Choosing the Right Suitcase: Lessons From a Well-Traveled Luggage Collector

Choosing the Right Suitcase: Lessons From a Well-Traveled Luggage Collector
If you peeked into my closet, you’d find a lineup of about ten different suitcases—none of them matching, and all acquired out of necessity rather than style. As someone who travels often (and sometimes on a whim), I’ve learned the hard way that the “perfect” suitcase is a myth. Instead, the right suitcase is the one that fits your trip, your airline, and your sanity. Here’s what I’ve learned from years of globe-trotting and a collection of luggage that’s as eclectic as my passport stamps.
Why I Own So Many Suitcases
I didn’t set out to become a luggage collector. Each new trip seemed to expose a flaw in my current suitcase: too big for a budget airline, too small for a winter getaway, wheels that stuck, zippers that popped. Over time, my collection stabilized, but not before I learned a few expensive lessons.
Short Trips & Discount Airlines: The Take Off Revelation
If you’ve ever flown a discount airline, you know the pain of the luggage sizer. I can’t count the number of times I’ve been caught at the gate, trying to jam my bag into that tiny metal box while a line of impatient travelers watches. One trip to Punta Cana stands out: Frontier charged me $100 because my wheels stuck out just enough to disqualify my bag. I paid the fee, but on the way home, I literally cut the wheels off to make it fit.
That’s when I discovered Take Off Luggage, a small brand started by young Black entrepreneurs who saw a gap in the market. Their hard-shell carry-on has wheels that pop off, so it fits in any airline sizer. It’s now my go-to for weekend trips and budget flights—no more surprise fees at the counter.
The Everyday Workhorse: Samsonite
For most trips, my black Samsonite carry-on is the MVP. I found it at TJ Maxx for $89, and it’s survived years of rough handling. Samsonite has a reputation for durability and value, and my bag has taken a beating without complaint. I don’t believe in paying top dollar for luggage—baggage handlers are experts at scuffing, scraping, and denting even the fanciest bags—but I do need something reliable.
Aspirational Luggage: TUMI
I’ll admit, I wouldn’t mind being gifted a set of TUMI luggage. Their five-year warranty (with a few exceptions) and premium materials are legendary. The ride is so much with Tumi, if I won the lotto, that would be my first stop, full set of Tumi luggage.
 
I purchase a large no name luggage brand once because I liked the design one of the wheels started sticking during a trip to Iceland, turning my walk to the Airbnb into an uphill battle—literally. That experience taught me that smooth-spinning wheels are non-negotiable. Always test the roll in the store; if it doesn’t glide effortlessly, walk away.
Italian Flair: Bric’s
Another favorite is Bric’s. I love their Italian design, quality construction, and reasonable pricing. Their bags look good and hold up well, which is all I really want from luggage.
What I Look For Now
When I’m shopping for a suitcase, I focus on a few essentials:
·       Airline Compatibility: Know the size restrictions for your airline, especially if you fly budget carriers.
·       Wheel Quality: Take the bag for a spin. If it doesn’t roll smoothly, don’t buy it.
·       Warranty: A good warranty gives peace of mind, but read the fine print.
·       Material & Construction: Look for sturdy zippers, reinforced handles, and tough shells or fabric.
·       Price Point: I aim for the sweet spot—not the cheapest, but not the most expensive either.
The worst travel mishaps I’ve had? A zipper that popped open in transit and a handle that snapped mid-trip. Both turned a fun adventure into a stressful scramble.
 
Final Thoughts From the Road
As you gear up for your next journey, remember: the best suitcase is the one that matches your travel style and needs—not just your outfit. Don’t be afraid to mix brands, test the wheels, and think about the practicalities. Your luggage should make travel easier, not harder.
From one curious traveler to another, happy packing!
—Stephanie
For more travel tips, follow me on social media or visit my website: www.travelingwithcurosity.com