michael - New York September 16, 2008

Bought the Air Boss for frequent trips from NY to FL but decided to try it out for the first time on a four day trip to London. I was very impressed with the capacity of the bag. I packed a sport coat, casual slacks, dress pants, two sport shirts, one dress shirt, tie, dress shoes, belt, socks, underwear, two sweaters, a travel pillow, the nomad kit, plus a number of small electrics and their chargers. No problem. Also, the side snap pocket was perfect for that plastic baggie with the liquids, and the small deep side pocket was great for tickets, confirmations, etc. It was easy to carry (the shoulder strap will NOT slip off) although some of the longer walks at Heathrow took their toll. But the bag was very easy to maneuver on the plane, on trains, in taxis, in the hotel, etc. I replaced a 22" roller with the Air Boss and found the Air Boss to hold more. My roller is also expandable, but that puts it out of the carry on category. Good for all those extras you buy and pack, but then you have to check it on the way home. Better advice is to pack the Air Boss light and leave room for the purchases. But I think the clincher was how much easier it was to lift, store and get around obstacles with the Air Boss than it is with the roller. With the rigid sides and wheels it can be hard to sling it around and the handle has to be retracted and re-extended every time you use/store it. No such problems with Air Boss. Buy one, you'll like using it.

Superb - but find a UK distributor

By: Sean Inglis - UK September 13, 2008

Chose the AirBoss after a lot of research.
Every other review has been on the money - an excellent bit of kit, and combined with the roll method of packing, saw me through a 3 and a 4 day trip including shoes, extras and a linen jacket.
A bit of creasing, but I'm quite a tall chap so extra long arms and legs mean there's slightly less room for manouevre with my clothes.
But please try to find a way to distribute less expensively to the UK - it ended up costing me ~200 UKP by the time postage and duty was added.

THE AIR BOSS REPLACED ALL MY OTHER LUGGAGE

By: Brian H. - Olathe, KS September 8, 2008

I bought this bag after taking a new job that required extensive travel. I first went to a luggage store, and bought a "high end" carry on. It made one trip with me, and I could barely fit 3 days worth of clothes in it. I then found out about the one bag site where I found out about the Air Boss. I made the decision to return the other bag, and give the Air Boss a try. My wife was so skeptical, and thought I was silly for getting it, especially when it arrived. I gave it the first real test on a trip to Las Vegas. I packed 5 days worth of clothes, my computer and everything I needed in my bag. It was filled to the brim but it worked. I now generally carry a separate briefcase, but know that I don't have to if I don't want to. I can't recommend this bag enough. I Really should sell all my other bags, and use the money to purchase more Red Oxx bags.

Lived up to its billing

By: SMCP - Ashland, VA August 19, 2008

After reading an article in the travel section of the local paper, which touted this bag, I bought one for a trip to Tahoe. What a great buy. My husband and I were able to carry on all of our "good" clothes, and they were able to arrive unscathed (we did use packing cubes). We both loved the Air Boss. It really did hold a lot--we did have to check the golf bag and a duffel that contained large bottles--but was not heavy. I'll be back!

Best Bag Available

By: Jeff - Denver August 11, 2008

I spent 8 days on Margarita Island and did not check one bag. The Air Boss carried everything I needed and I was able to bring back the extras that I purchased while I was there. 3 planes and boat ride later the bag was easy to carry and fit in the overhead of every plane. The airlines are charging for checked bags, so do yourself a favor buy an Air Boss and save your money. You will not be disappointed with the quality of this bag. You can buy a cheap department store model for the same money but it will not last nearly as long.

Nice Bag

By: KH - Washington, DC August 5, 2008

One week in Japan on business with AirBoss and CPA Briefcase. I put all my clothes and business papers in the AirBoss and just my computer and cords in the CPA. Lots of unused space in the CPA and a good deal of space remained in the AirBoss. The packed AirBoss weighed 26 lbs. Claw straps were very helpful since navigating through Dulles airport involves a lot of walking. The AirBoss was very easy to handle on the trains and subways in Tokyo. Will write about CPA separately.

Awesome bag

By: Benjamin Strong - Connecticut July 23, 2008

I routinely travel on domestic and international business for the United States Coast Guard and got tired of my bags being lost. I saw the Air Boss on the onebag.com website and thought I would give it a try. I was heading to a conference in Puerto Rico for a week and needed business and casual clothes, workout gear, laptop and all the accessories, and some other presentation materials. I should disclose I also carried a small briefcase. Not only did the Air Boss easily fit all my stuff (three pair dress slacks, three dress shirts, three sport shirts, one pair of casual pants, swim suit, dress shoes, toiletries, tie, undershirts, underwear, dress socks, casual socks, computer accessories, running shorts and shirt, and my flip flops) I actually over packed! Using some simple tactics from the onebag.com website, a few undergarments from Tilley, and you can travel for months from this one durable carryon bag. The quality is great, it fits anywhere (I even stuffed it in the overhead bin of one of those little American Eagle jets) and I saved HOURS by not having to check, retrieve bags. I am sold. I even convinced a colleague I was traveling with to purchase an Air Boss. I should get commission! If you are serious about traveling and want the reassurance your stuff will arrive when you do then this is the bag for you. If you are tired of cheap luggage that only makes it through one trip then this is the bag for you. Go ahead, you know you want to buy it, just do it!

Exceeded expectations

By: Steve - IN July 15, 2008

This bag is amazing! It consumed both my clothing and my wife's clothing for a four day trip; plus two toiletry bags and still had room for more. It's hard to believe until you begin to zip the bag closed and realize there is still room for more items. My rolling bag is larger, yet doesn't hold near the amount the Air Boss holds.

Like a black hole, but watch your back.

By: Matt - Chicago July 10, 2008

Just got through 2 weeks of non-stop business travel around Southeast Asia. 12 days, 3 countries, 5 cities on a peninsula and 5 cities on 3 islands. I was skeptical about the bag because it looks small and I'm big. Miraculously it really lives up to the hype. I was able to pack plenty of my XXL clothes for both business and casual wear, plus size 14 shoes and my toiletries. Never once did I have to check the bag, although I needed to stow it in a closet once because the overhead was really only made for small bags.
Now here's the one caveat. Because the bag swallows everything like a black hole, it can get VERY heavy. On the first day of my trip I put on my backpack, then picked up the air boss and tweaked my back BADDD. I seriously recommend that you either not carry another bag, bend with your knees, or get a small cart.

Stop looking and buy it.

By: Steve - IN July 8, 2008

Received my Air Boss yesterday and I'm preparing to use it for travel later this week. This bag is quality throughout and built for use. If you're reading the reviews to make your decision whether the bag is worth the money - it is. I previously used a rolling bag and I'm looking forward to parking it for the Air Boss. We will be repeat customers as Red Oxx is producing quality products at a time where most are downgrading their craftsmanship and materials. So, just buy the bag and begin enjoying it sooner.

Initial Impressions

By: Scott - USA June 28, 2008

Just received my Air Boss. Haven't traveled yet, but my initial impression is that the product appears to live up to the reviews I have read. One point that some may wish to know is that I can confirm that the Eagle Creek Pack-It garment sleeve can be packed with two men's suits and will comfortably fit in the bag.
After a trip in late July, I will follow up with a more detailed review.

Pro Pilot Pioneers Use of Air Boss for Work and Play

By: Rick - Harrisburg, PA June 23, 2008

I am a professional pilot. There is a standard suitcase we all get, or want to get. It weighs 14 pounds un-loaded. I also carry a second bag that is carried on the J hook and I tried to carry a third small duffel that clips to the main bag. The bag is surrounded by a steel frame around the exterior and of course it has wheels. I really got sick of the drill going through security. Main bag up on the belt. second bag up and pull out the laptop, blah, blah, blah...
Then I saw "onebag.com" I read the site and then bought the Air Boss. I spent an agonizing weekend getting read of the non-essentials. My first trip I had to run through O'hare to make a connection (oh yeah, it was canceled!) But the RedOxx was easy to sprint with and carry.
Between trips I have further adjusted my standard load. The bag still has room and it is very easy to carry. I bought a folding cart, in case I need it and I am now ready to carry ONE BAG from here on out.
The Air Boss makes it possible. Well made, well thought out and I am sold!!
Rick

AIR BOSS MAIDEN VOYEGE

By: Peter - Southern California June 16, 2008

I recently purchased my Raven Air Boss bag, and to say the least I was pleasantly surprised with the construction, hardware, and the esthetics's of my bag upon my initial inspection. I usually use a carry on bag for all my business and pleasure travels. I decided to “break-in” my Air Boss on a four day pleasure trip with my wife (21 year anniversary). My wife used her hard shell carry on with wheels. I figure if the Air Boss does not do well on this first pleasure trip, then I will scrap it for my business trip next month, and give it to one of my daughters for a gym bag. I packed this in the bag: 2 pair pants dress, 1 pair hiking pants, 2 pair under garments (“Armor” lightweight) tops and bottoms, I pair tennis shoes, 1 pair of dress shoes, 1 pair of workout shorts, 4 pair of socks half athletics/dress, 1 silk sports jacket, 3 semi dress shirts, 2 workout T shirts, 2 bandannas, 2 door stops, 1 flare side flashlight smoke detector, 1 medication container with meds, 1 small first aid container with meds, 1 small umbrella, 1 lenovo laptop and charge cord, 1 toilette bag TSA with stuff in it shampoo, brush, comb, deodorant, etc., 1 small batt. operated shaver, 1 manual razer with oil, 1 whistle, 1 small bag with miscellaneous stuff plastic fork/knife/spoon/matches, 1 mini maglite, and I had room for about two more sets of pants and shirts. The bag performed beautiful and looked good doing it. My wife was so impressed with it she requested “get me one of these bags”. What was obvious to her is that the the different compartments can hold a bit more than her hard shell and is much easier to pack, or use it as you go so not to have to unpack the entire bag. So, I will be a return customer soon, and would like to know if you all have thought about offering personalization or custom patches to the bag for your customers? BTW-My daughter will have to get her own gym bag :( Thanks, and look forward to your response.
Peter, We have heard that people take the bags to the local mall and have them monogrammed. At this time we do not have the in house capacity to do that. Setting up and running a full embroidery shop is quite the task. Thanks for the great review,pack list!
Cheers
Red Oxx

Finally, after 30 years . . .

By: Mark - Crofton, MD June 14, 2008

I just finished a week long business trip with the Air Boss and a brief case. The Air Boss was loaded with more than enough business clothing, casual clothing, and athletic gear to last beyond a week . . . and it still wasn't pushed to capacity. The two outside compartments are easy to load and if you follow the suggested folding procedures the slacks and shirts arrive relatively unwrinkled. The center compartment just swallows up everything else. Every other bag I have owned has had small external pockets, which are waste of space since they usually only hold a few sets of socks and just serve as an irritant when you are trying to shove your bag into an overhead compartment. The Air Boss's uncluttered exterior makes a real difference. The construction quality is outstanding and the CLAW shoulder strap really is nonslip, the best I have come across. Bottom line . . . buy this bag. You won't be disappointed.

There's a new Sheriff in town...

By: Larry - Southlake, TX June 11, 2008

Just when you think you've tried it all... though I don't travel like I used to (250 segments/year for 7 years) I still appreciate high quality, well engineered gear. With a 2-week trip to Italy approaching and ever diminishing bag requirements from the airline I decided to give the bag a try. This testimonial is not so much about traveling with this bag alone (I had to check a bag to make room for items we intended to bring back to the states.) but to say that it delivers as promised; a rare feat today.
In the middle of the trip was my daughter's wedding; no tuxes but silk sport coat with linen pants and shirt required. I decided to pack the essentials plus my wedding 'outfit' in the Air Boss just to be sure. Coat and pants (with Tilley hat on top) were carefully folded in one of the outside pockets and clipped in place. I also carried 5 shirts, 4 t-shirts, 3 pair shorts, 1 pair pants, 1 pair bluejeans,undergarments, dopp kit and another sport coat in the other sections. THE BAG WAS NOT FULL but it was all I felt I needed to survive if the dreaded luggage gods frowned on me. Big thing here is I carried the bag from Dallas to Phili to Rome then the Leonardo shuttle to the Termini,to Naples, taxi, hotel, back to train, Rome, Taxi, hotel, and rental car to Tuscany without taking the silk sport coat and linen pants out of the bag- almost 9 days! All this time I was 'living' right out of the bag packing and unpacking as needed. When I finally unloaded the coat and pants they were ready to wear with virtually no wrinkles!
I have Tumi, Andiamo, Briggs and various other bags. All are ballistic grade, 'high end' products that have been real troopers in their day but you simply have a show stopper of a product in the Air Boss. I look forward to future travel sans the checked 'boat anchor'. Great attention to detail and uncompromising workmanship. Just wish you guys had gotten in the business a long time ago. Kudos to you and your staff!

You'll be suprised!!

By: Greg - Ohio, USA May 15, 2008

This is the best carryon bag that I have found. I was actually able to pack more clothes and shoes into this bag than any rolling carryon I have owned. I was surprised by its capacity. I was even able to get rid of my laptop case by placing my laptop with charging cord in the Air Boss!! I had been looking at this bag for quite some time now. Seen a few appear on eBay and even used ones would almost bring full retail value in the auctions. That speaks to the known quality of the bag. I may add a different type of shoulder strap as suggested in other reviews. A wider strap that would better distribute the added weight from the extra capacity that I now have. I am very happy with quality of the Air Boss and pleased with my purchase.

Air Boss: 1/2 the Price, Three Times the Bag

By: Chip Levers - Flower Mound, Texas May 14, 2008

I am a road warrior in Corporate America and an admitted luggage snob/ junkie. I have been lurking around the Redoxx website since the Outside Buyer's Guide gave your duffels a "Gear of the Year" award.
Recently I spent 11 days on the road with my trusty Tumi 22" rollarboard.
By the eighth day, I was tired of both the weight and interior space limitations inherent in the case. That night, in yet another hotel, I ordered an Air Boss hoping it truly was the "ultimate carry on".
The bag arrived to my house as promised at about the same time I got home. I was impressed the minute I opened the box for a first inspection. There is no way the website can illustrate the quality invested in this bag. I was amazed by how the Air Boss could seem so beefy and light at the same time.
One thing remained- the "Road" test! I had an uncharacteristic two weeks at home, plotting my packing strategy for a business trip from Dallas to Puerto Rico. This is a five day jaunt with customer calls, social activities and an industry convention each involving different wardrobe needs. I packed last night and the Air Boss swallowed everything I threw at it. The three compartments allowed me to segregate my clothes for each hotel on the trip, simplifying unpacking as well.
This morning I breezed through security at DFW. The "Boss" went from gate to overhead bin to cab to hotel without ever threatening to cause a hernia or a gate check situation. I am thrilled.
The quality and usability of the Air Boss are more than enough to make me a repeat customer, but wait, there's more!
Several days after the package came, I received a thank you card from
your company in the mail. Tonight I checked email and had yet another
note, repeating the thanks and following up on my satisfaction.
Great product, great service and you value your customers... What a concept!
Let me return the favor Redoxx, thank you! Oh, and sorry Tumi...

Great bag - it swallows everything

By: M R Mitchell - Poole, UK May 11, 2008

I eagerly awaited my bag to arrive via the UPS shipping option. I was not disappointed with the bag. I used it last week to travel to Russia and it is brilliant. A weeks worth of clothes in the 2 side sections and all the electrical stuff (cameras, ipod, etc) in the middle. I just kept stuffing items in the middle section and it just swallowed them up. Even the duty free purchases went in the middle section. absolutely amazing. And it gives you a real smug feeling when it fits perfectly in the metal cages at Heathrow T5 to check carry-on size.
But a warning for UK customers. UK government charges about 20% duty on cost of bag + shipping charge. And then for good measure applies the dreaded 17.5% VAT on top of the bag, shipping and duty. And to my disgust UPS add £11 'brokerage' charge. You would have thought that would be included in the shipping charge as they must know about the charges to be applied and collected to UK destinations.
BAG 5*+ . It is truly a great bag. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
UPS - suck for the brokerage fee.
UK import duty, etc - I can't write what I truly think as it is not pleasant language on family site!!

14 days in Middle East

By: Phil - UK April 26, 2008

Great quality and design. Go to this flickr page to see my one bag carry on for a 14 day trip to the Middle East
http://www.flickr.com/photos/59326548@N00/2442602576/

By: Mike Murphy - Indiana April 9, 2008

My wife and I (both 50+) just got back from an 9 day trip to Assisi and Rome. I got to try the Air Boss for the first time under real travel conditions. It worked great!
I needed a new bag for traveling. In preparation for our Italy trip, I discovered your website and the Air Boss bag. It seemed to be exactly what I wanted so I ordered.
Customer service was great and I had my bag in a matter of a few days. It is always great when something you order gets to you right away as this did. Very easy. When I saw the bag, I couldn’t believe the rugged construction and the features.
As other reviewers have said, there has been a lot of thought put into the design of the Air Boss. I won’t go into details about all of the terrific features, as other reviewers on various web sites have already done so. But their comments are accurate. Good bag. I was now ready for the trip, other than convincing my wife to travel with just one bag. Good luck!
On the trip to Italy, I packed 3 pairs of pants, 5 shirts (including 2 dress shirts), 2 undershirts, 3 briefs, 3 socks, a somewhat bulky fleece vest, 5 handkerchiefs and a hat. In addition, I had 2 guide books, 3 paperbacks, my toiletries, and finally my camera and my Ipod along with their respective re-chargers.
At the airport I bought a large bottle of water for the trip. ALL OF THIS FIT into my Air Boss. Unbelievable! Also, I used the packing method recommended by Red Oxx and it worked extremely well. When unpacking, my clothes, including the cotton dress shirts, were hardly wrinkled, and I attribute those wrinkles to me being a first time packer this way.
I was able to convince my wife to try the one bag method of travel. To say she was skeptical is putting it mildly. To say she thought I was completely crazy to try this for an 9 day trip is also putting it mildly! But she tried it. She needed wheels so she didn’t use an Air Boss, although I tried to push her in that direction.
The first indication that we were doing something a little different was when the lady at the airport check-in counter commented that she did not see how it was possible to travel to Italy with just carry-on. Of course, this just fueled the fires of doubt in my wife. But when we got to Italy the doubts disappeared.
When we arrived, we went right through Passport Control and Customs without any waiting for luggage or delay. We had to take the train from the Airport to the Termini (Rome’s main train station) to catch our train to Assisi.
It was somewhat of a hike to the train but we did it without problem. While getting there, we noticed numerous people muscling their check-through bags along. Same thing at the Termini. Once on the train, we were able to easily store our bags above us which allowed us to keep an eye on them. The larger bags had to be put at the end of the car.
Finally, and best of all, when we finally got to Assisi, dead tired from all the traveling, we were able to walk up the steep hills to our hotel. Not easy, mind you - it seems that no matter which direction you head in Assisi it is up hill - but doable because of having just one bag each.
We had similar experiences in getting back to Rome after Assisi and to our hotel, using the train and subway during rush hour with our luggage. No problems.
Finally, on the way back to the USA, we had a direct flight to Chicago. You can imagine how tired we were after a week’s vacation and a 10 hour flight in cramped quarters.
Well, I kid you not, from the time we stepped off the plane, clearing Passport Control and Customs, until we got on the train to the parking lot outside of O’Hare, it took less than 20 minutes! We high-fived one another. That is some reward for traveling light! Welcome home.
The Air Boss made this possible and I am singing its praises to all my friends. Thanks for a great bag and thanks for giving me the confidence to encourage my wife to try one bag traveling. She’s now a believer.
We have also started talking about other trips to make because traveling with one bag is quick and easy so we can go at a moment’s notice. Hopefully, this will allow us to do a lot more traveling in the future. We’re looking forward to it.
Best regards,
Mike Murphy

Air Boss

By: John and Anne Cave - North Carolina April 6, 2008

When we returned from traveling in Europe with our Air Boss luggage from Red Oxx, my husband noticed that an ink pen had exploded in the side pocket of his bag. Black Ink from a Pigma Micron archival waterproof pen was seeping all over the material.
We quickly dabbed the wet ink with a paper towel and it totally released itself from the bag, leaving no stain at all! Such unsurpassed stain-resistance! We loved the bag as we traveled through Germany and London, but now we are sold totally on this indestructible luggage that will undoubtedly last forever!

Clearly Superior

By: Jim Coyer - San Diego, US March 31, 2008

I've been eyeing this bag quite a bit over the last year, and finally my wife ponied up and bought me one for a recent trip to Tokyo from the US West Coast.
My first impression was: its dimensions are bigger than I expected. I realized I had visually assumed a size more like a large laptop carryall bag, but this is closer in size to a roll-on suitcase. Once I started packing it, I realized this was key, since its length matches that of the shirts and suits you'll fold and place in the two side pockets. Capacity was great: I packed 3 dress shirts, 1 suit, 1 pair of running shoes, a pair of jeans, 1 casual shirt, 2 T-shirts, one windbreaker, 2 books, 1 gift, and a whole bag full of electronics.
The CLAW worked great and never let go. And, like everyone else has said, it was easy to get this bag in the overhead.
Extremely well-constructed all the way around. And Jim there made it real easy for my wife to order at the last minute in time to surprise me.
Highly recommended.

Kick-a** bag

By: Joseph - Birmingham, Alabama March 25, 2008

I used my newly purchased Air Boss and Gator on a recent 8 day trip to Europe. I was able to carry my MacBook Pro, a pair of shoes, 1 sweater, 4 pairs of pants, a sportscoat, 3 dress shirts, 4 t-shirts, 4 pairs of socks and more in the Air Boss using the bundle method. I barely had to pack anything else in the checked luggage that I took. With the exception of the small commuter planes where anything larger than a backpack had to be checked, the Air Boss fit perfectly in the overhead compartment.
My only complaint is that I'm 5'6", and even when the shoulder strap was adjusted, the bag hung a little low to comfortably carry through the Atlanta and Paris-CDG airports. It looks great, the workmanship and materials are excellent, and the bag is incredibly functional. Best of all, it's made in the USA! I'm thinking of getting one for everyone in my family. Thanks Red Oxx!

Air Boss Gets the Job Done

By: DevilDoc Dave - New Jersey March 11, 2008

I just made my first business trip with my AirBoss and Gator and I couldn't be happier! I had a couple of flights on an S80 and EMB145 and the AirBoss fit in the overhead bid on both planes without an issue. While other passengers were forced to gate check their roller bags, I waltzed right into the cabin and made my AirBoss disappear in the tiny overhead storage area. Without having my bags close at hand I never would have made my connecting flight. Awesome!
The AirBoss easily handled a suit, 3 shirts, 2 pairs of pants, shoes, a laptop, my 3-1-1 bag, a couple of books, and it could have handled much more. I tried the bundle-pack method for the first time, and was pleased with the results.
I look forward to putting my AirBoss and Gator to the test many, many more times! Thanks for an awesome product!

The perfect carry-on?

By: Richard Day - United Kingdom March 9, 2008

I have been searching for the perfect carry-on for years and think I might have found it! This is the first carry-on that I have owned that will comfortably swallow enough business suits and casual clothes for a week yet will still fit in the overhead locker. It took me a few goes to get the packing method correct but now I am able to get all my clothes in one bag and everything remains unwrinkled when I unpack. Genius!
I no longer worry whether my baggage is going to the same place that I am and air-travel has become a much less fraught experience. Be warned though, you will have to get used to fellow travelers asking where you got your bag from!
Thanks Richard for the great review!
(If you spot another Oxx owner make sure to say hello)
Jim Markel

It even handles kilts!

By: Alister - Belgium March 4, 2008

This past weekend was the first time I got to use my air-boss in anger. Having to go from Brussels to Aberdeen for my cousins wedding. Having to transfer through London Gatwick, I was really hoping to travel with only carry-on. Lo and behold.. the Airboss came through. It swallowed my full kilt outfit, kilt, shoes, dress jacket, sporran, belt, everything, as well as a couple of shirts and trousers for the rest of the weekend. Absolutely incredible! Oh, and yes.. some of the stewardesses definitely recognize the bag!

Bad to the Bone

By: Ron Posner - Caracas, Venezuela March 1, 2008

This bag is the essence of OVERKILL! You can stuff it like a sausage to near bursting point and it handles it with ease. It's obvious that Made in USA is still worth every penny. The age-old adage applies - cheap is expensive and expensive is cheap. So if you can, just buy the best and you can never go wrong with it. This is definitely one of the best!

Right Bag Most of the Time

By: Anonymous - PHL - EWR February 28, 2008

I travel for Business once every six weeks or so. I split my origination point between Philadelphia and Newark depending on my final destination and of course cost. I found this bag after looking for packing techniques at onebag.com. I am glad I purchased this bag but like anything there is room for improvement.
About me, 6'2" tall, 42 long, 34 inseam, Athletic build, size 13 shoes. Using the bundle technique I was able to barely fit 2 suits 4 shirts, 1 pair of jeans, 2 casual shirts, along with underwear, undershirts, socks, ties and sleepwear in the outside compartments. 1 more inch, overall, in length could have helped with the suit shoulders (although my folding technique may have been off) and a quarter inch deeper on each of the compartments could have given me room for a slightly better bundle fit. Size 13 dress shoes fit comfortably in the middle compartment along with my toiletry bag and my 1 quart see through liquid(s) bag. Remember to pack right before you go unpack right away to avoid major wrinkles.
In retrospect I would not carry formal business suits again. I have used it for business casual with 2 sports coats and have been extremely impressed and will use it again under those circumstances. For someone my size a 25-30 lb carryon is no big deal even when hustling in international terminals from one gate to another across an airport. Someone smaller may have issues with walking instead of rolling that much weight.
Will I use it again, of course. Maybe a marriage between this and the Sky Train, will be the 'perfect' bag for me.

Terrific bag

By: James G - Washington DC February 22, 2008

This is an extremely high quality bag. It is tough, truly well-crafted, and has a number of thoughtful designs. The zippers are tough and could stand up to over stuffing or knock around - which is important. Although the Air Boss easily meets the dimensions for standard carry-on, there are always commuter planes, or older planes in the fleet with smaller overhead bins, so one day you will have to give up your vaunted bag and let someone load it under the plane. The bag volume is better to the roll-aboards. R.O. took away weight by keeping it frame less - which is great. The square design, though, really lends itself to also allowing addition D-rings for attaching rucksack straps. Just a thought. Side pockets are great - particularly well-suited for any of the available enclosed clothes folders/ shirt envelopes. Suits stays neat in packets and under the straps. The center pocket is a bit tight for my running shoes. The lining throughout the bag is unusually cool - nice touch! This is a great bag - understated, honest, simple. A terrific choice for any savvy traveler.

The Red Oxx moment

By: Anonymous - Madison February 10, 2008

I bought the Air Boss in October 2007 but wanted to wait until I had a few 'Red Oxx Moments' before posting my review. A Red Oxx moment is the instant that you realize you're in a situation which would have turned out much differently if you had your old bag. They start out small enough - a quick trip up a flight of stairs or walking down a snow- or mud-covered sidewalk. They gradually build to the point that you're smiling when you're one of the last passengers aboard due to a late connection and everyone else has to check (and subsequently lose) their rollers, so you can confidently say "that won't be necessary, this will fit under the seat." Or when you can pack for a week long trip to the Caribbean with all of your gear (snorkeling fins included) and clothing slung over your shoulder.
Worth noting: it's built tougher than the pictures will ever be able to portray, and the first time you fill it up you'll be shocked at how light it really is and wonder why you used other bags for so long.

Glad I purchased!

By: Mike W. - Chicago January 20, 2008

I ordered my bags two weeks ago and went on a business trip last week. I am happy to say that I was pleased with everything I received from Red Oxx! My only suggestion would be to include a printout of the "How to Fold" PDF. I folded my clothes as the PDF showed and it worked out great. On the way back, I just threw
all the clothes in the bag...but they didn't fit so nice. So, I took out all the dirty clothes, folded them, and put them back in. Everything was flat and fit like a charm.
When I ordered it, I found I was missing my luggage tag. :-( I wrote customer service, and within a half hour (on a Friday at 4:30pm, mind you), I received a response saying that they will ship me a luggage tag for my Air Boss. After I returned and saw they sent the tags, I wrote tech support here again. Now this is on a Sunday, and guess what? I received a response within the hour. Simply amazing. I don't know many companies out there that has such a great response time as Red Oxx.

Have Bag Will Travel

By: ESA - Atlanta December 22, 2007

I just took a job that will entail significant business travel. I knew my existing luggage wouldn't cut it so I went shopping and quickly found the AirBoss. One question I had was how much real business wear will it carry? Not a sport coat and a couple of pairs of slacks but suits, ties and dress shirts for people that can't sport reruns in the executive suite every day.
I quickly found the answer. Using a slightly modified bundle packing method, it comfortably holds four suits (42R), five dress shirts, toiletries, five pairs of underwear, t-shirts and socks, 5 ties and a pair of shoes. All that weighs about 23 pounds with the bag. That's about enough for a week without doing laudry or a lifetime if you do laundry.
The bundle packing method has to be modified because the width of a suit jacket shoulder to shoulder is longer than the length of the case so you have to fold the shoulders in toward the middle just inside the shoulder padding in the suit. The method still produces suits that aren't wrinkled. There is some wrinkling in the shirts but I suspect that is bad packing technique. It's also the result of the wrong shirts. In this day and age I need to be buying wrinkle resistant and will do so going forward.
It's a great bag and definitely the best choice I could have made for week in/week out travel. It holds significantly more than my similar sized Tumi wheeled carry on.
One suggestion I have is for Red Oxx to visit a golf store and check out the IZZO Dual Strap that is now de riguer on golf bags of all makes. I see no reason such a thing couldn't be offered for the Air Boss (or most any other bag) with no change to the bag. In fact, I may just add one myself it would be so easy.
Note:I have seen that two strap carry method before. It is a great idea, simply hook two shoulder straps to the bag and cross them. Voila! you have a bag that is supported by two straps. (you must cross them)
Red Oxx

Doesn't keep its shape

By: Anonymous - Denver, CO December 4, 2007

I've stopped carrying this bag. It mushes out of shape, particularly when the internal straps are tightened in the outside pockets. When you put your book in the outside pocket, it's uncomfortable to put that side in, and the strap doesn't balance well the other way.
Great zippers.

The best bag ever

By: Chris Boughton - Philippines November 28, 2007

I bought an Air Boss on the recommendation of onebag.com. Based in the Philippines I travel weekly around Asia, usually in economy class and this is the bag that goes with me. It holds my shirts, spare trousers, gym stuff, laptop computer, files, etc.; everything I need for 4 nights on the road and 3 or more flights. The workmanship on the bag is superb, the strap great at distributing the weight, the multiple compartments fantastic at letting me segregate my stuff and know exactly which compartment I need to open to find something I need.
Gone are the days of worrying whether my bag had made it on the right flight. I may not be the first through immigration, but I will be first in the taxi queue!

Customer for Life!

By: Bob Perry - Greenfield, Indiana November 13, 2007

Customer for Life!
This is my second purchase from Red Oxx. I’ve been using the Safari-Beanos Bag PR5 for little over a year now and just posted my review there. At the time of my first purchase the PR5 was the best choice as an all around bag for my purpose. However, there have been events that I have to travel to that required a step up in clothing and so I started looking over the Air Boss as another option. I recently had a good travel excuse and enough mad money stashed away to finally make the purchase. I’m glad I did all the wonderful things I said about Red Oxx and the PR5 in my review hold true for the Air Boss. I found that packing nicer cloths was a simple, plenty of room for everything I need to take and overall it worked better for me as a carry on bag for air travel. So, if your primary interest is as a carry on bag for air travel consider the Air Boss you won’t be disappointed.
Slainte

Ms.

By: Melaine Lomax - Cincinnati Ohio November 8, 2007

Love it, love it! By George, I believe I've found the perfect bag! Lighter than my rollers and much easier to swing into and out of overhead storage. Took it to Aruba for a week and lived out of it. My partner teased me about the "exorbitant" price, but had to eat crow when she asked to borrow it for her last two trips. The amethyst is my favorite color and is so easy to pick out in crowds. My birthday was yesterday and I got the Sunchaser model. Hey folks, Grandma always said, "You get what you pay for."
Thanks again,
Melaine in Cincinnati

Wow! Why didn't I do this years ago?

By: Ed P - Dallas, TX November 7, 2007

I have been doing carry-on travel for years now. I succumbed to the wheeled bag craze and battled my bag in and out of overhead storage over the years. And finally it happened, my bag died. It was a joyous moment because I had my eye on the Air Boss for some time and knew it was next.
After traveling with the Air Boss, I just don’t know why I didn’t suck it up and replace my wheeled bag years ago. The Air Boss is a dream to pack with the two clothes storage pockets on the side with their own tie down straps and the generous center storage compartment. I have more than enough room to cover my needs for a week of business travel.
The Air Boss is worth every penny of its price if you travel on a frequent basis, and I have no doubt that it will outlast my last wheeled bag. If you are struggling with whether or not the Air Boss is worth the price, go ahead and pull the trigger and buy it. You will never look back or regret the decision. I would definitely buy another Red Oxx product.

Best Bag Ever

By: Rick F - Walnut Creek, CA November 1, 2007

This is the best bag I have ever owned. I travel a lot for work and have never been able to haul all the stuff I carry without checking bags. After buying this bag, checking a bag is a thing of the past. On my last trip to Vegas, I was able to pack a suit, 3 pairs of pants, 5 button shirts, 5 undershirts, 6 t-shirts, underwear, socks, gym shorts, swim suit, runnings shoes, sandals, and toiletries. I even had room left over for souvenirs.
The best part, ALL CARRY-ON! No waiting forever for my bags, just grab and go.

great bag

By: Jason - Cary, NC October 25, 2007

Great bag, really well constructed. I love the built-in clothing straps which allow me to leave my eagle creek organizers at home. My only gripe are the lack of smaller organizer pockets in the front zipper compartment and the open magazine compartment as well as the small zippered compartment. It makes it tough to find things like extra batteries, pens, lighters, epi-pen, sunglasses etc. when they are just floating around in the bag somewhere.

Amazing Bag

By: Anonymous October 15, 2007

I travel across the Atlantic twice a month, in addition to smaller trips, and have a variety of luggage to cope with the different demands that places. Up until now.
I flew to the US with my decidedly battered TravelPro Rollaboard (just worked out cu.in. to be over 4000), containing one suit, five shirts, three t-shirts, a sweater, four ties, a pair of boots, underwear and toiletries.
On the way back I packed it all into the AirBoss, added my laptop, cables, powercords ipod, book, papers etc - and threw some gifts for the family into the old TravelPro to check.
No problems as I went through security, down to the plane and put in the overhead. This is my second Red Oxx bag (have the padded brief), and it certainly won't be my last - I have the PR5 and the C-Ruck on my wish list.
Thanks Amanda and Jim for looking after me again - with great advice and friendly service.

Great product, superb customer service!

By: Bill Karow August 23, 2007

I recently ordered an Air Boss and a Slimline briefcase. After ordering, I realized they wouldn't arrive in time for my trip. So I called, figuring it was futile but worth a shot. Wow. Not only did the young lady I spoke to (I neglected to write down her name, which I regret) listen to what I was telling her, she came up with a way to get a new set of bags shipped to me faster, and to have the original shipment intercepted. Unbelievable.
In today's retail climate, finding an interested party on the other end of a customer service call is a rarity. Finding one who is genuinely interested in helping fix your problem, even if it's going to involve a lot of work on their end, is stunning. I got the bags in time, and love them. Great workmanship, excellent design, and they have been a huge improvement on every other carryon and briefcase combo I've used.
Great products and spectacular customer service - I'm sold! Consider me a client for life, and I'll be referring my fellow road warriors to you every chance I get.

Best Bag I have Ever Had

By: Anonymous August 6, 2007

I travel frequently to and from the Middle East. This entails perfect packing and traveling as light as possible, but needing to anticipate all the delays.
The Air Boss is perfect for this. I do not have to worry about long lines to check baggage (that close as I get to the front) and do not have to worry about "losing" anything I have packed. I carry not only my laptop in the center section, but 2-3 days worth of clothes and a couple of books and still have room left over!!!
This is the perfect bag for short or long distance carry-on travel. After more than a year, it still looks new.

Best Travel Luggage Ever

By: Anonymous July 5, 2007

Just returned from a ten day honeymoon in Italy. My Air Boss and Gator Bag performed flawlessly, and were subjected to every abuse possible - planes, trains, automobiles, buses, cafes, dusty roads in Tuscany, etc.
I found the Red Oxx web site a few months ago (and OneBag.com), and was so impressed with the product reviews that I promptly sold a number of pieces of Filson and Orvis luggage on eBay, and purchased an Air Boss and a Gator Bag. They are now the only luggage I need.
The Air Boss is a breeze to pack, and the Claw shoulder strap is the best design I've ever seen. The bag fit in every overhead bin on every plane we flew. I bought a number of soccer jerseys and other souvenirs for my kids, and the Air Boss kept swallowing them up with ease. It's almost impossible to overload this bag.
The Gator Bag was equally impressive. It has a huge capacity, and easily held guidebooks, Moleskine notebooks, driving maps, sunglasses, a jacket and anything else I threw in for the day. The outside snap pockets can be opened and closed with one hand, which came in handy when constantly digging for passport, boarding pass, camera, etc.
Outstanding products. Count me in as a Red Oxx customer for life!

Bought it, use it, like it!

By: Anonymous June 19, 2007

I had a business trip to Bozeman and drove over to see the bags at the store. I even changed flights and left from Billings. Bought the Air Boss and a Beano. I really like the Air Boss (and the Beano) when I do not over stuff it which is easy to do. Clothes fold well and carrys a weeks worth. Could use handles on the ends to drag it out of the overstuffed overheads of the small planes flying into the smaller airports in Montana out of SLC.

Outstanding Quality, Unquestionably reliable, With One Wish...

By: Anonymous June 7, 2007

I have used the Air Boss on numerous trips--the quality and craftsmanship is the best I have seen. The layout is totally functional.
Durability and function meets my high standards (third world travel, rural African travel).
Backpack straps that can be concealed are needed though, and would drastically improve the versatility of the bag.
If Red Oxx were to make a model such as this, or similar to this, I'd buy several, and would recommend them widely.
Other than this, it is a perfect piece of work.
NOTE: We have just completed the new Sky Train! This is a completely new bag for the leisure traveler. (Red Oxx)

Two weeks in China

By: Anonymous May 29, 2007

Just got back from two weeks' vacation in China carrying my Air Boss and Gator. It carried all my clothes and tolietries (I did laundry once), paperwork for an adoption, DVD player, etc and still had room for more! I did have to check it on the way back due to liquids, but no matter what, I was able to stuff even more into it. Got a lot of great comments. The only slight negative was that when it was fully stuffed it was pretty heavy for me (lady traveler), but I've taken it on several shorter trips and haven't even come close to filling it. By the way, the zipper on my husband's duffle broke on this trip and needless to say..we'll be ordering him a Beano soon. Thank you for your very high quality product; I know I'll be passing it down to my children!

Best Carryon!

By: Ramon Generoso May 4, 2007

I got the Air Boss as a gift recently, to replace my sagging, formless ETBD carryon. The old bag was with me on a trip to Morocco last month, but the frequent packing and unpacking made it clear how having just one big compartment, while flexible, can be a pain, despite the use of packing cubes.
My wife never liked that bag. Problem is, now she wants my Air Boss!
The quality of materials and construction are just worlds apart. You get what you pay for.
Probably more. The thing comes with a lifetime warranty. And the folks at Red Oxx were really nice and helpful. Hard to come by that combination nowadays.
Thanks, Red Oxx!

My favorite travel bag!

By: Anonymous April 27, 2007

As a woman traveler, I worried about the “carry” in carry on, but I purchased the Air Boss and I love it. On short trips I use the Claw Shoulder Strap and I can carry the Air Boss easily. On longer trips with a week’s worth of clothes, coat, and purse in tow, I simply “add wheels” and use a Travelite luggage cart (folds to 16.5” x 10.5”). Once I get to my gate, I just fold up the cart and slide it under my seat. The Air Boss gives me everything I want--one carry on bag in a gorgeous color (Mariner), a week’s worth of clothes, and easy transport. Another big plus--this lightweight bag is much easier to lift into the plane’s overhead compartment—no more struggling with a heavy wheeled bag! My next trip is to South Africa, so I’ll forgo the cart, but not my Air Boss. Thank you to all the staff at Red Oxx!

Major Score for any Business Traveller

By: Anonymous April 27, 2007

I purchased this bag recently and I have already used it on two back to back weeks of business travel. The over the shoulder style (Claw Strap is Awesome BTW) is great for maneuvering in crowded airports, and the lack of unnecessary wheels allows for more packing space. I can easily pack a weeks worth (and then some) of business wear in this bag. I really loaded it up today with extras picked up during a week of travel, and it fit snugly in the overhead. Smaller planes with smaller overheads require a gate check when fully loaded, but this is still better than waiting at the baggage claim. Craftmanship is top shelf with its "Made in Montana" quality shining through. I will continue to purchase Red Oxx gear as needed.

What a GREAT Bag.

By: Anonymous April 14, 2007

As many people have done, I purchased this bag after reading the story at OneBag.com. After agonizing over the cost, I finally decided that 'you get what you pay for', and purchased the bag. What a great decision. I recently used it while traveling to Belize on a Bareboat sailing adventure. While the other 11 people on the trip were checking their bags, I walked on the plane carrying my bag. This bag held all my clothing, shaving bag and misc gear for my 7 day trip with no problem. I made sure everyone on the trip was aware of what a great bag this really is. Thanks again for making such great products.

Best bag ever, no doubt about it.

By: Anonymous April 5, 2007

Best bag I've used in over 40 years of professional travel. I've had mine about six months, and I've used it to drag my stuff aound the world - Mojave Desert, Persian Gulf, South America, New Orleans - even the wilds of Blacksburg, Virginia. Came through like a champ.
I use the packing cubes, and it's amazing how much stuff you can fit in without overpacking it. If I'm only taking one bag and leaving the Gator bag (also outstanding), I use the middle compartment for camera, iPod, reading material, etc.
When I meet co-workers at the airport, they often ask "Is that all you're taking?".
Truly the Swiss army knife of luggage. There's not too many places I can't go with my Air Boss and Gator bags.
Thanks for such outstanding products - both well thought out design and quality construction. I'm a Red Oxx guy for life!

Perfect

By: Anonymous February 2, 2007

I'm a weekly business traveler and very satisfied with the air boss. Well constructed, sharp, and the strap does wonders for distributing the weight. Will never go back to a wheeled bag, it was a great purchase.
Highly recommended!!!

Well worth the investment.

By: Nelson Guerra January 17, 2007

This is the best travel bag ever!

By: Anonymous December 18, 2006

I love this bag. It really kept my clothes nearly unwrinkled while I traveled around Asia for a month. I also compared it to my roll-aboard luggage. Total weight packed was 12 lbs. Roll-aboard was 12 lbs UNPACKED! Much easier to carry this bag around, especially with the "Claw" strap. I was very impressed with this bag. Best purchase I've ever made.

This Bag Rocks!!!

By: Keith Day December 15, 2006

This is a great bag! Lived out of it for a weeks trip to N.Ireland and Mexico. Bag can get a little heavy if you overpack...but thats my fault not the bags.

Another great bag from Red Oxx!

By: Chris Juzda November 20, 2006

I've purchased several Red Oxx bags, including the Gator, C-Ruck, Briefcase and Rockhopper and never been disappointed, so the Air Boss was a no brainer when I was looking for a new carry on. They're not cheap but not overpriced either, considering the outstanding quality. My thoughts on the Air Boss:
The Air Boss is, indeed the perfect size to fit in pretty much any aircraft overhead bin - In North America, no one at the airline check in or security even gives it a second look in terms of deciding whether it is too large or too heavy to carry on, even if it is stuffed. I tend to carry a fair bit of stuff even on short business trips: sneakers, work out clothing, plus if I'm traveling in casual clothes I pack a suit, if traveling in a suit, I pack casual clothes. In addition, I also manage to pack a full size laptop and peripherals in the middle compartment as well as a small kit for my razor, etc - easier now that the you're allowed to carry small quantities of liquids on board again. Another nice feature is that with the black Air Boss, it works great as a briefcase when I have to go to meetings at my destination. It's a little large but doesn't look out of place at all. Bottom line is that when traveling on shorter business trips, the Air Boss handles most of my stuff perfectly and in combination with my Gator (for gadgets such as ipod, headphones, camera, etc. , It's unbeatable. Just be careful: although the bag itself is very light, you can get so much into it that it can weigh a ton if you're not careful (particularly with a lap top inside)and as comfortable as the shoulder strap is, it can make a long slog through an airport tough if you're lugging 30 lbs of loaded Air Boss on one shoulder!

RedOxx saved my life.

By: Anonymous November 20, 2006

I purchased the Air Boss and the Gator Bag on recommendation from onebag.com. A very nice lady from the company called me up the next day and offered me another shipping method that saved me about $30. I was suprised at the initial quality of the product and speed of shipping, but the bags really shined on the first trip.
14 days across Europe, stopping at every military base along the way to entertain the troops. We started in Paris, then to Brussels, Frankfurt, Nuremberg, Regensberg, Garmisch and finally Munich. I was traveling with 12 other people, all of whom had multiple enormous check baggage and carryons. There were a lot of jokes at first about how I didn't pack enough. I carried everything on.
The jokes about my packing style continued until we got to Paris. We had to carry our luggage almost a mile and I began laughing maniacally. The Air Boss carried everything I needed; clothes for the entire trip, a suit and even costumes and an extra pair of shoes. There's really no way I can think of to express how grateful I am to RedOxx for this great product, or to onebag.com for showing me how its done. You guys made my trip infinately easier and more enjoyable. Thanks a million for the service, the product and the great memories I'll always associate with this luggage. You guys have earned my business for life.

Don't wait -- get one for yourself

By: Anonymous November 19, 2006

This is a great bag. Over the past month, I have taken it to Stockholm and Boston for four day trips, and to points in between and on the way. It is equally comfortable in overhead bins on a 747 and CRJ 100, and stores easily in European and American trains, taxis, vans and cars. The bag is intelligently designed. I especially like the outside pockets, which give you plenty of storage room for books, papers and documents and its easy to carry, even when packed full.
If you travel frequently and don't want to check your luggage (don't these two things go together?) you'll love the Air Boss.

Great bag for weekly flyers

By: Brad Holcomb November 16, 2006

I ordered 5 different bags recommended on the onebag.com site, and kept this one for weekly air travel. The Air Boss impressed me right out of the box with its obvious industrial-strength engineering, and now after using it for a couple weeks of business trips I'm in love with it. I'm a light packer, so the 2 side compartments with compression straps are plenty of space for 3 or 4 days of clothes. This leaves the center section completely free, and I also purchased the Slim Briefcase (for laptop and electronic paraphenalia) from Red Oxx and am able to zip it up inside the Air Boss to have One Bag to haul through the airport. It's a little heavy and bulky when used this way, but the Claw Strap (best strap ever!) makes it comfortable. And when I end up on a Regional Jet with the smaller overheads, I just pop out the briefcase and put it under my seat, and the Air Boss then easily fits in the overhead. In the past I've mainly used samll rollaboards, and always had to check them planeside when boarding a RJ. No more waiting in the jetbridge for my bag!! I love the Air Boss.

Stress Reliever - Big Time!!!!!

By: James Mccarthy November 9, 2006

I was directed to the Redoxx site from onebag.com.
I had been looking for something that was going to help me take some of the stress out of travelling, and here it is!
I have used my Air Boss several times and it is absolutely faultless. Brilliant quality, robust. The ideal bag.
The pleasure of walking straight off the plane, past all those queues and out of the airport to meet your loved ones is not to be missed.
I am sold on carry-on only. There is just no other way to travel than with my Air Boss.
Well Done!!!!!

Air Boss Does It For Me

By: Anonymous October 22, 2006

I just completed a four-day jaunt to Las Vegas, my new Air Boss' first trip. I have to say I'm more than pleased with this wonderful bag.
It held it all: shirts, slacks, shoes, shaving kit, cell phone charger, etc. I carefully packed a suit in one side, and it arrived none the worse for wear wrinkle-wise. Carry on, of course!
The strap was comfortable; the handle good and solid; plenty of pockets for papers and such.
The big test comes next summer: Two weeks traveling around Central Europe, living out of a one bag, my Air Boss. I don't see a problem.
Actually, make that two bags, since I plan to purchase a Gator before then.

Kudos from Arizona

By: Anonymous July 15, 2006

My newly acquired AirBoss arrived just in time for my trip to Asia, which included a quick stop in the Middle East. After becoming a recent convert to the one bag philosophy (thanks Doug of onebag.com fame) the AirBoss was highly recommended.
My impression: WOW!! The first thing that hit me was the quality of construction and the thought that went into function; zippers, hardware, fabric and strap are all what one would expect from a high-end bag. Using the ‘bundle’ method, I was able to pack enough for a two-week business trip that included stops in Malaysia, Thailand, Dubai and Kuwait.
Carry on luggage dimension was spot on, no worries about getting the bag shoved into the belly of the plane due to its size. My bag was even a bit over stuffed too; having the soft sides really makes AirBoss cavernous. And it handled it beautifully.
Now, carry on luggage weight, different story. In general, Asian airlines are obsessive about carry on weight. For those traveling economy, the weight limit is about 7kg (15.4pounds). I unfortunately was carrying about 30 pounds (and yes, still comfortable on the shoulder), which at times required sweet-talking the ladies at the airline counter; or, checking it in (carry extra locks, just in case).
Needless to say, the AirBoss is highly recommended to anyone who travels frequently. An added bonus, Jim and the crew at Red Oxx are the nicest folks you’ll ever come across.
This was my first Red Oxx bag, and will certainly not be the last.
Cheers,
Al

Best Travel Bag EVER!

By: Daniel Ho July 14, 2006

I travel quite a bit on business and for pleasure. Unless forced to do otherwise, I only travel with a carry-on bag.
Being a bit obsessive compulsive about getting the right tool for the job, through the years, I've tried ALL the various ways to move my stuff around the globe. After much trial and error, I finally found luggage nirvana...the Red Oxx Air Boss.
The construction and materials are top notch. While this is important for frequently used luggage, the thought that goes into the design is just as important.
On the Air Boss, every strap, zipper, and pocket is in the right place.
While I can get by with a duffle bag, on most trips I am meeting someone for the first time. To make a good impression, I need a few shirts and maybe a jacket that is crisp enough to be presentable. The Air Boss makes this simple.
My trick is to use shirt folder packs to keep everything organized. Then, I strap the neatly folded packages into one side of the Air Boss. The other side, I'll strap in a sport jacket if required. In the middle goes the Tri-Fold Shave Kit and my work out gear. This leaves a large outside pocket where I'll carry some reading material. In the other side, the smaller zipper compartment is for my travel documents.
The key is to not over pack as it is surprising how much fits in the Air Boss! If you pack it so that sides are straight but not bulging, you're probably at the carry-on weight limit already. But, because the sides are fabric, you'll be able to put the bag in the overhead bin of even the smallest commuter plane.
Great products, great service from Jim and the rest of the crew at Red Oxx. What's not to like?
If you are a Road Warrior and rely on carry-on luggage...run, don't walk...get an Air Boss today! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

His, Hers & Ours

By: Anonymous June 23, 2006

This is a stellar bag! I have never paid retail for luggage until I bought this bag as a gift for my husband and it's worth every penny. I am forced to use a wheeled carryon when I travel alone due to a pinched nerve in my shoulder so I don't get the pleasure of "stealing' his bag. However, I've found that the air boss is designed perfectly for the "combined" traveler and my husband graciously carries the air boss. One side is "his" - I can easily put in 2 pairs of pants, 2 long sleeved shirts, a polo shirt and his swim shorts. On "my" side I can fit in slacks, a skirt, assorted tops, shawl, belt and a small purse. In the center compartment I can easily pack our combined toiletry kit, two small packing cubes with 3 days of underwear, socks & pjs, chargers for our electronics, and a small laundry kit. I also can sneak a pair of dress sandals in. Believe it or not the bag still isn’t all the way full! If our checked luggage gets lost, we have enough for four days and beyond after doing laundry. Usually lost baggage catches up in two days. Actually there isn’t too much left to go in our checked bag except for some a few extras, our hiking boots and other specialty gear if we need them. I haven’t tried an international flight yet with the air boss (they are pretty fussy about carryon weight limits), but I found that I have an old tote bag that folds up to nothing and it fits perfectly inside the air boss’s center compartment. I can put everything in the center compartment packed inside the tote. That way if the air boss is too heavy for some carriers, I can pull the tote out and we’re well below the weight limit per bag. I just love this bag. Thanks Red Oxx!

carry-on travel

By: Steven Freestone May 25, 2006

As an inveterate traveler, I am comitted to carry-on luggage after being well experience in the saying "there are two kinds of luggage -- lost and carry-on. I have literally tried them all and have been left with jammed handles, broken wheels and challenging overhead bins and stewards. I have now discovered one of life's incredible treasures in the Airboss and Briefcase. Together they hold enough for two weeks travel abroad. I have actually taken my Victorinox and Eagle Creek carry-on's and compared the packing with the Airboss which actually has 2-linear inches less. Without the rigidity found in the other two bags, I can almost double my packing with the Airboss. I have been able to mold the bag to even fit in the overhead bin of a small commuter jet. For the first time, I am now content with my carry-on luggage. It is obvious that the crew at Red Oxx are genuinely interested in the "hardcore" traveler. Again, thanks for a quality product with an emphasis on practicality.

Carries everything I need, everywhere I go

By: Anonymous May 5, 2006

I now travel with the confidence that if I make my connection, so does my luggage!
One-week business trips to Japan, India, Europe... I could never quite do it with my rollaboard. Excellent craftmanship and durability, and the most comfortable carrying strap I've ever found (I've retrofitted my laptop bag with one too!).

My favorite bag

By: Rick Sullivan April 12, 2006

I have coach, hartmann, and tons of generic bags. This is my favorite. Despite my OCD packing, it still holds what I need. Great to carry, pack, and repack. Thanks guys.

Air Boss Fools Flight Attendants

By: George Cain April 12, 2006

I've now taken the Air Boss to Europe and a couple dozen American cities. It is tops in convenience and serviceability, but my favorite feature is its compressability. The flight attendants, who are used to seeing hard side, wheeled bags of approx. the same size, say it won't fit in the overhead bin, but I always prove them wrong!!

A hit - from boarding to board-room

By: Graeme Simpson April 10, 2006

My new job means that I travel a lot throughout europe, and I quickly learned that anyone who travels with more than carry on luggage is going to spend most of his time in baggage halls.
I tried a lot of different bags. They were either too weak or too casual for making the trip from airport to boardroom meetings.
Finally I found my airboss... and I've never looked back.
It keeps my suits and files seperate and un-crushed, gives me enough space for my running kit when I need it, and in Raven black is smart enough to carry into my meetings without looking like I've come from a hiking trip.
Excellent work Red Oxx - keep it up!!!

Great Product

By: Ian Palmer April 4, 2006

I just want to say how pleased I am with the Air Boss. This is a highly technical product which has clearly been designed with great care and attention to detail. All aspects of it's design demonstrate a careful choice of materials and it is apparent from the way it is constructed that it has been been put together by people who are interested in making a first class product.
I used it for the first time last week and by the end of our weekend trip my wife had decided that she too needed one. Hence our latest order to Red Oxx. Hopefully we will soon be a two Air Boss household!
Keep up the great work.

Air Boss Conquers Romania

By: Alan Lamm January 9, 2006

Dear Jim & the Redoxx Family:
My Air Boss & I just got back from two weeks in Europe--two days in Paris & the rest in Romania. The Air Boss performed like a champ from the Eiffel Tower to the real Dracula's Castle. I especially like the size of the Air Boss which was perfect in the narrow European train cars, tiny taxis, and even tinier elevators. Even when I flew on a small commuter plane--the type where 90% of regulation carry on is still too large & must be checked--I was able to slip my Air Boss pass the gate attendants and bring it on board. And though it did not fit in the smaller than normal overhead bins, it did fit perfectly under the seat in front of me. My wife, on the other hand, had one of the wheels torn off her checked on bag by the friendly French of Air France.
I liked the Air Boss so much in fact, that I will soon be buying another one of your smaller bags to complement my Air Boss.
Thank you!
-Alan Lamm

Big Grin for the Air Boss

By: Anonymous December 16, 2005

I've made about 25 trips with my Air Boss, with all sorts of loads, and have found running around in airports, shuttles, and hotels much easier than before. I've given my excellent wheeled bag to my son.

Where did you get that bag!?!?!?!?!?

By: Anonymous December 8, 2005

What else can one say? This thing ROCKS. It looks sharp, carries everything you need for a short trip or long, and as near as I can tell, is indestructible. Everyone I have traveled with since I got my Air Boss has wanted to know where to get one.

Air Boss rocks

By: Anonymous November 22, 2005

I have used pretty much every kind of travel carry on bag (roll arounds, duffle bags, convertible backpacks and now the Air Boss). The Air Boss is no my bag of choice for trips of two weeks or less. It is well put together and its feature set is great for packing. The three main compartments are just right for puting in whatever you need to take whether it is a suit for business or gear for vacation. I highly recommend this product.