The Luggage Blog

Ever since Travelpro invented the Original Rollaboard- the very first suitcase on wheels- wheeled luggage has dominated the travel goods market. Convenient and practical for long trips, this made perfect sense…until now. With airlines charging travelers up to $25 for the first checked bag, we’re being forced to pack lighter. With that, non-wheeled bags are making a comeback. No need for a heavy frame and wheels if you’ve got less to take on board with you. At the same time, many travelers are staying away from airports all together and opting for closer to home destinations that can be reached by train or car.

We’ve compiled a list of our favorites and along with some help from our wonderful customers, we present to you

5 Great Non-Wheeled Carry Ons

1. Rick Steves Convertible Carry On Backpack- $99.95

Don’t let the word backpack fool you. At the maximum size permitted for carry on (21″ X 14″ X 9″),  this bag will hold a lot more than you think. A zip expansion allows for heavier packing, while compression straps bring it back down to size for when you have a lighter load. With a top carry handle, backpack straps and a padded waist strap, it can be carried easily and comfortably. Strap this baby on and board the plane!

2. A. Saks One the Go 21in. Expandable Carry On- $63.95

Looking for a seriously lightweight bag that will hold a ton and stand up the travel beating you hand out? A. Saks has just the bag.  Jam everything you need into this carry on duffle and leave the baggage carousel fun for someone else. For convenience and ease of use once you arrive at your destination, it zips all the way down on both sides like a traditional suitcase for an extra wide opening.

3. David King Leather Duffle with Large Opening-$142.95

There is something timeless about the soft Vacquetta leather used in David King luggage and duffels. It seems to get better with age - and therefore each use. This over-sized duffle features a large opening that unzips completely for easy access. Use the top carry handles for a classic satchel look or attach the shoulder strap and go hands free. Exterior pockets on each side are perfect for last minute stashing.

4. LeSportsac Large Weekender - $108

Since 1974 LeSportsac has provided handbags and duffels in a wide color and print assortment that are lightweight, durable and super cute. The Large Weekender is sporty, stylish and totally functional.  Roomy enough for a long weekend getaway- like all LeSportsac pieces- it’s also a great extra piece to pack in case you have more to take home than expected. You know, the good kind of travel dilemma

5. Tumi Large Soft Travel Satchel - $325

If you’re looking for a classic soft satchel but only the best will do, the Tumi Large Soft Travel Satchel is a great option.  While it is made from Tumi’s signature ballistic nylon, it isn’t as rigid as other styles, so it can hold everything you’ll need for several days away.  Leather wrapped carry handles, a removable shoulder strap and an inside zip pocket are among its features. Like a chic accessory, Tumi bags add instant style to your travel look.

You can rely on Rick Steves for all of your travel needs. From organized tours and city guides, to tv shows and tips on safe travel, he is the ultimate travel know-it-all. Selecting the right luggage can be difficult for the casual once every few years traveler; why not trust someone who has put products to the test several times over?

Rick Steves’ line of luggage and travel gear includes several smart styles. The Convertible Carry On Backpack is the maximum size permittted for carry on (21″ X 14″ X 9″), so it can be checked when flying or worn as a backpack during your stay. This is possible by a zip expansion to allow for heavier packing and compression straps for when you have a lighter load. The backpack and padded waist straps simply tuck away when not in use.

Not much of a backpacker? Rick’s collection also includes several wheeled options, like the Avanti Rolling Tote. This wheeled tote is perfect for holding all of the items you need while on board, and even an extra stash of clothes- in case your luggage doesn’t follow you to your destination (no, that never happens).

The entire collection of Rick Steves Travel Gear comes in five attractive colors and is available on Luggage Online.