I have been trying to figure out what to buy to use for international trips. My domestic carry-on is too heavy for some international carriers.

I want a 2 wheel so the choice becomes limited. I also ruled out softer solutions like the Osprey since I usually put my backpack on top. I really don't need the bells and whistles such as the USB battery pack thing.

Amazon has the Maxlite International for US$108.79 for Black Friday and the TravelPro Store has the Platinum Elite International for Black Friday for $295.99. The VersaPack was actually on sale at the TravelPro store for $161.99 but it sold out right away and I don't even know if they still sell the Global version. So, just the Maxlite and Platinum Elite left.

They have about the same dimensions and 45L capacity except the Maxltie is 2 lbs. lighter. I am guessing other than the USB battery thing, the difference is the quality / durability of the bags?

Since I don't plan to ever check this bag and I generally am pretty careful handling things, it almost seems Maxlite is a sensible choice with the 2 lb. difference and almost 1/3 the price. On the other hand, I don't want a bag that feels cheap and can easily break. My current bag is a Tumi that I redeemed using my UA miles many years ago. Other than the weight, I really like it (but I am sure part of the reason it lasted this long is because of the quality from the weight).

Since the Platinum Elite looks more substantial, I guess the chance of you being pulled aside to weigh the bag is higher?

Thoughts? Thanks!