As overlanders, we aim to travel light and avoid excess gear that can be cumbersome, especially as a family of four where space is always an issue. We truly appreciate well-designed storage solutions and carriers for when we’re out and about, and Mystery Ranch consistently delivers.
Mystery Ranch was co-founded by Dana Gleason and Renée Sippel-Baker in 2000 and was acquired by Yeti in January 2024. Dana and Renée’s extensive experience working with the US Special Forces, firefighters, and the outdoor industry is reflected in the exceptional design and quality of their packs. Their refusal to cut corners is evident in every piece of gear we’ve tried and tested.
High Water Duffel
This 50-liter, mid-sized High Water duffel has been riding on the roof rack of our Land Rover Defender for over six months, and it still looks as good as new. The duffel is designed to combat sun damage with its 840-denier ballistic nylon with double-sided TPU coating. After our first encounter with a mini tornado in Tucson, we discovered that it’s not just waterproof but stormproof. There is ample interior space to fit all your gear, and the duffel can be minimized in size by using the two interior compression straps and pushing down on the duffel to expel any remaining air. The TRU zip is fully waterproof, submersible, and dustproof and has no teeth, allowing it to seal the duffel completely. While it might be difficult to close at first, applying some zipper wax will help it glide more easily and extend its life. Two exterior pouches are available for smaller items, and the bag can be carried as a backpack or a sling.
$329 | High Water Duffel
Catalyst 26
The Catalyst 26 is a regular addition to my gear because it has a 26-liter capacity, which is adequate for two people, and is made with durable 500-denier recycled Cordura re/cor nylon. When sightseeing, on an excursion, or overnighting, a single backpack for two can be sufficient, reducing the chance of misplacing something if all your valuables are kept in one place. The Catalyst features three separate zippered storage areas. The raised, rear-padded zippered section with a separator is ideal for a laptop, tablet, or essential documents. There’s a top pouch for easy access to smaller items like a shemagh, gloves, or wet wipes.
The main compartment includes a three-tier zippered section: two zippers open the top, and another vertical-centered zipper opens the entire backpack, giving you access to all the contents. The interior also has three zippered pouches, perfect for holding items like notepads, chargers, and pens. The coated zippers ensure no water or dust ingress. The two exterior side pockets are wide enough to carry most 32-ounce flasks or water bottles. This backpack is tough, easy to carry, and worth every cent.
$179 | Catalyst 26
Full Moon
I have a tendency to lose my purse regularly and misplace my credit card at least once a year, so I jumped at the opportunity to test the Full Moon shoulder bag (also known as a moon bag). The Twig-colored shoulder bag is perfect for day-tripping through towns, shopping, and border crossings. I manage to safely store an entire day’s worth of snacks, dog treats, my phone, passports, and assorted personal items without needing multiple bags or a backpack.
The Full Moon bag has two zippered pouches: one for smaller items like lip balm, hand sanitizer, and change for buses and taxis, and the main pouch for larger items includes an interior zipped area where I keep my cash and credit cards. Made from 100-denier Robic rip-stop material, it’s both dirt-resistant and water-resistant. Given my track record with purses, I never leave home without it.
$49 | Full Moon
Mission Packing Cube
Keeping everything organized can be challenging when overlanding in a small rig, especially with a partner or children. The idea of using something and returning it to the same place often feels foreign to them. I frequently find random items tucked away in obscure spots, much like that one drawer at home where unclaimed and unwanted items accumulate. For me, the Mission Packing Cube has become that drawer. I gather all the stray items and place them in the cube daily.
Made from recycled 210-denier Hitra nylon material, it’s highly durable and features a semi-transparent cover for easy viewing of the contents. The cube is water-resistant and includes a few latching loops for hanging or attaching to a larger backpack. It fits easily into small nooks and crannies, and when I hear the inevitable, “Where is it?” I simply point to the cube.
$35 | Mission Packing Cube
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