I have a luggage question. A local store has a great sale on Liz Claiborne suitcases with the 4 swivel wheels, it handles like a dream but I am concerned about durability. The swivel wheels didn’t look quite as sturdy as the inline wheels, and they do stick out a lot more. Do the Swivel wheels stand up the abuse of air travel baggage handlers? I would love to buy the 24” because that size is more than enough for me and I just loved the idea of being able to handle my suitcase so easily, but what a nightmare they would be if a wheel falls off.

You might try going to www.ebags.com, selecting the item you are speaking of (assuming it is offered) and see if anyone has written a review.

Sometimes when packed those bags can end up becoming top heavy and more difficult to handle/maneuver than the more usual inclined type of bag.

IMO, whells which "stick out" are going to be more likely to get knocked off along the way (i.e., airline handling) but that's simply my opinion.

That was my gut feeling as well, but they just handled so beautifully in the store. Thanks for the tip on reviews, this seems to be a newer model so there are no reviews up yet.

I have a set of luggage with swivel wheels that I've been traveling with for about four or five years now. They've done very well and the wheels have been fine. I agree that being able to turn that bag on a dime while it's standing is really convenient. I plan to purchase the same thing again when this set wears out.

Also, I typically travel for shopping due to the nature of my residence, and my bags are often overweight on returning home with tons of purchases. I've still never had a problem.

Interesting....I wonder why more companies don't make these types of bags.

I've wondered that, too, Intrepid. I've loved mine but I don't see them all that often.

Thanks Statia, that's just what I wanted to hear. I'm no spring chicken and fighting with suitcases is not my favorite part of traveling.
I do travel light with only one 24-25" case, depending on circumstance but having the ability to "turn on a dime" and not tip over was so tempting. I can't tell you how many time my suitcase has tipped over in the checkin line. And maneuvering through European hotels with small reception areas and minute elevators can be a nightmare, so I think I will buy these suitcases and try them out in July.
Thanks again for your help.