Just a bit more info to my previous post... My packing will consist of:
- 1 pair of trousers
- 1 dress ....., boxers,
- 1 undershirt
- 1 pair socks
- 3-2-1 toiletries bag
If I can get 2 of each of the above (except toiletries) in using a Eagle Creek Pack-It Folder 15, I'll pick one up (I already have an 18 I use in my 20" roller). A pair of running shoes and shorts would be a bonus, but not a deal-breaker. Electronics will all go in a separate bag riding on top.
These are the main two I'm considering at the moment:
Eagle Creek ES2 Round About Wheeled Tote
I assume being Eagle Creek it would have build-quality well above its price point. The lifetime warranty is nice as well, but I don't see this bag getting a lot of abuse. The 15" width shouldn't have any problems rolling down aircraft aisles, but might limit me to truly one night worth of clothing. I don't think a Pack-It Folder 15 is an option with a bag this small. It's actually the same or bigger than the B&R U116 in all three dimensions while being lighter, but it just looks much smaller. It could work well as a second bag to expand on my 20" roll-aboard, but I don't see this being a common need.
American Tourister iLite Supreme Wheeled Boarding Bag
This one looks the most like the B&R U116 in layout and proportions, just a tad bit wider. It has a laptop size compartment on the front, but it's un-padded so it shouldn't rob too much storage capacity from the main compartment (and it might get used for my wife's 13" MBP in a sleeve on weekend car trips). A Pack-It Folder 15 should fit just right and expand this into 2-night territory pretty easily. It seems fairly well build from the Amazon and eBags reviews and it's not a bottom-of-the-line American Tourister (which would be the Splash line). My main worry is if the 17" width will require it to be carried instead of rolled on smaller aircraft... not a deal-breaker, but I would prefer to be able to roll onto a at least B737, A320, MD80, etc if not CR7/9.
I'm honestly considering the two above equally. The Eagle Creek seems to be as big at the B&R, but it really doesn't look it. The American Tourister is bigger and looks it and should do 2-nights fairly easily if needed and also accommodate a pair of running shoes.
Thoughts? Thanks in advance!