luggage suggestions for a newbie

[Cynicor]

Victorinox all the way, surprised it hasn't been mentioned in this thread yet.

It's in a few of the older threads, and you should be able to get it at 40% of "RRP".

I bought my last one in Singapore, but my other was purchased from the luggae professionals, very good service and decent price for AU

Lifetime warranty, and they apparently deliver on it too, rather than just saying it.

My two are still in perfect condition, both in the WERKS range.

 

[alexbs]

I love Globetrotter, one of the few "luxury" luggage brands, which are actually designed to be checked in. Once I discovered them, have not gone back - they just last. my 2 cents.

 

[lushman]

As a student I was a baggage handler for the cruise ships in Sydney. I have seen it all when it comes to suitcases. Generally speaking (in order of importance):

1) Be prepared to spend a reasonable sum on your suitcases. You are paying for better design as well as better quality. I love my Samsonite suitcases - they are a joy to travel with. They are not the bottom tier either. Buy overseas - you will get a lot more choice. And don't balk at the price!
2) Don't over pack. That is the best way to guarantee a broken handle or other damage to the suitcase. Remember that the baggage handlers have to shift a lot of luggage in a short period of time. They'll be grabbing the handle with much more force than you will be! An over-packed cheap suitcase would never survive the trip without being compromised somehow.
3) Dangly bits - be they zippers or coughpy padlocks or name labels or ribbons - get caught in conveyor belts. And the conveyor belt always wins.
4) Colour - I completely agree with everyone here. Anything but black is a good idea.
5) Four wheels are better than two.

 

[billy8]

I have bought three successive $125 – $150 large ballistic-type webbed woven supposedly heavy-duty type roller bags in the past 4 years and they have all been damaged (mortally wounded) by airport handlers --- one ripped at the rivet holding the carry strap and could not be repaired; the 2nd split the hard rubber handle at one end and so could no longer carry the bag's weight; the 3rd had the tubular pull handle that telescopes out of the frame pull right out of its sockets and could not be re-attached. The bags carried normal 20 – 30 kilos, as per economy and business class limits, Only one of the bags was successfully replaced by an airline upon application. My solution was to buy a $750 aluminium suitcase by the German company RIMOWA. It is solid, light-weight, is on rollers, has a first-class sturdy handle, and is guaranteed worldwide for 5 years...the best bag Germany still makes, and in business since 1898. Even if it only lasts 5 years (that would be a surprise) it would only be costing me as much per annum as the roller bags at worst, and I think is far more reliable and worth every cent.

 

[fiscal]

Samsonite lightweight luggage, with 4 wheels in a light color has been our choice. It can be expensive, but sales in Myer DJ's and the like do happen to bring the price down to about $250.

Women (in my household) are the worst for over packing and come home with lots of clothing that was not required, or have cosmetics cases that rival professionals. Pack being realistic, adn remember that you can buy goods at the other end if you forget something.

To travel really light, get you luggage lost by Qantas in LAX and they will deliver it to your door free of charge, no hassles at the carousel in Perth (except for the initial shock in Sydney when it does not appear)

 

[elbarto]

Thanks Tony, great pictures of how to pack 1 cabin bag for 10 days travel! whoa what a challenge, I am
over there for 3 weeks so I strongly doubt I'll be able to do that! its good to think about though...

I have been looking at soft suitcases (generally lighter in weight than hardcases) and there is a brand I have never really heard of called Delsey, they look like fairly good quality and decent pricing on this Luggagegear website I mentioned before Delsey | Fiber Lite Purple 65cm Expandable Spinner | Luggage Gear.... they also come in purple!

But.... does anyone know about delsey as a brand? basically are they as good quality and they are priced?

thanks!

I've got a delsey carry on. It's good and has been dragged through snow, boiling hot temperatures and is showing no signs of wear beyond the normal wear to the wheels. Only three issues I have with it, the wheels are noisy and one of the wheels is wonky (however it's been that way since purchase, I suspect it was damaged in store. I did buy it from Mustafas in Singapore.) and lastly it's two wide to roll down some aircraft aisles. But the last two are thing I should have checked prior to purchase.

I've also owned Delsey camera bags with no issues. I believe that Emirates issue their crew with Delsey bags as well.

 

[Martina]

Isn't the suitcase with extendable handle and rollers just the best invention ever ?
From experience I only buy luggage where the extendable handle disappears inside and can be closed off with a zip. That way there is no danger that the luggage handling staff holds the luggage up by the handle and accidently damages it.

 

[kiddus]

Lots of good advice there for you. After 40 years of travel , I can say one thing is paramount "travel light", keep those cases (hard)and packs (without lots of straps) and if possible with wheels and a handle, light and small. I am about to head off to Japan again , Europe is no different in that if you want to be on time for trains , planes, boats and buses carry a smallish case (35-45 litres)it helps relieve the stress of rushing to meet deadlines/schedules.Take the bare essentials , you will see plenty to buy and fill that case without having to pay extra baggage costs on the way over or home. Enjoy.

 

[timster]

Hard to know exactly what to advise. There's no perfect solution. I go through about a suitcase every year or two. But that's trying to get the cheapest / best deal on the strongest looking case I can find. They all eventually get broken or so scuffed (if fabric covered) that I'm too embarrassed to travel with them any more. If I could be sure that one of the $500 ones that look like they could resist a nuclear attack would actually survive airport baggage handling, I might take that plunge.

As others have said, with luggage limits getting lower (esp on low cost airlines), get the lightest and smallest case that will do the job.

These days you can get a decent mid-size semi-hard shell for around $100 if you're lucky.

If travelling to the US, make sure it can be locked just with the approved openable padlocks. If it has its own custom locks, it may get broken into by 'Homeland' Security. For similar reasons, it's also best to have a zippered case rather than one with just keyed locks at one or two points. If those locks break, then there's nothing holding the case closed. A zipper is less likely to fail completely (although not impossible).

Especially for train / boat etc, you want something that is as small and moveable as possible. Four wheels and an extendable handle are a must these days. But the wheels are the most likely thing to break with rough airport handling. Try to get big solid wheels that can also survive euro cobble stoned streets and curbs.
Not all trains have luggage space, so you want something that is as small as possible. Most euro train travellers lift their cases into the overhead racks - that's hard if your case is huge and heavy. Best if it can slip between the seats. Also, the step up onto trains can be huge. Travelling first class on euro trains is not so expensive if you book ahead, and increases your chances of having room to put your case somewhere convenient. I carry a small bike chain lock in case I have to leave my luggage far from my seat on a train.

I now travel with a small roll of gaffer tape and at least one luggage strap to hold everything together in the case of emergencies. The luggage strap doubles as clear ID in airport baggage claim.

Wait for the xmas sales here. Luggage is always on sale then. But you'll probably get a better deal transiting in say BKK, although luggage can be expensive at the tourist traps, as people often buy it when theirs is broken and they have to take whatever they can find. Try upper floors at MBK in BKK.

In addition to my suitcase, I also travel with a small backpack that has wheels and a handle. A bigger version of that might also be an option as your main luggage.

 

[gearsau]

I consider myself to be quite the "luggage cough". I've actually been told to seek help regarding my odd love of buying luggage! Anyway, here's what I've discovered.

- If you need a very big suitcase for whatever reason (slightly more important now that Qantas have their "1 Bag" rule), don't go cheap. They get very heavy and it needs to be a good quality one. I bought a mid-range bag from Myer and the roller handle snapped off mid-trip. My previous large bag was a lime green Qantas branded one and it lasted about three years of good solid travel. Eventually the fabric on the side gave out. I've decided now that for a large and often heavy bag, you should go hardshell as it's less likely to break. I now have a blue Samsonite hardshell that has click latches on the front and both sides (with turn locks). I'm pretty happy with it, however I'd probably go a zipper next time as it makes it a little easier to squeeze shut. Be careful, as this large size will always be about 30KG and that can upset a lot of airlines. I purchased the current one in New York for a bargain of $160. Expect $300+ here.

- I have a "mid-size" bag that I use for trips of about 7-10 days. It is a black Samsonite fabric with orange accents. From memory it came from Strandbags and was about $200. It's a good size to usually weigh in at 20kg. I have done 4-5 RTW trips with it and it has realistically been on ~300 flights and is going very strong still. I had one repair when the front pocket ripped however that was handled well by Samsonite and they have a good network of repair shops (took a week and cost me nothing).

- I've just swapped Cabin Bags. I previously had a Tosca 115CM bag that Qantas were always happy with, however Virgin have kicked up a stink and I had to replace it. It was nice and solid, but a little big and the bag itself weighed in at 4kg so it realistically wasn't the right option. I bought a nice Antler 105cm cabin bag online from Luggage Direct. it was ~$100 delivered. So far, so good. Weighs 2.4kg empty (so leaves about 5 for you) however it is a little smaller than what I'm used to. Does the job for overnights or weekends though (provided you can wear your jacket). The quality of the Antler bag seems very good (on par with Samsonite) and its got nice touches like leather handles instead of plastic.

My rules are don't go cheap and nasty but stick with quality, well known brands. Can't go past Antler or Samsonite (I'd never buy anything else). I have used a Jag bag in the past however it didn't last long. Myer or DJ's often have 40-50% off sales or Luggage Direct etc always have them heavily discounted with free postage. You'd be stupid to pay full price for any luggage items in the current discount climate.

I gather that you must be flying QF Business or, as you are Gold , you get the extra luggage allowance. A 30 KG bag will cause dramas now in Y class with Qantas or Cathay. I was using some Qantas points recently, and flew Y from BNE to Shanghai. My bag was 21.4 KG at check in in BNE and no problems.
In Bangkok, on the return, it had grown to 25.9kg ( dont ask me how),and I was hit 5,000 baht excess baggage.

I always use soft Samsonite Suitcases. I had one for 10 years, and it would have done at least 200 flights when I was working in Asia Pacific. It had four wheels, and while it was heavy, it was the best suitcase that I ever used. I have also used a few hard shell Samsonite, but, these were in the 90's, and were a conventional suitcase. I prefer soft cases now.

My latest case, is a 4 wheeled Samsonite vertical spinner.. Very good, except, if the balance isnt correct, it can topple over.
In fact, I also purchased a cheap 5 wheeler in Bangkok, that has an adjustable 5th wheel. Can be moved further out to stop the case tipping. Works well. All for Aust. $135 or so.

I always put a few bright coloured luggage straps on my case, as it helps on making it stand out at the baggage carrousel.

 

[gearsau]

Just my 2 cents. I have just returned from a trip to Germany/Austria on a 3 week holiday. I left Melbourne with a tattered old 2 wheeler (Antler 76cm case), and bought a Rimowa Topas 4-Wheeler 26" Case in Berlin (in a department store) for €399 with another 19% VAT refund at Frankfurt Airport. I love the strong metal case and it protected all the precious model cars that I picked up from the motor show. I checked the same case in Myers Melbourne, $1,170!!!

If you are going to Europe, may I suggest that you use a cheap throw-away luggage and then get a decent one over there? My partner used Mandarina Duck 76cm Case, and she swore by it... and she picked that one up in Singapore for SGD$249 (and then VAT refund at airport). The same case is AUD$749 at Myers Melbourne.

Try transit in Singapore or Bangkok or Hong Kong.... pick up a brand new case there.

Agree there.. They have some good bargains in Bangkok. Robinson Department stores have a good luggage department .

I wonder why Australian retailers are complaining about lost sales, when one sees the price comparisons

 

[rhjames]

I can reinforce some comments already made.

1. I travel for business and stay in good places. My luggage is relatively cheap, strong, and functional - that's all I car about. I don't car how it looks.

2. Go for something different so you can find it at the airport. Red is a good colour. It looks daggy, and it will be the only red one on the carousel. If you must use blue or black, get some red tape and put stripes on it. Great if the luggage is lost. I can spot my luggage from the next country.

3. Have a good look at the zippers if applicable - this is often what fails first. You want something big and strong - not some pretty tidy thing that will jam at the first hint of dirt.

4. Get luggage with wheels. There's some big airports, and long walks. The heavier the bags, the further your room will be from the lift in the hotel (I always carry my own bags - I want the exercise before and after a flight). Make sure the handle and wheels feel solid.

5. I don't understand the need some people have to buy presents when they travel. Don't even consider it. The inconvenience of added weight outways saving a few dollars. These days you can by most things at home. Don't end up with a room full of useless souvenirs - just rely on photos.

6. Prepare what you think you'll need, then put half of it back and leave it at home. Unless you're a seasoned traveller, you'll want to take much more than you need. If you get anywhere near the airline 20 kg weight limit, you've gone way overboard. My wife and I travel to Europe for a month at a time, and need only one good backpack or bag, and one small one backpack for the plane, between us. That includes good clothes for special occasions.

7. Assume the bags will be squashed, jumped on, and thrown around by giant footballers. Only then will you pack them ready for normal treatment.

8. Use a name tag that is robust - essential if the bag is lost.

9. When I pick up my bag at the airport, I always check the tag, no matter how sure I am that it's mine (been caught once with the wrong bag).

 

[Plane Jane]

I just so happen to be able to help you out...you are in luck! This morning I gave a seminar to the Seniors in at the Town Hall in Melbourne on this very subject. I work in the luggage game, travel a great deal and am addicted to luggage!
So let me give you the drum. There is really only one bag to buy that is strong, light and sturdy and that is a Samsonite B-Lite suitcase. They have 4 wheels that survive luggage holds and the cobbled streets of Roma. They come in 3 sizes, 55cm, 67cm and 77cm. The most they weigh is 3.8kg's. They also have a rolling tote in black which you probably dont need for your lifestyle trip, but are great for a business trip.
I do not work for Samsonite, but I do work in a luggage shop, so I feel that I can give you an unbiased opinion.
They are not too expensive with the great discounts that are around online at the moment, so take some time to do the research but I think you will come back to that one!
Good luck and happy travels.
PJ

 

[sacolman]

I always buy new and inexpensive luggage before I travel anywhere. If I go to US I know not to lock my bag as they will unlock it using a pair of scissors or a knife to open it, During my past 4 trips via USA I needed a new bag every time. The same cheap bag will have to survive upto 6 weeks of Europe and usually do, although they are somewhat shabby by the time I get back to Oz. So why take an expensive bag?

My suggestion is, that if you need to show yoursaelf to be well off financially, you buy expensive watches and carry all the electronic gadgets, such as iPhone, iPod, iPad etc.

 

[rhjames]

I always buy new and inexpensive luggage before I travel anywhere. If I go to US I know not to lock my bag as they will unlock it using a pair of scissors or a knife to open it, During my past 4 trips via USA I needed a new bag every time. The same cheap bag will have to survive upto 6 weeks of Europe and usually do, although they are somewhat shabby by the time I get back to Oz. So why take an expensive bag?

A new bag every trip? I do a lot of major trips (many each year), and I've had low cost bags last for 10 years.

 

[Matthew.j]

Hi Newbie,

First and foremost you need to consider where and for how long you will be traveling as this will greatly influence the type and style of the bag you will need. To offer you a completely biased opinion, I'm the National Sales Manager for Paklite (Paklite Travel Lightweight Luggage Bags Quality Suitcase and bags Backpacks Cases Online Store) and travel extensively throughout australia as well as a couple of overseas trips a year, and can thoroughly recommend our products. Most of the information that you have received is pretty well on the money but just bear in mind that in a lot of situations in order to reduce weight, the structural integrity of the product can be compromised. The other key things to look for are things like the zippers. Make sure they are good quality - look for No.10's, also check the crown housings on the zips as these can vary significantly from brand to brand. Everyone is fixated on weight at present, but when comparing bags make sure you consider the capacity. No point have a light bags if you can't fit all your gear in it. The other two main areas to consider are the Trolleys/handles and the wheels. This is an area you don't want to skimp on as they do most of the work, so make sure these components are good. If you would like any further advice feel free to email me at [email protected]

Happy Travels!

 

[Flashback]

I've just recently bought a hard shell carry-on bag and must say I prefer the fabric style instead as they're not quite as flexible. I quite often like to unzip just one side and stuff something in e.g. phone, keys, etc. just before I head through security but with a hard shell you have to open it right up. It will be good once winter starts to hit here though as water/snow etc. will just bounce off.. pros/cons of course!

I've got a delsey carry on. It's good and has been dragged through snow, boiling hot temperatures and is showing no signs of wear beyond the normal wear to the wheels. Only three issues I have with it, the wheels are noisy and one of the wheels is wonky (however it's been that way since purchase, I suspect it was damaged in store. I did buy it from Mustafas in Singapore.) and lastly it's two wide to roll down some aircraft aisles. But the last two are thing I should have checked prior to purchase.

I've also owned Delsey camera bags with no issues. I believe that Emirates issue their crew with Delsey bags as well.

Interesting. I've seen a lot of Delsey cases at TK Maxx (discount provider on name brands) and didn't end up getting one as I hadn't really heard of them. Interesting to know.......

 

[Tassey69]

Have had a Samsonite shell for over 5 years with few problems, weighs around 4.2 kg's, also as my case can be opened easily I have a bright orange strap with combo lock that goes around the case and can be seen easily on the carosel and have had no problems on last 2 RTW journeys

 

[kaybee57]

Perfect timing for this query for me! I also have had my long time and well travelled 'big' bag but in itself it weighs (I have since found) 5.9kg!
No wonder the other half complains about having to lift my bag!
Have done some searching and found that Antler seems to be the lightest for the same size I am after at about 3.6kg so a wonderful amount of extra travel goodies I could then throw in the bag!!
Looks like the heavy bag might still be heavy!

 

[howiesue]

My experience with Delsey, light but amazingly strong, has been exceptional. I have 3 Delsey suitcases close to 15 years old, one of which recently had a lock failure. I could not find anyone locally (Brisbane) that could help so I wrote to Delsey in France and sought their advice. Their response was to send two brand new lock assemblies free of charge, locks easily changed from inside the suitcase. The suitcase shells show a few scratches and scrapes as would be expected from a product being handled by airline and other personnel from the wilds of Borneo to Europe and the US.