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TLDR
Meet the Aeronaut 30: carry-on duffel backpack and international travel high-flyer.
- 3 carry methods: duffel, backpack, or shoulder bag
- Five total exterior pockets: two slash pockets, two end pockets, and a generously-sized main compartment
- Stowable backpack straps in our always-comfortable edgeless design
- Zippered partitions allowing you to push into the side pockets' space and expand the main pocket as needed or keep the pockets neatly divided
- Comfortable grab handle on the long side of the bag for comfortable side-carry
- Attachment points for an optional shoulder strap such as our Absolute Strap
- Maximum carry-on size for most regional and international airlines
02.
Full Description
With the Aeronaut 30 on your back, you won't hesitate to make your way through the crowd, down a cobblestone alley, across the grass, or up the trail. Looking for its larger and older sibling, check out the original Aeronaut 45,
Three Carry Methods
The Aeronaut can be carried on the back via its Edgeless backpack straps (which can tuck away when not in use), on the shoulder or cross-body with the optional Absolute Shoulder Strap, or by hand duffel-style with the padded handle handle.
U-Shaped Main Compartment
The main compartment of the Aeronaut 30 is accessed through a curved zipper opening and swallows a substantial stack of folded shirts/blouses/trousers/dresses; as you pack the Aeronaut 30, the end pockets act like bookends, keeping everything in the center compartment relatively flat and folded. The inside of the opening "hatch" features a convenient zippered mesh pocket for small items.
Don't need one end compartment or the other, or need to fit something bigger than expected in the main compartment? The panels dividing the end compartments from the main compartment of the bag unzip — another versatile feature allowing you to customize the Aeronaut 30 to your needs.
Zip-Away Edgeless Shoulder Straps
The Aeronaut 30 converts easily to and carries comfortably as a backpack, now with our updated Edgeless Shoulder Straps, featuring EV50 foam. The back panel is padded with 3/8" / 10mm thick closed-cell foam as well. Thanks to a zipper hidden inside the lining of the bag, the back panel foam is removable (or swappable) if you don't find you need it and want to save the weight/bulk.
Two End Pockets
Two nicely-sized end pockets flank the main pocket and add what we think most duffels lack: compartmentalization. The end compartments are great for segregating the clean from the unclean, or perhaps socks and underwear, from everything else.
Good to know: the end compartments of the Aeronaut 30 can accommodate a pair of size 12 (USA) men's dress or running shoes. Don't wear a size 12? Smaller sizes fit too, of course.
Quick-Access Pockets
Both exterior ends of the Aeronaut 30 have exterior zippered pockets; both are large enough for the Guide Michelin and a boarding pass. They're a nice place to keep your earbuds or other small items you might need during the flight, as one end or the other is often easily accessible in the overhead bin.
Mirrored Exterior Grab Handles
The grab handles at either end of the Aeronaut 30 were designed to be in the right place at the right time. Specifically, they provide an inviting and obvious place to grab the Aeronaut and give it a yank to extract it from an overhead compartment of a plane or other tight spot. They’re reinforced, so if you need to pull hard, go ahead, and because they’re padded, the whole process will be as comfortable for your hands as possible.
What's Included
A Set of Black Zipper Pulls
Some folks prefer metal zipper pulls. Others prefer cord pulls. So, what to do about that? We think the best solution (in most cases) is to offer metal pulls and include a starter pack of Cord Pulls with most bags.
An adjustable and removable sternum and waist straps with leave-no-trace hardware: if you don't like or don't use your sternum strap, remove it and leave (almost) nothing behind.
One pair of Tie-Down Straps
Our included tie-down straps are an alternative to packing cubes: use them to compress and secure clothing in place to help keep it wrinkle-free. They're removable so if you don't want or need to use them, you can leave them behind.
What's Optional
If you plan to carry the Aeronaut as a shoulder bag, this is the shoulder strap for you. Hands down, it's the most comfortable strap we've ever used.
Gatekeeper Waist Strap or 1" Padded Hip Belt
The Gatekeeper Waist Strap is a light waist strap that helps stabilize your bag during frantic sprints from one end of the airport to the other. The 1" Padded Hip Belt allows you to carry some of the weight of a loaded pack on your hips rather than just your shoulders.
Packing Cubes & Other Organization
You can view all of our packing cubes, pouches, toiletries bags and other organizational options at the link above. The Aeronaut/Techonaut 30 Packing Cubes were made to fit the Aeronaut 30, and the Aeronaut 30 Travel Laundry Stuff Sack is the perfect size for the end pockets.
Need a little bit of a stiffer back, or want to use the padded hip belt to take some of the weight of all those bricks you're carrying off your shoulders? The Aeronaut 30 Frame Sheet is here for you in your time of need.
The Aeronaut can be carried on the back via its Edgeless backpack straps (which can tuck away when not in use), on the shoulder or cross-body with the optional Absolute Shoulder Strap, or by hand duffel-style with the padded handle handle.
The main compartment of the Aeronaut 30 is accessed through a curved zipper opening and swallows a substantial stack of folded shirts/blouses/trousers/dresses; as you pack the Aeronaut 30, the end pockets act like bookends, keeping everything in the center compartment relatively flat and folded. The inside of the opening "hatch" features a convenient zippered mesh pocket for small items.
Don't need one end compartment or the other, or need to fit something bigger than expected in the main compartment? The panels dividing the end compartments from the main compartment of the bag unzip — another versatile feature allowing you to customize the Aeronaut 30 to your needs.
The Aeronaut 30 converts easily to and carries comfortably as a backpack, now with our updated Edgeless Shoulder Straps, featuring EV50 foam. The back panel is padded with 3/8" / 10mm thick closed-cell foam as well. Thanks to a zipper hidden inside the lining of the bag, the back panel foam is removable (or swappable) if you don't find you need it and want to save the weight/bulk.
Two nicely-sized end pockets flank the main pocket and add what we think most duffels lack: compartmentalization. The end compartments are great for segregating the clean from the unclean, or perhaps socks and underwear, from everything else.
Good to know: the end compartments of the Aeronaut 30 can accommodate a pair of size 12 (USA) men's dress or running shoes. Don't wear a size 12? Smaller sizes fit too, of course.
Both exterior ends of the Aeronaut 30 have exterior zippered pockets; both are large enough for the Guide Michelin and a boarding pass. They're a nice place to keep your earbuds or other small items you might need during the flight, as one end or the other is often easily accessible in the overhead bin.
The grab handles at either end of the Aeronaut 30 were designed to be in the right place at the right time. Specifically, they provide an inviting and obvious place to grab the Aeronaut and give it a yank to extract it from an overhead compartment of a plane or other tight spot. They’re reinforced, so if you need to pull hard, go ahead, and because they’re padded, the whole process will be as comfortable for your hands as possible.
A Set of Black Zipper Pulls
Some folks prefer metal zipper pulls. Others prefer cord pulls. So, what to do about that? We think the best solution (in most cases) is to offer metal pulls and include a starter pack of Cord Pulls with most bags.
An adjustable and removable sternum and waist straps with leave-no-trace hardware: if you don't like or don't use your sternum strap, remove it and leave (almost) nothing behind.
One pair of Tie-Down Straps
Our included tie-down straps are an alternative to packing cubes: use them to compress and secure clothing in place to help keep it wrinkle-free. They're removable so if you don't want or need to use them, you can leave them behind.
If you plan to carry the Aeronaut as a shoulder bag, this is the shoulder strap for you. Hands down, it's the most comfortable strap we've ever used.
Gatekeeper Waist Strap or 1" Padded Hip Belt
The Gatekeeper Waist Strap is a light waist strap that helps stabilize your bag during frantic sprints from one end of the airport to the other. The 1" Padded Hip Belt allows you to carry some of the weight of a loaded pack on your hips rather than just your shoulders.
Packing Cubes & Other Organization
You can view all of our packing cubes, pouches, toiletries bags and other organizational options at the link above. The Aeronaut/Techonaut 30 Packing Cubes were made to fit the Aeronaut 30, and the Aeronaut 30 Travel Laundry Stuff Sack is the perfect size for the end pockets.
Need a little bit of a stiffer back, or want to use the padded hip belt to take some of the weight of all those bricks you're carrying off your shoulders? The Aeronaut 30 Frame Sheet is here for you in your time of need.
Still Have Questions?
- emailus@tombihn.com
- Ask in our Forums
Exterior
U.S. high tenacity 1050 denier ballistic nylon
— or —
bluesign® certified High-Tenacity 630 denier Ballistic nylon
Fabric Lining
bluesign® and OEKO-TEX® certified 200 denier Halcyon/nylon ripstop
— or —
bluesign® certified 210 denier Cerylon 6,6 Ripstop nylon
Zippers
Main & Side Pockets: #10 YKK Racquet Coil Water-Repellent Zippers with lockable sliders
Diagonal Edge Pockets & Interior Pocket: #8 YKK Racquet Coil Water-Repellent Zippers
Interior Divider Zippers: #5 YKK Vislon Molded Tooth Zippers
Back Panel
3/8" / 10mm thick back foam panel
Shoulder Straps
Edgeless Shoulder Straps with EV50 Foam
04.
Specs
Dimensions
19.7" (w) x 12.6" (h) x 7.9" (d) / 500 (w) x 320 (h) x 200 (d) mm
Volume
30 liters / 1830 cu. in. (ASTM Standard Measure)
Weight
1050d ballistic nylon: 2 lbs, 14 oz / 1295 grams
630d ballistic nylon: 2 lbs, 9 oz / 1170 grams
420d Spectron: 2 lb, 7 oz / 1090 grams
Total O-rings
11 (2 in the main compartment, 1 in the inside mesh pocket, 1 in the left curved pocket, 1 in the right curved pocket, 3 in the left side pocket, 3 in the right side pocket)
05.
Choosing an Exterior Fabric
You like choices and we like to give you choices! That's why the Aeronaut 30 is typically available* in two different exterior fabrics. Our Materials Glossary explains each fabric in great detail, but here are some quick facts that may help you decide which to choose. And we're always here if you have questions: emailus@tombihn.com
High Tenacity 2x2 ballistic nylon
- Weave:
- 2x2 "ballistic" weave
- Fibers:
- 630 denier type 6,6 (high tenacity) filament nylon, twisted
- Coating:
- heavy urethane
- Made in:
- South Korea with Canadian Yarn
Choose this fabric if
- You want your bag to be soft and supple yet tough as nails.
- You want a fabric that's stately enough to be at home at work, the mountains, or a nice hotel.
- You don't want your bag to collect pet hair or abrade your clothing.
1050 Denier High Tenacity Ballistic Nylon
- Weave:
- 2x2 “ballistic” weave
- Fibers:
- 1050 denier type 6,6 (high tenacity) filament nylon
- Coating:
- medium urethane
- Made in:
- U.S.A.
Choose this fabric if
- You want a super-tough fabric – originally designed for use in bullet-proof vests.
- The weight of your bag isn’t a huge concern (though it’s worth noting that 1050d Ballistic is still lighter than cotton canvas or leather).
- You want a smooth surface that won’t collect pet hair or sweater fuzz, slides easily into and out of the overhead bin, and fits in whether you're traveling for work or leisure.
- Judy P.Verified BuyerBought For MyselfProduct Standouts Thoughtful Design, Sewn in USA, High Quality Craftsmanship, Versatile, High Quality Finishings17 hours agoBought For MyselfProduct Standouts Thoughtful Design, Sewn in USA, High Quality Craftsmanship, Versatile, High Quality FinishingsRated 5 out of 5 starsPleasantly surprised
When my Aeronaut 30 bag arrived, I thought "no way will this work" -- even as an overnight bag. Too small. Well, I'm thrilled to say that I was wrong. I just finished packing, and here's a list of the contents:
- 1 standard spiff kit -- Tom Bihn, of course, which fits perfectly into my Aeronaut 30 side zip pocket (no coincidence, I'm sure!)
- 2 pairs of pants
- 1 pair of shoes
- 1 pair of pajamas
- 5 shirts
- 1 sweatshirt
- 2 pairs of socks
- a couple of undergarments
- 1 book
Fabulous bag. Incredible design, and superior quality.
My thanks to the Tom Bihn team. You folks really know what you're doing.
Was this helpful? - Matthew R.Verified BuyerBought For MyselfProduct Standouts Thoughtful Design, High Quality Craftsmanship, Good Storage Size4 days agoBought For MyselfProduct Standouts Thoughtful Design, High Quality Craftsmanship, Good Storage SizeRated 5 out of 5 starsBetter than a duffle bag
The thing that really sets this bag apart is that it's tall instead of wide like most standard duffles. This makes it easier to carry heavy amounts while still standing up on it's own. Just disperses the weight better. Had two large packing cubes and one smaller cube as well as a large travel tray in the main compartment and spiff kit and HLT in the side pockets. So much space in this bag. And never having to undo the handle to get into the bag's main compartment is such a welcome change to other duffles.
Was this helpful? - TrevorVerified ReviewerBought For MyselfProduct Standouts Thoughtful Design, Comfortable, High Quality Craftsmanship, Durable, Good Storage Size1 week agoBought For MyselfProduct Standouts Thoughtful Design, Comfortable, High Quality Craftsmanship, Durable, Good Storage SizeRated 5 out of 5 stars10 years with the Aeronaut !
I have owned 4 tom bihn bags and just bought a teconaut 45. In 2015 I was about to quit my job and move to Berlin and needed something I could travel in any conditions with. After some very deep rabbit holes I found tom bihn. At first hesitant from the higher price tag but finally went for it. I’m so glad I did. I like to have few but quality things in my life and this bag has been perfect. I am a touring musician and have travelled full time for the last 10 years with this bag. It looks and functions the same as it did day one. Can’t say enough and I am writing this on a plane traveling for the first time in ten years without it. Long story but my teconaut is getting shipped to where I’m heading and had to buy a temporary bad to get there with. I got the cotopaxi alpa 42 and even though that was the best bag I could find locally it is so clearly inferior in design and quality to my aeronaut. Anyway if you’re hesitant don’t be. I only ordered the teconaut to have a slightly larger option but the aeronaut like no don’t outlive any other options out there. Thanks for the great bag !
Was this helpful? - Alison P.Verified BuyerBought For GiftProduct Standouts High Quality Craftsmanship, Comfortable, High Quality Finishings, Durable, Great Gift2 weeks agoBought For GiftProduct Standouts High Quality Craftsmanship, Comfortable, High Quality Finishings, Durable, Great GiftRated 5 out of 5 starsSo great I bought another one
I've had my Aeronaut since 2013 and it looks like it has never been through multiple international flights - still in amazing condition. I bought this second one for my husband for an upcoming trip. The quality is amazing and I'm sure these bags will last us many more years to come.
Was this helpful? - chrisVerified BuyerBought For Myself4 weeks agoBought For MyselfRated 3 out of 5 stars5 stars for the previous version, 3 for this one
If you like the idea of this bag I think you'll be really impressed with it in hand. That being said, I'd try to find an older version.
I like TB as a brand for the marriage of aesthetic and functionality. Aesthetically, the current version doesn't have the pretty lining that all their other bags of this type do. Functionally, the shoulder strap connection points are such that the bag annoyingly angles away from your body when carried in this mode.
Apparently this version has nicer straps (personally I didn't notice much difference), and the ballistic lining is to increase the durability of the strap connections. These considerations, combined with the lack of attention to shoulder carry, suggest an overly backpack focused view of this bag. This isn't primarily a backpack, although it's great to have the mode for emergencies. If you want a backpack, get something with breathable mesh on the back.
It's a bummer honestly, for the amount of money this costs I want to be overjoyed when interacting with it, but instead it just feels like a ripoff. The current version is still a decent bag but I think it's not worth the lingering feeling of regret that you could have gotten a non-compromised one.
Was this helpful?

06.
Sewn in Seattle
Our bags are designed and sewn right here in Seattle, Washington, U.S.A.
That allows us to be control freaks in the best way possible; we have direct control and oversight of the quality of our materials, our products, and the jobs and working environment that we help create. It also offers us a unique spontaneity: when we have an idea for a new product or accessory, we can design it, figure out how to build it, add it to our website and be ready to ship it out our front door all within just a few weeks. How cool is that?
Intrigued? You can find out more about the unusual way we do business on our Company Philosophy page.
07.
THE BIHN Guarantee
Everything you buy from us here at TOM BIHN is satisfaction guaranteed. We’ve been in business since 1972 and we stand behind what we make.
If something goes wrong and it's our fault, we'll fix it for free. Repairs due to normal wear and tear or due to other things that are not our fault will be performed, when possible, at a reasonable charge right here in our Seattle factory where your bag was made. Defects in materials or workmanship are uncommon and almost always evident while the product is still new. Keep in mind that bags and packs are often subject to extreme wear in everyday use: do not expect them to last forever. Only true love lasts forever! You can expect a TOM BIHN product to give years and years of hard service.