We are in the market for new luggage, and I am seeking some recommendations. We travel alot as a family, so I am looking for something that is really durable, but of course, I would like it lightweight and big as well, to avoid those extra baggage fees! Does anyone have anything they have really used alot and held up well, fits alot, yet still stays light enough when they pack it?
I have a carry-on bag by "Richardo". I bought it at Kohl's - I lived in VA at the time. I flew to TX with it every 4-6 weeks for almost 2 years and it is great. I also have a Samsonite that got pretty tore up after 2 flights when I checked my bag. Basically, I wouldn't spend lots of money of luggage, the flight crew will have it destroyed in no time. I would suggest bright colors, especially red. It really sticks out on the conveyer belt.
As a flight attendant I would suggest the hard sided luggage. You can't overstuff it so if it is legal size it will always fit in the bin. You can even find it at Target. I'm not sure what a previous poster meant by the luggage getting destroyed by the flight crew, assuming she meant baggage handlers. Checked bags getting piled on top of each other in the belly of a plane are going to get wear & tear. Not to mention the stories we have seen where "some" not all baggage handlers may be a little rough with it. You will probably have to replace every couple of years unless you are willing to pay a lot for really durable luggage. I have had my "Purdy Neat Stuff" bag for 14 years & had it refurbished 4 years ago. Those bags start at around $269.00 for the 22 inch & they can be heavy. If you are looking for something more economical, then I would google "hard sided luggage" & read the reviews for it.
Hope this helps!
I don't know about a specific brand, I agree that most of the soft sided luggage gets torn up no matter what. However, I do recommend the luggage with four wheels. When I was traveling by myself with my daughter, it made it so easy to push while I was pushing the stroller and dealing with her diaper bag and my purse. I will never not get a four wheel luggage piece again. I do have a samsonite and it is huge and holds a lot, but it is 15 lbs so it makes it real easy to over pack and go over weight. Every time I fly I always hover around the 48 lb mark.
we travel constantly, overseas and within the US. i have found that no matter how much i spend on luggage they still worn out and break. last two years, i have gone to marshalls or tj maxx and bought luggage with wheels on, paid close to nothing, that way when they break i feel better for not spending a fortune.
sometimes macys has one day sale and if you're a credit card holder you get extra discount. i don't like those sets as one is always ok and the rest is junk that fits almost nothing. so just go get a few pieces. i go for very bright colors so i can spot my luggage (esp. for overseas travel). that's my advice :)
