I like to travel. I do not like packing a typical suitcase. I would not say I like the multiple zippers, separate compartments, and my items being nestled in their own spaces, causing retrieval to be a hardship. I do not like unzipping multiple zippers until I finally find something. I also like things to be clean, and thinking about security personnel rifling through strangers’ bags with dirty laundry and then inspecting my luggage and rummaging through my endless luggage pockets that are difficult to wipe down is enough to make me want to stay home. Please…let me throw everything into a vast pit and travel like the crazy traveler I am and then be able to wipe down my luggage for storage easily.
I had searched for a travel bag that would meet my needs. The closest suitcases were trunk-style ones, although they were different from what I wanted and were expensive. Some looked like they might work as open closets, which was appealing. Some looked like they might tip over when left open standing vertically or like items might drag across the floor when taken out of the trunk. I finally found a trunk that solved all my problems and was cheaper than most other trunks I had researched.
Thank you, Pelican, for understanding me. I purchased a 1615 Air Case from Pelican, a manufacturer of cases, coolers, lights, bags, and other products. Its cases are created to protect gear and equipment from harsh environments, and they have created luggage (or what can be used as luggage) with this same concept. It is a trunk that allows me to put everything in one space (and still be organized to the extent I want to be with packing cubes).
Ease of Opening, Closing, and Packing
The trunk is securely latched by five latches that open quickly by pressing, then lifting and snapping down to close. One of the best features is that the lid stays open! You do not have to constantly open the lid to obtain objects or prop the trunk against a wall to keep the lid in an open position. You can raise the lid and have it stay open until you are ready to close it. One sizeable interior space allowed me to arrange my belongings as desired. I had a duffel bag with toiletries and some clothing and separate bags of clothing next to the duffel bag. Most suitcase reviews rave about the endless compartments and zippered areas of cases that are supposed to translate into organized travel bliss. This case combines easily accessing items in one area with options to further organize the space as needed. I ordered my suitcase through a third-party supplier called ColorCase. This company offers an organizer with zippered mesh compartments that can be attached to the underside of the lid – or that can be removed if I do not want to use it on a trip. I could arrange my items for easy access while traveling and rearrange items from another suitcase during my last trip as needed.
Performance in The Field
The suitcase worked well as I used it on vacation and traveled with it from our vehicle, left it with a porter, delivered it to our stateroom, used it during a cruise, rolled it into and out of hotels, and reloaded it in our vehicle. My only real complaint was that it put pressure on my arm's midsection as I pulled it, causing some pain in the elbow area. I had to stop for a brief rest a couple of times as I rolled my luggage a reasonable distance from the hotel parking lot to our room. The luggage has two wheels, so it has no slick option of gliding upright on four wheels. It is an old-style tilt-and-pull type of luggage, which is essential to note if this is a deal breaker for you. I was concerned about the weight of the luggage, but it was easier to lift and handle than I expected.
Why I Liked The Suitcase
In addition to the simple layout of the ample open space to pack my items, this case is waterproof, dustproof, and sturdy. It was easy to wipe down and clean before storing it for my next adventure. Although I did not purchase any, packing cubes, dividers, and foam protectors are available.
Considerations for Fashionistas
This trunk's sturdy, rugged nature might leave something to be desired for those who like fashionable luggage. However, this is easily overcome with a couple of options. ColorCase offers Pelican cases with customizable colors of handles and latches. My suitcase is so colorful and fun that its presentation overshadows the tough nature of the trunk. Another option is to personalize it with vinyl. I added my name in a script font with a Minnie Mouse-inspired bow for our Disney cruise. If you feel this trunk is what you need, consider purchasing it because it can be stylish. Look at it as a chance to showcase your style or personality. This is not a problem but an opportunity to combine style and function.
Overall Suitcase Review
This suitcase was the answer to many of my problems while traveling. It is sturdy, functional, and personalized to my liking. It is easy to clean after a trip if desired. If you like separate compartments in a suitcase, use the mesh organizer under the lid or separate contents into packing cubes. It works excellently if you want to throw everything in an ample space and get going. This case might be a good solution if you travel a lot and want rugged luggage to withstand the harsh treatment at airports or travel with equipment or gear you want to protect.
