I travel approximately 2-3 weeks every two months and to developing countries - so the more demanding routes, so to speak.
In the past, I used several "top of the line" soft-cover Samsonite products for several years, but the zippers kept tearing apart and was frustrated with having to spend about $300 every three years.
So I finally took the plunge and bought a hardcase to see how it would perform. Being Rimowa, with its stature and price, I expected a lot. At first, I was awed by the appearance upon arrival - glistening and everything. But after my first trip overseas, it lost one wheel cover and had several dents - which made my heart sink. But reading the other reviews beforehand, I understood that this was to be interpreted as 'character' and to move on - which I did. In subsequent trips the dents were fewer, so I realized that the first trip was not a trend and I got use to the occasional dent or scrape.
Perhaps the most valuable lesson I learned was to pack more efficiently. The suitcase almost begs you to do this, and if you do it right, the amount you can pack is wildly efficient and compact. I'm absolutely positive that I can pack more into this 32" than I could in the 32" Samsonite which was 1.5x thicker in depth.
I am now on my third trip with the Rimowa and can attest to its sturdiness. I sometimes worry about the plastic locks on a metal suitcase, but nothing has happened yet. It isn't until you own a hardcase, with a few nibs and knobs on the outside that get clipped off during transit, that you realize how hard the handlers are on these cases. But the Rimowa has stood up fairly well.
All in all I'd recommend the Rimowa - if it lasts about 10 years given the price - and please note I'm still in my first year."..." Read more
- Craig in Washington, DC