Is it a tray? Is it a bag… no is a Trabasack!
If you've read many of my other blog posts you’ll know how much I hate medical looking disability and mobility equipment. If I was non-disabled I'd want all of my accessories to look good so why the hell should those who need to use assistive devices have to lose their style?
This is one of those items which is still stylish but actually works!
Functionality
The Trabasack is both a tray and a bag. Unlike other trays designed for wheelchair users, it looks very “normal”. More like a laptop bag rather than a piece of assistive equipment. That may be because it is part bag! I tried the Trabasack curve, which had enough space for an A4 size book and more.
The large tags on the zip, and the purple flash which runs around the zip
The zips are good if you have limited use of your hands as they have large tags on them. The surface area of the tray is large enough for a dinner plate, cutlery and a glass, without being crammed in. I would struggle to get my 15’ laptop on to this one though. But there are 2 laptop versions - one for smaller screens and one for larger. These are really nice - professional looking, but at the same time stylish, particularly the one in harris tweed!
All of the Trabasacks have interchangeable straps. It can be used over the shoulder, on your back, or on your lap. I use mine with the straps around me as I’ve been using it mostly as a tray. Having a tray strapped to me has allowed me to propel myself whilst carrying things. Like a bowl or plate, drinks, the post etc without the worry that I’ll drop them. The straps are easily adjustable, so will fit almost anyone. Again, its the simple ideas that work, but it makes a big difference.
Style
The packaging shows the different ways the Trabasack can be used
Its really nicely made, there were no loose threads anywhere and as its wipe clean it's fairly durable and long lasting. Its fairly lightweight but also strong. It could easily hold the weight of a dinner plate/laptop etc and more without bowing. It feels like the load is evenly spread so heavy things don't hurt your legs.
It fits nicely on the back of the wheelchair without the wheels rubbing against it. The little flash of purple on the trim is a nice little touch - it would look especially good if you have a purple wheelchair (although it also comes with black trim)!
The Trabasack Curve is available to purchase here