The Luggage Blog

This article, printed in the Lansing State Journal, talks about making the switch from briefcase to backpack for business or day to day travels. Writer Jason Sheeler makes a good point- it’ll leave you hands free for texting, emailing and holding a morning dose of ‘joe. No matter how annoying the tech-ing on the go may seem, the truth is a commute to work or even a ride on the elevator is precious time. Nowadays, you can work from anywhere and having your hands free is key.

So, in keeping with this idea, we present a few backpack options for men (and ladies too!). And with back to school season kicking off this month, even if you’re not heading back into the classroom, you’ll still find plenty of deals on all of our backpacks!

The Big Ben Laptop Back with Fast Pass from Victorinox gives you all the features of a briefcase, as well TSA friendly design. The laptop compartment’s book-style opening allows you to simply unzip and leave your notebook attached to the bag during TSA screening.

The Big Ben Laptop Back with Fast Pass $279

The David King Leather Jumbo Backpack boasts a classic look, soft leather and total function at a great price. Available in three colors, it’s the kind of bag that gets better looking with age….and who doesn’t love that notion?

David King Leather Jumbo Backpack $114.95

The dash of color on the outside and pop-out-at-you lining sets the Briggs & Riley Glide Backpack apart from other basic black business backpacks. With tons of organization, including a compartment that will hold a 15 inch laptop, this pack offers style and the excellent performance Briggs & Riley is known for.

Briggs & Riley Verb Collection ‘Glide’ Backpack $177

The Tumi T-Tech Adventure Covertible Computer Messenger Backpack has two easy carrying options. Wear it on the back or across the body for hands-free traveling with briefcase function. A younger, more stylized offering from Tumi, it will hold a laptop, but will also serve as a day bag for your well-deserved free time.

Tumi T-Tech Adventure Convertible Computer Messenger Backpack $225

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.

In honor of the Tumi Sale (oh, you mean you haven’t heard?), we’re helping you decide which collection is best for you.

If your style can be defined as sophisticated with a touch of vintage; if only the best will do: You’re a Townhouse. Just make sure you have a fat wallet to match.

If you travel for business or just travel often; if your style is modern, cool and classic: You’re an Alpha. Congratulations, you set the standards for what’s “in.”

If you prefer jeans and sneakers to suits and slacks; if you’re casual and laid back: You’re a T-Tech Adventure. Lucky for you, it’s the lightest weight collection, so you can save your energy for all that adventure.

If your jeans and tees are designer label; if your accessories include the latest watch and shades: You’re a Voyageur. Lightweight, sophisticated, and stylish all at once Tumi combines all of the best features for their women’s travel and business collection.

Although it is fairly new to the Tumi family of products, the 20in. Continental Carry On has quickly become a bestseller. Designed to meet the needs of both domestic and international travelers, it can easily hold up to four days of clothing for the pro-packer. This is made possible by its wider configuration, it packs like a 22 inch case, yet will still easily fit in an overhead compartment - vertically [this will make your fellow passengers very happy].

If you’re in the market for a quality carry on that will allow you to make the most of your space, whether you’re traveling this country or the next, this is the piece for you. Available in black, red or yellow pick it up before the limited time sale is over!

No it isn’t seasonal allergies affecting your vision- Tumi is on sale!

The Legacy Sale- offering 20% off on all Tumi products- runs now through May 17th.

The only exclusion (which isn’t even an exclusion) is Tumi T-Tech Adventure, which just so happens to be on sale for 25% off right now through May 9th!

This doesn’t happen very often, so grab a Tumi piece at a great price while you can! Stay tuned for more info, advice and reviews on Tumi products.

Esquire Magazine, the original and leading men’s lifestyle magazine, recently compiled a list of 5 Pieces of Classic Luggage. While their selections are absolutely beautiful and certainly classic (with styles from Gucci, Hermes & Louis Vuitton), at a combined average of $5,000, we thought you might like to see a few attainable pieces of luggage that exude timeless style.

For over 100 years Hartmann Luggage has been the leader in providing stylish and practical luggage for the sophisticated traveler.  This 22 Inch Mobile Traveler is from their Wings Collection - the symbol of that outstanding reputation. $795

The Mullholland Brothers All Leather Longhorn Weekend Bag is the kind of timeless leather duffel that gets better with age. $885

Seasoned travelers will tell you, there’s nothing like a Tumi. This 22 inch Frequent Traveler embodies premium quality and design. $595

For your daily travels to and from the office, a handsome Belting Leather Attache by Hartmann will carry it all in style. $795

First introduced in 1958, the Samsonite Silhouette series is synonymous with classic American travel. The Silouhette 11 Boston Bag is a traditional carry on or overnight option. $99.99