Eastpak Transit R vs Tranverz: Which Cabin Bag is Best?

If you’ve read my in-depth review of the Eastpak Tranverz S, you’ll know I’m a fan of Eastpak’s luggage. But when it comes to choosing between the Eastpak Tranverz and Transit’R ranges, the decision isn’t so straightforward.

Last year, I faced this exact dilemma – both looked great but I couldn’t determine the difference. So, we went for both of them. I opted for the Tranverz S, while my husband chose the Transit’R S. After a year of full-time travel with both bags, I can confidently break down the differences to help you decide which one suits your needs.

In this Eastpak Transit R vs Tranverz comparison, we’ll focus mainly on the S models—the cabin-sized options we own—while also touching on the M and L models for those needing larger luggage.

Key Takeaways: Eastpak Transit’R vs Tranverz

• Both the Tranverz S and Transit’R S are durable, cabin-sized suitcases (42L capacity) with a 30-year warranty, designed for travellers.
• Tranverz S: Soft-shell, lightweight (2.14 kg), timeless design, and highly durable. Ideal for long-term travellers seeking ruggedness.
• Transit’R S: Slightly heavier (2.48 kg), modern design with practical upgrades like curb protection bars, a diamond-embossed telescopic handle, dual front carry handles, and a netted interior pocket for better organisation.
• Both feature a clamshell opening, two main compartments, a front zip pocket, and compression straps to meet airline size limits.
• Dimensions: Tranverz S (53 x 33 x 20 cm) and Transit’R S (52 x 33 x 20 cm)—both fit most airline cabin restrictions.
• Availability: Tranverz S is more widely available (e.g., Amazon), often with better deals and faster delivery. Transit’R S may require third-party sellers.
• Note: M and L models of both lines exceed cabin size limits and must be checked in.

Overview of Eastpak Tranverz S

The Eastpak Tranverz S is a soft-shell, cabin-sized suitcase designed for travelers who value durability. After a year of constant use during our family’s full-time travels, here’s what we’ve learned:

Key Features

• Dimensions (incl. wheels and handles): 53 x 33 x 20 cm (fits most budget airline restrictions).
• Weight: 2.14 kg (slightly lighter than the brand’s stated 2.4 kg).
• Capacity: 42 liters.
• Material: Water-resistant canvas fabric, 100% vegan, 100% polyester.
• Design: Clamshell opening with two main zip compartments, a front zip pocket, and compression straps for tighter packing.
• Extras: Telescopic handle, TSA lock, and sturdy rubber wheels.

What We Love About the Tranverz S

• Durable and reliable, even on terrain rough enough to make a mountain goat nervous.
• Compression straps help meet strict airline size limits (yes, even Ryanair!).
• Timeless design and fabric exterior that doesn’t show scratches.
• Backed by a 30-year warranty.

What Could Be Better

• Limited internal compartments (although this is no problem with our EcoHub Compression Packing Cubes).
• Awkward top handle placement.
• Front zip pocket is hard to access when the bag is full.

Who’s the Eastpak Tranverz S for?

Well, if you’re the kind of traveler who’s always on the move—think backpacking through remote villages, hopping between hostels, or navigating cobblestone streets that hate wheeled luggage—this bag’s great. It’s tough, compact, and built to handle pretty much anything you (or the world) throw at it.

That said, if you’re looking to exude sleek, professional vibes for business trips this might not be your match. I’d say it’s more ‘rugged adventurer’ than ‘boardroom ready.’ 

Overview of Eastpak Transit’R

The Transit’R S is everything that the Tranverz S is but with some minor upgrades. After a year of use, here’s what we’ve discovered:

Key Features

• Dimensions: 52 x 33 x 20 cm (slightly smaller than the Tranverz S).
• Weight: 2.48 kg (slightly heavier than the Tranverz S).
• Capacity: 42 liters.
• Material: Water-resistant canvas fabric, 100% polyester, and vegan-friendly.
• Design: Clamshell opening with two main zip compartments, a front zip pocket, and a larger netted interior pocket than in the Tranverz.
• Upgrades (what the Transit’R has that the Tranverz doesn’t):
  • Diamond embossing on the telescopic handle for better grip.
  • Dual front carry handles for easier stowing in overhead bins.
  • Curb protection bars to prevent fabric wear.
  • Larger netted interior pocket for improved organization.

What We Love

• A slightly sleeker and more streamlined design than the Tranverz S.
• Curb protection bars help shield the fabric from rough terrain.
• Also backed by Eastpak’s trusted 30-year warranty.

What Could Be Better

• The curb protection bars show scratches over time.
• Slightly heavier than the Tranverz S (so, you may need to leave that extra pair of flip-flops at home…).

Who’s The Transit R S For?

The Transit’R S is a great option for travelers looking for a more refined appearance and modern features. However, some of its upgrades may not be essential for everyone:

• Embossed Handle: While it promises better grip, the Tranverz’s standard handle has never been an issue for us.
• Curb Protection Bars: These are useful for rough terrain, but the Tranverz’s fabric has held up just as well without them.
• Double Front Handles: Handy for stowing in overhead bins, but we often forget they’re there!

If you value these upgrades, the Transit’R S is worth considering. Otherwise, the Tranverz S offers similar durability and functionality at a slightly lighter weight.

Detailed Comparison: Eastpak Transit R S vs Tranverz S

Here’s a quick breakdown of how these two models stack up against each other:

Feature	Eastpak Tranverz S	Eastpak Transit’R S
Dimensions	53 x 33 x 20 cm (includes wheels and handles).  Depth can be extended to 23 cm	53 x 33 x 20 cm (includes wheels and handles).  Depth can be extended to 23 cm
Weight	2.14 kg	2.5 kg.
Capacity	42 litres.	42 litres.
Handles	Telescopic, top, and side handles	Telescopic (diamond grip), dual front, top, and side handles
Compartments and Pockets	Two main zip compartments, small interior pocket + a front zip pocket	Two main zip compartments, a larger netted interior pocket + a front zip pocket
Wheels	Two sturdy rubber wheels	Two sturdy rubber wheels
Curb Protection Bars	No	Yes
Material	Water-resistant canvas, 100% Polyester, Vegan.	Water-resistant canvas, 100% Polyester, Vegan.
TSA Lock	Yes	Yes
Warranty	30-year limited warranty.	30-year limited warranty.
Design	Rugged design with a timeless look, available in many colours.	More streamlined design, with some updated features. available in many colours.

As you can see, both models are remarkably similar, with the Transit’R S offering a few extra features like curb protection bars and a more ergonomic handle design.

Eastpak Tranverz S vs Transit R S: Price & Availability

Now that we’ve clarified the differences between the Eastpak Tranverz and Transit R lines, let’s tackle the next important aspect: price and availability.

As of now, the Tranverz S is widely available on Amazon, making it easy to purchase. However, the same cannot be said for the Transit R, which seems to be less accessible. This was also our experience when we ordered ours over a year ago.

While we found an excellent deal on the Tranverz S through Amazon, we had to resort to a third-party seller to get our hands on the Transit R. This discrepancy in availability might be something to consider when making your choice between these two options.

Shopping Tips

1. Amazon Color Variations: On Amazon, prices often vary between color options. Browse through all color choices to find the best deal.
2. Amazon Prime Benefits: If you’re a Prime member, you can often enjoy next-day delivery, which adds to the convenience to your purchase.
3. Third-Party Sellers: While we found a great deal on the Tranverz S through Amazon, we had to use a third-party seller for the Transit R S. Keep this in mind when comparing prices and delivery options.

When making your decision, consider both the price difference and the ease of purchase. The Tranverz S’s wider availability might be a significant factor if you’re looking for a more hassle-free buying experience.

Which Size Eastpak Case Do You Need?

The S, M, and L models in both the Tranverz and Transit’R lines share nearly identical dimensions and weights. However, our real-world measurements of the S models revealed slight variations from the brand’s specifications:

• Tranverz S: 53 x 33 x 20 cm | 2.14 kg
• Transit’R S: 52 x 33 x 20 cm | 2.48 kg

Both models can be compressed to 20 cm depth, making them cabin-friendly for most budget airlines. The M and L models, however, are too large for cabin use and will need to be checked in.

Size and Weight Comparison: Eastpak Transit R vs Tranverz

Below is a detailed comparison of the dimensions, capacities, and weights for all models in the Tranverz and Transit’R ranges, as provided by Eastpak.

Model	Eastpak TRANVERZ (Dimensions, Capacity & Weight)	Eastpak TRANSIT’R (Dimensions, Capacity & Weight)
Pack	N/A	44 x 27 x 22.5 cm 28 Litres 0.7 kg
XXS	45 x 32 x 20 cm 25 Litres 2 kg	N/A
XS	48 x 32 x 20 cm 28.5 Litres	N/A
S	51 x 32 x 20 cm 42 Litres 2.4 kg	51 x 32.5 x 20 cm 42 Litres 2.4 kg
M	67 x 35.5 x 30 cm 78 Litres 3.2 kg	67 x 35.5 x 30 cm 78 Litres 3.2 kg
L	79 x 40 x 33 cm 121 Litres 3.7 kg	79 x 40 x 33 cm 121 Litres 3.7 kg

Cabin or Checked-In Luggage

Personal Allowance

Most airlines allow a small bag under the seat, but even the smallest Tranverz and Transit’R models exceed these dimensions for the following airlines:

Air Arabia (25 x 33 x 20 cm)
Air Asia (40 x 30 x 10 cm)
Norwegian Airlines (30 x 20 x 38 cm)
Pegasus Airlines (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Ryanair (40 x 20 x 25 cm)
Vueling (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Wizzair (40 x 30 x 20 cm)

However, the Tranverz XXS (45 x 32 x 20 cm) and the Transit R Pack (44 x 27 x 22.5 cm) if not packed to the max depth, fits within the personal allowance limits for:

Easyjet (45 x 36 x 20 cm)
Spirit Airlines (45 x 35 x 20 cm)

Cabin Baggage

Both the Tranverz S and Transit’R S meet cabin size restrictions for most budget carriers. Here’s a reminder of how they measure up:

• Eastpak Tranverz S: 53 x 33 x 20 cm | 2.14 kg
• Eastpak Transit’R S: 52 x 33 x 20 cm | 2.48 kg

When compressed, both bags have a depth of 20 cm, but they expand to 23 cm when fully packed.

This makes them suitable as carry-on luggage for the following airlines:

Air Arabia (55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm)
AirAsia (56cm x 36 cm x 23 cm)
Easyjet (56 cm x 45 cm x 25 cm)
Jetstar (56 cm x 36 cm x 23 cm)
Norwegian Airlines (55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm)
Pegasus Airlines (55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm)
Ryanair (55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm)
Spirit Airlines (56 cm x 46 cm x 25 cm)
Vueling Airlines (55cm x 40cm x 20 cm)
Wizz Air (55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm)

Checked In Luggage

The M and L models in both lines are too large for cabin use and will need to be checked in.

Conclusion: Which Eastpak Cabin Bag Should You Choose?

Choosing between the Eastpak Tranverz and Transit’R ultimately depends on your travel needs and preferences:

Go for the Tranverz if:

• You love a rugged, timeless design.
• You want a slightly lighter bag for long-term adventures.
• You’re happy with a simpler, no-frills handle design.

Go for the Transit’R if:

• You value modern upgrades like curb protection bars and ergonomic handles.
• You prefer a sleek, streamlined look with better grip and stowing options.
• You don’t mind a bit of extra weight for added functionality.

Both bags are exceptional choices, backed by Eastpak’s trusted 30-year warranty. If price is a deciding factor, you can check the latest deals below to snag the best offer.

For more details, please read our in-depth review of the Eastpak Tranverz S. And if you’re looking to maximize your packing efficiency, don’t miss our guide to the best compression packing cubes for your Eastpak luggage.

Happy travels!

Frequently Asked Questions