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In an alternate universe, I travel with a collection of Louis Vuitton steamer trunks wearing an enormous hat and opera gloves (circa Kate Winslet in Titantic).  Regrettably, my suitcase reality is a two-wheel, self-haul affair.

You may have seen me doing the luggage foxtrot (kick, tilt, step together, repeat) in the snake line at the airport.  For our last trip, I upgraded to the four wheel spinner style, and it made my travel experience infinitely more tolerable.

One fingertip is all you need for 360 degree manoeuvrability. You’ll be Argentinean waltzing your way around the terminal with ease.

If you are a frequent traveller, or even the occasional one in pursuit of new luggage, I strongly recommend you get onboard the spinner express.

Brand

Buy the best you can afford. My research led me to Samsonite.

Weight

The lighter the better. International Traveller reputedly produce the world’s lightest.

Dimensions

Check with your airline, but the rule of thumb for international travel is that the combined dimensions may not exceed 115cm for carry on, and 140cm for checked luggage.

Colour

I vote for black. All black. Add a couture luggage tag if you must make it easily identifiable.

Soft or Hard Sided?

It depends on your destination, and how often your bags will be handled by carriers. If you are going on a rugged safari, a hard sided case will protect your valuables. Otherwise, a soft sided bag will suffice.

Wheels

Plastic is not fantastic. You want strong steel wheels.

Warranty

12 months is good, 2 years is better.

Where to buy?

I snagged a bargain on a set of Samsonites at luggage direct. They were half the price advertised at a major department store.  They also stock a great range of accessories including tags, scales and compression bags.

# Travel Tip – Airline baggage fees and restrictions can hamper your shopping endeavours.  Don’t underestimate the capacity of your carry on spinner suitcase. I have successfully transported 15 pairs of shoes home in mine.

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