As the summer holidays approach, does the very thought of that unforgiving check-in desk assistant waiting to pounce on you for every fraction of your excess luggage weight or making you unpack and re-pack in front of a long queue of agitated travellers impatiently waiting their turn fill you with dread? Gone are the days of being able to choose luggage with aesthetics over functionality in mind.
Stringent rules and regulations to safeguard travellers have turned packing for one's summer holidays from a fun and carefree indulgence into a painful military operation.
The added complexity of many airlines now charging for check-in luggage has meant that luggage that is easy to carry, lightweight and can pass as carry-on items, is more in demand than ever.
Luckily for us, these renewed functional requirements are being embraced by manufacturers of fashionable luggage items who are marrying fashion and function in their new designs.
Here's exactly what you can expect from the latest designs on the market this summer.
Light as a feather
The lighter the better. It will allow you to pack more into your tight luggage allowance. Many still favour the hard-cased luggage ranges, but instead of the empty shells weighing a hefty two-three kilos before you've even started, new designs are being made of polycarbonate and ABS plastic and are lightweight while maintaining their durability.
Samsonite's Cosmolite line is light as a feather, made of layers of woven polypropylene — the 20-inch carry-on weighs a mere two kilos.
Statement designs
Many of the hard-cased ranges boast bright colours and funky designs such as Tumi's novel range designed by New York graffiti artist John Crash Matos and Heys USA ranges designed by pop artist Romero Britto. Black and red are popular colours this season.
Novelty factor
Novelty doesn't just lie in the colour schemes — for some manufacturers, such as Delsey, it's all about achieving a novel edge with functionality. Their new Pullman case features a built-in scale that weighs itself and when the total weight exceeds the standard airline limit (22.5 kilos) an indicator light turns red. The lightweight fibreglass-graphite composition also gives it durability.
Ergonomics
Ergonomics is key to weight distribution and the convenience (or lack thereof) of carrying and moving your luggage around. Look for simple, yet stylish designs that minimise stress caused on the shoulders, arms and back.
— Beatrice Boardman is a UAE-based fashion and interiors consultant
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1897 collection by Globe Trotter. Made to order. Harvey Nichols, Dh2,100.
Cruise set by Globe Trotter. Made to order. Harvey Nichols, Dh2,100.
Britto Palm four-piece luggage set by Heys USA. Bloomingdale's Home, Cosmetic: Dh750, Small: Dh900, Medium: Dh1,100, Big: Dh1,250. Heys USA has created several eye-catching hard-cased luggage collections designed by pop artist Romero Britto. These collections boast many high-tech features including: lightweight composition of polycarbonate composite; a glossy finish with a scratch-resistant top coat; modern lightweight aluminium handles with TPR Grip; built-in three-digit TSA lock; Smart Wheels System; premium zippers; and custom interiors. They also carry a seven-year worldwide "Better Life" warranty.
Polochon Voyage bag by Hermes. Size 65. Made of evergrain calfskin and lined with chevron canvas, this beautifully supple bag is lightweight and boasts a spacious interior. Complete with removable strap, large inside pocket and padlock. Hermes Store, Dubai Mall, Dh35,400.
Centenary collection by Globe Trotter. Made to order. Harvey Nichols, Dh2,100.
Tepper Jackson Bloom getaway carryall. Bloomingdale's Home, Dh425.
Victoria overnight bag by Hermes. Made from calfskin and canvas (L40.6xW30.5xD11.4cm). Hermes Store, Dubai Mall, Dh21,060.
The Signature Vera Wang for Hartmann luggage collection reflects Wang's vision to create a lifestyle-driven, couture-like quality line for the modern woman. This collection is lightweight, durable, innovative, yet stylish with its soft leather folds on durable black microfibre, matt black hardware and signature lavender lining, which is also stain resistant. Convertible tote, Dh1,150; doctor's bag, Dh1,300; 20-inch trolley bag, Dh1,400; 22-inch trolley bag, Dh1,800; 24-inch trolley bag, Dh2,000; 27-inch trolley bag, Dh2,350 — all available at Bloomingdale's Home.
Serra, red quilted 15-inch laptop bag with wheels is part of Knomo's AW11 collection. Its lightweight composition comprises genuine leather (cowhide) and sleek durable waterproof nylon with a soft fabric lining with Scotchguard coating. Feminine and stylish, the Serra is designed with the modern woman in mind. Its main compartment is spacious and it boasts several organiser pockets including a deep zip pocket and a waterproof side pocket on each side for a water bottle, umbrella or shoes. The brushed aluminium handle wrapped with padded leather is conveniently retractable so the unassuming eye won't even know it has wheels and it's designed so as not to fall over easily. Dimensions, 30x39x3cm; outer size, 36x44x15cm; weight, 2.7 kilos. Bloomingdale's Home, Dh1,245.
This Hideo Wakamatsu casual lightweight soft trolley carry-on for ladies comes in two sizes: 16.5L and 22L. It has unique quilting pleats on the front and it comes with a sliver padlock. Available in black, red, beige, khaki and sky blue. Bloomingdale's Home, Dh400.
