Tumi’s Luxe Carry-on Suitcase Makes My Travel Days So Much Smoother
Suitcases aren’t always at the front of your mind when planning a trip. After all, there’s everything from where to stay and what to do to think about! If you’re asking me, a fashion editor, I’m more concerned about what I’ll be wearing once I touch down in the final destination than the luggage that’ll be hauling it over there. That said, as someone who travels often for work and play, I’ve come to realize that high-quality luggage—especially designer options—can make a major difference.
Not too long ago, I hit a milestone: earning Silver status with my go-to airline. After logging countless hours in the air, I’ve learned a thing or two about what separates a good carry-on from a great one. Trust me—Tumi gets it right, and here’s why.
If you’ve ever taken the opportunity to study up on the best suitcase brands on the market, odds are you’ve come across Tumi at one point or another. Founded in 1975, the brand has become a household name for investment-worthy bags that stand up to the wear and tear that comes with lengthy travel days. So, when I had the opportunity to test out the brand’s Aluminum Continental Carry-on for a few upcoming trips, I jumped at the chance.
I can’t lie: This aluminum suitcase is really pretty—and I felt incredibly chic, cool, and the epitome of luxe rolling through the airport with it. Plus, this metal is particularly tough, so I know it’s going to last, and while it’s certainly not the only one out there, I do feel like it’s one of the few that nail form and function perfectly.
Without a doubt, the first feature I have to call out about this suitcase is its wheels. It’s what I have now realized will make or break my travel days. These bad boys are smooth—so much, in fact, that when I pulled it as I would with my last one, it got away from me a bit—even when it weighs nearly 12 pounds and has all my things in it. This is the feature that made getting to my gate at the end of the terminal a breeze.
Another aspect of this suitcase that I love are the two push-button closures, which feature TSA integrated combination locks (and who doesn’t love more security?). This is the first suitcase with a frame system that I’ve owned, and while I have nothing against zippers, this definitely feels more durable. Once it’s locked, I don’t have to worry about it busting at the seams to my inevitable overpacking.
As with all aluminum suitcases, it’s going to be heavier than your other alternatives. Since this one’s a carry-on, you might not have to consider the weight limit as much as you would with a checked bag, but if you already have a hard time putting things in the overhead compartment, that’s something to consider. Speaking of overhead bins, while this fit perfectly fine for my flights, I noticed it didn’t sit on its side the way airlines suggest. (It ultimately made no difference to my experience.) The other potential pain point is the 35-liter capacity. Similar to the weight, aluminum suitcases have a tendency to be smaller than your typical carry-on. That said, I packed a week’s worth of wardrobe staples and fit my toiletries into the mesh zip pockets on both of the interior dividers. (Perhaps this experience was also a lesson in being more selective for my travel ’fits, but that’s a story for another time.)
Did I expect a suitcase to elevate my overall travel experience? A little, but this sleek carry-on exceeded my expectations—and definitely felt like a well-deserved upgrade from my previous option. And, like I said, you’ll look very cool carrying it (and sometimes, that makes a difference!). So, if you’re in the market for new designer luggage, I can’t recommend this one enough. You’ll be traveling like a pro from here on out.
elle
