If you’re in the market for new luggage, I think Original Penguin is the one you should consider. Not only does it have the durability you need for travel, but it also has that stylish flair that makes you look like the frequent traveler you aspire to be.
Let me walk you through my experience with the Original Penguin luggage so you can decide if it’s the right fit for you.
My Experience With Original Penguin Luggage
I know that choosing the right luggage can make or break your travel experience. Personally, I wanted something that could take a beating from airport baggage handlers while still looking good and being easy to maneuver.
I recently picked up the Original Penguin 29″ hardside luggage in crimson, and after a few trips with it, I’ve gathered a lot of thoughts to share.
- Design And Aesthetics
The first thing that stood out to me was the design of this luggage.
The honeycomb PAP hardshell exterior has this sophisticated but fun vibe that instantly caught my eye.
I mean, it’s not every day you find a suitcase that combines both style and function.
I like to think of it as being practical but also having a flair for adventure.
It’s definitely made me feel a little more confident strolling through airports.
Another aspect of the design I appreciated was the vibrant crimson color.
I’m tired of looking at black and grey suitcases all over the luggage carousel.
This luggage stands out, and not only for its color.
Its shell has a nice texture that’s surprisingly scratch-resistant. I’ve banged it against walls, dragged it over uneven surfaces, and it still looks like new.
- Wheels And Maneuverability
One thing I always dread is dealing with luggage that just doesn’t want to cooperate. We’ve all been there, dragging a suitcase with wheels that refuse to roll straight.
With Original Penguin, the eight-wheel, 360-degree spinner system makes life a lot easier. I was pleasantly surprised at how effortlessly it glides on different surfaces, even when it’s loaded to the brim.
The double spinner wheels feel sturdy and reliable. I’ve had luggage in the past where one wheel would break off or get stuck, and it was a nightmare. With this one, I found myself maneuvering through airport crowds without even breaking a sweat—which is saying something when you’re a frequent traveler like me.
- Expandable Space And Interior Features
If you’re like me, you tend to overpack. Whether it’s that extra pair of shoes or all the souvenirs I pick up along the way, space is always an issue. The Original Penguin luggage expands by 25%, and trust me, that extra space comes in handy.
The interior is well thought out. It’s got mesh organization pockets, tie-down straps, and dedicated areas for shoes. I loved that it had these compartments because, let’s face it, packing can feel like an impossible game of Tetris.
These compartments really helped keep my things organized, even when I was scrambling to pack on my way back home.
- Durability
Durability was a top priority for me when I was choosing new luggage. I’ve had bags that didn’t even last one round trip before showing signs of wear.
With Original Penguin, I’ve put it through a lot. It’s endured luggage handlers throwing it around, multiple TSA inspections, and even some rough handling from me. It’s lightweight yet tough enough to protect what’s inside.
During one trip, I packed it full with fragile souvenirs—some glass bottles, delicate decor items, and even a bottle of wine. I was nervous, but to my delight, everything made it home safe and sound. I think that’s a testament to how well-built the shell and internal compartments are.
Cons – The Not-So-Great Parts
Of course, no luggage is perfect. I noticed that when I was trying to zip it up while it was fully packed, the zipper seemed a bit resistant.
I had to really take my time aligning both sides, and the zipper felt like it wanted to bind.
It’s not a deal-breaker for me, but it’s something to consider if you’re often in a rush to close your luggage.
I’ve also noticed that, due to its size, it can be a bit cumbersome to handle if you’re in a very tight space.
Getting it into smaller taxis was a bit of a hassle, but then again, that’s the trade-off with larger suitcases.
Maintenance Tips Ffor Long-Term Use
One thing I always tell people is that taking care of your luggage is key to getting the most out of it. Here are a few maintenance tips I’ve picked up to make sure my Original Penguin luggage lasts as long as possible:
- Clean the Exterior Regularly: After each trip, I wipe down the hard shell with a damp cloth. It helps get rid of any scuffs or dirt marks, especially after airport handling. Don’t use abrasive cleaners, as they can scratch the finish—a mild soap and water solution works best.
- Lubricate the Zippers: If you notice the zipper binding or becoming resistant, using a little bit of zipper lubricant can make a huge difference. It’ll keep everything moving smoothly and prevent the zipper from sticking at inopportune times.
- Check the Wheels: I’ve found that after a couple of trips, it’s good practice to inspect the wheels for any debris that might get caught in them. Little pebbles or dirt can get lodged in there and cause issues over time. I use a small brush or even an old toothbrush to clean them.
- Store Properly: When I’m not using the luggage, I make sure to store it in a dry place. Moisture can cause the interior lining to become musty. I also leave it partially open so that air can circulate inside.
Comparison With Other Brands
When it comes to luggage, there are several options available, and it’s important to find the right one for your needs. Here’s how Original Penguin stacks up against other popular brands like NOBL Travel Luggage, Dejuno Luggage, and Skyline Luggage.
- Original Penguin Vs. NOBL Travel Luggage
NOBL Travel Luggage is known for its lightweight and sleek designs, often with a minimalist approach.
While NOBL’s luggage is certainly modern and attractive, I found that it lacks some of the practical features that Original Penguin offers, like the expandable compartment.
The NOBL luggage is great if you prefer something light and are not planning to overpack, but if you need more space and value organization, Original Penguin comes out ahead.
The wheels on NOBL are decent, but they don’t glide quite as effortlessly as Penguin’s eight-wheel system, which makes a difference in crowded airports.
- Original Penguin Vs. Dejuno Luggage
Dejuno Luggage is another affordable option that offers a variety of styles and colors. However, when comparing the durability and overall quality, I felt Original Penguin had a bit of an edge.
Dejuno’s materials can sometimes feel a bit flimsy, especially when the bag is packed to its full capacity. The expandable feature of Original Penguin also gives it a significant advantage, as Dejuno’s luggage tends to feel tight and limited when it comes to packing extra items.
The double spinner wheels on Dejuno are functional but don’t have the same robust feel as those on the Original Penguin luggage, which makes maneuvering less smooth.
- Original Penguin Vs. Skyline Luggage
Skyline Luggage is another budget-friendly brand that provides decent value for its price. While Skyline luggage is lightweight and easy to handle, it lacks some of the features that make Original Penguin stand out.
The organization compartments in Skyline are quite basic, and there’s no expandable feature, which means you’re stuck with whatever space you have from the start. Additionally, the durability of Skyline luggage isn’t quite up to the level of Original Penguin.
I’ve noticed that Skyline’s hardshell exterior tends to show scratches more easily, and the wheels don’t seem to hold up as well after a few trips.
The Verdict
Compared to NOBL Travel Luggage, Dejuno, and Skyline, the Original Penguin luggage strikes the best balance between durability, style, and practicality. The expandable feature, smooth spinner wheels, and thoughtful interior design make it a standout option for travelers who want a reliable and attractive suitcase without spending a fortune.
While NOBL and Skyline are lightweight, and Dejuno offers some fun designs, Original Penguin offers that extra level of quality and attention to detail that makes traveling a little less stressful and a lot more stylish.
Getting The Most Out of Your Luggage
If you want to get the most use out of your Original Penguin luggage, I’ve got a few additional tips that I’ve picked up:
- Maximize the Interior Space: I always roll my clothes instead of folding them. It not only saves space, but it also helps to keep wrinkles at bay. Plus, using the mesh pockets for smaller items, like chargers or toiletries, keeps everything organized and easy to find.
- Distribute Weight Evenly: This is especially important if you’re expanding the suitcase to fit more in. Keeping heavier items in the center and near the wheels will help with balance and make it easier to roll, which is a big deal when you’re moving fast through an airport.
- Lock the Handle Properly: This might sound simple, but make sure the push button locking trolley handle clicks into place before you start moving the luggage. It makes it much easier to maneuver and prevents the handle from collapsing unexpectedly—a lesson I learned the hard way during my first trip!
Who Is This Luggage For?
In my opinion, the Original Penguin luggage is perfect for people who travel frequently and need something reliable and stylish without going over budget. Whether you’re traveling for business, vacation, or just an extended stay with friends and family, it’s got the features to make packing and carrying it hassle-free.
It’s also ideal if you’re someone who loves standing out a bit at the airport. The design isn’t as generic as what you’ll find in most other brands, and that’s something I personally love. It makes spotting my bag on the carousel so much easier—and hey, there’s some extra peace of mind that comes with that.
Final Verdict
Overall, I think the Original Penguin luggage is an excellent investment for travelers who value style, durability, and practical features. It strikes the right balance between quality and affordability, and it’s made my travel experience a whole lot smoother.
If you’re looking for luggage that can handle anything you throw at it—or into it—then this is the one for you.
