Deciding on the best hand luggage that is most suited to your travel needs is often a last-minute hurried affair. Melissa Jane Cook investigates suitcases, duffel bags and suit travellers that are all cabin approved and within the restricted requirements.
Airports are clamping down on the amount of luggage you take on board and so it is in your best interests to purchase a bag that no matter which airline you are travelling on, you are assured your bag will not run the risk of being sawn in half, unloaded and your goods placed in a large bin or hoisted to the hold. You should always check size limits with your airline and airport before you travel. Airlines may also have their own rules about the number of bags you are allowed to take on the aircraft. The general restrictions for hand luggage are one bag and laptop for economy class passengers. Two bags and laptop for business/ first class passengers. The weight of each bag may not exceed seven kilograms. Total dimensions of each bag may not exceed 115cm (56cm + 36cm + 23cm).
Samsonite Cosmolite – Light Technology
Cosmolite is a stylish suitcase that combines strength with immense lightness. Features: Samsonite used a new concept in thermoplastics known as Curv technology which incorporates an innovative woven layering technique and an advanced, lightweight, impact and scratch-resistant material. The result is a moulded suitcase with shell-like ridges that is not only fashionable but light enough to allow you to pack that little bit extra and strong enough to survive airport transfers. Carry-on size-approved
The Cosmolite 55 cm Spinner suitcase retails at R 4,995.00, available in red, silver, and black and blue from luggage stores countrywide.
Samsonite B-Lite – Light Luggage
Weighing just 2.3kg, the shell design of the B-Lite offers incredible lightness – the design lowers the weight through the top and side handles. The front panel itself is made of lightweight fabric in the centre, whereas the side fabric reinforces the suitcase where it matters most. Features: The design is unique and is a well-balanced mix of design and functionality. The ‘picture frame’ design mixed super-light fabric with strong and durable fabric. It is strong and light to protect your belongings as well as your suitcase. A TSA padlock keeps all your belongings secure and there is a laundry bag. Carry-on size-approved
Samsonite B-Lite retails at R1485.50
Samsonite’s Black Label Classic ‘Vintage’ Range – Classy Distinction
Samsonite Black Label’s new Vintage range offers timeless elegance and modern functionality, all packed into classic travel style. Designed with the trendy, distinguished traveller in mind, this range is characterized by a sophisticated colour palette, opulent interiors and vintage detailing that includes both leather and hardware accents. Features: Spinner suitcases are equipped with a TSA padlock, a back pocket for magazines, and a built-in case cover for protection plus laundry and shoe bags. The range has a 10-year warranty. Carry-on size-approved
Samsonite Black Label Classic Vintage Duffel bag retails at R 5,595.00.
Termo Basic for New Generation Travellers – The Future of Travel
Samsonite’s Termo Basic collection is a futuristic travel solution for a new generation of jet setters. Tough, sleek and light with a modern edge in finish and design, the Termo Basic collection combines sophistication with new-age design solutions. Features: Advanced moulding techniques create a smooth, enduring shell out of hard-wearing abrasion resistant polypropylene. This shield-like protection for your belongings is enhanced by well-considered interior design. Details are recessed for protection and thoughtful extras – special dividers – take packing convenience to a new level. Because security is a must-have for modern travellers, Termo Basic has a three-point locking system with an integrated TSA lock. It is available in a high impact blue, red, green, graphite or a striking graphite / silver combination from luggage retailers countrywide. Carry-on size-approved
Samsonite Termo Basic Upright 55 cm retails at R3, 000.00
Samsonite Hommage 2 – First Class Functionality
The exclusively styled Samsonite Hommage 2 range of luggage joins sophistication with first-class functionality, an ideal mix for today’s discerning traveller. Features: A combination of premium quality materials and craftsmanship make for a range of de luxe luggage with eye-catching detail. This chic range is made from 800 x 800 denier twill polyester, with trimmings in high-quality nappa leather. The stylish Samsonite Hommage 2 range is available at leading luggage stores in a variety of colours. Carry on size approved
Samsonite Hommage 2 Duffel bag retails at R 2,595.00.
Samsonite Wander 3 – Stylish and Comfortable
Wander 3, is the new ‘outdoor’ travel collection from Samsonite. This stylish range is made from Ripstop fabric that is resistant to tears and pulls. Features: Each bag features contoured straps with extra padding for comfort and includes organizational pockets for all of today’s electronic essentials. Samsonite Wander 3 is available in stylish colours in leading luggage stores. Carry-on size-approved
Samsonite Wander 3 Duffel bag 50cm retails at R795.00
Cellini Microlite 2 Suiter – The Suit
This 2 Suit Travel organizer has a wide track rollerblade wheels, threadware ripstop protection and a four stage retractable aluminum handle with zipper cover. There is a shoulder strap for easy carry. Features: Front pocket organizer, a fully U-opening zipper, bottom skid-bar for base protection, a hanging system to keep your suits upright, two sock and underwear compartments and a shirt divider. The Cellini Suit retainer system is fully lined for compression. There is a multiple locking hanger mechanism to hold your suits. Carry-on size- approved
The Cellini Microlite 2 Suiter retails for R1 795.00
Cellini AIR – Light as Air!
The new AIR is streamlined to be as light as possible! There are no side frames but a cleverly constructed wiring that keeps the integrity of a trolley case without the extra weight, with tough, yet lightweight nylon material. Features: Frameless side panels to save weight, aluminum multi-stage trolley handle, double front storage – document holder and large pocket, retractable luggage tag for identification, internal strap retainers and multi-pocketed storage. Top and side carry handles and a rollerblade wheel system. Dimensions are 51cm x 37cm x 22cm. Carry-on size-approved
The Cellini Air retails for R985.50
Cellini Pulse – Clothed in Beauty
A beautifully designed classic case. Features: A zipper closing mechanism with outer combination lock, 4-wheel multi-directional wheels for easy travel, internal dividers for easy packing, lightweight ABS shell gives you the toughness of a hard case with lightness of a soft! Aluminum retractable pull handle, carry-on size-approved
The Cellini Pulse retails for R895.50
Cellini EXPRESS – Confidence on the go
The Express – upgraded and improved design of the popular G5 model – reinforces Cellini’s belief in a strong, durable case that will simply ‘do the job!’ The design is tough. The parts are tough. It just needs you and your travels. Features: Durable 1680 Denier ballistic fabric, protective fabric coating, soft-padded retractable top and side handles. Rubber corner protectors, lockable zip pullers, heavy-duty vinyl kick plate, integrated address label and a custom-made Cellini cup for easy lifting. The expander feature allows 30% more packing capacity and the combination lock is included. There is a Cellini 5-year manufacturing warranty. Dimensions are 54cm x 29cm x 25cm. Carry-on size-approved
The Cellini Express retails for R535.50
The new Microlite – Lighten the Load!
New, ultra durable, double blended 1680 Denier Nylon. This tough fabric is interwoven with a 1680 Denier Black Polyester for added strength. This lightweight fabric is coated with 3M Scotchguard to prevent soiling and ensure water resistance. New Cellini personalized soft interior lining. The new upright trolleys have a patented polypropylene injection-moulded frame to ensure the lightest available materials with added durability. New ‘cube’ shape ensures the ultimate packing capacity as well as defined streamlined looks: Distinctive new front-face styling with spacious outer compartments; new Cellini recessed aluminum lock-up trolley handle; colour-coded trim on inside story.
Features: Cellini’s own soft rubber handle with soft, comfort-feel grip; new ‘hidden’ nylon self-repairing zippers for a styling finish; colour-coded zippers on all pieces; nNew Cellini feet and custom-made bottom cup for easy lifting and soft padded retractable top and side handles. Lockable zip pullers on all pieces. Extra D-ring next to puller on main section for added security. New Cellini silverplated moulded skate wheels for extra stability. Heavy-duty PVC vinyl kickplate for base protection. PVC skidbars on all check-in pieces. ‘Inside story’ organizer now with soft mesh pockets. New front organizer compartment with elasticated webbing on carry-on trolleys. Self-locking magnetic closure unique to Cellini available on carry-on pieces. Combination lock included. Cellini’s exclusive base-mounted expander allows 30% more packing capacity. Dimensions are 51cm x 36cm x 24cm, carry-on size-approved
The Cellini Microlite retails for R1215.00
Cellini Flair – The Exotic for Exuberant Travellers!
The EVA shell housing offers a basic protection on a light case, three distinctive outer prints to choose from. Features: Rollerblade wheels with protection, multi -stage retractable aluminum handle, and bottom carry cup for easy packing into rental car, etc., internal retaining straps, and carry-on size-approved
The Cellini Flair retails for R625.50
POLO New York Vintage Leather Business Organizer – Perfect Vintage
Luxurious Polo leather at its finest. Features: This business organizer includes three main packing areas – laptop compartment for 15″ laptops, file organizer, front pocket organizer for pens and other office equipment, canvas handles with leather trim for a Vintage Look, shoulder carry strap and fine brass finishings. Only brown available in luxurious Vintage Leather. Carry-on size-approved
The POLO New York Vintage Leather Business Organiser retails for R2 965.00
Polo Pony Trolley – The Precise, Proper Polo
A fine Polo Pony Trolley that is efficient and simple. Features: Telescopic handle, attractive synthetic material that is easy to clean, rollerblade wheels with skidbar protection, well laid out interior with restrictor straps. A combination padlock is included. Beautiful white and brown prints are available. Carry-on size-approved
The Polo Pony Trolley retails for R1615.50
Alpha Lightweight International Carry On – Exclusively Light
For the business traveller who appreciates the virtues of ‘traveling light’, this is the ideal case. Features: It weighs 25%-35% less than comparable cases and offers a roomy interior within a convenient, international carry-on size. Made from Tumi’s exclusive, ultra-tough FXT ballistic nylon, the case features a unique, soft construction design that keeps the bag light. There are organizer pockets inside and out, a telescoping handle and smooth-rolling wheels. External Dimensions are 52.5cm x 34.5cm x 21cm
Retail Price is R5999.00