Travel Products - Beginner Consultant

Hey everyone,

This is my first post here. I am sure I will be visiting this site more and more over the coming months. I just graduated college, and I will be starting my career as a technology consultant in July. I will be traveling frequently, so I need to find the best luggage for my needs. AFAIK, most consultants will not check a bag for a four day trip. (M-R). So my priority is to find a great carry on that can hold all of my clothes. I am not a great packer (I'm sure I will learn fast), so the bigger the better. I also will need a regular luggage for longer trips, and I guess a toiletry case.

I recently received a Tumi brief case as a graduation present. I know there is so much discussion about brands on this forum, so I don't want to start another thread like that. But my question is, what features should I look for in a good carry on? Does anyone have any good suggestions? I saw someone mention a carry on that had a hanger hook so you can leave your clothes on a hanger and then just take it out and hang it up when you get to the hotel. This seems like a cool feature. What does everyone think?

Also, what is everyone's opinion on Delsey? I don't see them talked about much here. I am able to get their products at wholesale cost, which is great. Should I stick with them, even if they may not be as good as a Tumi bag?

All advice would be appreciated!

Welcome to FT! I recommend that you start by browsing the forum. Read the stickies, use the search function to explore whatever interests you. Objective information on what vendors have to offer is easily found. Your real challenge will be figuring out your own needs and tastes. :)

Would you be happier with a rolling carry-on or a shoulder bag? Backpack straps? One large compartment or several smaller ones? Which color?

The hanger feature is very useful in making packing/unpacking easier but when it comes to selecting a bag make sure to check the service package that comes with the bag. Replacement, repair (who pays for parts/shipping).

When it comes to toiletry kits I have gone smaller over the years. Shampoo and such come from most hotels. Toothpaste, Electric Toothbrush in case, contact solution, contact case, Floss, 1 small bottle of mouth wash but most hotels provide these days, precounted out vitamins/meds+2 day extra and Q tips.

I tend to travel with 1 standard roll-a-board and a cabin bag/laptop bag. Between those two items I have no issues.

Thanks everyone. I definitely want a rolling carry on, I won't want to carry it. Would I be better off with a hard case or soft? What are the advantages and disadvantages of both be?

Thanks everyone. I definitely want a rolling carry on, I won't want to carry it. Would I be better off with a hard case or soft? What are the advantages and disadvantages of both be?

Hard cases can be heavier than soft cases (although with newer materials, not necessarily!) Soft cases with expandable middles are nice to squeeze extra material in (for regular trips). I dislike spinners and prefer the larger radius wheels. I have a soft case Samsonite expandable carryon and tend to buy a new bag every 2 years or so due to wear and tear.

Welcome to FlyerTalk.

I don't feel that bigger is better. I personally (personally, some will disagree) get a carry on that is larger than 20 inches. Anything bigger than that and to me it becomes a hassle to get them in overheads, the trunk of rentals, etc. You lose a couple of inches of space, but, again for me, it's totally made up with how much easier it is to get around with it.

Your choice of luggage depends on your needs. Personally I prefer pack it folders for shirts to keep them wrinkle free, a carry on with a hanger hook does not work as well for me. Hangers take up space and add weight.

I would get something fairly inexpensive right now. Get some trips under your belt, figure out what you really need (no matter what anybody says, nobody has a clue what your needs are, only you can determine that) and take some time to figure out what you are looking for.

I would also recommend soft side. Hard side ones can't be mashed into a small space, or overstuffed when necessary.

Simple answer: The $50 carry-on bag of decent quality you buy from Marshalls/TJ Maxx will last you a long time. In terms of hanger hooks etc, the one feature I would recommend you find is a carry-on with a built in toiletry bag...makes life easy.

Thats what most consultants get. You'll write it off as job expense.

Unless of of course you want to be a little different. At your age and the stage of your career, however, you are probably more worried about not screwing up the firm's partners' image. Right now you have to fit in with the culture and the look. At least I hope you have good shoes and are not running around with douche bag stuff like Kenneth Cole, or Aldo.

If you need some style advice check styleforum.net.

Thanks everyone. I definitely want a rolling carry on, I won't want to carry it. Would I be better off with a hard case or soft? What are the advantages and disadvantages of both be?

Hard case is simply not needed unless you transport fragile items. When you do hard case, do spinner and also do rigid frame (no zipper between the hard shells). This is the most rigid version and it really pays big dividends in protection but mostly in how easy it is to move the luggage around even when it is heavily loaded. At that point your choices are rather limited (Rimowa, Samsonite, Titan (Maybe), Delsey). I don't know of any others making real hard cases with hard frames and four wheels.

Hard cases basically never have exterior pockets. However, those are super practical to slip a last minute laundry item or newspaper and to store file folders. They won't get crunched in the flat exterior compartments and access is easy.

Don' t get a monopole (single pole) extension handle. They are bad for attaching a briefcase. Get a standard two pole handle and a suitcase with a hard flat top so the briefcase can sit on it easily.

Forget about the outside handle systems like Briggs Riley uses them. They are in principle more fragile and cost a lot of packing space while increasing the exterior volume. Otherwise BR is an excellent brand, though.

Delsey is very good. Buying a higher-end Delsey bag at wholesale price sounds like a really good idea.

I second the advice to go with nothing bigger than a 20" suitcase. And do watch the weight, the empty weight. Every pound you save there is worth gold.

As a material you want 1080d ballistic nylon. Or 1000d Cordura nylon. Accept nothing less. A waterproof warranty on the other hand is not that important if you actually never check the bag. But it is nice to have.

Don't bother with a toiletry case. Useless weight. Instead use two ziplock baggies. One for hardware (brush, comb, etc) and one for liquids (gel, cologne, etc).

Forget about extra garment bag features and such. Just an Eagle Creek shirt folder will be a good investment.

I also second the advice with good shoes. Not only will your feet thank you but you will look much better and feel much better. Allen Edmonds make a very good shoe at a very reasonable price.

IMPORTANT: Do read/STUDY the Masterpacking Thread Sticky on top of this forum. It will tell you all you need to know on the subject.

Congrats on the new job, welcome to FT and good luck,

Till

Oh, dash it, tfar, you always just pip me to the post.

So yes, exactly what tfar said, plus a third voice to get some good shoes (and good suit). As for the luggage, look for all the features that tfar says, but visually, as long as it isn't offensive it'll be fine.

So the *look* of the luggage isn't important, you want to concentrate on the practicality. However, for your shoes and suits then looks (rightly or not) *will* be important.

Whichever brand you choose, I would suggest a soft case. It can be very helpful to stuff items that you would take off and put into a bin into the front pockets. This can save a few minutes if in a rush to get to the gate.

Never under estimate the effectiveness of using the hotel's bathroom with the shower running on hot to steam out the wrinkles from your packed suits/shirts/pants. I have used this tip several times when packing didn't go quite as planned.

Welcome to FT and the road!
C

Oh, dash it, tfar, you always just pip me to the post.

So yes, exactly what tfar said, plus a third voice to get some good shoes (and good suit). As for the luggage, look for all the features that tfar says, but visually, as long as it isn't offensive it'll be fine.

So the *look* of the luggage isn't important, you want to concentrate on the practicality. However, for your shoes and suits then looks (rightly or not) *will* be important.

:D Saved you some typing.

+1 to the looks. As long as the luggage isn't freakish it's alright. You're already off to a good start with the Tumi briefcase.

Shoes and suits will indeed make a difference both in how you see yourself and how others see yourself. Clothes make the man. For the rest you let your professionalism speak for itself. ;)

Till

I'd reiterate the suggestion of getting something cheap from TJ Max/Marshals and figure out what works for you (or doesn't). Use it for a few months then buy something nicer. If you're traveling a bunch and your nice bag is out for repair you'll have a backup.

If you're on a lot a regionals get a non-roller soft side, if not a roller keeps the weight off your shoulder (and suit jacket). I've got both and what I use depends on the trip/planes.

Also packing aids (bags, folders, etc) help a lot if the TSA wants to rummage through your bag, not to mention separating out items for different types of trips. I'm a big believer of packing folders rather than bundle packing since I can get to the shirt I need w/o unbundling/rebundling.

Toiletry bags; I've looked at a bunch and tried a few but nothing was the right size and nor allowed items to dry out. Standard quart size ziplock for liquids and a plastic mesh bag for loofa, toothbrush, comb, q-tips, powders, etc.

Thats what most consultants get. You'll write it off as job expense.

Unless of of course you want to be a little different. At your age and the stage of your career, however, you are probably more worried about not screwing up the firm's partners' image. Right now you have to fit in with the culture and the look. At least I hope you have good shoes and are not running around with douche bag stuff like Kenneth Cole, or Aldo.

If you need some style advice check styleforum.net.

HAHAHA!

I'd love to know if you learned this from past experience or from someone telling you otherwise...and additionally - what firm you work for. Classic!

If you can get a deal on some Delsey stuff, go for it. It's lightweight and decent quality. As long as you don't abuse it and avoid checking it when you can, it can last a very long time. I've been using the same Samsonite rolling bag and generic duffle bag for the last 4 years and both are still in great shape.

Also, while Tumi and B&R might be great bags, I personally cannot justify the cost. Like I said, my Samsonite suitcase is in great shape and was probably $50 in 2007. It is on the heavy side so I am looking at replacing it, but not because of its condition.

By the way, "most consultants" don't buy Tumi stuff and, I don't know about where you'll be working, but the consultants with whom I work are not so hung up on "style" and whether or not you wear "douche bag stuff". You can look nice without spending a fortune on fancy brand name everything.

HAHAHA!

I'd love to know if you learned this from past experience or from someone telling you otherwise...and additionally - what firm you work for. Classic!

I'm right there with you, buddy. The whole thing is absolutely ridiculous!

Wow. It's amazing what the phrase "technology consultant" means to different people. Most of these guys are just code jockeys and grunts sitting in a cubicle provided by the client. Although they travel every week, they have no need for a suit and tie, let alone brogues.

I have no idea what kind of consultant the OP is, but I laugh out loud at the comments talking about how the brand of luggage or shoe, will make a difference in their career. Who are these people, and where do they work? So I can avoid!

I have been a consultant for the past 10 years, and I can count on one hand the number of times I have worn a suit, or even a shirt and tie. Even working with conservative/"stick up their butt" companies like Deloitte, no one wore suits or ties. But I do love Allen Edmond shoes, but never a wing tip brogue! Old man style...

I have been a consultant for the past 10 years, and I can count on one hand the number of times I have worn a suit, or even a shirt and tie.

Some less charitable contributors might say that just proves the point.

Of course, I'm just being facetious and you are probably very happy with your career. I have no wish to offend or denigrate anybody here.

Some less charitable contributors might say that just proves the point.

Of course, I'm just being facetious and you are probably very happy with your career. I have no wish to offend or denigrate anybody here.

Ouch. So because I enjoy what I do I'm considered a failure... Consultant-level pay, good bennies, intermittent travel, no suits and ties, co-workers I actually like, yeah I should give that all up.

I have been a consultant for the past 10 years, and I can count on one hand the number of times I have worn a suit, or even a shirt and tie. Even working with conservative/"stick up their butt" companies like Deloitte, no one wore suits or ties. But I do love Allen Edmond shoes, but never a wing tip brogue! Old man style...

It really depends with whome you're primarily interacting and the type of organization with which you're consulting. I generally meet with senior management and executive types. Many companies I visit are business casual, so I'll usually go with a suit and no tie, unless we're familiar enough with each other to be more casual. Some companies have a more casual culture (e.g., you can wear jeans at Levi Strauss & Co - Levi's only, of course!). Others are still formal and it would be inappropriate to wear anything other than a suit, or at least a tie. Even if the company is generally casual, execs will often wear suits, and my general rule of thumb is that it's better to be over-dressed than under-dressed.

But I really don't put any stock into the whole brand name pimping thing.

Wow. It's amazing what the phrase "technology consultant" means to different people. Most of these guys are just code jockeys and grunts sitting in a cubicle provided by the client. Although they travel every week, they have no need for a suit and tie, let alone brogues.

I have no idea what kind of consultant the OP is, but I laugh out loud at the comments talking about how the brand of luggage or shoe, will make a difference in their career. Who are these people, and where do they work? So I can avoid!

I have been a consultant for the past 10 years, and I can count on one hand the number of times I have worn a suit, or even a shirt and tie. Even working with conservative/"stick up their butt" companies like Deloitte, no one wore suits or ties. But I do love Allen Edmond shoes, but never a wing tip brogue! Old man style...
Noone here pushed for branding. But rather, for good quality.

Striving to be polished in dress never hurts, whether in a social or business setting, for personal or professional gains. No matter how high or low one is on the totem pole (or deigned by you). Buying good stuff, and looking good, is not a bad thing

Hey everyone,

This is my first post here. I am sure I will be visiting this site more and more over the coming months. I just graduated college, and I will be starting my career as a technology consultant in July. I will be traveling frequently, so I need to find the best luggage for my needs. AFAIK, most consultants will not check a bag for a four day trip. (M-R). So my priority is to find a great carry on that can hold all of my clothes. I am not a great packer (I'm sure I will learn fast), so the bigger the better. I also will need a regular luggage for longer trips, and I guess a toiletry case.

I recently received a Tumi brief case as a graduation present. I know there is so much discussion about brands on this forum, so I don't want to start another thread like that. But my question is, what features should I look for in a good carry on? Does anyone have any good suggestions? I saw someone mention a carry on that had a hanger hook so you can leave your clothes on a hanger and then just take it out and hang it up when you get to the hotel. This seems like a cool feature. What does everyone think?

Also, what is everyone's opinion on Delsey? I don't see them talked about much here. I am able to get their products at wholesale cost, which is great. Should I stick with them, even if they may not be as good as a Tumi bag?

All advice would be appreciated!

you're going to get answers that are all over the map for this question. for example, someone said that "most" consultants get Tumi bags. that's a ludicrous exaggeration. in seven years of being a road warrior, i have probably only known one or two consultants that spent Tumi money on a carryon. but hey, there's nothing wrong with Tumi if you want to spend a lot and get something that is not markedly better than a bargain bag.

flying every week takes a toll on your bag. it will get ABUSED. i firmly believe that you should NOT spend a lot on a carryon bag. get something under $100 like this:

http://www.target.com/p/Swissgear-Lightweight-Lugano-Pilot-Luggage-Collection-Red-21/-/A-11744098

i guarantee that it will last YEARS and when the wheels or the handle fail or you get a tear in it, you won't cry over your overpriced bag getting trashed. plus, if it happens when you are on the road, you can walk into any store, get a new one, and dumpster the old one without shedding a tear.

my first modestly priced swiss gear bag lasted over 5 years of consultant abuse until it threw a wheel at ORD. i think i paid about $80 for it and if you do the math that ends up at like 25 cents/flight. i went to target, bought a similar one for about the same price and am still using it two years later.

if you are on a long-term assignment, purchase ALL toiletries that you will need when you get to where you travel to and keep them in your desk at the client site or have the hotel you are staying at hold them over the weekend. this eliminates the need to transport that stuff every week. when you finish up the assignment, throw away the unused stuff, carry the empty case home and then start over when you get to the next long-term assignment. this saves grief at the airport. if you're in a different place every week, then this obviously will not work.

anyway, the above works for me and saves me grief and money. don't get too hung up on high end stuff. it's a money pit and i don't think that is time or effort well spent having to try to go through with a warranty repair or replacement.

Noone here pushed for branding. But rather, for good quality.

Striving to be polished in dress never hurts, whether in a social or business setting, for personal or professional gains. No matter how high or low one is on the totem pole (or deigned by you). Buying good stuff, and looking good, is not a bad thing

+1

for example, someone said that "most" consultants get Tumi bags. that's a ludicrous exaggeration. in seven years of being a road warrior, i have probably only known one or two consultants that spent Tumi money on a carryon. but hey, there's nothing wrong with Tumi if you want to spend a lot and get something that is not markedly better than a bargain bag.

flying every week takes a toll on your bag. it will get ABUSED. i firmly believe that you should NOT spend a lot on a carryon bag. get something under $100 like this:

http://www.target.com/p/Swissgear-Lightweight-Lugano-Pilot-Luggage-Collection-Red-21/-/A-11744098

i guarantee that it will last YEARS and when the wheels or the handle fail or you get a tear in it, you won't cry over your overpriced bag getting trashed. plus, if it happens when you are on the road, you can walk into any store, get a new one, and dumpster the old one without shedding a tear.

my first modestly priced swiss gear bag lasted over 5 years of consultant abuse until it threw a wheel at ORD. i think i paid about $80 for it and if you do the math that ends up at like 25 cents/flight. i went to target, bought a similar one for about the same price and am still using it two years later.

.

Oh. Do you still wear your double pleat pants that you bought at Target 10 years ago? And do you walk around with looking all desheveled cuz y r tech dude? Everyone is different Hey. Mark Zuckerberg wore a hoodie to his Roadshow. You might do your own IPO one day.

you're going to get answers that are all over the map for this question. for example, someone said that "most" consultants get Tumi bags. that's a ludicrous exaggeration. in seven years of being a road warrior, i have probably only known one or two consultants that spent Tumi money on a carryon. but hey, there's nothing wrong with Tumi if you want to spend a lot and get something that is not markedly better than a bargain bag.

flying every week takes a toll on your bag. it will get ABUSED. i firmly believe that you should NOT spend a lot on a carryon bag. get something under $100 like this:

http://www.target.com/p/Swissgear-Lightweight-Lugano-Pilot-Luggage-Collection-Red-21/-/A-11744098

i guarantee that it will last YEARS and when the wheels or the handle fail or you get a tear in it, you won't cry over your overpriced bag getting trashed. plus, if it happens when you are on the road, you can walk into any store, get a new one, and dumpster the old one without shedding a tear.

my first modestly priced swiss gear bag lasted over 5 years of consultant abuse until it threw a wheel at ORD. i think i paid about $80 for it and if you do the math that ends up at like 25 cents/flight. i went to target, bought a similar one for about the same price and am still using it two years later.

if you are on a long-term assignment, purchase ALL toiletries that you will need when you get to where you travel to and keep them in your desk at the client site or have the hotel you are staying at hold them over the weekend. this eliminates the need to transport that stuff every week. when you finish up the assignment, throw away the unused stuff, carry the empty case home and then start over when you get to the next long-term assignment. this saves grief at the airport. if you're in a different place every week, then this obviously will not work.

anyway, the above works for me and saves me grief and money. don't get too hung up on high end stuff. it's a money pit and i don't think that is time or effort well spent having to try to go through with a warranty repair or replacement.




the lats thing a consultant wants, flying straight to work, putting in 12 hour days, and flying back home, is picking up a busted luggage from the carousel


i bought a cheap luggage set straight out of college. the thing broke after a handful of use -- zippers came off, wheels knocked off, handle bent.

very emblematic of the disposable society.

buy good stuff that lasts and you can be proud of owning

the lats thing a consultant wants, flying straight to work, putting in 12 hour days, and flying back home, is picking up a busted luggage from the carousel
First of all, no real consultant would be checking their bag. So having a burst bag come down the carousel is a non-entity.


i bought a cheap luggage set straight out of college. the thing broke after a handful of use -- zippers came off, wheels knocked off, handle bent.

very emblematic of the disposable society.

buy good stuff that lasts and you can be proud of owning
No one says to get the bottom of the barrel luggage from some department store brand. But getting a Delsey from TJMaxx for $50 will be just fine for a carryon. There's no proof that for a carryon, the expensive bags last any longer than the lower end bags.

There are just as many stories on this board of people's expensive luggage failing and needing a warranty repair, as there are of lower-end luggage failing. The difference is that if the expensive bag fails, you have to cart around the broken bag until you can take it in for repair. Of course that's fine if you're working in a major city, but many consultants are in West Bubblef--k with the nearest repair shop 100 miles away. If the $50 bag fails, you toss it and head to the nearest TJMaxx/Marshalls and get another.

First of all, no real consultant would be checking their bag. So having a burst bag come down the carousel is a non-entity.

+1 busted bag on carousel = laughing my ... off, why are you checking stuff?

just replace your stuff every 1-2 years (at the slightest sign of wear/tear, something loose, etc). samsonite stuff only costs like 100 bucks.

I'd start with the Delsey you can get wholesale so you can get a feel for what life will be like on the road. As you likely reach a point where you want a high quality bag, take a good look and Briggs and Riley.

I know tfar isn't a fan of them ( you could learn much just by reading his post here and looking at the one bag site). - but several of us are BR fans.
Great bag, best warranty in the business. Anything at anytime. Even carry on only your bag will get a workout.


There are a number of combinations of bags, gear, and gadgets that can work. For you, your job and personality.

Best of luck to you. Oh yea, if you haven't seen it watch Up in the Air.

Mapsgl

Oh. Do you still wear your double pleat pants that you bought at Target 10 years ago? And do you walk around with looking all desheveled cuz y r tech dude? Everyone is different Hey. Mark Zuckerberg wore a hoodie to his Roadshow. You might do your own IPO one day.

just silly. what does the bag have to do with want's in it? a black 22" carryon is a black 22" carryon, no matter what vintage or brand. dropping large money on it is a waste, but it does give a clue to the arrogant superficiality of the owner. you probably dish out DYKWIA rants when you have to sit next to someone in *gasp* SHORTS when you get upgraded to first class, too. there, do you like having assinine judgements thrown at YOU based on a few sentences?

a beginner consultant has no need to spend stupid money on something that will end up destroyed. save your money for something important, not an overpriced status symbol that functionally is no better than something inexpensive, ordinary, and utilitarian.

just silly. what does the bag have to do with want's in it? a black 22" carryon is a black 22" carryon, no matter what vintage or brand. dropping large money on it is a waste, but it does give a clue to the arrogant superficiality of the owner. you probably dish out DYKWIA rants when you have to sit next to someone in *gasp* SHORTS when you get upgraded to first class, too. there, do you like having assinine judgements thrown at YOU based on a few sentences?

a beginner consultant has no need to spend stupid money on something that will end up destroyed. save your money for something important, not an overpriced status symbol that functionally is no better than something inexpensive, ordinary, and utilitarian.

I've only done the rant DYKWIA once in my life cuz this dude sitting on my spot at the Lakers Finals game a while ago. But that is so justified. I think you are referring to some interesting people like Celebs or CEO types. I am saying don't buy cheap stuff. But get quality and durability. Like lifetime warranty vs limited warranty. Like nylon vs leather. Like functionality over beauty.

But don't get disposable stuff that's gonna have a broken handle in the middle of a trip. I've done that when I first started out and learned my lesson. Then I started listening to more experienced travelers.

Until your weekly travels amount to enough to give you boarding priority with your airline of choice, you'll be in lower priority boarding groups. Airline bins fill up quickly - especially during the coming peak travel months. Pack light and use soft sided bags or you'll find your stuff being checked and end up waiting by the baggage carousel. Use each week to re-evaluate what you really need to bring and keep reducing until you find your bare minimum. Size and weight are the two greatest challenges you will face. Using that approach it's probably best to buy a cheaper bag now and then spend on a nice one when you've got your habits nailed down.

I'm in the same Monday / Thursday routine as you. I limit myself to a small Tumi carryon duffel, it's light (which is extremely important) and easy to cram into overhead bins, even after flight attendants claim the bins are full.

just replace your stuff every 1-2 years (at the slightest sign of wear/tear, something loose, etc). samsonite stuff only costs like 100 bucks.

sounds like fun. buy cheap and replace. this is a terrible approach ... to everything - luggage, clothes, furniture, appliances, hobbies

just replace your stuff every 1-2 years (at the slightest sign of wear/tear, something loose, etc). samsonite stuff only costs like 100 bucks.

That is assuming, of course, that one would be able to see such wear and tear and be in a convenient place/position to replace their luggage.

I have plenty of scuffs and scratches. But when the "cheap stuff" breaks, it breaks, with little or no warning.

I like knowing that my stuff isn't going to break when I'm abroad, and far away from any sort of luggage store.

Until your weekly travels amount to enough to give you boarding priority with your airline of choice, you'll be in lower priority boarding groups. Airline bins fill up quickly - especially during the coming peak travel months. Pack light and use soft sided bags or you'll find your stuff being checked and end up waiting by the baggage carousel. Use each week to re-evaluate what you really need to bring and keep reducing until you find your bare minimum. Size and weight are the two greatest challenges you will face. Using that approach it's probably best to buy a cheaper bag now and then spend on a nice one when you've got your habits nailed down.

I'm in the same Monday / Thursday routine as you. I limit myself to a small Tumi carryon duffel, it's light (which is extremely important) and easy to cram into overhead bins, even after flight attendants claim the bins are full.

What he said. Figure out what you need like and then look for a quality version.

I have plenty of scuffs and scratches. But when the "cheap stuff" breaks, it breaks, with little or no warning.


and when "expensive stuff" breaks, it breaks with no warning too. w/t is never covered under warranty. buy middle of the line stuff and replace, never buy the most expensive stuff.

Noone here pushed for branding. But rather, for good quality.

Actually, reread Mellonc's initial contribution to this thread, copied below for posterity and bolded by me. This is what folks were reacting to.

Black Tumi - Thats what most consultants get. You'll write it off as job expense.

Unless of of course you want to be a little different. At your age and the stage of your career, however, you are probably more worried about not screwing up the firm's partners' image. Right now you have to fit in with the culture and the look. At least I hope you have good shoes and are not running around with douche bag stuff like Kenneth Cole, or Aldo.

If you need some style advice check styleforum.net.

We get it - you're fancy and you're cool and you hang out courtside at Lakers games because you're fancy and cool.

The fact is, most people have a budget. Tumi and B&R stuff is good quality, but a stretch for many people. It's also not appreciably more durable or (personal opinion) that much better looking than many other mid-range brands.

Clients (and partners, for that matter) won't think you're a loser or "douche bag" because you wear Kenneth Cole shirts and Aldo shoes. They won't think more highly of you because you wear designer label items or bespoke suits.

They'll think you're a douche bag if you act like a douche bag (e.g., putting other people down because of the brand of clothes they wear or luggage they use).

Like I've said, I've bought low and mid range luggage and haven't had a problem with it in the last 4-5 years or whatever it is.

I will say that checking bags is an unusual occurrence for most consultants I work with. It just tends to take too much time on the front and back ends, and you know how in love with efficiency consultants are :p

Bottom line - it's your money and you decide the value proposition of your purchases. If you think it's worth spending $500+ on one Tumi bag, go for it. If you'd rather spend 20% of that on a good quality piece, that's your prerogative. Ditto the clothing thing.

I stand by my comment about Aldo and Kenneth Cole. Let's also throw in ...., Kim Kardashian Perfumes and toilet water (or Eau De Toilette), Bruno Magli and a bunch other stuff to throw money away in.

Perhaps you never ran into a guy standing next you decked out in a suit so low rise that one had to keep on adjusting his pants along with smelling like Deep Woods Off (the combo smell of cologne, mouthwash, deodorant and hair wax) We call that a douche bag.

That's something entirely different than what some other poster brought up. In fact something like inexpensive (not cheap) Target might even be sensible cuz they are price/quality ratio is actually pretty good (they carry a lower line of SwissArmy stuff) The real douche stuff is actually somewhat expensive which makes it even more douche!!!

The comment I made earlier about folks at my firm trying to buy Tumi stuff was based on truth (Tumi actually used to have a good warranty). When you come out of an MBA school and join a prestigious consulting firm, you are really just trying to fit in and not upset the balance ...... so to speak. At the end of the day, it's not the American Idol and you don't want people doing solo performances. We want the team to gel. Also these are guys/gals who got straight A's in school and/or excelled in other parts of their lives to recognize the difference between good taste vs. simple pop culture trendy BS.

So most guys/gals at my firm try to play it safe and try to buy stuff that their immediate bosses carry around. Such as Tumi's of the world, the Hickey's, Allen Edmonds and so forth. And yes, most of these guys/girls have 2 or 3 shades of gray in their suit colors and a bunch of white shirts from Brooks Brothers....... It's that boring consultant a la Mitt Romney'ish look but definitely not douche.

One last point, you can go to Tumi Outlet stores, or Hartmans outlet stores, Nordstrom Rack and CharlesTyrwhitt.com to pick up stuff at good prices. I'd bet you'd pay less than what you'd pay for a full priced douche stuff....

ps. Court-side seats at the Lakers game???? Seriously??? Court-side? :confused:

The comment I made earlier about folks at my firm trying to buy Tumi stuff was based on truth (Tumi actually used to have a good warranty). When you come out of an MBA school and join a prestigious consulting firm, you are really just trying to fit in and not upset the balance ...... so to speak. At the end of the day, it's not the American Idol and you don't want people doing solo performances. We want the team to gel. Also these are guys/gals who got straight A's in school and/or excelled in other parts of their lives to recognize the difference between good taste vs. simple pop culture trendy BS.

So most guys/gals at my firm try to play it safe and try to buy stuff that their immediate bosses carry around. Such as Tumi's of the world, the Hickey's, Allen Edmonds and so forth. And yes, most of these guys/girls have 2 or 3 shades of gray in their suit colors and a bunch of white shirts from Brooks Brothers....... It's that boring consultant a la Mitt Romney'ish look but definitely not douche.


Without trying to sound like a jerk, the focus on brands is inconsistent with my experience at a "prestigious" consulting firm (as you call it). So long as your clothing is clean, it fits well and it doesn't have loud patterns or unusual designs, you will be okay. Even finding the source of comparison would be difficult - everyone from analysts to partners is in the same room, so very different levels of income and focus on clothing throughout.

In the sense of what looks to wear, I agree with you. For business casual, with most people I work with you'll blend right in with the "exciting" combo of of a blue or checked shirt and charcoal or black pants.

To the OP, I'd focus on the following things (based on my experience, YMMV):
1. Get a roller bag. The walk to rental car terminals can be quite long and your shoulders will thank you for not having to carry your bag
2. Find out the dress code before the study. I've seen suits, just a tie, business casual, casual, etc. I'd argue here that it's better to fit in than to show up over/under-dressed - both are noticeable!
3. Don't check your bag - the poster who mentioned their bag coming off the carousel would not be very popular with my colleagues. Think "Up in the Air" - nobody checks their bag
4. Bring a few extra pieces of clothing in case your trip is extended. Many times I've found out at the last minute that I needed to spend an extra night; checking back into the same hotel at 9p does not leave much time for dry cleaning
5. If you are a gym goer and travel to the same city, check with your hotel on whether you can leave gym shoes/clothing. Keeping this at the hotel will free up a lot of space in your bag each week
6. Check the weather - it sounds stupid but pay attention to your destination's weather, not your home city's. We have had a number of folks pack clothing suitable for the latter, not the former

I agree do not buy cheap. 30+ years ago I tried this route and it failed for me. While you may be thinking carry on the day will come when the overheads are full and you will have to gate check. And then it helps to have a better made bag, because you want to retrieve it in one piece. I have been at the carousel when things come out in pieces and it is not pretty.
But, I am not saying go but the most expensive either, look through these posts and you will find many excellent recommendations. You may also find that depending on where and for how long your trip will be determines your luggage requirements. Twice a year I do a Australia and Japan trip which always makes for interesting packing (Winter/Summer Casual/Suit and Tie), for this I check baggage a suit-er and roller, just works for me.
If you search my posts you will find I own a number (greater than 7 pieces of Tumi), which I love. But, I also have not purchased a new piece this century, previously they did offer great value for the money (IMO).

I've been very happily using a Delsey X-Pert Lite 2-wheel carry-on for the past three years. Multiple trips to Middle East, within UK and to Japan and it's stood up just fine. Not the lightest bag out there, but good looking and versatile. If you can get Delsey at wholesale, I would certainly go for them.

wow, thanks for the feedback everyone. I think the smart move here is to go with the Delsey for now, and then see how it goes. I believe they are good enough quality that it will be fine for the first year or so. I have my Tumi Briefcase, so I should still be alright ;)

What does everyone think about this piece of luggage? http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/delsey-suitcase-22-helium-pilot-2.0-carry-on-rolling-upright-suiter?ID=522343

Obviously, I will not be paying that price as I can get it wholesale. I know that this is on the larger side for certain flights (regional ones). I don't know where I will be going yet, so I think I may prefer to take my chances with the convenience of the larger bag and extra room than a smaller one, but what do you guys think?

Also, some of you mentioned leaving stuff at the hotel. How does this work? I have heard that some consultants will become friendly with the hotel staff and actually just keep the same room week to week if it is not a very busy hotel. Also, I have heard of certain hotel staff allowing the consultant to check out and then check back in so they can rack up more rewards. Is this common?

Thanks guys.

To further clarify my question above: What is the "top end" Delsey Line that will be the largest I can fit as a carry on. 2 wheeled nylon seems like the best option.

wow, thanks for the feedback everyone. I think the smart move here is to go with the Delsey for now, and then see how it goes. I believe they are good enough quality that it will be fine for the first year or so. I have my Tumi Briefcase, so I should still be alright ;)

What does everyone think about this piece of luggage? http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/delsey-suitcase-22-helium-pilot-2.0-carry-on-rolling-upright-suiter?ID=522343

Obviously, I will not be paying that price as I can get it wholesale. I know that this is on the larger side for certain flights (regional ones). I don't know where I will be going yet, so I think I may prefer to take my chances with the convenience of the larger bag and extra room than a smaller one, but what do you guys think?

Also, some of you mentioned leaving stuff at the hotel. How does this work? I have heard that some consultants will become friendly with the hotel staff and actually just keep the same room week to week if it is not a very busy hotel. Also, I have heard of certain hotel staff allowing the consultant to check out and then check back in so they can rack up more rewards. Is this common?

Thanks guys.

Delsey will do fine. Good choice.

Many hotels have a storage room for their regular customers. You could for example have a bag stored there with shirts, shoes, suits and toiletries. The heavy stuff. You can even leave them your dirty shirts and shoes when you check out. They will take care of it. And when you come back, fresh shirts, shines suits and a steamed suit await you. A nice tip will facilitate this.

Now, I have not heard of the multiple checkin/out deal. I want to know more about that, even though I am not a consultant.

BTW, always trim down your packed good as much as you can (read sticky) and take the smallest bag it will fit in. That is the main procedure. If you do that, you don't even have to worry about all the pesky and different regulations airlines throw at you like stones. ;)

Till

From one to another...

OP, I went into consulting right after school and can understand your position.
My travel has always been M-F type as well. I'd describe my (our?) work more as extra hands on the dirty/tough project rather than "consulting consultants".
Whether you are an MBA or not, you will be doing grunge work as a newcomer rather than making sales pitch to client CEO/CIO/CFO so hold on to the thought of breaking bank for "job expenses".

Luggae: If Tumi fits your price range, go for it otherwise any lightweight and sturdy roll aboard will do. Brand names don't matter. Your partner won't care. As long as you don't have a duct-taped handle, its perfectly fine.

Clothes/Shoes - Dress sharp. Dress professional. Polish your shoes and iron your shirt. Keep a suit for days when partner is on client site (unless everyone is wearing a suit on daily basis). Noone cares about more.

More on shoes: I struggled here for a while. I wear the same pair for entire week, at work and outside work. So versatility and comfort are most important. If you workout, pack a pair of sneakers. Feel free to pack several pairs but it just adds on to the luggage.

Nothing is douchy. Everything is permitted.

Cheers

Nothing is douchy. Everything is permitted.



well......... there are some bags masquerading as fashionable but definitely douchy..... like this one.

http://www.amazon.com/Calvin-Klein-Manhattan-Collection-4-Wheeled/dp/B007KAYX10/ref=sr_1_17?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1339004354&sr=1-17

or this one

http://www.amazon.com/Calvin-Klein-Luggage-Upright-Wheeled/dp/B004Z4IBQW/ref=sr_1_15?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1339004354&sr=1-15

or this one

http://www.amazon.com/Kenneth-Cole-Reaction-Taking-Wheeled/dp/B005S5LYE8/ref=sr_1_7?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1339005204&sr=1-7

and here are examples of what I consider to be QUALITY BUT INEXPENSIVE.

http://www.stopoverstore.com/product/detail.cfm/nid/387/pid/85

or this

http://www.wayfair.com/Ricardo-Beverly-Hills-Bel-Aire-21.5-Expandable-Carry-On-154-22-WAB-ZS1210.html?refid=FR49-ZS1210

More on shoes: I struggled here for a while. I wear the same pair for entire week, at work and outside work.

Nothing is douchy. Everything is permitted.



For shoes i wear navy new balance sneakers on my way out with shoe laces somewhat loose (easy to take off and on). When I land I usually switch out to my dress shoes in the car ride over to the office and put the sneakers back where my dress shoes was in the back of my briefcase which contains my 311 bag and extra set of socks and underwear in case something goes wrong with my luggage. I also have another pair of dress shoes in the luggage to rotate during the week. I find my feet stinks less that way. :)

On the hotel thing, the major chains which count stays no longer count check-out and check-in to the same property on consecutive days as separate stays. It was possible for a while, but it's been years since it worked, ime.

What the hardcore folks (or those who need the extra stays to hit status) will sometimes do is switch hotels every night. Often, there will low- to mid-tier hotels from the same group right next to each other, so they'll just hop back and forth every day. Total pain.

I say just stick with one hotel. You'll get more than enough nights anyway to hit your status, so no worries there.

Also, I actually knew a guy who was on-site at a client for 6 months and got the client to agree to him buying a $700 bike to ride between the hotel and the office instead of getting a rental car, which he estimated at over $3500 for the 6 month period. It was a small town with a huge employer, so everything was pretty close. When it rained, he just hitched a ride with someone else or took the hotel shuttle.

Thanks for the info.. I don't see myself moving from hotel to hotel just to rack up the points.

So what is Delsey's best line?

@MellonC I actually think the Calvin Klein Dylan bag you posted is quite smart in the sense that it combines a hard shell with double wheels and exterior pockets. There aren't many bags like that. Rimowa once had on like it but they don't make it anymore.

The Kenneth Cole is clearly couchey, though. :D

@jss381 You can go to any online luggage site and find out for yourself. ;)

Till

Not gonna argue with on the design of the hard shell/spinner combo as I think you are right. I was pointing out the distasteful logo splashed across the whole bag.

Los Angeles is a funny place. It's actually not uncommon to see people paying for just a couple of gallons of gas at the pump because you really don't have money to fuel your S Class Benz. Of course they are wearing Gucci loafers and La Coste polos at the self service car wash for 8 quarters a wash.

@MellonC I actually think the Calvin Klein Dylan bag you posted is quite smart in the sense that it combines a hard shell with double wheels and exterior pockets. There aren't many bags like that. Rimowa once had on like it but they don't make it anymore.

Till

Rimowa used to have the Bolero, but this has been replaced by the "Salsa Deluxe Hybrid", which I'm pretty sure is still current?

I don't like them personally and they seem terrifically expensive, but they are available if you're that way inclined.

Los Angeles is a funny place. It's actually not uncommon to see people paying for just a couple of gallons of gas at the pump because you really don't have money to fuel your S Class Benz. Of course they are wearing Gucci loafers and La Coste polos at the self service car wash for 8 quarters a wash.

Yeah, and they're probably either living with their parents, or in a studio apartment with clothes strewn all over the place...

But regardless, this bothers you why?

Some people choose to spend their money on consumables, others choose to save for some indeterminate "future." Those who spend now might very well look at you with disdain, saying "What's the point of working so hard and flying around the world so much, if you can't have nice things?"

Regardless of how much gas money he has, he still able to enjoy his S-class Benz... Why get hung up on this stuff.

Not gonna argue with on the design of the hard shell/spinner combo as I think you are right. I was pointing out the distasteful logo splashed across the whole bag.

Los Angeles is a funny place. It's actually not uncommon to see people paying for just a couple of gallons of gas at the pump because you really don't have money to fuel your S Class Benz. Of course they are wearing Gucci loafers and La Coste polos at the self service car wash for 8 quarters a wash.

Yeah, and they're probably either living with their parents, or in a studio apartment with clothes strewn all over the place...

But regardless, this bothers you why?

Some people choose to spend their money on consumables, others choose to save for some indeterminate "future." Those who spend now might very well look at you with disdain, saying "What's the point of working so hard and flying around the world so much, if you can't have nice things?"

Regardless of how much gas money he has, he still able to enjoy his S-class Benz... Why get hung up on this stuff.

Alright guys, we're getting really off point here. Let's stick to advising the young consultant on his (her?) needs and save the fashion/lifestyle choice discussion for another thread. ^

As a fellow consultant, I recommend finding a suitcase with a sleeve for your suits. You can bring the suit sleeve with you when you need to pack suits or leave it at home when you are business casual.

I personally use a 21in Briggs & Riley suitcase that has seen close to one million miles with me over the years. I almost never check my carry-on so it still looks new and clean.

sounds like fun. buy cheap and replace. this is a terrible approach ... to everything - luggage, clothes, furniture, appliances, hobbies.... and relationships?

I personally use a 21in Briggs & Riley suitcase that has seen close to one million miles with me over the years. I almost never check my carry-on so it still looks new and clean.

+1 its a personal choice but the 20" BR has been working great for me for 5 years moderate travel. Most of my trips I can make do with just packing 2 suits however and wearing one on the way out Sunday. Would have probably been too pricey for me when I was starting out but ended up spending the money anyway and I think you can get them for 200-300? For me makes sense vs spending 100 ever 2 yrs or whatever. I also have a 18" Tumi which I got before the BR which is still a good bag just didn't pack that well for me with the shape and the interior handle bumps.

You may want to do your research now and check out some bags in person at the shops but wait until your first week to purchase unless you know your going out right away. Then you can talk to the experienced people at the firm and figure out what works. For example when I started in the game things were a lot more paper based so the teams would often send a few bankers boxes in advance with supplies etc. Was helpful on longer trips especially to just throw an extra pair on dress shoes or work out clothes. There was also a hotel which we would use a few times a year for a few consecutive weeks so they had no problem keeping printers etc. for us basically year round. It may even still be there in fact lol...

Lots of Briggs & Riley offers on at the moment, including several 20-21" carryons incl. Baseline, which is the most "trad-business-oriented" of their collections. It's been said before on the forum but if traveling internationally, 20 inch B & R is slightly safer than 21 inch B & R, as all B & R measurements refer to the inside of the case not the outside. So you need 1-2 inches spare on the measurement to strictly adhere to international carry-on size of many airlines.

Okay, I am a consultant. I have been travelling for years (23). My current position is 100% travel. I check my bag. I check it every week. It always shows up where I am (exception is maybe two times per year). As a frequent flyer, I get priority baggage handling which means that my bag shows up very quickly on the carousel. If you are traveling weekly and can stick to one or two airlines, you too will have status quickly.

Checking a bag allows me to not have to be concerned with having make-up, hair and skin products that fit in a quart sized bag. Believe me, you do not want to rely on the quality of hotel provided products if you have any sensitivities. I have carried both Delsey and Tumi bags -- which are, in general, heavy empty. I generally prefer a 20" bag that could be carried on if desired. My biggest issue, whether carried on or checked is the empty weight of the bag. I go through a bag about every two years ... and am still searching for the perfect bag ... the last bag I had that I LOVED was an Antler (http://www.antler.co.uk/) ... light enough to carry-on and strong enough to check ... alas, I no longer get to the UK very much and am not sure if you can get them here in the states ...

Good luck on the new job --- I am sure you will love it!

I recently received a Tumi brief case as a graduation present. I know there is so much discussion about brands on this forum, so I don't want to start another thread like that. But my question is, what features should I look for in a good carry on? Does anyone have any good suggestions?

Whoever gave you a Tumi briefcase did a good thing :-) if you are looking for inspiration on what to pack - I just laid out what goes into my Alpha here: http://www.killerconsultant.com/traveltech/how-to-pack-a-portable-office-consultant-style/
(some posts on what to wear, shirts, shoes etc. are there as well, but that goes off the point of your questions even more...)

+1 to everyone who said soft suitcase (as in Nylon). Don't do duffels, that just sets you up for crushed stuff.

As for the price range: I found almost no difference in durability between a 30 EUR and a 150 EUR suitcase - the difference is mostly in the interior layout and features.

Funny that nobody has gotten a firm position on "2 vs. 4 wheels" here yet ;-) ... to me, 4 wheels are nice as long as you are tugging the suitcase across smooth airport floor, but when you hit reality (curbs, rough terrain, stairs, etc.), I found the traditional 2 wheels more sturdy and practical.

Last not least: I hope you kicked off your consulting career well, have lots of fun!