rux 40l collapsable gear bag review

The RUX 40L Gear Box solves a problem most gear storage solutions ignore - what happens when you need rugged, organized storage for a specific trip but don't want another bulky box taking up permanent residence in your garage. At $250, it's a versatile hauler that collapses flat when the adventure's over.

How To Buy RUX 40L Gear Box
The RUX 40L Gear Box is available directly through RUX at the MSRP of $250, and you can also buy it on Amazon.com.

rux 40l collapsable gear bag review

I've been using RUX storage boxes as my go-to rugged gear solution for a while now. The appeal is straightforward: they work great popped up and ready for action, then fold down virtually flat when the trip's done. But the 40L fills a niche I didn't have covered - those in-between situations where a full-size gear box is overkill.

Think about loading up your grilling gear to cook at a buddy's house, packing supplies for a day trip, or organizing your overlanding recovery kit. You need something rugged enough to handle the job but not so bulky that it claims permanent real estate in your garage. The RUX 40L compresses to just 3 inches tall when empty - tuck it behind the workbench and forget about it until next time.

rux 40l collapsable gear bag review

Specs and Features

Here's what you're working with:

  • Volume: 40L capacity
  • Weight: 5.7 lbs empty
  • Dimensions: 15.7 x 19.5 x 7.9 inches (W x L x H)
  • Compressed Height: 3 inches flat
  • Load Limit: 50 lbs
  • Bag Material: 840D TPU-coated waterproof nylon
  • Base: Compression-molded PE foam with 600D TPU-coated polyester
  • Lid: TPU Press Seal Lid with silicone grip
  • Hardware: Composite nylon rim/rails, 7075 aluminum E-hooks
  • Mounting: L-track and slatwall compatible, flush lash points
  • Carry Options: Removable backpack straps, shoulder strap, grab handles
  • Warranty: Lifetime guarantee

rux 40l collapsable gear bag review

The Carry System Makes a Difference

What sets the 40L apart from other RUX boxes I've used is the shoulder strap system. This one carries like a backpack, not just a tote. The straps feature thicker padding and a silicone grip that keeps them planted on your shoulders under load. Combined with the Press Seal Lid that snaps on securely, you're not going to lose something mid-trip hauling gear from your rig to the campsite.

The dimensions fit where larger boxes can't. Slide it into truck drawers, under van benches, or overhead bins if you're flying to meet up with the crew. At under 6 lbs empty with a 50 lb load limit, the capacity-to-weight ratio works in your favor.

Weatherproof and Road Trip Ready

Build quality follows the RUX standard: RF-welded seams throughout and that TPU-coated nylon exterior. The Press Seal Lid keeps out dust and moisture - useful when you're running forest service roads or dealing with unexpected weather at the tailgate.

The flush lash points and L-track compatible rails mean you can secure it properly in truck beds, roof racks, or ATV setups. This thing was designed to move, not just sit in one spot. For overlanding trips where you need rugged temporary storage during the journey but don't want to commit to permanent installation, it hits the mark.

Worth noting: at $250, you're paying a premium over basic collapsible bins. But the waterproofing, carry system, and lifetime warranty justify the investment for guys who actually use their gear hard. The one consideration - if you need maximum capacity for basecamp setups, the 70L model handles larger loads at $298, though it doesn't compress quite as flat.

rux 40l collapsable gear bag review

The Space-Saving Factor

The real value here is flexibility. Load it up with your camp kitchen kit, grilling supplies, or recovery gear when you need it. When you don't, it virtually disappears. That's the trade-off RUX built this around - rugged performance without the permanent footprint. Check current pricing on Amazon.com and consider whether the gear box that folds away beats the one that doesn't.