2014 ScubaLab Best Buy: Cressi Cargo 145L Dive Bag
Some travel bags are as big when they’re empty in your closet as when they’re full of gear. the Cargo — nominally the largest bag we tested — offers a solution to the storage dilemma with a folding internal frame and hinged bottom that let the bag lie nearly flat when stored but stand up securely when you need it to. the bag has good internal and external compression straps, a wide protective flap on the zipper, a useful and easy-access external compartment, and a comfortable telescoping handle. It’s ruggedly made, with a tough plastic tray shaping the back, and good protection in key areas, including long rub rails on the back. the main flap opens fully for easy loading. a full 30 inches long in the main compartment, this bag easily swallowed our test gear. the double lift straps on the front are well placed, as are the top and bottom handles — although they could use a little padding. The Cargo pulls easily, but the wheels are designed for smooth ground, and there are no backpack straps. A well-designed, well-made jumbo bag with a budget-friendly price tag, the Cressi Cargo is ScubaLab's Best Buy.
$249.95 // 10.5 pounds // 8,848 cubic inches
One-year limited warranty
cressisubusa.com
Zach Stovall
Some travel bags are as big when they’re empty in your closet as when they’re full of gear. the Cargo — nominally the largest bag we tested — offers a solution to the storage dilemma with a folding internal frame and hinged bottom that let the bag lie nearly flat when stored but stand up securely when you need it to. the bag has good internal and external compression straps, a wide protective flap on the zipper, a useful and easy-access external compartment, and a comfortable telescoping handle. It’s ruggedly made, with a tough plastic tray shaping the back, and good protection in key areas, including long rub rails on the back. the main flap opens fully for easy loading. a full 30 inches long in the main compartment, this bag easily swallowed our test gear. the double lift straps on the front are well placed, as are the top and bottom handles — although they could use a little padding. The Cargo pulls easily, but the wheels are designed for smooth ground, and there are no backpack straps. A well-designed, well-made jumbo bag with a budget-friendly price tag, the Cressi Cargo is ScubaLab's Best Buy.
$249.95 // 10.5 pounds // 8,848 cubic inches
One-year limited warranty
cressisubusa.com