Light weight Luggage

My recent post on carry-on travel lists several bags. If you really want a light-weight bag, then you want one without wheels. If you are looking for a wheeled bag, about the lightest one is the Heys xcase, a polycarbonite hard-side rolling bag (about 5.4 pounds).

Thanks Doug - sounds better than my beloved but heavy TUMI.

http://www.consumersearch.com/luggage-reviews/non-rolling-carry-on-bags

Tumi does make a line of "lightweight" bags, and if you go onto their web site, one might be on sale. However, their lightest bag is about 7 pounds. I actually use a Tumi 20-inch convertible wheeled backpack, and I love it because it holds all the close I need for a week-long trip and is small enough to carry on, but it weights a little over 7 pounds. It's an older model, and the newer one weighs more.

I looked at the Tumi lightweights - pricey! We had a HUGE wardrobe years ago that could hold all the clothes I own. Nothing like that getting on a plane these days. My two current favorites are the old wheeled carry-on and the wheeled duffel with the hang-up part underneath. I was able to pack in just that case for 2 weeks in Europe. I think I'm just a luggage junkie sometimes.

We have the 21" roller board from Rick Steve's web site - bought them about 3 years ago and have taken many trips with them - they are quite durable and pretty light.

You can get lighter luggage if you don't get wheeled ones, but you give up some convinience.

my sister and I took these to Europe for 3 weeks in 2007 and just loved them.

http://www.qvc.com/qic/qvcapp.aspx/view.2/app.detail/params.item.H96588.desc.Complete-Traveler-3piece-Weekend-Bag-by-Lori-Greiner

Also try onebag.com to get inspired about lighter travel.

This last trip I switched to a 21 inch without wheels bag from Rick Steves. It is around 3 lbs. unpacked, which is great, but I have to say I missed the convenience of the roller bag style as the bag got heavier over the course of my trip. This lightweight bag I took had backpack strsps, a shoulder strap, and traditional luggage style handles.

Another vote for Rick Steve's. Two years ago we bought a few of the 21" rolling bags and they have proven to be great. Extremely durable! DH traveled with them for business several times a week for months on end and the airlines were not able to tear or destroy them We have taken them to Europe twice, both times doing carryon only, and they worked well. Measured with the wheels, they fit Air Frances size, and we were able to come in under the weight limit with AF since the bag is lightweight as well.

Eagle Creek has a great line of lightweight luggage, and it is 25% off in stores now (I saw it at Whole Earth and Luggage Factory). I just purchased the Hovercraft 25. Haven't used it yet, but love the set up and it's very light weight, lifetime warranty.

My friends swears by her Rick Steves bad, like the one annw mentions. It's a plain suitcase shape, with options of backpack style straps, handle, or shoulder strap. She's done 3 weeks in Europe using just this (plus a purse) a bunch of times.

(Myself, I prefer wheels)

We have an outlet store that carries the Kiva brand and also the Rick Steve's carry on convertible (back pack style) and 21" roller. The back pack weighs about 3 lbs. ($45)and the roller ($25) weighs less than 7 lbs. Prices are much better than the website as they are last year's models. I have checked the consumer reports reviews and they recommend the Helium Fusion for a great deal. I found these at TJ Maxx for around $49.00. While I like the idea of the backpack, I'm not sure I want to carry it the whole trip. We are going to four places in Italy mainland and four in Sicily. And as graceful as I have become in my fifties, I can totally see me toppling over out of the Alilaguna and into a canal!

Well, the lightest luggage will be a simple over-the-shoulder bag. If you are looking for wheels, then you should consider a hard-sided piece, as these are usually lighter than fabric bags.

I have found that Samsonite has some lighter bags. They are great quality too, at least when I have used them. Travelgourmet is right, the polycarbonate hard sided pieces are generally a little lighter than the fabric kind. There are some Samsonite luggage pieces here if you would like to check them out.

http://www.irvsluggage.com/Samsonite-Luggage

I use 29" rolling duffle bags - 3.5 lbs. each. They are soft-sided and have wheels and at the other end a handhold. No collapsing metal rods & handles between the wheels & handholds.

They really stand up to rough use, too.

M.A.

bookmarking

Can anyone comment on how well the lightweight roll-aboards cope with being checked in?

I'm looking specifically at the Rick Steves 21" rolling suitcase and the Eagle Creek Hovercraft 22" rolling suitcase.

I want to buy something that (a) is carryon size on most US domestic flights; (b) is as big as possible, and beyond that is expandable; (c) is lightweight; (d) is durable enough to cope with being checked in most of the time and not used as carryon.

I've loved the durability of my Briggs & Riley cases, but they're way too heavy.

tahl--The Rick Steve's bag that you mentioned is the one that I posted about above. My DH usually had to check the bag when he took it for business and trust me ,the airlines tried to destroy it, lol, but were not able to. There are quite a few scuff marks, but the fabric is not torn and it is still as durable as ever.

tahl, I don't think the EagleCreek Hovercraft 22 will work. The UNexpanded dimensions are 14 x 22 x 10" = 46 linear inches. That is 1 inch over the limit on American Airlines. If I were you, I'd go no larger than a 20".

Last year, I bought a TravelPro 19" at a discount store. It was a discontinued line, but looks like this CLOSEOUT one on ebay:
http://www.ebags.com/travelpro/walkabout_lite_2_19_rollaboard_upright_closeout/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=98672

It fits within the sizer by American Airlines. I still think it's too heavy (7.5lbs - same weight as the Rick Steves you are thinking about), but it is very well-made. I have this for almost a year now and it has gone on over a dozen of trips with me (planes, trains, automobiles, miles of cobblestones) and still look brand-new. I had it checked once and it was no problem.

BTW, I may buy this Starlite 51cm suitcase by Travelite when I visit Germany (it is a German company): http://www.travelite.de/en/products.html?pid=58
It only weighs 2.1kg.

I researched recently and was torn between the Mother Lode Mini 21" wheeled duffle and Rick Steve's 21" wheeled check bag. I ordered the Mother Lode for our China trip. I'll post back how I like it.

http://www.amazon.com/eBags-Mother-eTech-Wheeled-Duffel/dp/B000ECSO0M

Free shipping and free returns, if I don't like it, on eBags dot com.

Has anyone tried the Sub Zero G line? They are very light (5 lbs). I'm not sure how they would hold up to being checked, but they look like a nice option w/ wheels. (cheap too)

http://www.lazarsluggage.com/intrsubzeg19.html

BeachGirl, the dimensions for the Mother Lode Mini 21" is 21.5 x 9.5 x 14.5 inches. Therefore, total linear inches is 45.5. This is over the restrictions for carryons flying American Airlines, or UA, or Continental, or US Airways. All their limit is 45 linear inches. (That's why I stick with 19" rollaboards, because in reality, it measures 20-20.5" when you add in the wheels and handles.)

The Sub zero G looks too flimsy to me, though I wish there are more photos from different angles. The telescopic handle doesn't look very comfortable, and the regular handle doesn't look like it can lie flat. If it really cannot, that can be a problem if you get asked to fit the suitcase into a sizer.

yk, if AA can figure out by looking at my bag that is is over that linear limit by 1/2 an inch, I will gladly pay the fee! I know it's 1/2 an inch but I like the bag. I've had smaller bags gate checked so I guess we're really at the mercy of whomever is at the gate.

My fingers are crossed.

I don't know if that came across right. I wasn't arguing I was poking fun at the airlines in a way.

I really do appreciate you pointing that out for me.

I fly AA exclusively, and in the past year, I have been asked to put my 19" suitcase in the sizer at the gate at least 3-4 times. Since more and more people are bringing their suitcase on board (as they don't want to pay for checked luggage fee), I've noticed AA is more stringent on carryons.

Has anyone purchased luggage from Maggellan's? Their VI Ultra-lights look promising. They have a 21" rolling upright that weighs in at about 7 pounds.

BTW, there is a thread over on the AA forum of Flyertalk, and someone actually measured the inside dimensions of the AA sizers:
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/american-aadvantage/966932-rollaboards-fit-dont-fit-aa-carry-baggage-sizers-2.html#post11974486

I'm just sayin'. BTW, that was the reason why I downsized my carryon from a 21" to a 19". The sizer at Heathrow seems smaller than the AA sizer. I just don't want to risk it.

yk, I just might take my new suitcase, along with dh's new one, and try it in the bins to see how they fit. I'm sure I won't be the first one to do that.

But, can't they make you gate check your bag even if it fits? I'm sure you cannot argue with them at that point. Anyone know?

But, can't they make you gate check your bag even if it fits?

They sure can.

FWIW, I have never been asked to put my carry-on in a sizer. Never, and I fly well over 50 segments per year. I have had it weighed, but I have never been asked to put it in a sizer, and I use the 21/22" size rollaboards.

BeachGirl, the agents usually don't size the luggage at the gate unless it's a completely full flight. Since I get to board first (I'm elite on AA), I've never been asked to have my suitcase checked, because it fits inside the sizer.

Of course, if I board LAST and all the overhead bin space is full, then I have no choice but to have my suitcase gate checked, even though my suitcase is within the carryon requirement.

I was sized a few times in Boston, and at the security line entrance at LAX T4 (AA terimnal).

There is a 200+ ongoing thread on Flyertalk AA forum where posters say where their suitcase got sized (DFW & LAX are the most strict).
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/american-aadvantage/897923-my-carry-did-didnt-get-sized-airport-today-consolidated-14.html

Thanks for posting that link. I'll check it out. I like the bag you chose. I have a smaller version in black -- crew series. Between dh and myself we have worn it out! Great size. There's definitely a bonus to being an elite member.

I'm sure we'll have to check our bags on the domestic China flight from Xi'an to Beijing but that's alright. It will be a bonus if we don't!

My husband refused to buy a new carryon for our upcoming trip. He uses a 21" American Tourister, which measures 23 x 14 x 8. I have the same carryon as well which I've used for years, but now I only use the 19" TravelPro.

We fully understand the risk of being rejected by the airlines as a carryon using that 21", but he wants to take that chance. [It *may* fit very snugly if we squeeze it inside the sizer.] Of course, we'll pack some of his clothes in my carryon, so in case he has to check it and it gets lost, he'll still have some change of clothing in my suitcase.

But I've convinced him that if we find this Starlite 51cm suitcase by Travelite when we are in Germany (it is a German company): http://www.travelite.de/en/products.html?pid=58 ; we will buy it and he will leave behind the 21".

For a long time I didn't care how heavy my luggage was. My mindset was "Eh, who cares? I don't have to pack it around." (My suitcase had wheels, yes.) But a while back I started to care. I started packing carry-on luggage instead of packing large suitcases. I got mine from Hey's USA luggage. I didn't shop around so I don't know if it's a ton better than others-but it's worked for me.

I got it online at http://www.irvsluggage.com/Heys-USA-Luggage if you wanted to look.

Spencer, I looked at the hard-shell Heys, too.

Have you had problems with it as a carry on since it's a hard shell? It isn't as forgiving when cramming it in to the overhead and wondered if the flight attendants said 'no'.

I have considered the Heys XCase when it was first mentioned here. I was a bit put off by the hard shell, but then when I read some of the comments on ebags (I believe that's the website), I decided against it. There were lots of negative comments about how quickly the surface gets scratched or dented, and many complained that the zippers fell off.

To my mind, the only downside to the modern hardshells (at least those of good quality) is the lack of exterior pockets. Otherwise, those with a zipper have a fair amount of give, should you need to overstuff from time to time. Yes, you lose expansion features, but if you are concerned primarily about weight and size, then I'm not sure expansion should be a huge concern.

I have the Samsonite X-Lite and can recommend it, though it is expensive and probably overpriced. But, if you get a good deal on it (I got two when they were closing a store and had them for 50% off), then it might be worth a look.

The Samsonite X-lite does look good. The 20" is 6lbs. But the price I found on line is about 5x what I'm willing to pay... Even at 50% off, that's still very expensive for a leisure traveler like me. And you make a good point about the lack of exterior pockets - where I usually stuff a book and my 3-1-1 ziploc bag.

I have the Heys x-case 19" and love it! It was the lightest weight carry-on I could find and afford. So far the zippers and wheels have held up fine. It fit easily into the overhead compartments, even on City Jet. My hubby is traveling right now with one and I hope he doesn't have any problems with it. If he does, I'll let you know.

As travelgourmet points out, there are no exterior pockets, but I don't miss those since I generally only used them for travel documents, which I now put in my personal item (usually a messenger bag) or a pocket of my coat/jacket.

Patsy:

Wow what a great thread - thanks every one.

Sandy

I just received our Mother Lode eTech Mini 20". It is very light and has great storing capacity. 2557 cubic inches. I really think this is the one I'll keep. The Rick Steve's Convertible Carry On is only 3 lbs (no wheels) & is 2500 cubic inches fully expanded.

Still waiting to receive the TravelPro that yk likes.

Wow - this is Still going - thanks for all the great info. Finally purchased several pieces of the Heys luggage. Two mid-size for my son and dil and two small carry-ons. Will let you know how they hold up after our trip to Canada next week.

I wound up buying the Eagle Creek Hovercraft 22" rolling bag, and have so far used it on a shart US trip (as checked luggage).

Thoughts:
* (Con) It is indeed 23" long, so I can well imagine it not making it as carryon luggage, esp. outside the US.
* (Pro) Very light compared to my trusty Briggs & Riley, but feels sturdy.
* (Pro) Nice long handle!
* (Con/mixed) You don't get the full depth of the bag as open packing area. The inside of the top lid is "walled off" as an open area under a zipped mesh cover, probably to give structural stability to the lid. I found that annoying but understandable. In practice it makes the lid esp. suitable for awkward large stuff -- a folded trench coat, a bag of laundry, a flattened daypack. I wouldn't put anything too heavy in it.
* (Con/mixed) Handle assembly protrudes inside the bag, esp at the top (handle) end, limiting your packing space. (Briggs & Riley suitcases have the handle assembly outside, so I'm not used to this problem.)

As a devotee of the Eagle Creek Pack-It system, I was able to fit:
- 18" Pack-It Folder
- Two Full Cubes (one had to go in outer pocket)
- Half Cube & equivalent of Quarter Cube (beneath Folder, between struts of handle)
- Small Sac of flattish stuff
- LL Bean hanging toiletry bag, medium size (kind of a struggle, b/c not a good shape here -- I may get an Eagle Creek Wallaby II)
- 1 pair sneakers + 1 pair sandals (note that none of the Eagle Creek diagrams on how to pack this bag include shoes!!)
- Misc. items, including large hardcover book
- Space leftover without using the zippered expansion capability: some, but not lots -- outside small (top) pocket, inside-the-lid area (I think I had something small in there).

Traveling with my Mother Lode 20" mini. I love it!!! Fit in the overheads when other carry-ons stuck out. I have the eagle creek packing envelope in the bottom part (big one but not sure of the size) and it's light and very easy to put overhead even packed full.

DH has the Victorinox and had to be checked with AA but not with other airlines along the trip. Maybe AA just wants to get their $15 bag fee, I don't know.

Highly recommend the Mother Lode. It's light and looks small but packs a lot of items.

BeachGirl, what happened to the TravelPro?

yk, sorry, I just saw your note. I kept the 19" TravelPro for domestic travel for dh. I was able to get a lot in the 20" Mother Lode and never had a problem taking it onboard and fitting in the overhead.

A friend of mine got a set of Delsey luggage (I think it's called Helium zip) at Macy's 6 months ago and has loved it. She's gone on 3 trips already with it.

Beachgirl, is the Mother Lode lighter than the TravelPro?

7lbs 6oz for Mother Lode 21". TravelPro 19" is slightly heavier at 7lbs 8oz. If anyone can tell the weight difference they deserve a prize! Amount you can pack is definitely different.

At home, I didn't notice any significant difference other than amount that could fit into the bags. I packed all three with the same contents. With the compartments I was able to fit more into the Mother Lode than Rick Steve's (unexpanded). If you expanded Rick Steve's I doubt you could carry on unless you were first class on a larger aircraft.

We compared Rick Steve's 21" rollaboard, 19" TravelPro and the 21" Mother Lode.

Mother Lode won the vote.

Check out ebags Weekender Convertible and stellar reviews. The budget version of a similar more $ recommended by Rick Steves. I can't believe how much this thing will hold. Have used it for month and longer trips (admittedly I've learned to travel light). It's the best.

I just purchased the following 20.5" only 4.8 lbs. by Landor & Hawa recommended by someone this Fodor's. It is on Discount Luggage.com and they have free shipping.

Size: 20.5" x 14.2" x 7.8"
Linear Inches: 42.5"
Weight: 4.8 lbs.
Warranty: 10 Year

Landor & Hawa's innovative SUB-0-G Collection is the world's lightest luggage on the market. Each aircraft grade fiberglass element frame is strong and durable, providing maximum protection against impact.

I have a Heys carry-on & it fits into the overhead with no trouble. I find it big enough for several days travel. It's got a couple of scratches but no big deal otherwise. It also maneuvers easily.

those of you who have had your luggage sized at the gate. if you make the 22" or less. do they also check whether it is more than 9" deep and 14" wide? I find a side handle often makes it more than 14- especially on the travelpros - more like 14 1/2 - 15. Has this been an issue for anyone that has had their luggage measured at the gate?

I am looking at the SUB-0-G luggage that you just got, Sue878. How does it seem to you "in the flesh", so to speak? The handle looks a little short to me--is it long enough?

I love LLBEan's lightweight set -
http://www.llbean.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/CategoryDisplay?categoryId=48311&storeId=1&catalogId=1&langId=-1&parentCategory=501849&feat=501849-tn&cat4=2946

After one trip to Canada (via air and train) and one trip to Rome - the Heys luggage held up great and worked extremely well, so - Thanks Doug Stallings for that advice as well as to others who offered suggestions.

I couldn't decide, so I bought 3 to compare--the Landor & Hawa 21", the Eagle Creek Centerline 20" and the Antler 20". All less than 7 lbs. Am keeping the Antler. The Landor would have been the winner but with the handle and wheels, it's really 24" high and the total liner inches came to something like 48-49". I'm worried that when the airlines get more picky about carry-on, it won't pass. The Eagle Creek didn't have any inside pockets for small items and the mesh cover on the inside of the top didn't have any give, so it wouldn't be easy to overpack the bottom compartment and have the contents go up into the top. Haven't used the Antler yet, but imagine it will hold up just fine.

RuthMC:

I just took my luggage on a trip and checked it and it was fine. The handle is a little shorter then my other luggage but I really didn't notice it. I LOVED it because it was so lightweight even after it was packed and I don't usually pack light.

how do all these fare on budget European airlines? aren't they stricter as far as carry ons go?

And, I traveled with a back pack on our last trip, first time in decades and was reminded how handy that is. Any thoughts on favorite convertible back pack's like Rick Steves?

Hi.

I've just come across this forum (& website) and have read the replies with interest.

I am travelling from UK to Tahiti/Easter Island next July & will be taking some photographic equipment (tripod + Canon 50D + 4.5kg lens). One of the flights has a 10kg limit (inc luggage itself + sleeping bag), so I am furiously looking for lightweight luggage.

The following are lighter than anything I have seen listed here (where minimum seems to be 3lbs = 1.36 kg):

Flylite Medium size foldaway - 44L, 55cm x40 x20, less than 750g (=1.6 lbs)

Samsonite S-Cape Duffle Cabin Bag - 55L, 55 x29 x 34, 1.16kg (=2.55 lbs)

Samsonite S-Cape Shoulder Bag - 23.5L, 38 x28 x 21, 0.68kg (=1.49 lbs)

Antler Urbanite II Gym Tote - 28L, 50 x27 x24, 0.8kg (=1.76 lbs)

I hope these are of interest to folk. Now, to find a lightweight sleeping bag...

Enjoy.

Now those are REALLY lightweight!

Well, if you really want to get as light as possible, there are plenty of options. I would suspect that this one is a fair bit lighter than the options mentioned above:

http://www.muji.us/store/bag/foldable-boston-bag-l.html

There is no weight listed, but I would be shocked if it weighs more than 1 lb. I have 3 of these and bring one along all the time to give me an extra bag for my return trip. They hold up surprisingly well.

Pretty much any simple duffel bag will be less than 2 lbs.

The issue is finding something with wheels that is relatively light. For the longest time, the manufacturers seemed most interested in adding features and pushing the size envelope, without regard for weight. Lately, the trend seems to be toward lightweight wheeled luggage to meet more stringent airline weight requirements.

I would love to read any further thoughts about wheeled carry on luggage. I am finally considering buying a new bag....Tumi and Briggs and Riley seem to get great reviews.


What is the maximum size I can buy to make sure I will be allowed to take it onboard?

Is there such a thing as discounted Tumi luggage?

Briggs and Riley tends to be very heavy. Even their "Superlight" 22" rolling carry-on is over 10 lbs. They are good quality, though and have a good warranty.

The traditional Tumi luggage is heavy, though not as heavy as Briggs and Riley. They have some new hard-sided pieces, though, that are quite light. Again, good quality.

I stick to 20 inches.....and that includes the wheels and all. Have not had a problem so far!!

Thanks! Consumer Reports just ranked the Tumi Alpha 22" Frequent Traveler as the best carry on.

They say it meets all airline carry-on requirements...

http://www.consumersearch.com/luggage-reviews/tumi-alpha-frequent-traveler-22-inch-framed-expandable-carry-on


I have never had a wheeled carry on suitcase.

That's a good recommendation. Heys makes strong sturdy luggage that is very dependable. I personally love the hardside luggage as it protects your contents from being crushed and provides better protection from the elements. I also prefer colored or printed design luggage so it's easy to find at baggage claim. I found a neat site that does reviews on hardside luggage and it may help if you are looking for recommendations. www.hardsidepolycarbonateluggage.com They always seem to have some type of special going on.

We just bought a 20in Antler wheeled carry-on. I will report back after our trip in three weeks but right now, it looks good - sturdy, light-wieght, and lots of space inside.

I love the Briggs Riley Transcend series - much lighter than the baseline series and just as sturdy. The 26" rolling duffel has taken us around the world with no problems. It's just under 9lbs - not bad for it's size. Wheels and handles are great - and if it ever gets damaged, just ship it to them for repair. I've used the repair service on previous pieces and it's great.

I'm topping this thread in the hopes that someone can recommend the largest,lightest rolling duffel that will pass both AA and BA requirements. We're attempting to go on safari with carry on - Purchased the Travelpro Lite (22"x13"x10), but sadly, it has a plastic handle on the bottom that will make it an inch too long for BA, and I think it's an inch too high for AA.

Most rolling bags (duffles included) won't meet the weight restrictions for small planes if you do any flying during the safari. If you really want to go carry-on, you should concentrate on a bag without wheels. Check out the Aeronaut or the eBags ELS Motherlode Weekender Convertible or eTech Convertible. LLBean makes a similar bag. These travel packs all have backstraps so you can carry them on a bag, compression straps so you can tie down your clothes in bundles, and several compartments. Rick Steeves makes a travel pack without individual sections if you prefer that.

If you really desperately need a bag with wheels, the eBags e-Tech Motherlode Mini 21" might work, but it's twice as heavy as the travel pack.

I can vouch for the MotherLode 21". With it's curved top, it fits in the overhead bins when my husband's Rick Steve's doesn't.

Thanks - you've convinced us...no wheels. I'm checking out all of your suggestions, but I'm afraid they won't satisfy BA's stringent requirements.

I just ordered a Mother Lode TLS Weekender from ebags and am excited waiting for it. There are excellent reviews on their website. I'm really hoping it's as good as all of the reviews are saying it is.

http://www.ebags.com/product/ebags/mother-lode-tls-weekender-convertible/143101?productid=1370034

I know it's not a roller bag, but I like that it's easy to take as a backpack or shoulder/crossbody bag. I compared 4 convertible bags on ebags the other day and this one seemed to stand out. I looked at the 21" rolling duffles but the wheels and frame added a few pounds and had less space! The 21" Mother Lode rollers are 8lbs 11oz and 7lbs 6oz and 2752 and 2557 cubic inches capacity respectively.

I compared the Thule Crossover Duffle Pack, the Mother Lode TLS Weekender Convertible, the Weekender eTech Convertible and the Rick Steves Convertible Carry-on. All got excellent reviews and have somewhat similar warranties. The Thule was only reviewed on ebags by one person so I'm taking that high reviewer rating with a grain of salt. The rest were reviewed by 160+ people, and 2200+ for the eTech.

Thule:
2501 cubic inches. 23" x 13.5" x 9.5". 2.43lbs. $140.

Mother Lode TLS Weekender Convertible:
3299 cubic inches, 3651 cubic inches when fully expanded. 22" x 14" x 9". 3.7lbs. $100 (though I just ordered it for $85 and free shipping due to a pretty common 15% off and free shipping sale).

Weekender eTech Convertible:
3066 cubic inches. 22" x 14" x 9". 3.64lbs. $40.

Rick Steves Convertible:
2500 cubic inches. 21" x 14" x 9". 3 lbs. $95.



The BA hand baggage restriction is 22" x 18" x 10", and you have to be able to lift it into the overhead bin. Any of those four bags would work for the requirements (the Thule could be squished an inch on the longest measurement if needed). eBags.com had quite a few more "hands free" carryon's and I've had great luck using them for bags. They have free returns so I often order 2 or 3 products that I'm choosing between and return whatever I don't like. I simply wait until one of their 10%, 15% or 20% and free shipping deals is on (very common) and then order. No stores in my area carry bags even remotely similar to these so it's online only. Zappos.com has a lot of stuff, but I've had better luck with eBags lately. I'm not trying to advertise for them, but I am a happy customer.

Good luck and have fun on your trip, I'm utterly jealous!

Thanks so much! I am checking out all of your suggestions. My crazy type A husband (who is a luggage nazi and doesn't ever let us check) actually drove to LAX to see if this rolling duffel would fit in the BA sizer.

(22"x13"x10") http://www.ebags.com/product/travelpro/tpro-xtreme-lite-22-rolling-duffel/97219?lastterm=travelpro%20tpro%20rolling%20duffel%2022

The whole BA area was closed when he got there (on strike?), so he tried the AA sizer and it didn't fit! (We're flying to London on AA - We had not too concerned about them...usually very lenient, but I hear BA makes you go back and check "oversized" luggage as you change planes at Heathrow.)

So then we decided to forget the wheels and we purchased a 22"x13"x9" Travelpro duffel

http://www.ebags.com/product/travelpro/tpro-xtreme-lite-expandable-duffel/97202(much nicer color than the ones in the photo...a dark khaki)

- last one at a closeout at a luggage store near here. We need four - might get three more, but I will check out your suggestions first because they seem to have more room even though they're the same dimensions.

IowaRedhead, I really like my MotherLode. (good price, btw, for you!) On our trip to China last fall, we each tried a new bag -- MotherLode, a Rick Steve's bag and ? Eagle Creek. Mine was the only one that didn't have to be checked as it would fit into the overhead bin. Plus, I like it.

I need a new rolling duffel. Will check out the travel pro on ebags.

Good luck, crosscheck.

I have a folding cart that fits in my personal item bag (about the size of a computer bag). I can put my wheelless Rick Steves bag on it when I'm walking thru the airport. I'm over 60, love to travel, and always carryon. It holds all I need for three weeks and weighs in around 20 pounds fully packed, but I can get it down to 17 pounds if I need to.

http://www.conair.com/travel-smart-folding-multi-use-cart-p-542.html

BeachGirl, If you like the travelpro and are not in a desperate rush, you might want to wait for a sale. We got ours for $65 on ebags two weeks ago - now the price is $79.

kathcoll, We did think of getting a set of wheels if we can't use a wheeled duffel, although we are going with our two teen boys and they can carry my bag. The Safarilink limit is 15k, including hand luggage.

This is all making me crazy. I'm thinking we should each bring one safari outfit, one fleece and forget the camera equipment...just download some close-ups of leopards giving birth and say we took them.

I have a 35 litre lightweight rucksack that weighs less than 350gms (14oz).

<<<This is all making me crazy. I'm thinking we should each bring one safari outfit, one fleece and forget the camera equipment...just download some close-ups of leopards giving birth and say we took them.>>>

Don't let it make you crazy, have fun with it! Finding the exact right bag and figuring out what to pack and what you can go without is part of the pre-trip fun.

As an update incase anyone cares, I just got my eBags MotherLode TLS Weekender Convertible bag and holy buckets I adore this bag!

I couldn't just put the bag in the closet, I had to give it a test run. I just folded clothes out of the laundry and started putting them into it, then I added a handful of things I knew I'd want to have on a trip. Into the bag went:

2 pairs of jeans
2 pairs of slacks
8 shirts (7 short sleeve, 1 long sleeve)
7 bras, 8 undies, 7 pairs of socks
A messenger bag purse
A fold up duffle bag
Bathroom bag (toothbrush, toothpaste, small items, etc)
Ziplock with shampoo, conditioner, lotion, razor, etc.
Full size hairbrush
A pair of tennis shoes
A pair of thick slippers (same as a pair of sandals)

The bag wasn't even CLOSE to full! Nothing is rolled or put in compression bags to make it smaller.

I only had items in the main compartment and hadn't even begun to play with the pockets on front or the laptop pocket on the back. There are quick-adjust straps on the outside that really help compress the bag to help it fit in overhead bins even easier. The bag can be expanded 1.5-2" the whole way around. The backpack straps are comfy and tuck away really quick. I have the duffle bag strap on it now and that's actually pretty comfy too for shorter time periods.

I can't see this bag working that well for something like a cruise where fancy clothes were needed, but in a pinch it probably could.

For some women, it's jewelry or expensive shoes that make their eyes light up. For me, it's a travel bag. There's nothing quite like finding a great travel toy to make me all excited for a trip.

Wow, that's impressive. We had decided to go with non-rolling duffles, which look more safari-esque, but the motherlode might be roomier than the duffels we're using. We're carrying backpacks as our "personal item", so it might be awkward having a convertible bag as well.

Crosscheck: I haven't read this whole thread, so I apologize if you've already addressed this, but I wonder if the company you're traveling with has a preference for wheels/no wheels. When I went to Morocco a number of years ago with Wilderness Travel, they explicitly preferred that we travel with soft duffles without wheels. On the trip, I understood why: they lash the things atop Land Rovers, and anything stiff would make life more difficult for the baggage guys.

I have the Tom Bihn Aeronaut (carry on sized convertible backpack) and I love it. Used it on many weekend trips and it's great.

I'm not the best light packer for longer trips, but I've decided that for three weeks in India I'm bringing just the Aeronaut (which I'm checking in) and a large camera gear bag (which I'm carrying on). As a solo traveler taking various modes of public transportation, I want to be as mobile and self sufficient as possible. Will be quite a challenge for me!

Thanks, Tahl. Our company said wheels didn't matter as long as the bag was soft, but we've decided on no wheels to keep the weight down. We're each bringing a small backpack and small duffel, so convertible backpacks are not necessary. I decided to keep one of the rolling Travelpros anyway and I'm in NY with it right now, but it's questionable whether it would fit into all overhead bins.

I just got a beautiful set of Delsey light luggage for my birthday. I LOVE LOVE it. One thing the salesman said- I got rolling luggage, but not the "pivot" luggage. Those wheels are exposed and evidently get damaged frequently.

Seriously there are so many options available that it becomes difficult to choose luggage. Though I'd say eagle creek and delsey are better options. Recently I bought delsey backpack at bergman luggage. Actually I've used both brands and they are equally good. Check Delsey luggage collection at http://www.bergmanluggage.com/delsey.html

Update: We leave Wednesday and decided to use non-rolling duffels. If we weren't going on safari, all of the above would be great options. Just bought the medium Eagle Creek and it's perfect.

I have followed this line with much interest. I am looking for a lightweight carry-on bag with wheels BUT also with handles that will go over the pull out handle part of my suitcase. I looked at a TravelPro with a red stripe but the handles didn't look like they would go over. They have another one for about $80 that look like they might. Since you all are talking about luggage I had never even looked at before (apart from the TravelPro) I would very much appreciate your advice.

have any of you considered just bringing a bagpack and a big workoutbag? Thats how I travel... One thing is that they dont generally weight your carryon bag so your better off getting one with wheels

aliciapr,
You're right - there a many options but surprisingly we had a LOT of trouble finding soft duffels (required for safari), with or without wheels that meet the BA size requirements.

For unwheeled choices, most were too large for BA's requirements, or too small for a two-week trip. The "convertible" ebags and Rick Steves mentioned were the right size, but those become problematic if you also have a backpack as your personal item.

As a wheeled option, the motherlode mini or eagle creek would probably, but not definitely work. We also found the Sol Tracer -
http://www.luggage.com/asp/superbrowse.asp?clid=734&caid=&sku=ZSO1013&refid=FR52-ZSO1013
very reasonably priced, weighs only 4 lbs. But although it meets BA's restrictions, the unpliable plastic bottom might be problematic on the safari planes.

wandering, yes - a large gym bag plus backpack is probably the safest intl. carry-bet. I think you are less likely to be hassled if you have no wheels.

I'm a big fan of LLBean's duffle bags. I've used the medium as carryon, it holds a lot AND the handles fit over the handles of my rolling suitcase. I have them monogrammed as well.
http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/63912?pi=54581&qs=3012739-Google_Base&subrnd=0

I really love their ultralight wheeled luggage. Here's the medium that works as carryon.
http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/63923?page=quickload-upright-duffle&parentCategory=506075&cat4=506074&shop_method=pp&feat=201-sub1&np=Y

For my last trip, I checked the larger version of that suitcase with the duffle bag and used a backpack (as carryon).

Red Oxx has a line of wheel-less safari duffels, but they are rather expensive. The smallest, which is 19x9x9, meets the BA carry-on requirements. That plus a small bag could work for a 2-week trip if you pack light. The LLBean duffle that starrs recommends is bigger but would squish down to fit the BA sizer if you didn't stuff it completely full, and it's half the price and half the weight of the expensive RedOxx bag.

I think the key here is that you absolutely must pack light and be willing to do some laundry along the way (it's free in most safari camps anyway if you're staying more than one night). If you are trying to stuff too much stuff into too large bags, the whole carry-on thing isn't going to work.

Some friends of mine took a safari with OAT a couple of years ago and were provided with duffels, which met the safari requirements but were too big and too heavy to carry on, but even my friends (who don't pack so light) didn't fill up these bags until their return.

Luggage and packing -- the eternal traveler's dilemma... In October, Mr SB and I are off on an 8-week trip around Australia and New Zealand. Flying and driving mostly, so luggage weight and size will matter. I found the Heys polycarbonate collection at our local TJ Maxx, and snapped them up. One large bag each to check, and a small rollaboard. The lightest bags I've owned, and easy to pack too.

In packing, it's not the clothes that are really the issue for us. We're not staying one place long enough for that to matter (other than me getting bored with the same stuff), and we will of course do laundry along the way. It's the other stuff: camera, hiking shoes, netbook, prescription snorkel mask, travel info, etc. We'll be where we can replace stuff we need like suntan lotion. Other issue is we'll be in Queensland and Uluru (hot, maybe humid) as well as Tasmania and South Island of NZ (most likely rainy, could be chilly). Oh, and we return to CT a week before Christmas, so it will be cold and maybe snowing...

I have lists, and lists of lists. It's getting epic! But it is fun.

I feel your pain, SB

Update: For those of you who are curious about which lightweight luggage we finally chose, I have covered it in depth in my trip report on the Africa board.

http://www.fodors.com/community/africa-the-middle-east/mr-carry-on-and-family-go-on-safari-a-porini-migration-adventure.cfm

I'm using jetcart from walkinbag. The reason I love this bag is so light weight, probably 4 lbs. with 22" full carryon dimension. This 4 wheel bag roll so smoothly so that I can pass others even on a walkway at the airport terminal. I go business trip 2 - 3 days with this bag, storing my 15" laptop. When I had a back surgery, this bag helped me to lean on so I could commute. Loves a lot.

The company sells seat model with a couple of pounds heavier and more expensive. But for me I never felt I needed it. I simply prefer lightweight.

@IowaRedhead, I just saw your post about the Weekender - great minds think alike! I came back to this thread to post about my new purchase - I ordered the Weekender bag after watching the video on ebags (and before seeing your post) - wow, can you get a lot in it. I am confident it's the bag we want for island hopping in the Greek Islands.

@crosscheck - I'm very late responding but thanks for your reply!

I think this might be helpful for you...
http://www.ebags.com/category/lightweight-luggage/20021441

BeachGirl247, isn't it a fun bag?!

Since I purchased the Weekender, I've taken it to Italy, China, Greece and Turkey. All three trips were around 10-14 days.

Pros:
- You can get a LOT in it. If you pack light, you can easily take it carryon on the flight out and then expand it to fill with goodies and check it on the way home.
- It's pretty comfy to carry, even fully packed. Often roller bags are difficult on uneven streets, often there's puddles and trash on the ground that you just don't want to drag your bag through.
- I can carry it and my messenger bag and still have my hands free. I put the messenger bag on across my body first, then the big bag and I'm good to go.
- It fits nicely in a standard overhead bin in a plane or train. The overhead bins in the puddle jumpers are a bit too small so it's usually gate checked out of my small regional airport.


Cons:
- You can get a LOT into it. It's a bit awkward to pick up to put on your back when it's stuffed full and expanded out. On the way home from a trip, I was almost at the point of an overweight bag fee.
- If you buy anything fragile, it's not as protected as it would be in a roller bag with a frame. I work around this easily by simply putting anything fragile in my carryon (fold up duffle bag or market sack) and anything fragile and liquid in the very center of the bag wrapped in clothes. I had no problem bringing home a single bottle of wine, but a second or third bottle would have been closer to the edges of the bag than I would like.
- I still don't think it would work well for fancy clothes. You can easily put in a pair of slacks or maybe a small dress but I wouldn't try to use it for a fancy dress or suit.
- The laptop pocket on the back is a bit awkward. It protects the laptop from theft (it's between your back and the rest of the bag) but that means that the laptop can poke into your back a bit. Also, if you've stuffed the bag full it's hard to get it in and out of that pocket easily.


Overall, I adore the stupid thing and would quite happily buy another one. Just like with any bag or style of bag it has it's pros and cons, no bag is perfect for every situation. I still have a small roller bag for work travel where I need nicer clothes and will be traveling by car. I also still have my 25" roller for if I need to take a lot of stuff, or if I ever decide to go on a cruise or some such where I need something to stay nice.