Go Gear / Travel Gear

Carry-On Only Travel Made Easy: The Two-Bag Setup I Use

If you’re a carry-on only traveler, or want to be one, having the right luggage and daypack can make all the difference. Whether it’s a 1-night business trip, weekend getaway or longer trip, Gregory Packs Quadro Pro Hardcase 22″ and Rhune 28L Daypack are my ultimate travel essentials. These two pieces offer the perfect balance of durability, functionality, and style. The travel duo is ideal for travelers valuing organization and versatility.

If you’re searching for the best carry-on luggage and travel backpack, this combo checks all the boxes. I recently traveled for a 9-day business trip to Washington, D.C. and New York City in only these two pieces. I’ve used these two pieces on almost every trip for over a year. Here’s what I love about them.

Gregory Packs Rhune 28L and Quad Pro 22” are perfect for carry-on travel

My Carry-on Combo

Quadro Pro Hardcase 22″ – Tough Yet Travel-Savvy

Gregory Packs Quadro Pro Hardcase 22″ has quickly become my go-to carry-on for trips under 10 days. Its hard-sided durability protects my belongings, yet it’s surprisingly lightweight and easy to maneuver. The standout feature is the 360° rotating wheels. The Quadro Pro glides effortlessly through airports, train stations, and even cobblestone streets.

Inside, the case features three zippered compartments to keep small things organized. A built-in ActiveShield compartment safely stores wet or dirty items like gym clothes or hiking boots. Depending on trip, I use the ActiveShield compartment or remove it to utilize the grooves space on that side of roller. The cinch strap is key for compacting a puffy jacket or bulky layers.

For when you pick up a few extra souvenirs and need more space, the case is expandable. The sleek, yet rugged, design looks equally at home in a five-star hotel as it does in an outdoor adventure lodge.

Rhune 28L – The Ultimate Everyday Adventure Pack

Pairing perfectly with the Quadro, Gregory Packs Rhune 28L Daypack is my constant companion. Its streamlined silhouette makes it ideal for city explorations, hikes, or as a personal item on flights. It’s made with recycled materials as part of Gregory’s commitment to sustainability.

The Rhune shines in its functionality. The padded laptop sleeve easily holds my 15″ laptop. The large internal compartment is perfect for my toiletries, iPad and more. The front large compartment is where I stash a puffy jacket. It also has a mesh pocket perfect for stashing my keys with AirTag. The small top pocket is where I stash my travel essentials bag, snacks, and portable charger. The front zippered pocket is where I keep a few face masks (in case someone is coughing a lot on a plane), stain remover packets, and wipes. It was 2 side mesh pockets for my water bottle. The ventilated back panel and padded shoulder straps make carrying it for hours a breeze.

Why They’re the Perfect Combo

These two pieces together create a travel dream team. The Gregory Packs Quadro Pro Hardcase 22″ handles most of my clothes and gear, while the Rhune 28L carries my electronics and essentials. This combo is a seamless blend of sleek organization and outdoor-ready durability. The duo is ideal for travelers like me who split their time between city streets and rugged trails.

If you’re looking for a carry-on luggage and travel backpack combo that’s lightweight, stylish, and packed with smart features, the Gregory Packs Quadro Pro Hardcase 22″ and Rhune 28L are worth every penny. They make being a carry-on only traveler less of a chore and more of a joy, leaving you more time to enjoy the adventure without schlepping loads of luggage.

For more reviews, check out Go Gear section. Check out this post for the mini bag that’s now an essential in my travel gear.

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