Suitcases

First, I should indicate I am frequent traveler, with weekly trips that are 3-4 days in length, as well as weekly-long trips overseas. I prefer carry-ons for expediency, speed of getting in & out of the airport and security and loss prevention. I have been using a 22-in Brookstone carry one - a great bag, but after years it has started to show it's age. I started looking for a carry-on bag that would give me more space, less weight and better protection for my suits. I started to look at the hard-shell hybrid bags (hard shell on the bottom and walls, and soft-shell at the top (or closing) section. A flexible front flap with sub-compartments, and an expandable capability, were highly desirable options. This bag fits the bill, and at a very reasonable price. The product is particularly unique as it uses two separate hard-shell elements in the frame. It is a double clam-shell design, meaning there is one bottom section, and a second top section, both of which are constructed of hard-shell plastic material. The only soft portion to the bag is the top (or front) clam section. The bottom section serves well as the frame of the bag, providing strength, and maximum utility space. This is were you would put all your general items, including shoes, toiletries, and non-delicate items. The second (or top) section is for your suits and other items that need to be protected from compression. The bag fits in the overhead compartments, of most wide-body jets, and fits wheels in (in a perpendicular manner). The bag will NOT fit into the overhead of a regional jet (Embraer or Bombardier etc.). By my calculation this bag is about 4-5% oversized, yet it still fits into overhad compartments as I note above, while allowing you to carry on more material. Only considerations or complaints: - The handle is reasonably sturdy, but could be a little better. - The wheels seems strong, currently are quiet, but the wheels axle extends by 1/16th of an inch and will collect debree (threads etc) from the floor as you roll it along. I've had to clean the axle a couple of times already. - The front accessories bag is a little tight and the zipper did break on my bag (probably due to luggage handler...)"..."  Read more

Is this review cheating? I just bought a second one of these suitcases because I like it so well. My wife's old roller was wearing out so we now have a matched set of these spinners."

THE WHEELS ARE WONDERFUL AND THE POCKETS ON THE OUTSIDE ARE WONDERFUL. I WANT TO GET THE LARGER SIZE NOW."

Handle is a bit loose, but does the job. The rear pocket is good for storing important documents. Pack wisely and you can cram a lot inside it."