We Tested Away’s New F.A.R Collection in the Appalachian Mountains

By Kirsten Wendlandt

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]There’s no surprise that the pandemic brought on massive changes in travel industry trends. Over the last few years, we’ve seen a shift in focus from overseas travel and extravagant getaways to closer-to-home destinations. Whether it be a multi-day hike, backcountry camping, a road trip through Canada’s Rocky Mountains, or a quiet cabin escape nestled in the woods, Canadians are seeking to travel locally and spend more time getting in touch with the great outdoors. 

After realising a gap in the market for trendy and fun yet functional outdoor travel gear, the design team at Away saw an opportunity to fill the space. Enter the F.A.R Collection – For All Routes, Away’s latest innovative collection. This line of outdoor-focused travel essentials features an all-new assortment of versatile outdoor bags and accessories that seamlessly balance technical performance with modern design, helping travellers to explore the outside world.

The new F.A.R Collection, which launched on June 28th, features a variety of adaptable and innovative travel products each with sleek, functional features and new vibrant colours, designed for any and all types of outdoor travel. The entire collection is extremely durable, weather resistant, easy to pack and store, lightweight, and sustainably made with 100% recycled materials.

Blue Ridge Mountains Primland ResortWe were invited to the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia to put Away’s F.A.R collection to the test. We spent 2 epic days at Primland resort, getting in touch with nature and testing out the functionality and durability of the collection. Let’s take a look at Away’s brand new F.A.R collection.

 

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The F.A.R Collection Duffel – Available in 3 sizes (45L, 55L, 70L)

Away duffel bagsOur journey to Virginia began with a connecting flight in Charlotte before landing in Greensboro. From there we had an hour-long drive that took us through lush forests as we slowly climbed deep into the Blue Ridge Mountains. With our belongings neatly packed into our 55L F.A.R duffels, getting through security and onto the plane was a breeze. Both the 45L and 55L F.A.R duffels are carry-on friendly, and all 3 sizes include a host of features that make them the ultimate travel companion, whether travelling by land, air, or sea. From functional interior organisation systems with mesh pockets and webbed looping to removable crossbody straps, convertible shoulder straps so you can carry as a duffel or wear as a backpack, and the ability to secure to any Away carry-on via trolley slip for a smooth ride, the F.A.R duffels have everything you need for a stress-free journey.

 

The F.A.R Collection Organisational Cubes – Available in 4 sizes

f.a.r collection organizational cubeAvailable in 4 sizes from small to extra large, the F.A.R organisational cubes will keep your things in order while on the go. Constructed in 100% recycled, lightweight, water-resistant nylon like the rest of the F.A.R collection, the organisational cubes were designed to perfectly fit into the F.A.R duffels or any luggage. Whether headed on a cross-country road trip, or for a week of camping with friends, the F.A.R organisational cubes will keep your belongings easy to find at all times.

 

The F.A.R Messenger (16L)

messenger bag blanket flowersFrom flower picking and meditation classes to horseback riding and RTV-ing, our two days in the Blue Ridge Mountains were loaded with outdoor activities that gave us the opportunity to get up close and personal with nature in a luxury setting. The lightweight F.A.R Messenger bags proved to be a group favourite, allowing us to carry all our necessities with us throughout the day hands free. Easy-access zipper pockets keep your phone, camera, and other necessities within reach while the adjustable strap allows you to carry the bag crossbody or on the shoulder. Dealing with unfavourable weather conditions? Not a problem! The F.A.R Messenger, like the rest of the collection, is water resistant and built to keep your items safe.

 

The F.A.R Tote (45L)

Away f.a.r Collection bag arrow targetWhen it comes to outdoor adventures, road trips, beach visits, and camping escapes, travelling light is almost next to impossible. Enter the F.A.R Tote, a 45L tote bag that can easily help you move a day’s worth of essentials in one convenient bag. Whether carrying camping gear, lugging supplies for a beach picnic, or toting everything you need for an all you can eat smores’ spread for your work retreat, the F.A.R Tote has your back. Featuring dual handles for easy carry, and a speed clip top closure to keep your goods nestled safe inside, The F.A.R Tote makes it easy to get outside with everything you need in one place.

 

The F.A.R Pouches – Available in 3 sizes

f.a.r collection away pouchesAvailable in 7 colours, the F.A.R pouches are the perfect accessory to keep your essentials organised while on the go. Made of recycled nylon and featuring a handle and clip for easy attaching, these multi-use pouches are water resistant and perfect for protecting your valuables during outdoor exploration. Keep your phone, keys, and a snack clipped to you while kayaking, use the pouches to organise toiletries, or keep snacks close at hand and clipped to your backpack during long hikes. No matter how you use them, the F.A.R pouches will keep your essentials easy to access at all times while protecting them from the elements.

 

The F.A.R Backpack and Convertible Backpack (26L and 45L)

f.a.r collection away bow and arrow photoshootOur last morning at Primland was spent exploring the woods of the Blue Ridge Mountain with a morning hike followed by a movement and meditation class overlooking a view that could only best be described as something right out of Jurassic Park. The F.A.R Backpack proved the perfect companion for our morning trek through the lush forest, keeping our gear protected and our hands free. Whether hiking to the summit of a mountain or taking a quick flight to an exciting destination, the F.A.R backpack and convertible backpack (which converts to a duffel bag) have you covered. They both feature functional organisation systems with multiple zippered compartments, exterior padded laptop pocket, and padded straps to protect shoulders and back.

f.a.r collection surf board organizational cubesNo matter how you choose to explore the great outdoors, you are ready to get out and explore more with Away’s new F.A.R collection. These bags and accessories are designed to be your perfect companion for all routes, wherever they may lead you.

 

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