| From left: Titan's 31" Diamond Edition; Samsonite X-Space 30"; the North Face Rolling Thunder; Tumi's Vapor Extended Trip; Victronix CH-97. |
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These days, savvy travelers are carrying on to avoid airline luggage fees. But for some that’s near impossible: Consider those Sherpa-like parents laden with toddler, diaper bag, stroller, car seat and suitcases. Even the baby-free must check bags when they’ll be away more than a week. If check you must, we propose this: One big bag is better. When two or more of you are traveling, why pay extra to check multiple pieces of luggage if you can fit everything into one? (But do watch the weight: Most airlines charge more for bags over 50 pounds.) Here are some great new supersized options to invest in.
1. Formidable and fashionable, Titan’s voluminous 31-inch Diamond Edition is the largest to date from the esteemed German luggage maker—but weighs in at less than 13 pounds. Get the Ocean Blue version to avoid carousel mix-ups. (titanluggageusa.com; $785*)
2. Samsonite’s elegant X-Space 30-incher is a breeze to move, thanks to its four silky-smooth wheels. Bonus: To accommodate all those souvenirs, it expands by two inches. (samsonite.com; $460)
3. Made of alpinist-worthy tarpaulin and capable of holding an expedition’s worth of stuff, the North Face Rolling Thunder is one big, tough roller bag. Well-placed pockets, locking zippers and easily replaceable in-line skate wheels make it smart as well. (northface.com; $269)
4. Long favored by big-time business travelers, Tumi is targeting vacationers with a sleek new line of hard-sided cases. Compared to the brand’s traditional soft-sided bags, the Vapor Extended Trip is lighter, $300 cheaper and twice as hip. (tumi.com; $545)
5. Sharing is hard. Make it easier with the Victorinox CH-97 rolling duffel, with retractable handle. The lifetime warranty, external compression straps and sharp styling don’t hurt either. (swissarmy.com; $230)
* All prices are manufacturer’s suggested retail price; check around for lower prices.
NOTE: Information may have changed since publication. Please confirm key details before planning your trip.
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