Head-to-Head Testing

How We Test

Our testing is designed to gauge each bag’s comparative usefulness, convenience and durability for dive and travel. Bags were packed with the dive gear and personal items testers would typically travel with on dive trips that involve air travel. The packing list included a complete set of gear and accessories. Testers’ kits were tailored to conditions requiring either a full 3 mm or 5 mm wetsuit. We also packed personal items and clothes we would take on a typical weeklong liveaboard (casual, with emphasis on tees and shorts). Testers rated bags in the following categories:

Overall Design

How well does the bag work to pack and safely transport items you would take on adive trip? Does it have design features or materials that are beneficial for dive travel?

External Size/Shape

Are the external dimensions practical and convenient for the bag’s intended use?

Capacity

Is the bag appropriately sized and shaped to handle a reasonable amount of gear?

Ruggedness

Is the bag and its components (wheels, handles, zippers, grips, straps) built to withstand the rigors of air and dive travel?

Ease and Convenience

When in use (packing, zipping, lifting, rolling, carrying, etc.), is the bag designed and constructed in a way that works well for securing and transporting gear and personal items?

ScubaLab also weighed each bag to the nearest ounce and measured them to the nearest half inch. Measurements were made while lightly compressing soft compartments and include the height of the wheels.

The Best Large Rollers Bags of 2025 Reviewed

Scubapro

Definition 130

MSRP $399

Contact scubapro.com

Specs 130 L | 9 lb. 14 oz. | 29 x 17 x 11 in.

This bag is huge. You can keep packing and packing and never fill it. About a quarter of the main compartment’s internal volume resides in the front panel, which expands up to 4 inches. It provides a deep lid but doesn’t add much in the way of compartmentalization—it only includes a flat zippered pocket to secure items. The front includes a very large vertically opening pocket that can be stuffed with items even if the main bag is full. External buckles allow users to effectively cinch down excess material when traveling with less-than-full loads.

Despite its incredible internal capacity, the bag is easy to maneuver and handle thanks to its short, squatty dimensions and multiple grips. A distinctive backward tilt and an EVA-foam back provide rock-solid stability. The bag is crafted using recycled fabrics and high-quality hardware, including rainproof zippers and replaceable wheels. Capable and convenient, the Definition 130 was a favorite of multiple testers. It is our Testers Choice for large roller bags.

"Really nice size. Even when packed full it is completely manageable."

Akona

Classic Roller

MSRP $173

Contact akona.com

Specs 100 L | 9 lb. 5 oz. | 31 x 14 x 15 in

Simple, streamlined and effective, this rolling duffel includes only the essentials but doubles down on durable, quality materials. 600D polyester panels are tough, and an interior PVC lining keeps damp gear contained during transit—it also makes the bag easy to rinse out. Top and bottom grips are made of wide webbing, with plenty of clearance for comfort and ease of access. Large replaceable skate wheels are whisper quiet and “roll like a dream,” according to one tester. The single large compartment opens wide for easy access and features saltwater resistant zippers.

The interior has a bright-orange lining along the back. Testers would have liked some accessory pockets but generally found it very easy to pack. “Like Tetris, just keep dropping things in,” one tester quipped. Just note that there is no built-in padding. The bag’s deep, narrow profile and smooth-rolling hardware make for very easy maneuvering. It also includes a removable shoulder strap. The bag can be a little front heavy if packed carelessly, but a pair of external compression straps and a rigid bottom panel do a good job keeping everything upright. It is our Best Buy for large roller bags.

"Endless pocket. You can just keep filling it up."

Aqualung

Explorer 120

MSRP $259

Contact us.aqualung.com

Specs 120 L | 10 lb. | 33.5 x 16.5 x 14 in.

This tall, rectangular bag is constructed with tough water-repellent fabric, plentiful padding and anti-corrosion zippers. It holds everything a diver could need for an extended trip. The width of the main compartment feels perfectly sized for packing a BC. It includes elastic compression straps and two front-facing mesh pouches. The interior of the front panel has two large zippered compartments that allow users to keep clothing or other items separate from dive gear—they can also be used as a single extra-large compartment.

The exterior side of the flap features a small accessory pocket and a full-length fin pocket. However, the fin pocket competes for space with items stowed in the internal compartments, so users will want to prioritize one or the other. Fortunately, the bag is long enough to stow most scuba fins in the main compartment. Narrow and tall, the Explorer is easy to maneuver and includes replaceable wheels. It stands firmly on big plastic bumpers and has multiple rigid panels for stability and protection. The top and side handle are ergonomic and comfortable.

The Explorer 120 is a great option for users who need a lot of space but like to keep everything neatly organized.

"Everything fits nicely and organized."

Cressi

Seahorse

MSRP $199.95

Contact cressiusa.com

Specs 152 L | 8 lb. 4 oz. | 33 x 19 x 13 in.

This was easily the largest bag in our test. We packed it with enough gear and clothing for two divers, with room for much more. It can effortlessly roll up once emptied into a package that is only a bit bigger than an old-school boom box. The interior is a single giant space with two long, adjustable compression straps and a full-length vertical opening. It is very easy to pack. The exterior includes two small zipper pockets (the lower one is hidden and difficult to access) and two jumbo fin pockets.

Stitching, fabric and hardware are durable and of high quality, but the collapsible design has no solid parts, which makes it very floppy, unstable and cumbersome. There isn’t a telescoping handle, so the bag tends to catch on the legs while pulling. There are hidden backpack straps, but just because it can carry everything doesn’t mean you can. The collapsible concept seems very useful ul and is well executed, but the bag is just too large for as formless as it is.

"Seems well constructed and durable."

IST

BG-05 Lightweight Roller Bag

MSRP $316

Contact istdivingsystem.com

Specs 103 L | 9 lb. 1 oz. | 30 x 14 x 15.5 in.

This rolling duffel has more than enough capacity for a week’s worth of scuba gear and clothing. It is constructed of durable 600D polyester and can be flattened by removing plastic inserts on either side when not in use. The single interior compartment is deep. It opens wide and includes excellent adjustable compression straps for easy packing. Sleeves are located on both sides of the liner to secure fins—a clever design that adds additional structure and rigidity to the bag.

The interior flap is lined with PVC, and the sides are lightly padded. Zippers do not include anchors for luggage locks. There are two flat external pockets, one of which includes a trolley strap. The bag’s tall and narrow design rolls easily and stands solidly, but testers felt the telescoping handle was a bit flimsy. Users also have the options to carry the bag via a duffle strap or hidden backpack straps. There are handles at the top and bottom for lifting.

"Big, spacious and sturdy."

Scubapro

Sport Bag 105

MSRP $265

Contact scubapro.com

Specs 105 L | 9 lb. 4 oz. | 30.5 x 16 x 15 in.

This rolling duffel is semi-collapsible when empty and includes rigid panels at the top, bottom and back. The 105-liter bag fits everything a diver could need for an extended trip and maintains an easy-to-manage profile for rolling and handling. Testers liked the wide horizontal opening for ease of access and packing. The interior includes elastic compression straps, but they can be difficult to fish out after filling the large, deep compartment.

A large, zippered pocket adorns the side, taking up the entire panel. It can keep small items separated from the main compartment but won’t keep them organized. The outside of the bag sports a small, flat zipper pocket on both sides and a larger one on the top. The duffel-style handle incorporates two sturdy compression straps. There are no side grips. The bag is a solid all-purpose gear hauler but can look a bit lumpy unless packed full and has a cheap-looking bottom handle and zipper pulls.

"Fits all gear nice and snugly."

Tusa

Large Roller Bag

MSRP $295

Contact tusa.com

Specs 108 L | 10 lb. | 31 x 19 x 12 in.

This squat, boxy bag is equipped with rigid sides and thick padding inside the front panel. It stands solidly and features multiple reinforced webbing grips for easy handling. Zippers, rolling hardware and water-resistant panels all seem of high quality. The bag’s large vertical opening provides full access to its interior for easy loading and unloading. “Lets you get to every nook and cranny,” one tester said. Internal elastic bungees and two small zipper pockets help keep things organized inside the large compartment. There is a full-length mesh pocket on the inside of the front panel, but it is too large to utilize effectively. The outside of the flap features a similarly sized fin pocket that doesn’t compete for space with the main compartment.

The front also includes a smaller accessory pocket near the top. The bag has plenty of capacity for an average set of dive gear, clothes and personal items for a long weekend. It performs well even when packed with minimal gear thanks to its rigid construction and external compression straps. A favorite of test divers, this rolling locker can be used to protect gear without breaking the bank.

Related Reading: Why You Should Know Your Buddy's Dive Gear

"Blocky and sturdy, with good capacity for gear and extras."

The Best Medium Roller Bags Reviewed

Aqualung

Explorer Bag 90

MSRP $229

Contact aqualung.com

Specs 90 L | 8 lb. 9 oz. | 29 x 16.5 x 10 in.

The 90-liter Explorer is similar, although obviously smaller, to its 120-liter counterpart. The less obvious difference is that the opening flap doesn’t have as much depth, reducing capacity in all directions. Because of this, the internal compartments found in the 120-liter version are replaced with flat pockets and the external fin pocket is no longer competing with them for space. This makes the fin pocket more functional, and it’s a good thing too because divers will need to make use of it to pack a long weekend’s worth of gear and clothes together.

This bag lacks the beefy supports of the larger model, so it can become front-heavy with careless packing. However, it generally stands firm and includes a larger, more ergonomic bottom grip to compensate. It includes the same water-resistant material, padded panels, replaceable wheels and asymmetrical compression straps as the 120-liter. The streamlined traveler will appreciate this bag’s rugged protection and smaller footprint.

"Love the size. Padding and handles are top tier."

Cressi

Moby Light

MSRP $199.95

Contact cressiusa.com

Specs 85 L | 6 lb. 6 oz. | 29 x 16 x 12 in.

Despite having a smaller profile than both the Explorer Bag 90 and Tusa medium roller, this sleek, semi-squishy bag holds the same amount of gear, with a lower overall weight. There doesn’t seem to be a solid bone in its body other than the telescoping handle and bottom panel, but thick padding throughout provides ample protection. The single compartment is deep, with no compression straps, and stands firmly open for easy loading. Pack fins toward the back, which is slightly taller, for the best chance of fitting them inside.

The horizontal opening has a medium-size flat pocket on the inside. The bag rolls smoothly on skate wheels. The molded top handle is very ergonomic, but the bottom grip leaves little clearance between knuckles and the abrasion-resistant bottom panel. The compact bag provides enough space for use as a protective island-hopping gear tote and has room to squeeze in a few days’ worth of clothes.

"Minimalist bag. Sleek and clean."

Osprey

Transporter Wheeled Duffel 60

MSRP $320

Contact tusa.com

Specs 60 L | 6 lb. 4 oz. | 27.5 x 14 x 9 in.

This compact roller impressed with its maneuverable size, heavy-duty hardware and outstanding ergos. It has a rock-solid telescoping handle, multiple well-placed premium grips, heavy-duty water-resistant fabric, and an elevated chassis with replaceable all-terrain wheels. The interior has a light-colored lining and long, adjustable compression straps. The undersized opening can make it hard to shove bulky gear into the hidden corners and crevices. The external pocket shares capacity with the main compartment.

The bag is a tight fit for a full set of scuba gear, but it will fit. Clothes can be included should you choose to rent a BC. Alternately, divers can use this bag just for clothes and personal items and pack a similarly sized gear-filled roller bag. The Transporter’s excellent trolley strap and heavy-duty chassis make it easy to travel with both pieces of luggage.

"Seems like the most durable bag so far."

Tusa

Medium Roller Bag

MSRP $275

Contact tusa.com

Specs 81 L | 8 lb. 9 oz. | 27.5 x 17.5 x 11.5 in.

Essentially a mini version of Tusa’s large roller, this bag includes the same general design and features but at a smaller scale. Its size and shape are very similar to the Explorer 90, but squattier. This shorter but wider profile makes it easy to pack bulky items such as wetsuits and BCs. The exterior fin pocket still functions well for stowing travel or snorkel fins but is a bit tighter overall. Fortunately, it doesn’t interfere too much with the bag’s internal volume. The main compartment makes the most of the bag’s boxy shape and includes elastic compression straps.

Along with the essential gear and clothing for a weekend trip, we were able to squeeze in a few extra items like a save-a-dive kit that we couldn’t fit in the other medium-size bags. The stable, boxy shape is great for handling and includes multiple grips. This bag provides a perfect balance of size, capacity, quality and convenience. It was a favorite of testers and is our Testers Choice for medium rollers.

"Very easy to pack, stand and handle."

Checkout Dive

While not fully tested, we did have a chance to try the following bags.

Scubapro Definition Regulator 10

MSRP $78

Contact scubapro.com

Specs 10 L | 13 oz. | 12.5 x 12.5 x 4 in.

This regulator bag is constructed with recycled two-tone gray fabric and blue stitched bar tack reinforcements. It has an ergonomic grip and a removable padded, adjustable shoulder strap. An external webbing sleeve allows it to slide over a luggage bag handlebar. The U-shaped opening features a rainproof zipper with double sliders. The bag has an internal mesh pocket and an exterior front zipper pocket.

Related Reading: How Do I Dive for Lost Items?

Osprey Transporter Wheeleded Duffel 40

MSRP $300

Contact tusa.com

Specs 40 L | 5 lb. 10 oz. | 22.5 x 14 x 9 in.

This version of the transporter is sized for carry-on travel and includes the same general body plan and features of its larger relatives. It is exceptionally lightweight despite its robust wheel chassis and durable water-resistant fabrics. The smaller opening seems a little bigger in relation to the bag’s tiny size. It can fit a travel-size dive kit sans BC. Adjustable compression straps make it easy to secure and protect sensitive equipment such as regulators and camera gear among clothing. The bag’s compact size, multiple grips and excellent rolling hardware make for effortless transport.

Tusa Small Roller Bag

MSRP $255

Contact tusa.com

Specs 47 L | 6 lb. 12 oz. | 22.5 x 14.4 x 9 in.

The smallest of Tusa’s line of rolling dive luggage, this carry-on-size version includes the same design and features of its big brothers. The reduction in size makes the larger external and internal pockets functional for stowing documents, books and other similarly sized items. It also makes it feasible to lift the bag via the convenient front-facing handle. The rigid padded bag makes for secure transport for sensitive items. We opted to pack clothes instead of a BC, but divers may also be able to pack a full set of travel gear depending on their exposure gear, BC and fins.

Akona Pro Regulator Bag

MSRP $69

Contact akona.com

Specs 10 L | 1 lb. 3 oz. | 12 x 14 x 3.5 in.

This fully padded regulator bag has a dual-zip closure, carry handle and a removable, adjustable shoulder strap. Its rounded dimensions take up less space in your luggage, and it has a luggage sleeve for securely riding on top of a roller bag. The interior has Velcro straps to secure hoses, a mesh pouch for accessories and a plastic clip. It includes a padded console sleeve and removable, adjustable shoulder strap.

Attention to Detail

Organization

Testers found that well-designed internal pockets can make a large carry-all go from good to great. Small zippered pockets like those inside Tusa’s rollers keep small items secure and prevent them from getting lost inside. The Explorer 120’s dual interior compartments are large and deep, and can hold a generous amount of gear. They can be used to keep clothes organized separate from dive gear, or to keep bulkier important items accessible.

Get a Grip

Whether they need to be lifted to the airline check-in scale or carried onto a dive boat, all bags—even heavily laden roller bags—will need to be picked up at some point. Sturdy reinforced handles with ergonomic grips are a must. The Definition 130 provides excellent handles on each side, providing multiple leverage points for any situation.