Luggage suggestions
 

I'm looking for luggage suggestions by specific brand and model. I'd like one of those wheeled models that fit in the overhead bin, like all the stewardesses have.

It's called "TravelPro" Crew Series. It is in most airline magazines and is sold by various department stores. Altman Luggage advertises it in the airline magazines. Do a web search to find the web address.

Samsonite has two models that appear to be a very smart design. One is a quasi brief case / overnight bag (700 Series - around $120) and the other is a two night bag (around $140). Both are on what appear to be good quality skate rollers "long-wise" to keep an even center of gravity and have a compartment for a laptop (or shoes, etc.). Most importantly, at least for me, is both models fit through a security gate template.

The brief case can also be rolled or carried with detachable shoulder straps or a top of the case handle. And there are lots of pockets to stash stuff without having to open the entire case to get at them.

Please note I pack extremely light, so these will not be for someone who carries a lot of stuff around. My wife would hate them. I am sure, though, they will have other larger models you can review, too.

I have my eye on both of them after seeing them for the first time 10 days ago at the Samsonite store in the Pittsburgh airport. As I took a business card I was told they were on the Internet, but I did not see the exact model featured. The store URL is http://www.samsonitetravelexpo.com, or you can call customer service at 800-262-8282. Maybe they can send you a printed catalog or something.

The pricing on the Internet seemed higher than the in-store pricing... perhaps they were on an in-store sale or something. In any case, if you call, ask them when they're going on sale again... the store clerk I spoke with was pretty open about sale information. The store number is 412-472-5230. One more note: there's free shipping if you purchase them at the store (according to a store sign). Not sure if that applies to phone sales but logic would dictate yes.

Finally, I would prefer not to have the big silver locks and avoid the smooth leather finish so please let me know if you find something better. Happy searching.

TravelPro does have a site on the Web (http://www.travelpro.com/). The Crew Series Rollabords are highly recommended, especially if you schlep your luggage through those endless airport concourses. They're warranted for 10 years (the Platinum series is warranted for life).

I picked up my TravelPro, believe it or not, at Ross (where I guess the display models or the last of a remaindered stock get sent to). Also check out the luggage shops in outlet malls.

The basic color you'll probably see is black, but other colors are available.

Remember that, at least in New Zealand and Australia, you can't use the larger size carry-ons that we bring on in the US (22*9*14 or whatever the dimentions are this week at the template). You are limited to 19*8*13 inches. Bought the Samsonite 6 or 7 series and stuffed it full and used it to haul an attached heavy pc bag and all sorts of other stuff all over Australia. It did well.

[This message has been edited by TexasFlyer (edited 02-01-99).]

Samsonite has come out with a new roller bag that actually fits under the seat vs. in the overhead. I was looking at them over the holidays but neglected to get any details. I can tell you they are the priceiest roller bags I saw (~$230), but appeared to fit as much as the other bags.