Suitcase.com's Suitcase & Luggage Blog

Survey results reveal that consumers are shifting the way they approach their luggage contents, and becoming more strategic about packing decisions and luggage purchases.

Suitcase.com has released its 2012 Consumer Luggage Report.

As a follow-up to previous years’ reports, survey results revealed that, in response to increased baggage and airline fees, consumers are looking for lighter, more durable luggage to counterbalance costs. Additionally, consumers are placing a greater emphasis on how increased baggage and airline fees have changed their travel habits, their approach to packing, and how this has impacted their travel decisions.

New results show that consumers want to get the most out of their carry-on luggage, testing their capacity by literally packing their bags to the brim to avoid fees.

Suitcase.com CEO John Ebb says that customers always ask, ‘What is the lightest bag you have?” While consumers hope to decrease their luggage load with lightweight pieces, the overall weight of the luggage is determined more by the materials packed. And, consumers have really picked up on this concept, understanding that packing lighter will make the biggest difference.

In addition, Becky Tannar, Retail Manager and a luggage specialist, noted that a major consumer trend at a recent travel show was how to pack more into smaller spaces.

Key Findings

The quantifiable data depicts travel and packing habits in response to baggage and airline fees, and primary decision factors when purchasing luggage. Key survey findings are outlined below. Download the full luggage report here.

• 84% of respondents said that they usually, or always, pack less items overall in an attempt to avoid paying extra baggage fees.
• 75% of respondents admit they either have tried to or always pack more into smaller, carry-on bags to bypass checking luggage.
• Nearly half (42%) of respondents use smaller travel bags as a result of the changes in airline industry regarding baggage costs and regulations.
• When traveling by plane, 74% of respondents choose airlines with limited or no baggage fees due to the increase in previous years.

• More than 60% of respondents reported that packing, baggage fees and other luggage-related issues have impacted their travel decisions in the previous year.

About the Survey

The survey was administered in March 2012, through an email-newsletter invitation and through Suitcase.com’s Facebook page and Twitter account. Results were compiled in April 2012 based on responses of the survey’s participants.

In the last twelve months, I’ve been on close to twenty domestic flights. While I’ve traveled to—and packed for—a number of different locations in the past year, I’ve also learned that preparation and proper packing can set the tone for your whole travel experience.

Even if you’re not a frequent traveler, there are a few tried-and-true tactics to help you pack efficiently, and make for a pleasant trip. Check out some of my top recommendations to pack like a pro:

Plan First, Pack Next

Whether you travel once a month or once a year, it’s important to plan ahead. Try and map out the outfits and items you’ll need based on location and weather, and pack them away at least a few days before you leave. Also, plan your outfits for the remaining days you’re still in town according to what you have in your closet after you pack. With everything set aside before you depart, you’ll feel organized, and won’t end up digging into your suitcase for a shirt or piece of jewelry.

Stash Travel-Size Toiletries

If you pack up early, you may think that you’ll need access to certain toiletry items stowed away in your luggage before you leave. Make it a rule to purchase travel-size versions of your favorite toiletry items, and always store them in a separate toiletry case for travel only. This way, you can keep using your regular shampoo, face wash and toothbrush until the day you head out without having to remember to pack them.

Local drugstores and specialty beauty stores are stocked with travel-size buys, usually displayed by the checkout area. You can also ask for samples of your favorite product at department store counters if you need something small for just a couple of days.

Equip Your Carry-on

Always make sure to keep the items you need most in your personal bag to avoid searching through carry-on luggage before, during or after a flight. Some most commonly packed items travelers end up stopping to retrieve are: chargers (cell phones, laptops, e-readers, music players, etc.), sweaters or sweatshirts, medications, books or magazines, and smaller toiletry items (eye drops, lotion, lip balm, etc.)

Create a list of all of the items you might need quick access to, and reference it when packing your personal bag. Also, remember the TSA policies, and use a ziplock bag to hold items containing liquids.

Suitcases to Suit Your Travel

For brief trips, you’ll want something that accommodates your belongings, but isn’t overbearing. A duffel bag or rolling carry-on works well for this type of travel. Longer or more elaborate trips may require extra items, or include shopping plans. Larger upright luggage with wheels or spinners have ample room for extra items, and are easy to maneuver when fully packed. If you tend to vary your trips in length or between business and leisure, luggage sets can be a great investment, as they offer pieces of different sizes.

There is a wide range of bags out there for you to pick from, depending on the type of travel you do most. Learn to assess your travel to find out what bag is best for you. And, remember to plan ahead for less stressful and more organized travel.

Photo credit: fechi fajardo

What tips or trips do you have to keep the packing process organized?

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A piece or set of luggage is an investment that you want to protect. Traveling can do a number on your suitcase, especially if you entrust someone else to handle it. While it’s expected that you’ll eventually end up with a few bruises and bumps over time, you can still take preventative measures to maintain both the outside and inside as best you can.

Brush up on these tips to keep your luggage’s interior clean, and the exterior looking (almost) as good as new.

Leather Luggage

Leather luggage adds some extra luxury and sophistication to your travel. Since the material is more delicate and susceptible to damage than other materials, it requires some extra TLC to keep it looking new. To ensure that you don’t damage the material in the cleaning process, use cleaning supplies made especially for leather luggage like conditioners, saddle soaps, and soft sponges and clothes. Also, for added protection, treat your luggage with a leather protectant before you begin using it.

Softside Suitcases

Suitcases and luggage made of softer materials like canvas, polyester or ballistic nylon can be easier to maintain. If you find that the exterior has become dirty or discolored, you can most likely treat it as you would a piece of clothing. Treat the area with mild soap and a non-abrasive brush or cloth. You can also try a carpet or concentrated detergent cleaner for tough, oil-based spots.

CoverLugg also offers dirt- and water-resistant luggage covers in a variety of patterns. These are a great solution for seasoned travelers who love their worn-in luggage, but want a new look.

Hardside Help

Hardside luggage has a clean, classic look, and is incredibly easy to clean. The tough exterior is designed to prevent both internal and external damage. Simply wash with warm, soapy water, and rinse. If the mark calls for some extra elbow grease, try using a household cleaner without bleach or ammonia (always do a spot test first).

For added preventative maintenance, look for special luggage waxes that you can use to buff onto the exterior.

Immaculate Interior

Keeping the interior of your suitcase is just as important as sustaining its stylish appearance. TSA requires that liquids in a carry-on be stored in a ziplock plastic bag. To ensure that your liquids do not seep out onto the contents of your suitcase, use a toiletry case to double the protection. Also, make it a habit to clean out your luggage after each trip. Use a small vacuum to get rid of dirt from shoes, and other particles that make their way in during trips. With a damp cloth, wipe down the lined interior after vacuuming, and keep any pockets unzipped to air dry.

Keep Your Luggage Looking New

Luggage is not only an investment; it plays a big part in your travel. Take the proper steps to maintain both the interior and exterior of your suitcase, so you can ensure your contents’ safety, and keep it in peak condition. And, by conserving its appearance, you’ll always be traveling in style.

How do you protect your luggage?

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During the week of March 6-8, the Suitcase.com team took an adventure to Las Vegas to attend the Travel Goods Association Tradeshow. And, are we glad we did! We saw a lot of great products, ranging from suitcases with amazing functionality to fashionable showpieces.

Take a look at a few selections that stood out to us, which are sure to simplify your travels:

Foldable Luggage by Biaggi

Biaggi luggage folds down onto itself, making it compact and easy to store. While these pieces are focused on functionality, they don’t compromise on style or durability. See for yourself how it works, and check out the “Welcome to the Fold” instructional video.

Color Story

The color experts at Pantone announced Tangerine as the standout color for 2012, and the Luggage Industry listened. There were pops of orange all over the Travel Goods show this year, from Lipault’s bright orange luggage (pictured right) to the subdued Terracottas in Brics spring Life collection.

Old is New Again

Samsonite reintroduced the EZ-Cart, a vertical suitcase that has shelves on the inside, large rear wheels for balance and colors that are sure to please.  Available in two sizes, this is sure to be an even bigger hit the second time around.

In addition, Johnston & Murphy plans to introduce the 1850 collection, featuring beautiful goatskin leathers with retro stripe lining. These bags will be an amazing addition to Johnston & Murphy Collection of fine leather goods.

Made in the U.S.A

A huge trend at this show featured items that are made right here in America. Many brands featured lines of items made in the country, which is becoming a main selling point overall, not just for luggage.

Korchmar displayed a new line of briefcases called kUSA, which are all made in the U.S.A.

Hartmann Luggage also brings production back to the U.S.A with a new line that includes belting leather production manufactured in Tennessee. The line will not be available for purchase until September 2012, and will have a limited distribution and availability.

VinniBag

VinniBags are plastic bags that will protect wine, liquids and fragile items that you need to pack in your suitcase. The bags are also made in the U.S.A., reusable and recyclable, and simple to use. Check out the picture below to see how they're used.

Suitcase.com’s Top Pick

Briggs & Riley showcased its Domestic Carry-on Expandable Upright. This bag has a zipperless system that helps to expand and contract the cases for more efficient packing. Of course, the bag comes with the Briggs & Riley "100% Simple as That" warranty.

Simplify Your Travels

We look forward to bringing in lots of new and exciting products that will not only help lighten your load and ease your travels, but also look good while you’re doing it!

Which of these luggage trends will you be checking out this spring?

 

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The Suitcase.com team had an opportunity to showcase this year's latest luggage and suitcase trends at the 2012 Boston Globe Travel Show, the largest consumer-attended travel show in the United States.

On February 10, 11 and 12, industry experts showcased over 24,000 attendees the newest trends in global tourism, adventure travel, leisure vacations, international cuisine and entertainment, and travel goods and luggage.

What Do Consumers Want in Luggage?

We asked those who attended the travel show what they’re looking for in luggage this year, and the majority of travelers responded with these requirements:

• Quality and durability
• Lightweight
• Maneuverability
• Warranty

We displayed a number of this year’s stylish, name-brand luggage collections at the Boston Globe Travel Show that meet consumers’ needs. You can find our picks on SlideShare, or view the presentation below.

 

Do you try to fit everything in a carry-on bag when traveling to avoid checking your luggage? Even though the total number of lost airline bags decreased in 2011, you’ll still benefit from some travel-savvy packing tips to lighten your load.

Take note of our tips to help you condense luggage contents, and organize your packing routine:

1. Roll Outfits Together

This tactic forces you to really think about what you plan to wear on your trip, and not overpack. Start with pants, and fold then in half. Then, place a shirt and/or sweater on top, and roll together. If you plan on wearing a pair of pants or sweater more than once, just roll your extra tops together that you want to switch out.

Added Benefit: Your clothes will wrinkle less when compared to folding.

2. Stuff Your Shoes

Shoes take up a lot of valuable space in a suitcase or carry-on bag. Unless you’re packing flip flops or sandals, your footwear should have some extra space to work with. If you’re packing bulky boots or shoes, maximize space, and pack smaller items such as pairs of socks, hats, decorative scarves, belts, etc. in each.

Added Benefit: You’ll free up your smaller pockets and zipper compartments, allowing you to pack additional items.

3. Skip the Toiletries

Instead of packing large or multiple toiletry bags, pack a single, smaller travel toiletry case with only your major toiletry essentials that you won’t be able to buy at your destination, such as a certain hair product or perfume/cologne you use. For all other generic items, take an extra twenty minutes to walk to a nearby drugstore, and purchase travel-size toothpaste, mouthwash, body wash, shampoo, shaving cream, razor, etc.).

Added Benefit: This requires you to get out and walk, which is a good way to check out the nearby surroundings in the city you’re visiting.

4. Bring an Extra Bag

If you’re planning on visiting a city that has superb shopping, you’re sure to pick up some extras along the way. Stash a nylon duffel gym bag, handbag or backpack in one of the pocket of your suitcase instead of trying to cram everything into your already filled-to-the-brim bag. If small enough when packed, put your items that you’ll need to access in it as well, and count it as your personal carry-on item. You’ll dodge having to pay extra to check it.

Added Benefit: Thin, light bags like duffels or backpacks compact nicely, and you’ll avoid adding extra weight to your luggage.

Pack Smart to Travel Smart

Nothing’s worse than realizing you forgot to pack an important item when you’re en route to your destination. Take time to pack smart—and light—to ease your baggage worries. In doing so, you’re sure to have a more enjoyable travel experience, with suitcase-related stress.

For more insight on traveling light, download Suitcase.com’s 2011 Consumer Luggage Report.

Photo credit: iwinatcookie

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What are your tips for packing light?

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At the beginning of a new year, you can find a “top list” for just about anything. These lists are easily digestible, and can serve as handy reference resources. But, how do you know which lists truly top them all?

We’ve compiled several top lists of travel trends that cover a range of travel predictions so you can begin 2012 as an informed, savvy jetsetter.

Timely Tips

Most Important Travel Trends of 2012: Travel + Leisure Magazine

Contributors at Travel + Leisure Magazine compile the top 12 industry trends of the year, which covers everything from creative cruises to less rigid airport security. This slideshow is chock full of informative quotes and helpful hints for any type of traveler.

Suitcase.com Shoutout: Once you make a purchase over $75 at Suitcase.com, you'll receive a free subscription to Travel + Leisure magazine to stay up-to-date on all things travel.

Indulgent Ideas

Top Luxury Travel Trends for 2012: Luxury Travel Magazine

Thomas Stanley, seasoned traveler and head of travel planning company Cox & Kings, The Americas, created this list, which includes a number of different styles of trips that are sure to satisfy all types of world travelers. He recommends high-end journeys like “Mind, Body and Soul Vacations,” “Ancestral Travel,” “End of the Earth Trips” and more.

Suitcase.com’s Trendy Tip: Visit our Designer Luggage section to feed your need for luxurious luggage.

Bargain Buys

2012 Travel Trends Predictions About.com Budget Travel

Budget travel predictions are big this year, and include lots of new transforming trends, according to About.com’s Budget Travel list. As the travel industry changes, it’s important to follow and understand these trends to save on your next trip. This slideshow focuses on traveler practicality, money-saving tips, and ways to switch up your trip without emptying your wallet.

Suitcase.com’s Savings Hint: Stylish suitcases don't have to be expensive. We recommend checking out the "closeout" or "clearance" sections to find fashion-forward luggage pieces for less.

Agent Advice

Top Travel Trends for 2012: Specialty Travel Agents Association

The Specialty Travel Agents Association (STAA) presents its top travel picks for 2012, featuring exciting, worldwide destinations and niche markets for a multitude of different travel options for this year’s vacation.

Suitcase.com’s Destination Recommendation: Switch up your travel spots regularly to discover different parts of the country, or world. If you reguarly ski out west, try an eastern spot, or venture up north.

Frequent Flyers

What Will Air Travel Look Like in 2012?: International Business Traveler

IBTraveler focuses on some of the main questions that concern business travelers: “Will prices rise? What about the added fees? What new trends can we expect?” This list looks at some major predictions, and previews what to expect in the coming year. 

Suitcase.com Business Insights: TSA-approved laptop bags help to shave some time off of your security wait.

Travel Smart

With the right travel knowledge, you’re bound to stay ahead of the game. And, use the right luggage to ensure a successful trip. Stay tuned for our top new luggage picks of the year, coming soon on the Suitcase.com blog.

Photo credit: shyb

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What are your travel tips for 2012?

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The upcoming winter months are a popular time for skiers and snowboarders to travel by air to some of the country’s greatest mountainous regions. Avid resort goers and winter sport novices alike know that skiing and snowboarding can be a pricey hobby, especially if air travel is involved.

With baggage fees and regulations continually on the rise, it’s difficult to know how much you’ll actually be spending simply on air travel. Even ski and snowboard owners will occasionally skip the hassle and fees of bringing equipment with them, and rent what they need at the resort.

We’ve compiled baggage regulations and specific ski and snowboard equipment rules and restrictions for some of the top airlines so you can weigh the options of bringing your own equipment versus renting.

Delta Airlines

Economy Seat: First checked bag: $25; second checked bag: $35

Baggage Maximum: Checked bag: 50 lbs., 62 linear in., carry-on bag: 45 linear in. or less

If you are hitting the slopes via Delta airlines, you can bring your ski and snowboard equipment as checked baggage. One ski/pole bag or one snowboard bag, and one boot bag is accepted per person. The combined weight of the ski/snowboard bag and the boot bag may not exceed 50 lbs. or excess weight charges will apply. Linear dimensions may exceed 80 inches, and no excess size charges apply. All standard baggage charges apply. 

Frontier Airlines

Economy Seat: First checked bag: $20; second checked bag: $20

Baggage Maximum: Checked bag: 50 lbs., 62 linear in., carry-on bag: 50 linear in.

Frontier Airlines accepts special items as checked or carry-on luggage. For example, one item may include skis, ski poles, and ski boots, or one pair of boots (in a boot bag), which may be checked separately from the ski bag, but still count as one item. A boots-only piece of luggage can be counted as a carry-on, while skis are not accepted.

• One ski bag and one pair of boots = one item
• One piece of luggage, one ski bag and one pair of boots = two items

Keep baggage maximums in mind to avoid incurring additional charges; many special items have a specific charge or require special packing.

Southwest Airlines

Economy Seat: First checked bag: free; second checked bag: free

Baggage Maximum: Checked bag: 50 lbs., 62 linear in., carry-on bag: 50 linear in.

Southwest Airlines allows two bags to fly free on any flight. If you decide to bring additional luggage, you’ll incur a charge of $50 per piece. Snow ski equipment, including skis or snowboards, ski boots and ski poles, may be checked in substitution of one piece of the free checked baggage allowance for each passenger at no charge on a one-item-for-one-bag basis.

Effective March 1, 2012: including one pair of skis or one snowboard, one set of poles, and one pair of ski/snowboard boots encased in an acceptable container. When substituting ski equipment for a free bag, Southwest Airlines allows up to two bags (containing one set of snow skis, ski poles, and ski boots) to count as one item, even if they are packed and tagged separately.

Overweight items from 50 to 100 pounds and oversized items in excess of 62 inches but not more than 80 inches will be accepted for a charge of $50 per item.

United/Continental Airlines

Economy Seat: First checked bag: $25; second checked bag: $35

Baggage Maximum: Checked bag: 50 lbs. 62 linear in., carry-on bag: 45 linear in.

On either United or Continental flights, one set of ski equipment is allowed in place of one checked bag. One item of ski equipment can include: up to two pairs of snow skis and associated equipment in one bag and one ski boot bag.

Note: if the ski boot bag contains other items in addition to or in place of boots, it will be subject to applicable excess baggage fees. Also, if the combined weight of the ski bag and boot bag exceeds 50 lbs., an overweight baggage fee applies. 

Hit the Slopes Hard, Not Your Wallet

Ski vacations are a time to enjoy the outdoors, not stress over the cost to haul your equipment on a flight. Take some time to do research on the airline you’d like to fly, and find out their baggage policies for ski equipment ahead of time so there are no surprises when you get to the airport. And, there are some great brands like Athalon that make easy-to-handle ski and boot luggage that can help make your trip easier.

Image Credit: Josh Recker (@JARecks) at Keystone Ski Resort, Colorado.

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What are your ski and snowboard luggage and packing tips?

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With the December holidays quickly approaching, another busy travel season is upon us. If you plan to fly this month, you’re sure to find some of these seasonal items making their way into your luggage, leaving you with a packing dilemma.

Here, we focus on three of the most popular items that air travelers tend to pack during the holidays, and provide tips for proper packing that save time, money and future security hassles.

Flying with Food

Holidays are synonymous with food, and most partygoers like to bring something special to a family member’s or friend’s home. If you’re traveling to a holiday gathering by plane this year, be aware that certain food items are not permissible in a carry-on bag.  Some of the most commonly packed, seasonal food items are cranberry sauce, dips, condiments, jams, dressings, soups, and bottles of alcohol or wine.

Avoid having to throw these items out in the security line, and pack them in a checked bag, or ship them to your destination. Also, note that pies, cakes and desserts are allowed through the security checkpoint, but if necessary, they may be taken for “additional screening.”

View TSA’s complete list of food items to avoid packing in your carry-on.

Packing Pre-wrapped Presents

Depending on the size of the gift, you should be able to keep any pre-wrapped gifts in a carry-on bag. Remember that your carry-on must adhere to your airline’s specific size and weight regulations. Any gift is subject to screening, if needed, and can be unwrapped if security finds it necessary.

If the gift is larger, and fits awkwardly in your carry-on, choose a safer option, and pack the gift in a checked bag so it will not be unwrapped. Or, premeasure your wrapping paper, neatly fold it, and bring it along with the gift item to avoid having a TSA attendant unwrap your gift.

Traveling with Ski Equipment

In the winter months, it’s quite common for travelers to head for the mountains during the holidays for ski vacations. This usually requires additional, recreational equipment, most of which fits in a carry-on or checked bag (outerwear, hats, gloves, goggles, socks, accessories, etc.).

For the other bulkier items, like boots, skis, poles and snowboards, it’s important to know how to pack, and do it efficiently. Ski bags and boot bags are made to properly hold and protect ski equipment during travel. If it adheres to your airline’s regulations, your boot bag can be counted as a carry-on item. Then, check with your airline to see how they accommodate “special items,” such as ski equipment. Most airlines will count a ski bag in place of a checked bag, and some will accept two ski items. 

Fly Stress Free

The holiday season is a time for fun and food with family and friends. If you do a little bit of research beforehand, you’re sure to simplify the packing process. Once you’re aware of what you can and cannot bring through security and onto the plane, you’ll be one step closer to a joyful—and restful— holiday.

Photo courtesy: Conde Nast Traveler

Are you traveling this holiday season? What packing tips do you use to stay stress-free?

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Take note, shopping enthusiasts—there are still great savings to be had after the mayhem of Black Friday. Save some of your gift buying for Small Business Saturday, an event sponsored by American Express, and shop at Bretts Luggage and Gifts, Suitcase.com’s flagship location in Boston.

What You Get

When you use your American Express card at a local, non-franchised business—like Bretts Luggage and Gifts—to purchase merchandise totaling $25 or more, American Express will add a $25 credit to your statement.

Luggage for Less

Stop in Bretts, and shop our luggage collection to show your support. We’re open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and located at 435 Boston Post Rd., Sudbury, MA 01776.

Combine your Small Business Saturday credit with our current deals for great luggage savings:

• Briggs & Riley — $50 off every $250 purchase
• Victorinox — 20% off entire collection
• Hartmann — 25% off Intensity collection; $100 off any purchase from the Tweed collection
• Zero Halliburton — 25% off Zeroller collection

*Please note: Purchases must be made in-store to receive the "Small Business" credit from American Express.

When and Where to Shop

This deal is valid ONLY on Saturday, November 26, 2011. You must make your purchase at a small business; online purchases do not qualify.

What You Need to Know

• You must register your American Express card to participate.
• American Express will only credit one transaction.
• The business must accept American Express credit cards as payment.

Are you an avid small business-supporter? Tell us where you shop!

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