Since I push the envelope on abuse (stays poolside for a minimum of a day a week where it can get splashed with heavy chlorinated water and is exposed to 100% humidity, heavy on the chlorine) for roll-onboard luggage, I had found that cheap stuff didn't last more than a couple months.

I bought three different Delsey's, one in 1995, one in 1998, and one in 2000. The one from 1995 is shabby but usable. The 1998 one needs repairs, but probably could be used. The 2000 one died in 2 months. Delsey quality seems to have gone down a lot over the years (also true for hard-sided cases I use for regular checked bags).

I have since moved to a Samsonite expandable. I bought mine for just under $250 but I have seen it on sale for under $150. The nice things about it is that if it gets a bit too full, I open up the expandable section and ship it in the hold.

I have admired the Tumi's from a distance, but have been afraid to subject the nice leather to the abuse I put my luggage through.

[This message has been edited by Water Polo Ref (edited 03-12-2001).]