Investing in Luggage for Quality and Longevity

This is a wonderful world we live in where there is an abundance of choice in almost all things, and where we are overtly bombarded with advertisements, influencers and the notion that we need to keep upgrading for the sake of upgrading simply because we can. This calls for common sense and some discipline, exercising our independence to be informed responsible consumers instead of chasing the dragon of consumerism.

Assembled here is a list of luggage brands with their distinct identities and proprietary production methods they are reviewed and rated highly for their superlative performance and durability and design features.

BRIGGS & RILEY –

Having used this brand for the last 15 years I can vouch for its exceptional craftsmanship, durable materials, and innovative features. The brand is known for producing luggage that meets the demands of frequent travelers, often featuring unique elements such as their patented CX Expansion-Compression system, which allows for increased packing capacity. This is an Investment purchase for sure.

Price Range $400 – $800

• Briggs & Riley offers a lifetime warranty on all of their products. This means that if your Briggs & Riley luggage or bag develops a defect due to normal wear and tear, they will repair or replace it for free, regardless of how long you’ve owned it.
• Awards :
  • Gear Institute Awards: Briggs & Riley has received accolades from travel and gear review organizations, recognizing the quality and practicality of their luggage.
  • Best of Show & Retailer Awards: In specific luggage trade shows, they have been acknowledged for their innovative product features and customer-friendly policies.
  • Sustainability Certifications: The company has made strides toward sustainability, and some of their products are made with eco-friendly materials, although specific certifications may vary.
  • Luxurious and Design Awards: The brand has won awards for its innovative designs, showcasing products that balance functionality with aesthetic appeal.
• Ballistic Nylon: Many Briggs & Riley products are made from ballistic nylon, a highly durable material that is resistant to tears, abrasions, and water.
• Lifetime Warranty: Briggs & Riley offers a lifetime warranty on all of their products, providing customers with peace of mind and assurance of quality.
• Checkpoint Friendly: Their designs often incorporate features that make them TSA-friendly, simplifying airport security checks.
• Organization: Briggs & Riley suitcases and bags are known for their thoughtful organization, with multiple compartments and pockets to keep your belongings organized.
• Manoeuvrability: Their products often feature high-quality wheels and handles for smooth and effortless travel.

Level8 –

The luggage brand is a relatively new brand that has gained a reputation for producing high-quality, durable, and stylish suitcases. Their suitcases are well-made, feature-packed, and offer excellent value for money.

Price Range $ 200 – $350

• Level8 Luggage offers a lifetime warranty on all of their products: Covering manufacturing defects and  functional damage to the shell, wheels, handles, zippers, or anything else that impairs your use of the luggage.
• Materials: Level8 uses high-quality materials such as aluminium, polycarbonate, ABS, and polyester for their luggage. These materials are known for their durability, impact resistance, and water resistance.
• Construction: Level8 suitcases are well-constructed with reinforced corners, sturdy handles, and smooth-rolling wheels.
• Key Feature: Expandable features, allowing you to pack more items when needed with Internal compartments and pockets to help you organize your belongings efficiently.

BRIC’S Milano –

Known for it’s hand-crafted travel bags and fine leather goods for over seventy years. With an extensive collection using leather, nylon and recycled materials, this is a solid brand that indeed gives you value for money.

Price Range $300 – $650

• Offering a limited liability warranty on all of their products: Covering manufacturing defects and  functional damage to the shell, wheels, handles, locks and zippers.
• Italian Craftsmanship: BRIC’s Milano is known for its Italian heritage and craftsmanship. Their products are often handmade or assembled in Italy, ensuring high attention to detail and quality.
• Materials: Uses high-quality materials with an extensive range in leather, as well as polycarbonate, ABS, polyester
• Construction: Travel bags are hand crafted and are well-constructed with reinforced corners, sturdy handles, and smooth-rolling wheels.

LUGGEX –

LUGGEX is yet another relatively newer brand in the luggage market, offering mid range affordable options without compromising on basic quality. Their products are designed to be durable and withstand the rigours of travel and have garnered positive reviews for their value proposition.

Price Range $100 – $250

• Comprehensive 3 year warranty on all of their products: LUGGEX luggage provide a comprehensive support plan for 3 years, ensuring your peace of mind. If you encounter any issues, our dedicated customer service team will respond promptly within 12 hours.
• Materials: Made from durable Polycarbonate composites and Aluminium ensuring their longevity and light weight.
• Construction: Reinforced Aluminium Corner Protectors with burst-free double-layer zippers

SHOWKOO –

Is a relatively new luggage brand that has gained popularity for its affordable and durable products. While they may not have the same long-standing reputation as some established brands, SHOWKOO has received positive reviews for their luggage sets. The brand focuses on providing good value for money.

Price Range $100 – $250

• Comprehensive 2 year Warranty: Covering manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty includes issues such as broken zippers, damaged wheels, and handles under normal use conditions.
• Materials: Made from durable Polycarbonate composites and Aluminium, Multi-directional Spinner Wheels with brand new soft TPU and lubricating balls inside wheels for a soft silent 360° rotate.
• Construction: Adjustable & sturdy ergonomic aluminum 3-step telescoping handle allow you to maneuver in tight spaces and provide effortless movement. Smooth ups and downs for more comfortable carrying. Added 2 reinforcement brackets on the flip side of top carry handle and side carry handle to avoid hardshell cracking and 2 Soft rubbers that aim to protect your fingers when lifting heavy stuffs.

TUPLUS –

This is a most noteworthy product line. The product was developed from a problem solving aspect, redressing a personal mishap on one of the founders travels. Seing the need for robustness there products go through at least 12 rigorous tests before launch, and they conduct quarterly product sampling to ensure the quality remains consistent, supported by independent testing by third-party centers. This is all  harmonized with great design premium quality with innovative, practical functionality.

Price Range $200 – $350

• Comprehensive 5 year Warranty: Covering manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship as well as broken zippers, damaged wheels, and handles under normal use conditions.
• Medium-Width trolley: The original medium-width handle design makes the Balance Luggage series look simpler, more symmetrical, and more beautiful. The case has a well-balanced force, making it less likely to tip over.
• Materials: The body of this luggage collection consists of extruded aluminium and magnesium alloy structural frame, and front and back shells made of Maezio polycarbonate-based composites. To remove certain luggage items when travelling while preventing other items from falling out, the front panel can be fixed at a 20-degree angle. The patent combination lock enables opening and closing of the case by pressing a button.

SITKA –

SITKA caters to a specific niche market: outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. Their luggage is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor activities, making them suitable for hiking, camping, and other rugged travels. That said they do have clean aesthetics and streamlined design making them both function able and good looking luggage.

Price Range $200 – $350

• Limited warranty on their products: This warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship under normal use.
• Materials: Primarily uses durable, weather-resistant materials to ensure their luggage can withstand harsh conditions. Some common materials are Nylon for its strength and water resistance. Polyester shells and Water resistant coatings.

YETI –

The brand synonymous with the cool box has expanded into the luggage market, targeting outdoor enthusiasts, adventurers, and those seeking durable and reliable travel gear. There luggage is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures and frequent travel. Their products are known for their durability, rugged construction, and ability to withstand harsh conditions.

Price Range $200 – $400

• Comprehensive 3 & 5 year Warranty: Covering manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship.
• Materials: High-quality polycarbonate for their hard-shell luggage, providing exceptional durability and impact resistance. For their soft-sided duffel bags, YETI uses durable polyester fabric that is both weather-resistant and lightweight.
• Construction: YETI luggage is built to last, with reinforced corners, sturdy handles, and heavy-duty zippers. As a standard they are water-resistant or waterproof, making them ideal for outdoor activities and travel in inclement weather.

Conclusion

Urbane Ensemble is of the view that we aught to be discerning in our choices being aware that it affects us as well as those around us and even further afoot. The adage “quality over quantity” is a timeless principle that holds true in many aspects of life, from products and services to relationships and experiences. It emphasizes the importance of prioritizing excellence and value over sheer volume or quantity.

Examples of Quality Over Quantity:

• Products: Investing in a well-made, durable product, such as a quality piece of luggage or a reliable electronic device.
• Relationships: Focusing on building deep, meaningful relationships rather than superficial connections.
• Experiences: Prioritizing quality experiences, such as learning a new skill, traveling to a meaningful destination, or enjoying a gourmet meal.
• Work: Striving for excellence in your work rather than simply completing tasks quickly.

By prioritizing quality over quantity, you can enjoy a more fulfilling and sustainable life. Remember, it’s not about having the most, but having the best.