With so many travelers trying to streamline what they use to manage their essentials, knowing all your “personal item” luggage options could make what you carry onboard more efficient. Maybe you’re checking a large suitcase, but still want to take a small personal bag on the plane with you. Or maybe you’re only traveling for a single overnight trip, and a normal rollaboard is too big.
This is where a tote can help out. They’re smaller, lighter, and easier to carry or roll. Here are a few features you should look for in a travel tote.
Navy Travelpro Crew 11 Business ToteFirst, just because a tote is lightweight doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be durable. A good tote won’t sacrifice quality and durability for the sake of being lighter. For example, we make our Crew™ 11 Deluxe Tote with the same high-quality ballistic nylon fabric as our other Crew 11 luggage. It’s also thoroughly tested to withstand the same rigors of frequent business travel.
Your tote should also be comfortable to carry. Look for an adjustable strap with a padded shoulder pad so you can wear it hands-free, either over the shoulder or across your body. Look for leather handles so it’s comfortable to carry as well.
It’s also a big advantage if your tote is small enough to fit under an airplane seat, although if it’s your only item, you can stow it in an overhead compartment. The main cavity should hold one or two days’ worth of clothes for a short trip. Find one with a built-in organizer so you don’t have to dig around to find your keys, business cards, electronics, and charging cables. We even have models that can carry a laptop, tablet, or important documents that you can access without unzipping the entire bag.
Some totes are also available with wheels, so make sure you’re happy with the way they roll. Our Crew 11 Spinner Tote comes with our patented MagnaTrac™ self-aligning wheel system, which ensures it rolls straight as you push through the terminal. We also included our Powerscope Extension Handle with the ergonomically designed Contour Grip. This handle system is so sturdy it can support the weight of another case or handbag.
Totes are a convenient way to travel without carrying a lot of gear and stuff. They’re useful for short trips, or for carrying essentials when you have to check a large suitcase. If you don’t want to carry a briefcase or sling a backpack over your shoulder, consider a tote as an alternative.
What do you do when you have a short trip, or just want to carry a small bag? Have you used totes before, or do you have a different method? Share your experiences with us in the comments below, on our Facebook page, or in our Twitter stream.