We are planning a trip to NY for the first week in September. Does anyone know what the weather is usually like during that time of the year. Is it still hot and humid?

Pack your summer clothes even though it's usually not sweltering hot. I'd say it ranges from upper 70's to low 90's.

It's a great time of year to visit! It can sometimes be hot and humid, but nowhere near as bad as July and August.

Don't let anyone fool you...early September is still summer. The humidity doesn't leave until late Sept/early Oct. Definately bring your summer clothes, and a light jacket or sweatshirt, just in case a cold spell comes in. The weather here has a mind of it's own!

If you are asking to make clothes decisions, no matter what the weather, wear black. Or else you will look like a tourist.

Really, you just never know, as the weather is entirely unpredictable, even a few days ahead.

Some years, summer (hot and humid) continues past Labor Day, other years, the weather changes (more chilly and fall-like) dramatically the day after Labor Day.

No matter where you're going, or when, it's almost always best to figure of any of three seasons, then check the ten-day forecast at www.weather.com before finalizing your packing. Even the, you can never be sure...

If this is true (which I, personally, doubt, as luggage handlers are way too busy to care about any bag in particular), it may be that owners of "designer" luggage simply check more carefully and more frequently.

Curious that you should mention Samsonite. Some decades ago, I "invested" in a gorgeous sky blue pullman (this was before wheels and telescoping handles, obviously). My first sojourn with my "investment" was from Boston to LA. When I collected my bag off the carousel, I was positively horrified when I saw a small black scuff mark on my brand new bag!

I, personally, do not subscribe to spending extra bucks where it just does not matter. Durability and functionality are far more important that appearance or "design". And, anything obviously expensive shouts "Steal This One!".

If you're thinking of being "impressive", it's not likey to have much effect on porters, desk clerks, bell hops, who likely have no hope of ever staying where they work, even with those employee discounts. Except that they may expect a much larger tip.