In a world of DTC luggage brands, Samsonite’s quality outshines
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Samsonite — a household name as far back as I can remember and a brand trusted by multi-generations of my family. The company has been producing and manufacturing luggage, travel bags and accessories since 1910. They’ve built a reputation on reliable, durable, high-quality products though struggled to keep up with a change in aesthetics, often dubbed “your parents’ favourite brand.”
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The company recently embraced their status as “mom and dad’s luggage” launching its “Travel Like Your Parents” campaign — an ode to nostalgia and inspired by travel experiences by previous generations. The golden age of travel was not so long ago, and something can certainly be said about putting down our phones and living in the moment.
Hot off the heels of the brand’s “Travel Like An Icon” campaign featuring the very funny and likeable Chloe Fineman, Samsonite’s new campaign aims to “reignite the spirit of adventure and joy of discovery amongst travellers[…] and inspire meaningful travel experiences,” according to a recent press release.
I tested a carry-on and medium glider from the Elevation Plus range — a sleek and sophisticated luggage line that rivals the form and function of trendy direct-to-consumer brands, like Monos and Away — and am really impressed.
What: Samsonite Elevation Plus luggage (carry-on, medium and large)
Cost: $325 to $395
Where to buy: Samsonite (full range) | Best Buy (currently only large spinner available)
Samsonite Elevation Plus features
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- Lightweight: Carry-on, 8.2 lbs; medium, 10.4 lbs; large, 10.1 lbs
- Outer shell: Hardside Polypropylene — highly impact-resistant plastic that is strong, lightweight, flexible, and moisture-resistant
- Interior lining: made with Recyclex material technology, woven from 100 per cent post-consumer recycled plastic bottles
- Sleek and sophisticated design
- Pull handle offers incremental height adjustments for a customized fit
- Dual Spinner wheels for easy navigation down narrow airplane aisles
- TSA-approved lock
- Colours: Triple Black, Cypress Green
- Warranty: 10 years
Samsonite Elevation Plus Spinner Carry-on unique features
- Dimensions: 21.5″ x 14″ x 8.8″
- Extra push-button front-opening pocket perfect for laptop and special items like passport. Stays closed when TSA lock engaged
- Internal padding on laptop pocket for extra protection. Fits most 13″ laptops.
- Built-in interior pockets and a packing compression system
- Removable zippered pouch for chargers and cords
Samsonite Elevation Plus Glider Medium unique features
- Dimensions: 22.8 “ x 24.3” x 12.0”
- Horizontal design for a lower center of gravity, offering better balance and ad great for stacking bags
- Larger packing volume than most medium bags
- Multiple interior pockets, including one designed with waterproof material for liquids
- Built-in Apple Air Tag holder
- Luggage expands for extra space
- Compression straps to keep garments firmly in place
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My favourite features: Functionality, durability, design
Functionality: As a frequent traveller, I’ve tested many different types of luggage and experienced all kinds of travel woes. The Samsonite Elevation Plus range has accompanied me on three trips so far, and I’ve had only positive experiences so far.
The wheels glide easily on all surfaces, the zippers perform better than most luggage brands I’ve used and the extra internal pockets and compression straps keep my clothes, shoes and accessories organized and easy to locate. I love the waterproof pocket — great for liquids but also a wet bathing suit if you’re on the move. I often pack with compressible packing cubes, but find I don’t need them with these bags because of the additional pockets.
Durability: There is an expected level of durability with Samsonite products, and this range has not disappointed. I’ve noticed minimal scuffs and scratches after checking the medium bag, and those that appeared could be buffed off with some soap and water. The wheels move the same as they did on day one.
Design: I really appreciate the more modern, minimal look of this range. I have the Cypress Green shade, which is closer to a sage, and I’ve received many compliments. The bags stand out at the airport so it’s not hard to spot them on the conveyor belt after travel. The low centre of gravity on the medium glider is a game changer — I’m no longer dealing with collapsing luggage when I stack on a heavy backpack or duffle bag.
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Least favourite features: Laptop pocket, handle gets jammed at times
Laptop pocket: I wish I loved this feature. It would be a huge selling point — having easy access to my important personal belongings is ideal — but the pocket juts out when closed and I often feel I’m squishing the contents inside. It also eats into internal luggage space, leaving less room for packed clothes or gear.
Handle: I love that the handle height is adjustable, but sometimes have issues opening it on the first try — about 20 per cent of the time. Not a huge issue, but worth a mention.
Recommendation
Samsonite is considered a world leader in high-quality, long-lasting travel products. While the newer DTC (direct-to-consumer) brands like Monos and Away are aesthetically pleasing and offer some great gear, I don’t have the same level of trust when compared to a brand like Samsonite, which has proved its value for over 100 years.
The Elevation Plus range is durable, functional and incorporates innovative design elements that make travelling easier. With a mid-range price point, I’d recommend these stylish suitcases to all travellers — not just your parents.
Where to buy: Samsonite (full range) | Best Buy (currently only large spinner available)
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ltaveroff@postmedia.com
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