“That’s a nice suitcase,” my dad said to me, as he rolled it through the Sunshine Coast Airport on the way home to Sydney while I juggled nappy bags and children last week.
These four words were notable on multiple accounts.
Firstly, because my dad doesn’t usually pay attention to such things as suitcases and second, because he is even less likely to compliment something when he does notice it.
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But Kathmandu’s Feather Flight range has that effect.
Originally launched as one of the world’s lightest two-wheeled carry-ons, Kathmandu have this week extended their lighter-than-air luggage range, developing four styles; two check‑ins and two carry‑ons, in both spinner (4-wheels) and roller (2-wheels) designs.
I recently had the opportunity to test the Feather Flight Check In Spinner (80L; $499.98) on my family holiday to Noosa.
Here are my honest thoughts.
The suitcase
As a lover of a four-wheeled case (and quite frankly, who isn’t?), it was a no-brainer as to which of the four new Kathmandu suitcases I would put to the test.
Selecting the 80L model in an eye-catching Bright Navy colourway, I was surprised when the extremely lightweight, but spacious and elegant check-in bag arrived at my home ready to be packed and wheeled around an airport.
The case itself is filled with high-tech specs.
Highlights include the new exLIGHT exoskeleton on the front and back, which allows for a larger suitcase that is spacious, easily manoeuvrable and impact-resistant.
Tested by travellers worldwide, the range uses the same ultra-durable fibre found in personal armour and climbing gear, and the patent-pending exLIGHT lattice design that continues to offer outstanding strength-to-weight performance.
I also love the ergonomic handle, four spinning wheels for super easy movement, and the fact that there is no compromise made in its space-saving capacity.
The case promises to hold an impressive 80 litres of luggage, plus 10 litres expansion.
It is finished with the added safety of a built-in TSA-accepted travel-sentry-approved lock.
Made from an outer fabric constructed from 93 per cent recycled ripstop nylon and seven per cent UHMWPE, the Feather Flight case boasts exceptional tear resistance.
This isn’t only useful when your suitcase gets thrown around by baggage staff, but it also looks good.
The case is unlike any other one I’ve seen before, and this makes it super easy to spot on a baggage belt.
The test
Taking this case away for 10 days, I found it more than spacious enough to hold enough luggage for both of my daughters, aged four and one.
I loved all of the various compartments and that it was supremely easy to wheel around, even when carrying lots of items and in a rush.
I wasn’t surprised that the bag delivered in both the performance and the style stakes, given that the original Feather Flight carry-on has won multiple awaards in the past.
“Airline rules are changing quickly, and luggage needs to change with it, so we’re designing gear that helps travellers adapt” says Kathmandu Senior Equipment Designer, Adam Gorrie.
“Expanding Feather Flight into a full system brings our award-winning design across a complete range, delivering durability, manoeuvrability and the flexibility modern travel demands.”
Gorrie continues: “The exLIGHT exoskeleton strikes a perfect balance between form and function. It provides strength and protection while creating a distinctive visual language, making the product highly functional and visually refined”.
But where it really delivers is in the experience.
This bag is easy to use, easy to fill and easy to find things inside when you open it on the other side.
The verdict
Overall, I would whole-heartedly recommend the Kathmandu Feather Flight range to travellers looking into their next suitcase purchase.
Within the new four-strong range, there is something for every kind of traveller — whether you’re someone who prefers two wheels or four, or a hard or soft shell.
The new range has also been put to the test by comedy duo and Kathmandu Ambassador’s The Inspired Unemployed, Jack Steele and Matt Ford, who highlighted how the design supports both fast-paced travel and longer trips.
Jack, who tested the 40L spinner, said organisation and ease of movement were key standouts when travelling with the carry-on only.
“Traveling frequently means I’m always trying to move fast through airports, and this bag makes that way easier,” he said.
“The compartments help me stay organised when I’m packing everything into a carry-on, and I love how lightweight it is when I’m squeezing in extra clothes for longer trips.
“The four-wheels are also a game changer when travelling with a full bag.”
Matt, who tested the 80/90L check-in spinner, said he found the design ideal for longer trips where organisation and capacity are essential.
“I’ve got a big trip coming up, and I’m pretty big on staying organised when I travel, so having all the compartments is huge. It’s super spacious but still lightweight, which makes packing extra shoes and clothes easy,” he said.
For more information and to browse the new Kathmandu range for yourself, head here now.
