THE JOURNAL
The bags to take with you on your travels this year.
So concerned are we with what should be going into our suitcase when we’re going on vacation that we rarely consider the luggage itself. Like socks and umbrellas, luggage is often something that we own without knowing how or why we acquired it. And, in the case of baggage that we have had for years – the trusty backpack we took on our gap year, for example – it can often be tricky to question its existence for sentimental reasons.
But remember: these things don’t last forever. Because, like you, they are not getting any younger. And as you do get older, your approach to carrying your belongings should come with a little more thought and maturity, perhaps. After all, if you’re the type of man that considers wearing something fresh when he goes to the airport, why shouldn’t that include how your luggage looks, too? As we enter August, traditionally a hectic time for holidays, we look at the suitcases and bags that pack the most punch this summer. Happy travels.
THE FUSS-FREE FLYER
If you’re the kind of slick traveller who doesn’t have the time to wait for your suitcase on the baggage belt at the other end, a carry-on is smartest option. Light, durable and with external USB ports, this polycarbonate suitcase by Milanese brand Ermenegildo Zegna is as versatile and as handy as they come. Multidirectional wheels mean you can glide to check-in and slip through security with ease, and the TSA approved lock will ensure all that top-secret business stays that way.
THE LONG-HAUL VETERAN
In the market for something with a bit more muscle and brawn? Something to sling in the hold before a long haul with all your belongings in? Look no further than this robust yet lightweight aluminium case by Fabbrica Pelletterie Milano – a luxury luggage company founded in 1946. Safe and secure, it locks with combination and butterfly locks, and makes packing easy with dividers and leather straps to keep your belongings need and tidy on the move.
THE INTREPID EXPLORER
If you describe your travel exploits as “trips” rather than “holidays”, if you’d rather go trekking in Uganda than lay by a pool in LA – you might find Filson is your go-to travel companion. And a trusty one it ought to be, too, given that the company has been around since the 1800s. Crafted from tear-resistant twill and perfectly sized to slot into a carry-on space, it also has plenty of pockets and compartments within which you can stow passports, mosquito spray, and whatever you pick up on your adventures.
THE STYLISH GLOBETROTTER
To inject a bit more style and glamour into your travel, invest in something like this by Globe-Trotter – a brand that has been a go-to luggage provider for the likes of Sir Winston Churchill and the Queen. From the Centenary collection (the brand was founded in 1897), this leather-trimmed trolley case is not all about looks, mind – it is made from vulcanised fibreboard, meaning it is surprisingly lightweight, and its wheeled base makes it practically perfect.
THE WEEKEND HIPSTER
If you like to live a little more spontaneously, preferring to jump on a last-minute cheap flight to somewhere in Europe, chuck a few things in a bag, and be on your way – this tarpaulin duffle bag by Herschel Supply Co might be more your thing. Despite its laidback appeal, it is made with thick webbing handles and has a military-inspired roll top, which means whatever you stuff inside it, it’ll stay secure – and stow smoothly in the overhead bin. What’s more, the striking pink design means you’re not going to misplace it if you have a few beers in the airport bar before take-off.
