Originally Posted by junkDriver

Obligatory disclaimer: long time lurker, very seldom poster.

Been flying for quite some time, and enjoy taking trips with my wife - whenever we can get away. I've been traveling with a carry-on Samsonite for a long time (and it is holding up ridiculously well), but our getaway luggage has always been throwaway Nautica. Well, recently Nautica experienced a bit more abuse than usual and started falling apart just after a few trips. So, I decided to get a great Mother's Day gift for my SO, and what could be better than a 26" Rimowa Topas, right?

But then, I checked it out at a local luggage dealer that actually carries them. They are H.E.A.V.Y! How can you travel with a suitcase that weighs as if it's packed from the start - before you even put anything in it? I like the sturdiness and the feel, but... how do you manage the weight? With airlines counting every pound, forget an extra pair of shoes - an extra pair of dresses becomes an issue. Then - when you start thinking about European travel - lugging this thing in and out of a train car - also becomes a daunting task. I honestly was extremely surprised by just how much it weighs.

So, why do people buy it? My theory right now is that if you are the person who buys luggage at this price level - you probably fly business, too, so weight is not of a concern. And foot/train travel probably does not happen frequently either...

If anyone's curious, I ended up getting Briggs & Riley Baseline medium spinner.