Help! I need to start looking for some good quality, reasonably-priced luggage.

[Fridays Child]

I am so clueless here. We're talking two+ weeks of international travel. I know I need a good carry-on and I'd like pieces that are well-designed--secure closures, sturdy wheels, good handles, etc. But I really have no idea where to start. I would be most grateful for any and all advice from my more well-traveled colleagues here at DU.

Thanks! :hi:

[Ian David]

1. Current issue of Consumer Reports has an article on luggage. n/t

[Fridays Child]

7. Timely! I'll look for it at the newstand inside B&N.

Thanks! :hi:

[MercutioATC]

2. Travelpro.

Just look at what brand 80% of pilots and flight attendants use...

[Warpy]

3. I bought a hideous pink, sort of tie died looking thing

at Tuesday Morning. It's big enough to carry clothing for a couple of weeks plus souvenirs home. It has a strap on the top that I can attach my carry on backpack to for easy wheeling through the airport. Best of all, it's ugly enough that it will be the only one on the carousel, very easy to spot. The industrial zipper closures are secure enough that nothing will fall out but not so secure that DHS will use a razor blade to get entry for inspection and then have to seal it with tape.

I also have a couple of Space Bags I pack just in case I overspend on my trip and need to compress my clothing. Yes, the hotel maid will think you're a little crazy for asking her to use her Hoover hose, but she'll get the idea fast when you do.

Even the cheapest bags out there will survive 2 weeks in Europe. Just try the zippers and wheels in the store to make sure they were all installed correctly and you're all set. That strap on the top for securing your carry on is a really nice feature so make sure you get one.

[Fridays Child]

8. The strap feature is a great idea. We only have so many hands, right?

Also, I hadn't even thought about checking at Tuesday Morning. Thanks for the tip. I'll keep their new merchandise on my radar. :)

[raccoon]

12. I bought chartreuse luggage for the same reason.

"it will be the only one on the carousel, very easy to spot. "

Great minds think alike, I guess. :hi:

[Turbineguy]

4. I used

Samsonite, then Briggs and Riley but switched to Travelpro gear.

But I suspect that LL Bean has good gear too. Eagle Creek is good and innovative. I like their organizers and use them to keep my clothes folded.

I used to like the roling suitcases and B&R has a very nice stacking system. The suitcases however got ruined by bagage handlers and are difficult to get through narrow train passages.

I use a rolling duffel and a backpack with cushioning for my laptop. The key thing is to not get the largest size duffel because you will be over yor weight limit.

[Fridays Child]

9. Everyone is recommending TravelPro, so it must be good.

Thanks for the weight tip! :hi:

[Staph]

5. TravelPro

I'm on the road three weeks every month. My TravelPro luggage is sturdy and reliable -- I just bought my third suitcase in 12 years. The airlines abuse luggage badly, but I've never had a busted zipper or lost wheel or handle. And if you search the Internet tubes, you should be able to find a bargain. I think they are discontinuing the Crew 6 models (what I currently have) and you can find prices as low as 75% off retail.

[Fridays Child]

10. The broken wheel or handle scenario is something I'm dreading.

Thanks for the information. Everyone seems to agree about TravelPro. :)

[AndyTiedye]

6. Eagle Creek, With Rollers and Backpack Straps

That's the best combination for train travel in Europe.
The wheels are great, but sometimes there are stairs.

[Fridays Child]

11. I'll check them out, too.

Thanks! :hi:

[FM Arouet666]

13. size is really the key

I have two identical Tumi bags in an ugly golden color that my wife got cheap online. Tumi makes very sturdy and ergonomic bags, but they are really pricey retail. Look for deals online or in outlets, odd colors and old models can be had at a cheap price and it is worth the effort.

The real key is that you want a bag that is sturdy and the proper size for carry on. Also pay attention to weight, the current limit for a carry on is like 8 or 10 kg, not very much. Check your airline for specifications and weight limits. I had to check my bag in Copenhagen because it weighed too much. Also, odd colors are a good choice because you will have to check your bag at some point, usually the flight home, and you want to avoid mis-identification.

Pack light. International travel is a pain now with all the security. I just did 3+ weeks in Germany and Poland with two carry on bags and a tiny computer bag and my wife's purse.

[babylonsister]

14. Travelpro is great; if you want to save some money,

check out Marshall's. I've gotten quite a few pieces there and the quality is good. That's if you haven't already bought any or have left already. Late to the party...:party: