Peak Design has just launched a groundbreaking new piece of carry-on luggage designed for travelling photographers. The Roller Pro Carry-On is the first of Peak Design’s bags to feature wheels, and with a size of 21.8 x 14 x 9” and weighing just 8.8 lbs, it fits comfortably within international airlines’ carry-on size limits.
Peak Design is well known for its innovative approach, and the Roller Pro is no exception. Peak Design has completely reimagined the humble roller bag, addressing long-standing frustrations and introducing features that could redefine how we think about luggage. DIYP had a look at one of the prototypes, and I must admit that it’s quite impressive.
Breaking the Mold
The Roller Pro isn’t just another roller bag, Peak Design has redesigned the whole concept from the ground up. While most luggage relies on off-the-shelf parts, Peak Design apparently took the harder route and crafted the Roller Pro with entirely custom parts. The result is a bag that combines the sleek look of traditional soft-sided luggage with the durability of a hard-sided case, all wrapped up in a clean, modern aesthetic similar to Peak Design’s other lines.
SlimDrive Handle System
At the heart of the Roller Pro is the SlimDrive™ handle system, a patented innovation that replaces the clunky aluminium tubes found in most roller bags. Instead, Peak Design engineered a low-profile carbon fibre handle that’s not only stronger but also takes up a fraction of the space. This means there’s more room for your belongings and a smoother, more comfortable handling experience. Paired with four custom 60mm wheels tucked neatly into the bag’s corners, the Roller Pro glides effortlessly across surfaces with just a gentle push.
Smarter Packing
One of the most striking features of the Roller Pro is its Drawbridge opening system, which ditches the traditional clamshell design for something far more practical. This innovative system allows the bag to open with a compact footprint, making it easier to pack and unpack in tight spaces, whether you’re in a cramped aeroplane aisle or a tiny hotel room. It’s also very useful if using the case as a camera bag. There’s also an expandable compartment which takes the Roller Pro’s capacity from 34L to a spacious 39L.
Interior Organisation
Inside, an interior organisation panel can store small items or keep dirty clothes separate, and when stowed away, it reveals a hidden AirTag pocket for added security.
The Cord Hook™ Internal Retention System keeps your belongings secure during transit but retracts neatly when not in use. On the outside, 360-degree grab handles make it easy to lift the bag from a conveyor belt or overhead bin, while Cord Hook™ Gear Loops let you attach items like jackets, umbrellas, or even a tripod.
X-Large Camera Cube
For photographers, Peak Design has also introduced a new X-Large Camera Cube designed to fit the entire volume of the Roller Pro. This cube can hold a 400mm prime lens, transforming the bag into a mobile creative workstation for photographers on the go. Smaller Camera Cubes are also available, and they can be installed or removed in seconds, eliminating the need for a dedicated camera roller. This makes the roller case incredibly versatile, meaning that you can take it on a short trip or vacation or use it for a shoot.
Sustainability is at the core of Peak Design’s ethos, and the Roller Pro is no exception. The bag’s fabric shell is made from 100% recycled materials and is Bluesign-approved, while the entire product is PFAS-free and Climate Label Certified. The Roller Pro has a lifetime guarantee and is built to withstand the rigours of travel while minimizing its environmental footprint.
Our Impressions
The Roller Pro is a beautiful piece of carry-on luggage which doesn’t just look good; it’s incredibly versatile too. The ability to use it for anything you like, as well as a camera bag or half camera bag and half clothing,, for example,, using different combinations of camera cubes, is truly innovative. As with all of Peak Design’s bags, everything has been thought through and is made from strong-quality materials. The zips won’t be falling apart on this case!
In terms of size, it’s very similar to the Manfrotto roller bag that I own. However, it feels more lightweight and has the advantage of having four wheels instead of just two. Coupled with the convenience of being able to remove the camera cube interior, I could see myself using this case a lot, both as a camera case and for non-photography-related trips.
Price and Availability
The Roller Pro and the X-Large Camera Cube will be available for pre-order on Kickstarter at discounted prices, with retail prices ranging from $139.95 for the X Large camera cube to $599.95 for the Roller Pro. The bag comes in three colours: Black, Eclipse, and Sage. Kickstarter backers can expect their orders to ship in June 2025, with a full retail release following in August. The products will be available on the Peak Design website from June 2025.
