A few weeks ago I was invited to test ‘drive’ a new luggage set which was sold to me as being a ‘game-changer’ for families and frequent fliers! I wasn’t in any real need for new suitcases – and had very little space for any more bulky items in my home. I would be lying as well if I said I wasn’t a tad sceptical by the use of their description – was this to be a case of overpromising and under delivering? But by the time I returned from … [Read more...]
American Shield Granite Series Backpack
Stylish, lightweight and functional, the America Shield Granite Series Backpack is an ideal day pack for both urban and rural use. While this is an attractive pack, it certainly is also versatile. We like the fact it has a separate liner inside that one can use to hold either a tablet or a laptop. Made of canvas with leather front straps both for the primary space as well as the smaller front pocket. The primary space is also easily … [Read more...]
Eagle Creek Gear Warrior AWD
After trying a number of roll-aboards and or carry on pieces of luggage over the years - I always gravitate back to the Eagle Creek carry on products. The several non Eagle Creek carry on's I've tried previously - either have an issue with the center of gravity, are only two wheels or fall apart after relatively light use. I've had good luck with the Eagle Creek carry ons for several reasons: 1. Durability, 2. Lightweight and 3. four wheels … [Read more...]
Origami Unicorn, Travel Undergarment Organizer
I have been packed for years, at times for an almost perpetual state of motion. This has been especially true in the last 6 months with trips stacked up one after each other. Both my suitcase and backpack remain ready to 'rock and roll' - each one is always in some state of being packed and I can quickly grab either one depending on the type and length of trip. This travel state of limbo has worked well to date, granted nothing is very well … [Read more...]
Eagle Creek 4-Wheeled Upright
Eagle Creek recently reached out with some products to review - and also donated several prizes for our annual travel writing contest. I've been familiar with a number of their products for many years - one of my go to Eagle Creek products that I always take with me on International travels is my trusted money belt. I've had this for years and have worn it on all my International travels. I'm always on the lookout for durable luggage - … [Read more...]
TravelWise 3-piece Packing Cube Set
Have you been throwing things in bags all your life when packing? Loosely throwing items into a suitcase or a backpack? Enter "packing by organization" - the TravelWise 3-piece Packing Cube Set. This set is great for organizing your items based on size. It comes in five colors and includes three lightweight pieces. Each piece comes with a double pull zipper and breathable mesh inserts. Great for toiletries, medical needs or simply use … [Read more...]
Rick Steves Rolling Backpack
Rick Steves Rolling Backpack (Reviewed: Jul 2012) Leave it to Rick Steves to combine the simplicity of backpack with the convenience of a roll a board. Roll the "Rolling Backpack" around for ease at the airport or at your hotel but shoulder it in situations where its better on your back then on the ground (crowds, nasty sidewalks etc). After sitting around for a month or two we were itching to put this to the road test. A trip to Thailand, Japan … [Read more...]
Precision Voyager
Precision Voyager (Reviewed: Jun 2011) by EatSmart is a small lightweight digital hand-held scale that is just the ticket for determining weights of luggage before leaving on a trip. We've all seen people frantically unpacking items at the check-in counter to avoid the overage weight fees - especially these days. This items removes the stress and worry of whether your luggage will be over the airline weight limits. Simply unclip the strap and … [Read more...]
Double Decker Duffle
Double Decker Duffle (Reviewed: Mar 2011) The "beauty" of this product other than its obvious fashionable design is its versatility. This bag can be both a carry on or a roll-aboard (in line wheels with a telescopic handle) and is the latest in the line of travel bags and accessories designed by long time inventor Joy Mangano. This duffle bag is stylish (even the luggage cuff is elegantly designed), yet super practical and durable. It is made … [Read more...]
Checkmate II Laptop Case
Checkmate II Laptop Case (May 2010) is designed to be extremely travel friendly. This was one of four new airport security checkpoint-friendly laptop cases offered by Staples office supply store beginning in November 2008. Staples is the only office supply retailer to carry the Samsonite cases. The cases range in style and price to meet any traveler's budget.The Checkmate II as well as the other cases are designed so that you should not have to … [Read more...]