In an age where even the royals take budget flights occasionally, your cabin bag speaks volumes. Like a handbag, it has the potential to elevate your look and show a little personality.
“There has been a pretty seismic shift in how luggage is viewed in the last decade or so,” says Niklas Oppermann, co-founder of London-based brand Carl Friedrik.
“Previously it was an afterthought – a necessary by-product of travelling, epitomised by homogeneous soft-side designs.
Now, consumers view it as a stylish accessory that must also meet functionality requirements. As people travel more and more, they need luggage that continues to perform, so the quality has risen.”
Brand choice matters. The Rimowa owner likes to pretend they’re low-key, but they enjoy receiving the odd envious gaze.
The streetwear lover might carry a Floyd, with its distinctive red skateboard wheels. The Antler person likes to champion the best of British. There’s the nylon duffel tribe, happy to forgo wheels in favour of something lighter (Arket’s 72-Hour bag, below, is a cult hit), and the person who refuses to be parted from their 17-year-old Samsonite because they’ve been through so much together.
72-hour 3-way duffle bag, £159, Arket
Icon cabin suitcase with pocket, £220, Antler
If you’re in the market for a new carry-on, you’re not alone. “Over the past 10 years, customer expectations have shifted heavily towards cabin luggage, following rising airline hold-bag prices,” says Kirsty Glenne, managing director of Antler.
“Customers are seeking out an option that allows them to fit in a significant amount of clothing and toiletries while still looking put together on the go.”
And prepare to do some research, as it’s never been a more competitive space.
A host of challenger brands have forced the old guard to step up their game to secure your loyalty. They know that once you buy a carry-on, you might buy more to match.
Among these newer brands, July boasts some of the lightest carry-ons, while Nere’s bold colours and accessories make personalising easy. As for customisation, do you keep it pristine, or add a monogram, tags, stickers… Whatever you choose, the departure lounge has never looked so chic.
Try these...
Black Hole duffel bag, £140, Patagonia
Wheel brake system carry on, £319, Aer
Chasm duffel bag, £119.99, Thule
The Carry On, £325, Carl Friedrik
Transit’R S, £150, Eastpak
M5 cabin luggage, £430, Horizn Studios
Texel waterproof cabin trolley, £280, Rains
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