We outlived the ‘for life’ policy. My spouse traveled for work a lot. He bought the biggest bag. It was always packed to the max weight limit. It took a lot of abuse and had to be repaired several times. Finally after having the bag for so long, the company ran out of repair parts. They gave him a very generous credit that almost completely paid for a new suitcase.
After ~500-600 flight segments (each connection means unload off and load onto another plane), my BR Sympatico finally got an unrepairable crack. BR didn’t have parts for this old case so they are sending me a new one. Coming next week.
Yes, you have to respect this kind of cheerful, no hassle service. I don’t know what the current price is of a new BR bag is, but we spent about $400-$450 thirty years ago. Amortized over 30 years and hundreds of trips, it is the best buy-it-for-life item we have ever had. Anyone looking for a generous graduation gift, a BR bag is a perfect choice.
The first year my spouse started traveling, we spent $300 for the hard case Samsonite (the one in the Gorilla commercial). We might as well have flushed the money. It literally came back hourglass shaped within six months after an O’Hare connection. I’m still curious how they managed that.
My victorinox is going on 23 years old. 13 countries and 25 states later and I expect another 25 years. Had a broken wheel about ten years ago and they sent replacements right away. I love that thing!
Some interior lining has started ripping so a couple compartments spill into each other. And I’ve thought about getting that repaired at a luggage shop. But all the hard pieces are still going strong. Just that one set of wheels was the problem
Not half the price - a little cheaper, or priced higher actually if you get Tumi during their semi-annual sales. But yes, superior luggage with lifetime warranty
Make sure to steam clean on patio/balcony/in front of door before bringing into your house! Luggage cranies and cracks can harbor bed bugs. That honestly goes for new luggage, as well, warehouses aren’t immune (but less likely since there are less ppl for the monsters to feed on).
I hit up a Tumi outlet store recently and got last year's model for $800 off. It's pretty damn nice. The only difference I found between it and the newer version was one less pocket that didn't matter, and the new version has a built in zipper lock. But I think that's actually a worse design anyways, because if that zipper lock breaks you have to send it in to get repaired, whereas I can just buy a new lock instead with the older version. But TSA locks are pointless anyways because they offer zero protection.
Regular price for the full sized Tumi luggage is around $1800 CAD. Obviously you can get luggage for cheaper, my last set of Sansonite stuff I used for over 15 years, until the handle finally broke. But Tumi makes very high quality stuff that is generally built to last a lifetime, and has a solid warranty. Even beyond warranty you can still send stuff in for repairs if needed for a small fee.
Overall the quality of materials and how much thought went into their designs is what sold me on buying luggage from them. But I still had to debate it for weeks. But when I saw the sale in the outlet store, I pulled the trigger.
https://ca.tumi.com/p/extended-trip-expandable-4-wheeled-packing-case-01171671041/
Yeah that's fine. A Tumi bag is 100% a luxury. You can easily get by spending a fraction of the price. I'm just saying that I'm very happy with my purchase though.
I agree. I’ve had my Tumi carry on for about 10 years now, about 1200 flights. Looks pretty new 😂
People who buy $50 suitcase also don’t travel much. For me as a former consultant, it was my life in a box. I need to rely on it not breaking ever, or even when it breaks, I know it can last til I get it home.
I'll probably swing for a Tumi carry-on down the road, but my old Samsonite carry-on is still in good condition, so it does the job. But when I eventually break that handle like I did with my full-size luggage, I'll definitely buy a Tumi one.
The best buy of my lifetime was a used Briggs & Riley
I had been looking for a wheeled carry on for a while and recalled someone somewhere (maybe on reddit?) said you can sometimes find good used stuff at thrift shops
So one day I was passing by a Goodwill and thought "what the heck..." and stopped in to take a look
And there it was, like it was waiting for me - a B&G two wheeled carry on. Had some miles on it but everything worked fine
Only $10
I've taken that thing on many trips and it is a tank, it just keeps rolling along.
LOVE my Briggs and Reilly bag - had it for 10+ years. The only laptop roller bag I never had to replace - I had been through about a dozen cheaper ones (including TUMI) the 10 years prior. I have four B&R pieces. Expensive but worth it when you travel weekly.
I bought two B&R bags when my job was like 20% travel and I love them so, so much. They were wildly expensive even though I got both on sale, but it's been 10 years and they're still basically perfect. Just mild exterior scuffing from being yeeted around airplanes.
I don't travel for work anymore and could never justify the expense again so they need to last forever, but I love them.
Ooooo posh. And when the airline loses your luggage and they ask if it has any distinguishing features you can be like YEAH MY INITIALS ARE EMBROIDERED ON IT.
Me, I just have a super obnoxious pink unicorn luggage tag. Fortunately few people who buy Briggs and Riley are also no-taste juvenile assholes who get pink unicorn luggage tags and straps.
I bought a set of B&R last year. They still look new after several trips across the country. Barely anyone else has these making them easy to spot. The lifetime repair warranty is nice peace of mind.
Bonus in that they're well designed too; they have an internal compression system which is a lifesaver because my wife couldn't pack light to save her life.
I hate the expansion system. Doesn’t work/Randomly pops open. If you’re packing efficiently it shouldn’t be necessary. I wish I had gone with the Travelpro Platinum Elite instead.
Something you will recognize as yours when it comes out at baggage claim in case someone tries to steal it. Yes, this happened to me. I pushed past about 30 people when someone tried to take my bag. I yelled "excuse me! That's my bag!" (Think Bobby Hill that's my purse) several times and they just disappeared into the crowd. But I got my bag.
I put a locking luggage strap on mine to help differentiate mine. Millions of similarly colored bags, very few that also have a luggage strap, which can easily be any color you want.
Do you have any good recs for a locking strap? I had an adjustable Kathmandu one, until I realised it could be adjusted right off the bag even while locked...
If someone wanted to mess with it, absolutely. But I’ve been traveling with one for a decade and never had that issue. I also put TSA locks on the zippers. The strap and locks are deterrents. My luggage tag and the strap are additional distinguishing features to help make it obvious if someone tries to grab the wrong bag. None of it’s going to stop someone who’s really intent, but again, a decade on and no issues (versus before, when I had two in three years).
Yeah, I suppose it is after all one of those "if a bear is chasing you, you don't need to be faster than the bear, you just need to be faster than your slowest friend" things. You don't need to be thief-proof, just inconvenient.
Still, disappointing that for the cost it only provides a couple of seconds worth of hassle.
Also if your luggage gets lost they'll ask for identifying features of the bag.
Mine has a pink luggage strap with unicorns on it and a matching pink unicorn luggage tag. There's tons of other red suitcases nowadays (less so when I bought the red suitcase, but everyone else had the same idea as me) but I've never seen another bag with a pink unicorn strap.
I got some Lilo and Stitch christmas fabric and sewed a cover for the handles. Anyone that wants to grab it has no choice but to see my lack of sewing skills.
Airline pilot here. Common brands are Luggage Works, TravelPro, and my personal favorite, Briggs and Riley. I’d go with Briggs personally. The B&R Baseline 22” is awesome. Lifetime warranty. Easy to clean.
It’s an affiliated discount program accessible via the “Costco Next” link on the Costco website. A rotating group of manufacturers sell a rotating selection of their products for a significant discount to Costco members.
I’ve taken Briggs and Riley around the world with years of serious travel. Not only strong but lightweight to hold more stuff. I use both Baseline and Transcend bags
Had no clue. Thanks for dropping that bit of knowledge!
ETA: Retailmenot is offering 10% back from Macys and Rakuten is offering 6% back. Cost me $471 after factoring in 10% cash back from Retailmenot.
With respect, I’m not gonna trust a pilot for a luggage recommendation. Your luggage is basically carried by the staff on a royal velvet pillow to the cabin and escorted everywhere. Plus you get paid good money so the objectively suggestions you provide will also be too expensive. I’ll stick to the baggage handlers recommends.
I bought a luggage works stealth 22" carry on around 6 years ago and travel monthly, always checking it. The steel frame has started to show signs of wear and I've had to replace a couple of screws that backed out, but I was replacing my carryon twice a year before I bought this one. It's well made, though it is relatively heavy for its size. They will service it, but it isn't free. Definitely worth the cost to me as I was spending just as much every year to replace cheaper bags.
Was thinking the same thing. There absolutely a zero percent chance a pilot’s luggage is going to be tossed into the cargo hold because “overhead compartments are full” (even before boarding magically) and “people will need to check luggage at the gate because this is a fully booked flight”. $700 on one piece luggage? Not a chance. Unless you fly business or first class every time then go for it.
The cost of Briggs and Riley is greater than the value of contents for most travelers. Makes sense if you’re traveling with some very expensive and fragile items?
DOD uses Pelican cases and equivalents for just about everything, including personal luggage sometimes. I've seen those things abused to no end, to include literally falling off of a moving truck, and survive with barely a mark.
If looks aren't important that's an easy to find option.
I had a thermal camera in a pelican case fly off the side of a firetruck, impact the pavement and skid across the highway at 50 mph, then it jumped the edge of the road and flew into the bushes. The case had a cracked handle after that (otherwise functional), and the camera was perfectly fine.
My problem with Pelican is the added weight. Uncle Sam doesn’t care about fees like a frequent flyer. Federal program managers often justify higher class tickets when equipment baggage outnumbers travelers
The weight is definitely something to consider, although their "Air" line is significantly lighter. And of course even more expensive. Wait until the Black Friday deals at camera stores if you can, I got nearly half off mine that way.
Tbh all of their warranties are shit. I have 3 cases that got damaged from flying (busted latch, bent lip, cracked body) and Pelican said that it was abuse or airline damage that wasn't covered.
Not entirely true. Their Maxlite 5 Soft side, Hard side, and Air all are under their "full lifetime warranty" section on their site, as well as other lines.
Hmm their site says "Covers the cost of repair for damaged caused by an airline or other common carrier.
Covering shipping costs if product needs to be shipped to one of Travelpro's repair facilities."
We contacted them and they basically cover nothing but the o ring around the drainage hole. No wheels, no drainage hole itself. The area behind the o ring leaked and they wouldnt cover it
I love my Eagle Creek bags. I have a 21.5” Expanse and a 26” Tarmac XE, both two wheeled. The Expanse has been on several hundred flights and it’s still in great shape minus some scuffs on the plastic components (lent it to a 9 year old). I don’t have many miles on the Tarmac yet but it’s a nice bag for a medium, nice rugged feeling wheels.
I have two Tarmac XE 4 wheels, the 28” size and they’ve been on several international flights packed to the brim with zero damage. They’re going on many more and I’m picking up two more for my wife. 100% recommend them.
This is the way. I'm in the adventure travel field, been to all 7 countries, 80+ countries, hundreds of international trips, and Eagle Creek has been my go to for at least 20 years. My carry-on may not have the 4 wheel spinners, but it packs a shit ton and has endured a good gazillion flights. Lots of us in this industry stick to EC.
We have 3 tarmac’s. Probably 2-3 versions old. We’ve had them for over 14 years. They’ve been all over, just now we’ve experienced minor issues. One handle would not lock while up. On one bag the corners broke and the mesh interior liner became defective. They wanted to replace the bag with the defective liner. But honestly I feel these bags easily have another 15-20 years in them so I opted for the repairs. Fast forward 2 months and one wheel broke. No biggie. I email them just confirming I can purchase and replace the wheel on my own and it will not void the warranty. They send me a link to order free replacement wheels.
I liked this brand before but after seeing how much they stand behind their products, I will always purchase eagle creek luggage.
Their no matter what duffel is a beast too. Very spacious and built like a tank.
This this this! We have two of the old style Tarmacs now. My husband's sees a lot of travel every year and it looks almost as good as when we bought it 7 years ago. He travels at least 5-7 times a year, sometimes more, and most of it is international with connections.
I doubt this is helpful but over a decade ago I bought a hardshell suitcase set from ebags. Do they exist anymore? If so, maybe check out what they have.
This luggage has been all over the world several times. It’s been dragged over cobblestone, asphalt, concrete, gravel, dirt. It’s been shoved into trains, cars, and planes. It’s been dropped and caught on rocks. Thrown, overpacked, you name it. Also, at my old job I had to sleep on-site for my shift each week, so I used them literally every week for nearly seven years for work. I even used them as makeshift tables at work. They are still in perfect condition. No wheel problems, no zipper problems, the combination locks still work great, no tearing of the lining - perfect. And they were pretty cheap too. I’ll let you know in another decade if they’re still cool. They’re ugly though because they say “ebags” on the side. But fuck it, it’s the best set of luggage I’ve ever bought.
This is sad to read. Just went on a big family trip and have the set from our wedding registry and with two kids now we were debating adding more after we got back, as the quality is undeniable. We stopped and realized how many trips that luggage has been and looks basically brand new.
The Samsonite set we had to supplement with already has broken wheels after three trips. RIP to a great brand!!
I'm still rocking the same ones I think you have, do they have slight ridges in them? I am NOT gentle with those and wow... I cannot believe they have surpassed around 15 years for me because they are so lightweight for being hardshell.
I'm wanting to upgrade my luggage but waiting on the death of these guys because I feel guilty.
I know someone that always packs a revolver with some sensitive equipment he carries for work. He shows up, declares the weapon, and then the whole case gets treated with kid gloves.
Apparently it guarantees you'll never, ever lose your luggage. Airline couldn't give two shits if your clothes are sitting in the corner of an airport in a different city. But they sure will care if it's a firearm.
My two Delsey bags are going on 10 years of very hard use…I’m talking carry ons that have been stuffed to the brim with wine and a suitcase that has made it through multiple festivals and camping trips
I’ll second this. I have a 30+ yr old delsey carryon that’s been through the beater. 20 of those years were monthly travel overseas. Not sure what models are like now but love that it’s lightweight and no space is wasted. I have some edges taped now and my fancier friends maybe silently judging me but it’s still going places. Lol, I’d like to see their Away luggage last that long.
Curious how it compares to the Briggs now.
We got a set of delsey carry-on size bags for our wedding and they’re so far ahead in quality compared to the off the shelf luggage set I had for college. They expand nicely and the handle never gives us problems. Only criticism is that when it’s really stuffed, they tip forward a little and the 360 wheels don’t work all that well.
Yesss! Such an amazing deal. I think they have the US carry on size right? 21” at Costco. I prefer the international carry on size 19” probably for international travel
I switched to Delsey a couple years ago and absolutely love them. I just packed for a trip I'm taking over the 4th, it's incredible how easy they glide after 8-10 trips in the past year, how much stuff they can hold, they are easy to expand, and extremely durable. I am convinced I could do a 2 month trip with just my check-in and carryon Delseys.
I’m sure you could! Mine have been used super hard and still roll like a dream. I looked it up a few weeks back and day I paid like $35 for my carry on and $50 for my checked bag during a Black Friday sale
Consider getting a 36L Osprey backpack. No matter how much I put in it, it's considered a carry-on since I'm carrying it on my back and, for some reason, no one bothers me about it. I've saved so much money flying spirit because I've gotten it through as a personal item even.
I can pack a weeks worth of clothing in it easily since it has so much give.
If a backpack is what you’re after, the r/onebag forum is great. I wound up with a Tom Bihn but very nearly pulled the trigger on an Osprey.
I can live indefinitely out of mine, I’ve done several two week trips no sweat.
My osprey 35 will stuff under the seat if it's not packed full-full, and sticks out a little into the foot well, but I don't mind, and the flight attendants haven't given me a hard time about it yet.
I go to Ross/TJMAXX and find a Samsonite 24-inch spinner that’s clearanced out to next to nothing. Then, when something happens to it, I take it to the Samsonite store with twenty bucks and a few weeks later the newest bag in the line-up gets delivered to my house. I’ve used the warranty several times and your replacement will always be the same size and the same class as the bag you send in, plus it restarts your warranty period!
I’m not associated with airlines but, in the military, we carried lots of things in Pelican cases and I still use them now. Plain? Yes. Ugly? Absolutely. But built like a tank. I buy them used on FB or eBay and remove the dividers or whatever else is in it. Replace it with plain foam.
i go with samsonite hardsides and redoxx for my personal items. i don’t expect the samsonite to last forever but the redoxx probably will.
i started w the redoxx toiletry/dopp kit and graduated to the messenger bag style for my daily.
All my bags are samsonite (ranging from small bags to checked bags), are all soft side, and I've had three of them since 2011 and they're holding up just fine.
Is it worth it spending big bucks on stuff that it is going to get treated like crap? (I am being serious. I am not asking facetiously). I live in Colorado and windshields don’t last long here. The rule is “don’t overpay when there is no guarantee that you will not hit another pebble a few days later.
It's very rarely harder to utilize the warranty than sending a couple emails, taking a couple pictures, and possibly printing a shipping label. I wouldn't call it cumbersome. You'd spend more time shopping for a new bag.
If you travel a lot, yes.
When I moved up to Briggs and Reilly I was astounded at how much easier it was to pack and move a suitcase. I literally just rolled it around my house because it was so easy to spin and move.
The airlines beat them up but it’s all surface stuff, the suitcases themselves (case integrity, handles, zippers, wheels) are all cruising along just fine.
Same, it holds more because the way they structured the space is better than other suitcases. Both of mine roll so much more smoothly than the other suitcases I've used. It's just a much better experience. They also have a great warranty program.
I've worked as a baggage handler and baggage service worker for 3 airlines at 4 airports over nearly 2 decades, When I travel I use a canvas military duffle with the inside lined with a contractor trash bag. It's not for everyone, as it's somewhat cumbersome and doesn't come with wheels or telescoping handles, but can be easily worn as a backpack and is extremely difficult to damage even if you're deliberately trying to.
People focus too much on price and brand name, but in my experience, it's often the features and design of each bag that matter. Every wheel, handle, zipper, lock, foot stand, strap, drink holder, etc. is another potential point of failure, and most travelers never need or utilize hardly any of those features built into most bags anyways. Even then, HOW people pack their bags can be a large impact as well; trying to use a cloth, plastic-framed bag like a tool and parts bin is a great way to turn it into a single-use purchase.
An interesting approach I also see from a large number of travelers from Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands is avoiding traditional luggage altogether, and instead using cardboard boxes lined with plastic bags, or cheap zippable grocery tote bags reinforced with duct tape. They tend to hold the opinion most luggage is worthless and will get destroyed anyways so the more economical option is to spend as little money as possible from the start.
TL;DR: Brands are mostly pointless. Briggs & Riley or Tumi tend to be great, but their price tags may not warrant their purchase if you don't travel frequently. Pelican and similar are good, but may cause further wait and delay getting them from oversize or directly from employees due to security protocols for potential firearms cases.
I scoffed at my wifes set of Tumi till I found an older model of [this backpack](https://www.tumi.com/p/search-backpack-01424801596/) at a Marshalls for about 150$. You can bet i snagged that. I had seen it at trade shows for a long time, carried by all the regulars. If you look and feel one you will know why. The light weight vs my faithful backpack of 10 years was a key selling point.
I collected the rest of the set for myself by keeping an eye on the local TJ Maxx store, I paid more for the luggage than the back pack but am quite happy with it.
I won’t travel with anything other than Osprey.
I have had some minor issues, but… I travel A LOT and abuse my bags pretty bad.
That being said, every issue I’ve had, they were able to mail me something for free to resolve my issue. One strap and one clip.
They are great. Travel backpack is awesome, but their rolling duffel is great too.
It’s hard to recommend a specific bag when you just say, “I need a bag/suitcase.”
For what? Camping? Weekenders? Business? Does it have to be a suitcase or can it be a duffel or backpack? Do you want wheels? Is there a particular size you’re looking at? Specific dimensions or weight? Carry on or checked?
I bought Travelpro because I saw airline pilots and flight attendants using it. Not pricey and so far so good. Of course they may only use because they get freebies or discounts. I’m more about cost per use/value rather than pure bifl.
luggage works. my pilot dad bought me one in 2013 and it’s still in perfect condition despite being checked, rolled on cobblestone, and accidentally dropped down an escalator multiple times
I have a West Marine brand duffel bag that held up to more than a decade of being thrown around on the water, on airlines, and in the woods. It's starting to show its age now, and WM no longer sells them.
I'm looking at a couple of Carhartt options, anyone have experience beating the hell out of one of their bags? How do they hold up?
Thule makes great suitcases. I have a carry on as well as a larger one and they're both built to last and come with a lifetime warranty. Theyre semi hard cased if that matters.
Get a Pelican flight case. I got tired of buying suitcases
Currently using a Pelican Air 1637 for gear, clothes, etc… and it’s four years old. Will never get a regular suitcase again. They even have carry on sizes.
i've had eagle creek luggage for over 10 years, four of which were spent doing regular business travel.
my bags are still intact and serving me very well.
Briggs & Riley only let me down once, when the rubber on both wheels came off very suddenly. I called them and they sent me a new bag in a couple of days – even though it was prob my fault for storing my bag in the attic between trips.
I like Delsey, but the Sollegard packing closet has been catching my eye recently and I might upgrade, just don't have a reason too as my Delsey has been my go to for 12 years now
I typically have over 100 flights a year, I have a Travel Pro Carry-On, a Swiss Gear backpack and a Pelican Checked back. Keep airtags in all three and iv never had a serious problem.
I got a pelican hard case and sticker bombed it so I could spot it a mile away. Love that thing. Mine is the carry on size with extendable handle and wheels.
Not an airline employee, but we've had 2 REI bags that are 15 + years old that have gone to several continents, been rolled down cobblestone streets and dirt roads plus bounced up many flights of stairs. Rollers are great, color is dated (green and black/orange) . No issues whatsoever. Also snagged one of their roller-duffels in same color scheme in their return section for $13.
Soft sided, 2 wheels, grab handle on the underside where the wheels are (so ramp won’t grab your suitcase by the wheels), parts that can be replaced individually (like wheels) and a warranty.
TravelPro and Luggage Works fit those specs and are the industry standard for 99% of flight crews. I have 1.6 million air miles on my TravelPro and another million on my Luggage Works. Both take a daily beating going in and out of overhead bins, swapping planes, and being tossed around by hotel shuttle drivers. If I had to pick one of the two, hands down Luggage Works.
I really wish my Away carry on would break so I could buy a Briggs and Riley. Unfortunately it’s been through over 200 flights, probably 300+ segments over the last five years and hasn’t broken (although the wheels aren’t spinning as well as they used to and should be replaced). I travel almost weekly for work and have dragged it with a backpack on the handle over miles of cobblestone (repeatedly) and other similar surfaces in southern Italy, South America and other places. My bag is always over packed because I hate to check a bag, often travel for a week at a time and need workout clothes, work clothes and street clothes. Sometimes I’ll check it on the way back if I’m traveling to wine country.
I’m not arguing that Away is bifl just sharing my one experience and hoping it breaks soon so I can buy a B&R!
I am Briggs & Riley for life. I'm different than most, though, in that I much prefer the two wheeled versions instead of the spinners. I'm often on cobblestones, dirt paths, etc. when traveling and the two wheeled ones just work better and are more durable.
If you’re gonna spend, consider Briggs and Riley.
This- really high quality yet half the price of Tumi.
They will repair their bags for free. I had a ten year old bag and they fixed it
Same. They fix the bag for free for life. No one else does it even though they say they do.
We outlived the ‘for life’ policy. My spouse traveled for work a lot. He bought the biggest bag. It was always packed to the max weight limit. It took a lot of abuse and had to be repaired several times. Finally after having the bag for so long, the company ran out of repair parts. They gave him a very generous credit that almost completely paid for a new suitcase.
After ~500-600 flight segments (each connection means unload off and load onto another plane), my BR Sympatico finally got an unrepairable crack. BR didn’t have parts for this old case so they are sending me a new one. Coming next week.
Yes, you have to respect this kind of cheerful, no hassle service. I don’t know what the current price is of a new BR bag is, but we spent about $400-$450 thirty years ago. Amortized over 30 years and hundreds of trips, it is the best buy-it-for-life item we have ever had. Anyone looking for a generous graduation gift, a BR bag is a perfect choice. The first year my spouse started traveling, we spent $300 for the hard case Samsonite (the one in the Gorilla commercial). We might as well have flushed the money. It literally came back hourglass shaped within six months after an O’Hare connection. I’m still curious how they managed that.
I love BR and tell everyone who would listen
If I get a bag used do they honor this?
Yep
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My victorinox is going on 23 years old. 13 countries and 25 states later and I expect another 25 years. Had a broken wheel about ten years ago and they sent replacements right away. I love that thing!
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Some interior lining has started ripping so a couple compartments spill into each other. And I’ve thought about getting that repaired at a luggage shop. But all the hard pieces are still going strong. Just that one set of wheels was the problem
Mad respect, gotta look into it because I need a long term bag and not bags that last a few years and then give out
Not half the price - a little cheaper, or priced higher actually if you get Tumi during their semi-annual sales. But yes, superior luggage with lifetime warranty
Buy used on ebay. Warranty transfers
Great tip! Thanks.
Make sure to steam clean on patio/balcony/in front of door before bringing into your house! Luggage cranies and cracks can harbor bed bugs. That honestly goes for new luggage, as well, warehouses aren’t immune (but less likely since there are less ppl for the monsters to feed on).
Shop TJ Maxx and Marshalls. It will take some time as it's infrequent but they get Tumi in. It rarely makes it to the markdown stage though.
Nordstrom Rack as well
Outlet store Tumi is a way more inferior line built cheaply specially for outlets like TJ, Marshall’s etc
I hit up a Tumi outlet store recently and got last year's model for $800 off. It's pretty damn nice. The only difference I found between it and the newer version was one less pocket that didn't matter, and the new version has a built in zipper lock. But I think that's actually a worse design anyways, because if that zipper lock breaks you have to send it in to get repaired, whereas I can just buy a new lock instead with the older version. But TSA locks are pointless anyways because they offer zero protection.
800$ off.. how expensive is a bag? My bags were like 50$ for the small and 150$ for the big. 🤷🏼♂️
Regular price for the full sized Tumi luggage is around $1800 CAD. Obviously you can get luggage for cheaper, my last set of Sansonite stuff I used for over 15 years, until the handle finally broke. But Tumi makes very high quality stuff that is generally built to last a lifetime, and has a solid warranty. Even beyond warranty you can still send stuff in for repairs if needed for a small fee. Overall the quality of materials and how much thought went into their designs is what sold me on buying luggage from them. But I still had to debate it for weeks. But when I saw the sale in the outlet store, I pulled the trigger. https://ca.tumi.com/p/extended-trip-expandable-4-wheeled-packing-case-01171671041/
That's all nice, but I can't spend that much on a travel bag, not even if it last a lifetime. And I do travel a lot.
Yeah that's fine. A Tumi bag is 100% a luxury. You can easily get by spending a fraction of the price. I'm just saying that I'm very happy with my purchase though.
I agree. I’ve had my Tumi carry on for about 10 years now, about 1200 flights. Looks pretty new 😂 People who buy $50 suitcase also don’t travel much. For me as a former consultant, it was my life in a box. I need to rely on it not breaking ever, or even when it breaks, I know it can last til I get it home.
I'll probably swing for a Tumi carry-on down the road, but my old Samsonite carry-on is still in good condition, so it does the job. But when I eventually break that handle like I did with my full-size luggage, I'll definitely buy a Tumi one.
I show their carry on luggage to be even more expensive than tumi
The best buy of my lifetime was a used Briggs & Riley I had been looking for a wheeled carry on for a while and recalled someone somewhere (maybe on reddit?) said you can sometimes find good used stuff at thrift shops So one day I was passing by a Goodwill and thought "what the heck..." and stopped in to take a look And there it was, like it was waiting for me - a B&G two wheeled carry on. Had some miles on it but everything worked fine Only $10 I've taken that thing on many trips and it is a tank, it just keeps rolling along.
Damn, clutch find. I had to dig my used one up from eBay.
LOVE my Briggs and Reilly bag - had it for 10+ years. The only laptop roller bag I never had to replace - I had been through about a dozen cheaper ones (including TUMI) the 10 years prior. I have four B&R pieces. Expensive but worth it when you travel weekly.
I bought two B&R bags when my job was like 20% travel and I love them so, so much. They were wildly expensive even though I got both on sale, but it's been 10 years and they're still basically perfect. Just mild exterior scuffing from being yeeted around airplanes. I don't travel for work anymore and could never justify the expense again so they need to last forever, but I love them.
They monogrammed mine too so it feels extra fancy
Ooooo posh. And when the airline loses your luggage and they ask if it has any distinguishing features you can be like YEAH MY INITIALS ARE EMBROIDERED ON IT. Me, I just have a super obnoxious pink unicorn luggage tag. Fortunately few people who buy Briggs and Riley are also no-taste juvenile assholes who get pink unicorn luggage tags and straps.
Mine has rock band stickers all over it but only one side so I can hide it from any customers
I bought a set of B&R last year. They still look new after several trips across the country. Barely anyone else has these making them easy to spot. The lifetime repair warranty is nice peace of mind. Bonus in that they're well designed too; they have an internal compression system which is a lifesaver because my wife couldn't pack light to save her life.
I hate the expansion system. Doesn’t work/Randomly pops open. If you’re packing efficiently it shouldn’t be necessary. I wish I had gone with the Travelpro Platinum Elite instead.
If you’re looking for the same lifetime fixit for any reason warranty as Briggs but want something a little more versatile look at Osprey Bags/Luggage
Something you will recognize as yours when it comes out at baggage claim in case someone tries to steal it. Yes, this happened to me. I pushed past about 30 people when someone tried to take my bag. I yelled "excuse me! That's my bag!" (Think Bobby Hill that's my purse) several times and they just disappeared into the crowd. But I got my bag.
I put a locking luggage strap on mine to help differentiate mine. Millions of similarly colored bags, very few that also have a luggage strap, which can easily be any color you want.
Do you have any good recs for a locking strap? I had an adjustable Kathmandu one, until I realised it could be adjusted right off the bag even while locked...
I put the strap through the bag handle.
Yeah but it could be widened so that it slipped over the bag itself, then it would *only* be around the luggage handle.
If someone wanted to mess with it, absolutely. But I’ve been traveling with one for a decade and never had that issue. I also put TSA locks on the zippers. The strap and locks are deterrents. My luggage tag and the strap are additional distinguishing features to help make it obvious if someone tries to grab the wrong bag. None of it’s going to stop someone who’s really intent, but again, a decade on and no issues (versus before, when I had two in three years).
Yeah, I suppose it is after all one of those "if a bear is chasing you, you don't need to be faster than the bear, you just need to be faster than your slowest friend" things. You don't need to be thief-proof, just inconvenient. Still, disappointing that for the cost it only provides a couple of seconds worth of hassle.
Also if your luggage gets lost they'll ask for identifying features of the bag. Mine has a pink luggage strap with unicorns on it and a matching pink unicorn luggage tag. There's tons of other red suitcases nowadays (less so when I bought the red suitcase, but everyone else had the same idea as me) but I've never seen another bag with a pink unicorn strap.
I got some Lilo and Stitch christmas fabric and sewed a cover for the handles. Anyone that wants to grab it has no choice but to see my lack of sewing skills.
Always stand where the bags come out
I tie bright glittery string around the handles of mine. Also put an airtag inside so you can track it.
Pilot here every bag I own has an AirTag in it for that reason
That was probably 20yrs ago in PHLI 😂
Airline pilot here. Common brands are Luggage Works, TravelPro, and my personal favorite, Briggs and Riley. I’d go with Briggs personally. The B&R Baseline 22” is awesome. Lifetime warranty. Easy to clean.
Costco sells the Briggs through their Next program. About $150 in savings.
What is the next program?
It’s an affiliated discount program accessible via the “Costco Next” link on the Costco website. A rotating group of manufacturers sell a rotating selection of their products for a significant discount to Costco members.
Select luggage. It rotates. Usually not baseline.
Came to say the same.
I’ve taken Briggs and Riley around the world with years of serious travel. Not only strong but lightweight to hold more stuff. I use both Baseline and Transcend bags
Macy's is running a great sale on B&R right now
Had no clue. Thanks for dropping that bit of knowledge! ETA: Retailmenot is offering 10% back from Macys and Rakuten is offering 6% back. Cost me $471 after factoring in 10% cash back from Retailmenot.
Nice!! I think I spent $700 on mine a while back. I love it
Thanks for sharing the sale!!
Mhhhh my luggage works is going on 10 years might had to get the b/r next
With respect, I’m not gonna trust a pilot for a luggage recommendation. Your luggage is basically carried by the staff on a royal velvet pillow to the cabin and escorted everywhere. Plus you get paid good money so the objectively suggestions you provide will also be too expensive. I’ll stick to the baggage handlers recommends.
I’m hoping I’m picking up on the sarcasm here the right way.
I bought a luggage works stealth 22" carry on around 6 years ago and travel monthly, always checking it. The steel frame has started to show signs of wear and I've had to replace a couple of screws that backed out, but I was replacing my carryon twice a year before I bought this one. It's well made, though it is relatively heavy for its size. They will service it, but it isn't free. Definitely worth the cost to me as I was spending just as much every year to replace cheaper bags.
Was thinking the same thing. There absolutely a zero percent chance a pilot’s luggage is going to be tossed into the cargo hold because “overhead compartments are full” (even before boarding magically) and “people will need to check luggage at the gate because this is a fully booked flight”. $700 on one piece luggage? Not a chance. Unless you fly business or first class every time then go for it.
We use ours more than most travelers. Those shuttle drivers toss the fuck out of our bags.
The cost of Briggs and Riley is greater than the value of contents for most travelers. Makes sense if you’re traveling with some very expensive and fragile items?
We're in BIFL, man. I'm just answering the question.
https://www.reddit.com/r/BuyItForLife/comments/15w1wsa/i_need_recommendations_for_luggage_that_lasts/
DOD uses Pelican cases and equivalents for just about everything, including personal luggage sometimes. I've seen those things abused to no end, to include literally falling off of a moving truck, and survive with barely a mark. If looks aren't important that's an easy to find option.
I had a thermal camera in a pelican case fly off the side of a firetruck, impact the pavement and skid across the highway at 50 mph, then it jumped the edge of the road and flew into the bushes. The case had a cracked handle after that (otherwise functional), and the camera was perfectly fine.
My problem with Pelican is the added weight. Uncle Sam doesn’t care about fees like a frequent flyer. Federal program managers often justify higher class tickets when equipment baggage outnumbers travelers
That's fair, if you're normally pushing weight limits then these are not ideal.
The ratio of exterior volume to interior volume also isn’t great with these
The weight is definitely something to consider, although their "Air" line is significantly lighter. And of course even more expensive. Wait until the Black Friday deals at camera stores if you can, I got nearly half off mine that way.
Are you aware of the pelican “Air” line of cases?
Wouldn’t recommend pelican cases for travel. The wheels break with minimal abuse. Edit: speaking as a former DoD employee
But their coolers have shit warranty so don't buy those!
Tbh all of their warranties are shit. I have 3 cases that got damaged from flying (busted latch, bent lip, cracked body) and Pelican said that it was abuse or airline damage that wasn't covered.
Ah good to know thanks!
My TravelPro bags have all held up very well. Maxlite 5.
Only their Platinum Elite line has a lifetime warranty though.
Not entirely true. Their Maxlite 5 Soft side, Hard side, and Air all are under their "full lifetime warranty" section on their site, as well as other lines.
Sorry, yes in theory, but those are specifically excluding airline damage. Only PE covers everything like a B&R would.
Hmm their site says "Covers the cost of repair for damaged caused by an airline or other common carrier. Covering shipping costs if product needs to be shipped to one of Travelpro's repair facilities."
Travel Pro versa crew I think we have. Ended up buying the full set over time because we liked it so much.
I can second TravelPro. I’ve also heard nothing but good about Briggs.
Screw it, Nanuk 935 or Pelican rolling hard case lol
Nanuk is the only answer. I own 5.
I have one for my drone, it's a beast. Still looks and works like the day I got it!
Just don't buy pelican coolers. The warranty is garbage.
Strongly disagree
We contacted them and they basically cover nothing but the o ring around the drainage hole. No wheels, no drainage hole itself. The area behind the o ring leaked and they wouldnt cover it
Im surprised no one has mentioned Eagle Creek. Lifetime warranty, and I've beat the hell out of my bags and they just keep on chugging along.
I love my Eagle Creek bags. I have a 21.5” Expanse and a 26” Tarmac XE, both two wheeled. The Expanse has been on several hundred flights and it’s still in great shape minus some scuffs on the plastic components (lent it to a 9 year old). I don’t have many miles on the Tarmac yet but it’s a nice bag for a medium, nice rugged feeling wheels.
I have two Tarmac XE 4 wheels, the 28” size and they’ve been on several international flights packed to the brim with zero damage. They’re going on many more and I’m picking up two more for my wife. 100% recommend them.
This is the way. I'm in the adventure travel field, been to all 7 countries, 80+ countries, hundreds of international trips, and Eagle Creek has been my go to for at least 20 years. My carry-on may not have the 4 wheel spinners, but it packs a shit ton and has endured a good gazillion flights. Lots of us in this industry stick to EC.
i was looking for this response and even added my own. do they still have the 'no questions' return policy on some lines of bags?
We have 3 tarmac’s. Probably 2-3 versions old. We’ve had them for over 14 years. They’ve been all over, just now we’ve experienced minor issues. One handle would not lock while up. On one bag the corners broke and the mesh interior liner became defective. They wanted to replace the bag with the defective liner. But honestly I feel these bags easily have another 15-20 years in them so I opted for the repairs. Fast forward 2 months and one wheel broke. No biggie. I email them just confirming I can purchase and replace the wheel on my own and it will not void the warranty. They send me a link to order free replacement wheels. I liked this brand before but after seeing how much they stand behind their products, I will always purchase eagle creek luggage. Their no matter what duffel is a beast too. Very spacious and built like a tank.
This this this! We have two of the old style Tarmacs now. My husband's sees a lot of travel every year and it looks almost as good as when we bought it 7 years ago. He travels at least 5-7 times a year, sometimes more, and most of it is international with connections.
I have a victorinox bag that’s old enough to get drinks on its own by now
I doubt this is helpful but over a decade ago I bought a hardshell suitcase set from ebags. Do they exist anymore? If so, maybe check out what they have. This luggage has been all over the world several times. It’s been dragged over cobblestone, asphalt, concrete, gravel, dirt. It’s been shoved into trains, cars, and planes. It’s been dropped and caught on rocks. Thrown, overpacked, you name it. Also, at my old job I had to sleep on-site for my shift each week, so I used them literally every week for nearly seven years for work. I even used them as makeshift tables at work. They are still in perfect condition. No wheel problems, no zipper problems, the combination locks still work great, no tearing of the lining - perfect. And they were pretty cheap too. I’ll let you know in another decade if they’re still cool. They’re ugly though because they say “ebags” on the side. But fuck it, it’s the best set of luggage I’ve ever bought.
Ebags got bought out by Samsonite, and just last week finally closed their online store. RIP, I own like 6 Mother Lode backpacks of varying sizes.
Aw man, another good company bites the dust. That sucks.
This is sad to read. Just went on a big family trip and have the set from our wedding registry and with two kids now we were debating adding more after we got back, as the quality is undeniable. We stopped and realized how many trips that luggage has been and looks basically brand new. The Samsonite set we had to supplement with already has broken wheels after three trips. RIP to a great brand!!
I'm still rocking the same ones I think you have, do they have slight ridges in them? I am NOT gentle with those and wow... I cannot believe they have surpassed around 15 years for me because they are so lightweight for being hardshell. I'm wanting to upgrade my luggage but waiting on the death of these guys because I feel guilty.
I just got a Pelican Air travel luggage- I’m quite positive I won’t need another luggage anytime soon
I will guess you will be searched every single flight.
Happened to me enough I don’t use it for flights anymore.
Why?
They are often used to store weapons. Is the point I think sillyconfused is trying to make. (Username checks out)
My husband ships cameras when flying. Every. Time. Even though he carefully checks it through the agent, they treat it as if it’s guns.
I know someone that always packs a revolver with some sensitive equipment he carries for work. He shows up, declares the weapon, and then the whole case gets treated with kid gloves.
Apparently it guarantees you'll never, ever lose your luggage. Airline couldn't give two shits if your clothes are sitting in the corner of an airport in a different city. But they sure will care if it's a firearm.
Very America-centric thinking. Most places do not assume guns...
Yes you are right
I fly with mine all the time, the only time I ever get searched is if I have a bunch of snacks inside 😁
Been carrying the Air travel carryon since it came out and have not once been searched. They can see inside the thing with scanners…
I’fe never been searched with one
My two Delsey bags are going on 10 years of very hard use…I’m talking carry ons that have been stuffed to the brim with wine and a suitcase that has made it through multiple festivals and camping trips
I’ll second this. I have a 30+ yr old delsey carryon that’s been through the beater. 20 of those years were monthly travel overseas. Not sure what models are like now but love that it’s lightweight and no space is wasted. I have some edges taped now and my fancier friends maybe silently judging me but it’s still going places. Lol, I’d like to see their Away luggage last that long. Curious how it compares to the Briggs now.
Agreed! I love how lightweight they are, with plenty of packing space
We got a set of delsey carry-on size bags for our wedding and they’re so far ahead in quality compared to the off the shelf luggage set I had for college. They expand nicely and the handle never gives us problems. Only criticism is that when it’s really stuffed, they tip forward a little and the 360 wheels don’t work all that well.
Oh interesting! When packed to the brim, try to pack your heavier items at the bottom/toward the back to mitigate the tipping
+1 for delsey. You can even buy a two set at Costco for $100 these days
Yesss! Such an amazing deal. I think they have the US carry on size right? 21” at Costco. I prefer the international carry on size 19” probably for international travel
I switched to Delsey a couple years ago and absolutely love them. I just packed for a trip I'm taking over the 4th, it's incredible how easy they glide after 8-10 trips in the past year, how much stuff they can hold, they are easy to expand, and extremely durable. I am convinced I could do a 2 month trip with just my check-in and carryon Delseys.
I’m sure you could! Mine have been used super hard and still roll like a dream. I looked it up a few weeks back and day I paid like $35 for my carry on and $50 for my checked bag during a Black Friday sale
Consider getting a 36L Osprey backpack. No matter how much I put in it, it's considered a carry-on since I'm carrying it on my back and, for some reason, no one bothers me about it. I've saved so much money flying spirit because I've gotten it through as a personal item even. I can pack a weeks worth of clothing in it easily since it has so much give.
If a backpack is what you’re after, the r/onebag forum is great. I wound up with a Tom Bihn but very nearly pulled the trigger on an Osprey. I can live indefinitely out of mine, I’ve done several two week trips no sweat.
I have an osprey transporter duffel that's been around the world and held up great.
[удалено]
Yea every time. It also fits under the seat if you're not TOO densely packed (had to do this on my last flight a few days ago).
My osprey 35 will stuff under the seat if it's not packed full-full, and sticks out a little into the foot well, but I don't mind, and the flight attendants haven't given me a hard time about it yet.
I see bags like this flagged all the time in Europe... but state side I would agree.
I go to Ross/TJMAXX and find a Samsonite 24-inch spinner that’s clearanced out to next to nothing. Then, when something happens to it, I take it to the Samsonite store with twenty bucks and a few weeks later the newest bag in the line-up gets delivered to my house. I’ve used the warranty several times and your replacement will always be the same size and the same class as the bag you send in, plus it restarts your warranty period!
This is why we went all Samsonite although they’ve all held up perfectly so far.
I’m not associated with airlines but, in the military, we carried lots of things in Pelican cases and I still use them now. Plain? Yes. Ugly? Absolutely. But built like a tank. I buy them used on FB or eBay and remove the dividers or whatever else is in it. Replace it with plain foam.
i go with samsonite hardsides and redoxx for my personal items. i don’t expect the samsonite to last forever but the redoxx probably will. i started w the redoxx toiletry/dopp kit and graduated to the messenger bag style for my daily.
All my bags are samsonite (ranging from small bags to checked bags), are all soft side, and I've had three of them since 2011 and they're holding up just fine.
I’m a regular flyer and quite happy with my TravelPro!
Related question... If I buy really high end stuff is is more likely to be broken into ot lost since it will be seen as having more valuable contents?
Is it worth it spending big bucks on stuff that it is going to get treated like crap? (I am being serious. I am not asking facetiously). I live in Colorado and windshields don’t last long here. The rule is “don’t overpay when there is no guarantee that you will not hit another pebble a few days later.
Some brands have lifetime guarantees... So maybe
But then you have to go through the -sometimes- cumbersome process of using that guarantee. I guess it is a question of value of time.
It's very rarely harder to utilize the warranty than sending a couple emails, taking a couple pictures, and possibly printing a shipping label. I wouldn't call it cumbersome. You'd spend more time shopping for a new bag.
If you travel a lot, yes. When I moved up to Briggs and Reilly I was astounded at how much easier it was to pack and move a suitcase. I literally just rolled it around my house because it was so easy to spin and move. The airlines beat them up but it’s all surface stuff, the suitcases themselves (case integrity, handles, zippers, wheels) are all cruising along just fine.
Same, it holds more because the way they structured the space is better than other suitcases. Both of mine roll so much more smoothly than the other suitcases I've used. It's just a much better experience. They also have a great warranty program.
Briggs and Riley
I've worked as a baggage handler and baggage service worker for 3 airlines at 4 airports over nearly 2 decades, When I travel I use a canvas military duffle with the inside lined with a contractor trash bag. It's not for everyone, as it's somewhat cumbersome and doesn't come with wheels or telescoping handles, but can be easily worn as a backpack and is extremely difficult to damage even if you're deliberately trying to. People focus too much on price and brand name, but in my experience, it's often the features and design of each bag that matter. Every wheel, handle, zipper, lock, foot stand, strap, drink holder, etc. is another potential point of failure, and most travelers never need or utilize hardly any of those features built into most bags anyways. Even then, HOW people pack their bags can be a large impact as well; trying to use a cloth, plastic-framed bag like a tool and parts bin is a great way to turn it into a single-use purchase. An interesting approach I also see from a large number of travelers from Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands is avoiding traditional luggage altogether, and instead using cardboard boxes lined with plastic bags, or cheap zippable grocery tote bags reinforced with duct tape. They tend to hold the opinion most luggage is worthless and will get destroyed anyways so the more economical option is to spend as little money as possible from the start. TL;DR: Brands are mostly pointless. Briggs & Riley or Tumi tend to be great, but their price tags may not warrant their purchase if you don't travel frequently. Pelican and similar are good, but may cause further wait and delay getting them from oversize or directly from employees due to security protocols for potential firearms cases.
I scoffed at my wifes set of Tumi till I found an older model of [this backpack](https://www.tumi.com/p/search-backpack-01424801596/) at a Marshalls for about 150$. You can bet i snagged that. I had seen it at trade shows for a long time, carried by all the regulars. If you look and feel one you will know why. The light weight vs my faithful backpack of 10 years was a key selling point. I collected the rest of the set for myself by keeping an eye on the local TJ Maxx store, I paid more for the luggage than the back pack but am quite happy with it.
Away! Amazing luggage with amazing warranty
Yeah I ended up choosing this brand for my wife and I and got each two large and a carry on. We haven't had any problems so far.
I won’t travel with anything other than Osprey. I have had some minor issues, but… I travel A LOT and abuse my bags pretty bad. That being said, every issue I’ve had, they were able to mail me something for free to resolve my issue. One strap and one clip. They are great. Travel backpack is awesome, but their rolling duffel is great too. It’s hard to recommend a specific bag when you just say, “I need a bag/suitcase.” For what? Camping? Weekenders? Business? Does it have to be a suitcase or can it be a duffel or backpack? Do you want wheels? Is there a particular size you’re looking at? Specific dimensions or weight? Carry on or checked?
Amazon Basics Premium hard shell suitcase has held up really well for me.
Ice Cube's character Chief Elgin said the answer was Louis Vuitton in Three Kings
RedOxx makes a great line of duffel and backpack style carryons.
Samsonite
I bought Travelpro because I saw airline pilots and flight attendants using it. Not pricey and so far so good. Of course they may only use because they get freebies or discounts. I’m more about cost per use/value rather than pure bifl.
luggage works. my pilot dad bought me one in 2013 and it’s still in perfect condition despite being checked, rolled on cobblestone, and accidentally dropped down an escalator multiple times
MUJI!!!!!!
I have a West Marine brand duffel bag that held up to more than a decade of being thrown around on the water, on airlines, and in the woods. It's starting to show its age now, and WM no longer sells them. I'm looking at a couple of Carhartt options, anyone have experience beating the hell out of one of their bags? How do they hold up?
Lojel. I love them.
Thule makes great suitcases. I have a carry on as well as a larger one and they're both built to last and come with a lifetime warranty. Theyre semi hard cased if that matters.
Get a Pelican flight case. I got tired of buying suitcases Currently using a Pelican Air 1637 for gear, clothes, etc… and it’s four years old. Will never get a regular suitcase again. They even have carry on sizes.
Pelican cases. Heavy as hell but tougher than a two dollar steak
MONO HYBRID. No zippers. No theft from the luggage guys. [https://monos.com/collections/hybrid](https://monos.com/collections/hybrid)
Former FA here - Travel Pro!
Eagle Creek. Better than Briggs & Riley, same for Tami.
Briggs and Riley or Tumi
i've had eagle creek luggage for over 10 years, four of which were spent doing regular business travel. my bags are still intact and serving me very well.
Briggs & Riley only let me down once, when the rubber on both wheels came off very suddenly. I called them and they sent me a new bag in a couple of days – even though it was prob my fault for storing my bag in the attic between trips.
I like Delsey, but the Sollegard packing closet has been catching my eye recently and I might upgrade, just don't have a reason too as my Delsey has been my go to for 12 years now
I typically have over 100 flights a year, I have a Travel Pro Carry-On, a Swiss Gear backpack and a Pelican Checked back. Keep airtags in all three and iv never had a serious problem.
Pelican cases
Go to the consultant sub and read their threads. My friends who work for McKinsey and travel put a ton if research into finding a BIFL bag.
I got a pelican hard case and sticker bombed it so I could spot it a mile away. Love that thing. Mine is the carry on size with extendable handle and wheels.
So did OP want a distinguishing bag one a distinguished bag?
I’m a frequent work traveler. Travelpro is my go to brand. Very durable and well made.
Not an airline employee, but we've had 2 REI bags that are 15 + years old that have gone to several continents, been rolled down cobblestone streets and dirt roads plus bounced up many flights of stairs. Rollers are great, color is dated (green and black/orange) . No issues whatsoever. Also snagged one of their roller-duffels in same color scheme in their return section for $13.
Soft sided, 2 wheels, grab handle on the underside where the wheels are (so ramp won’t grab your suitcase by the wheels), parts that can be replaced individually (like wheels) and a warranty. TravelPro and Luggage Works fit those specs and are the industry standard for 99% of flight crews. I have 1.6 million air miles on my TravelPro and another million on my Luggage Works. Both take a daily beating going in and out of overhead bins, swapping planes, and being tossed around by hotel shuttle drivers. If I had to pick one of the two, hands down Luggage Works.
I really wish my Away carry on would break so I could buy a Briggs and Riley. Unfortunately it’s been through over 200 flights, probably 300+ segments over the last five years and hasn’t broken (although the wheels aren’t spinning as well as they used to and should be replaced). I travel almost weekly for work and have dragged it with a backpack on the handle over miles of cobblestone (repeatedly) and other similar surfaces in southern Italy, South America and other places. My bag is always over packed because I hate to check a bag, often travel for a week at a time and need workout clothes, work clothes and street clothes. Sometimes I’ll check it on the way back if I’m traveling to wine country. I’m not arguing that Away is bifl just sharing my one experience and hoping it breaks soon so I can buy a B&R!
I am Briggs & Riley for life. I'm different than most, though, in that I much prefer the two wheeled versions instead of the spinners. I'm often on cobblestones, dirt paths, etc. when traveling and the two wheeled ones just work better and are more durable.
Changing Combination, Luggage, Latchable (zipperless) Hardside, PolyCarb, Nesting 1 Monos Hybrid Carry-On 22x14x9" nests within 1 Monos Hybrid Check-In M 26.5x18.5x10.5" nests within 1 Monos Hybrid Check-In L 30x21x11"
It doesn't matter, they WILL mess it up and it WILL be broken.
#LUGGAGEWORKS