The Story of GYOND
The name GYOND is a combination of the words Go Beyond while also expressing what the brand stands for.
GYOND aims to be more than just a luggage brand. The idea behind it is a lifestyle that doesn't commit to one direction – but moves between travel, sports, outdoor activities, everyday life, and special moments.
In the long term, the goal is to build a community of like-minded individuals and to develop products that combine high-quality design with true functionality for modern travel.
01 - The Beginning
It all started with the idea of going on a round-the-world trip. But even before the journey began, a crucial question arose: Which piece of luggage is best suited for the trip?
During the search, it became clear that while many classic backpacking backpacks are functionally well thought out, their design often originates from a world more characterized by outdoor and expedition concepts. However, today a large part of a trip is no longer spent in remote regions, but in cities, airports, trains, and everyday life.
Therefore, we weren't looking for a backpack that made it seem like we were embarking on an expedition – but rather a piece of luggage that fit more naturally into modern travel. At the same time, it shouldn't be a product that is bought for a single trip only to disappear into the closet afterward.
Duffel bags came closer to this idea. Their reduced appearance and inconspicuous look were more in line with the desired travel feeling. At the same time, other compromises often appear here: many models are uncomfortable to carry over longer distances and lack a well-designed carrying system with sensible load distribution.
This led to the idea of developing a piece of luggage that combines the functionality of classic backpacking backpacks with the simplicity, robustness, and everyday suitability of a duffel bag.
02 - Development On the Go
What started with initial sketches and ideas gradually developed into a concrete product concept. The next logical step was to bring this idea to life and develop the first prototype.
This ultimately led to the idea of combining development and a trip around the world. The first stop was therefore Vietnam – not just as a travel destination, but as the starting point of the project. After visiting the manufacturer in person and collecting the first prototype, the journey continued. The goal was to test the product not under laboratory conditions, but where it would actually be used later: on the go.
The initial approach followed a modular concept – a combination of a duffel bag and a daypack, intended to form a flexible travel system together. On paper, the idea seemed convincing. However, in everyday travel, it quickly became apparent that this system did not provide the desired added value. Instead of simplifying processes, it created additional effort.
From the failure of this system emerged one of the most important insights of the entire development process: Not every traveler wants a fully predetermined system. The requirements for daypacks and additional luggage vary greatly – depending on habits, interests, and personal preferences.
From that point on, development focused exclusively on a main piece of luggage that combines the functionality of a travel backpack with the simplicity of a duffel bag, as the choice of an additional piece of luggage strongly depends on personal preferences and interests.
03 - The Product Today
After several sample rounds, numerous adjustments, and close collaboration with the manufacturer – while the journey simultaneously continued – the current state of the DuffelOne finally emerged.
At this point, the journey had already led to Australia, where the new prototype was sent directly from Vietnam to be tested again under real-world conditions.
From the previous experiences, a concept was developed that best implements the original idea: to combine the functionality of a travel backpack with the simple appearance of a duffel bag. The integrated carrying system allows switching between a classic duffel bag and a functional travel backpack in just a few seconds. At the same time, the carrying system can be completely removed, so the bag can also be used as a pure duffel bag if required.
To test the DuffelOne beyond classic travel, it was used to conquer Mount Rinjani – a challenging 3-day tour to Indonesia's second-highest volcano.
Thus, the basic idea of the product stands today - however, the development is not yet complete. Until the launch, the bag will be further refined, tested, and improved based on feedback, with the goal of creating a versatile travel luggage piece for modern travel.
05 - Implementation/Funding
To launch the DuffelOne, the first production run is planned to be financed through crowdfunding on Kickstarter.
The goal is to launch independently and without external investors, in order to maintain long-term independence in the development of the brand and product.
Kickstarter offers the opportunity to realize the initial production steps together with people who want to support the idea. Supporters will have the chance to be involved with the product at an early stage, making them among the first to use the DuffelOne on their travels.
For GYOND, the campaign is therefore not just about financing – it also marks the beginning of a community centered around the brand.
Join the Waitlist
Be the first to know when the Duffelone goes live on Kickstarter
Note: Sign-up only completed after email confirmation