As a frequent traveler, finding the perfect luggage has always been a quest for me. One brand that recently caught my attention is Travelers Club.
With its functional design and affordable price point, Travelers Club luggage promises a blend of practicality and style that appeals to many travelers. If you’re wondering where to get your hands on one, it’s widely available on major e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Walmart, and even at local retailers that specialize in travel gear.
Let’s take a closer look at my experience with the Travelers Club luggage, breaking down its pros, cons, and how it stacks up against other brands.
My Experience With Travelers Club Luggage
Using the Travelers Club Chicago Hardside Expandable Spinner Luggage has been an overall positive experience for me, but not without a few bumps along the way.
When I first got the luggage, I was immediately drawn to its sleek design and lightweight feel.
It seemed perfect for short trips, and the fact that it’s expandable was a huge plus, giving me the flexibility to pack extra when needed.
The hard shell provided good protection for my belongings, and I appreciated the zippered compartments and compression straps inside for keeping everything organized.
On my first trip with this suitcase, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to maneuver through the airport. The 360-degree spinner wheels allowed me to glide effortlessly, and the retractable handle worked smoothly.
However, after a few uses, I did notice the handle felt a bit wobbly when fully extended. It wasn’t enough to cause major issues, but it was slightly annoying during longer walks through busy terminals.
One issue I ran into was with the wheels.
While they generally work well, one of the rear wheels jammed on a trip, making it difficult to pull the luggage.
This was frustrating, especially when rushing between flights.
Thankfully, it hasn’t happened again since, but it’s something to be mindful of if you plan to use it frequently.
Overall, this luggage has been reliable for my shorter trips, and the price makes it hard to beat. It’s not without its flaws, but for the casual traveler, it offers a nice balance between affordability, durability, and functionality.
If you’re traveling occasionally and don’t want to spend a fortune on luggage, this is a solid choice.
Pros & Cons of Travelers Club Luggage
After using the Travelers Club Chicago Hardside Expandable Spinner Luggage for several trips, I’ve had the chance to really get to know its strengths and weaknesses. As with any product, there are definite pros and cons, depending on your travel needs and expectations. Let’s break it down:
Pros
- Lightweight and Easy to Handle
One of the best features of this luggage is its lightweight design.
Weighing around 5.6 lbs, it’s easy to lift and carry, even when fully packed.
I’ve had no trouble storing it in overhead bins on flights, and its compact size means it fits within most airline carry-on size limits.
This makes it ideal for short trips or when you need to travel light.
The weight-to-durability ratio is also impressive. Despite being lightweight, the hard ABS shell provides solid protection for your belongings, shielding them from bumps and knocks during transit.
Even though I’ve used this suitcase quite a bit, the shell has held up well, with only minor scuffs after several months of travel.
- 360-Degree Spinner Wheels for Easy Maneuverability
The four spinner wheels are a lifesaver when navigating busy airports. Whether you’re rushing through security or weaving through crowds, the 360-degree rotation allows the luggage to glide smoothly in all directions.
I’ve even managed to push it alongside me without having to tilt or drag it, which reduces the strain on my arms and back.
- Expandable for Extra Packing Space
One of the standout features for me is the expandable design. On a few trips, I’ve ended up buying more souvenirs or items than I initially planned for, and the expandable zipper feature gave me the extra room I needed without having to bring an additional bag.
It’s great for those last-minute packing adjustments or when you want to carry a little more than expected.
- Stylish Design and Color Options
Though I opted for the basic black version, the Travelers Club Chicago Hardside Luggage comes in a variety of colors, including eye-catching shades like rose gold and pink.
This is a nice bonus for travelers who want their luggage to stand out. I’ve received a few compliments on its sleek appearance, and the matte finish adds a touch of sophistication.
- Affordable Price Point
One of the biggest selling points for this luggage is its price. Compared to higher-end brands like Samsonite or Rimowa, this is a budget-friendly option that still offers solid performance.
For someone like me, who doesn’t travel constantly but still needs reliable luggage, it strikes a great balance between affordability and functionality.
Cons
- Issues with Durability of Wheels
As much as I’ve enjoyed the spinner wheels, they haven’t been without their problems.
On one of my trips, one of the rear wheels jammed, which made it a hassle to drag the suitcase through two airports.
While I was eventually able to fix the problem, it’s not something you want to deal with during a busy travel day.
Over time, I’ve noticed some wear and tear on the wheels, which might be an issue if you plan on using this luggage frequently.
- Wobbly Handle When Fully Extended
While the retractable handle is generally smooth and easy to use, I’ve noticed some wobbling when it’s fully extended.
It’s not unstable enough to cause major problems, but it’s a bit annoying, especially if you’re navigating uneven terrain or pulling the luggage for long distances. I found myself retracting the handle halfway just to avoid the wobbling, which isn’t ideal.
- No Built-In TSA Lock
One feature I wish this luggage had is a built-in TSA-approved lock. Although this isn’t a dealbreaker for me since I use a separate lock, it would be more convenient if it was included.
If you’re someone who frequently flies internationally, a built-in lock adds a level of security and peace of mind, especially if your luggage gets inspected by TSA. Some of the larger models in the Travelers Club lineup do have this feature, so you might want to consider those if security is a priority for you.
- Susceptible to Scratches and Scuffs
While the hard shell is fairly durable, I did notice that it picks up scratches and scuffs more easily than I expected. After a few trips, there were visible marks, especially along the edges.
This hasn’t affected the performance of the luggage, but if you care about keeping your suitcase looking pristine, this might be a concern. Some colors, like black, tend to show these imperfections more, while lighter shades may hide them better.
- Limited Interior Organization
While the interior of the luggage is functional, with zippered pockets and compression straps, it’s not as organized as some other brands I’ve used.
There are no extra compartments for things like toiletries or electronics, which would have been helpful. For someone who likes to keep things meticulously organized, you might find the interior a bit basic.
Comparing Travelers Club With Other Brands
When it comes to choosing the right luggage, it’s essential to know how your choice stacks up against other options. While Travelers Club offers a good balance between affordability and functionality, let’s compare it to a few other budget-friendly brands like Take OFF Luggage and Zimtown Luggage to see where it stands.
- Travelers Club Vs. Take OFF Luggage
Take OFF Luggage is another popular brand in the budget travel category.
In terms of design, both Travelers Club and Take OFF offer sleek, modern appearances with hard shell exteriors.
However, where Take OFF might edge out Travelers Club is in its durability.
Many users have noted that the ABS material used by Take OFF Luggage feels slightly thicker and more resistant to scuffs and dings, making it a more durable option for frequent travelers.
That said, Travelers Club does offer better maneuverability with its 360-degree spinner wheels. The spinner wheels on Take OFF models are functional, but they can sometimes feel a bit stiff, especially on uneven surfaces.
If ease of movement is a priority for you, Travelers Club wins in this area. In terms of price, both brands are very similar, but Take OFF might have a slight edge in overall durability, while Travelers Club excels in its lightweight and easy handling design.
- Travelers Club Vs. Amazon Basics Luggage
Amazon Basics is known for offering affordable, no-frills luggage, and it’s a brand that competes directly with Travelers Club in terms of price and functionality. Both brands offer hard shell exteriors and spinner wheels, but there are some key differences.
Travelers Club is often seen as a slightly more stylish option, especially with its range of color choices and the sleek look of its Chicago line. Amazon Basics, on the other hand, tends to focus more on utility, offering simple designs that get the job done without much emphasis on appearance.
Where Amazon Basics does have an advantage is in the inclusion of built-in TSA locks, which many Travelers Club models lack. This can be a big plus for travelers who frequently fly internationally or want added security for their belongings.
However, Travelers Club edges out Amazon Basics in terms of maneuverability. The wheels on Travelers Club models tend to glide more smoothly, making it easier to navigate through crowded spaces.
- Travelers Club Vs. Rockland Luggage
Rockland Luggage is another competitor in the budget luggage category. Like Travelers Club, Rockland offers affordable hardside options with spinner wheels.
One of the main differences between the two is in the overall design and weight. Rockland luggage is known for being a bit bulkier, which can make it harder to fit into overhead bins on airplanes, especially for smaller carry-on models.
In terms of style, Rockland tends to offer a wider range of bold, patterned designs, similar to Zimtown, while Travelers Club leans more toward classic and elegant looks. If you prefer a lightweight, compact suitcase, Travelers Club might be the better choice.
However, if you’re looking for something with a bit more personality, Rockland could be more your style.
Functionally, Travelers Club has a slight edge in the wheel department, offering a smoother and more reliable experience when navigating airports. Additionally, Rockland luggage doesn’t always feature the expandable option found in Travelers Club models, which can limit your packing capacity on longer trips.
- Travelers Club Vs. Zimtown Luggage
When comparing Travelers Club to Zimtown Luggage, the key difference lies in the balance between aesthetics and practicality.
Zimtown Luggage offers eye-catching designs, often available in bold colors and unique patterns.
If you’re someone who wants to stand out at the airport, Zimtown might be more up your alley.
However, while Zimtown luggage is stylish, it doesn’t always perform as well when it comes to functionality.
For example, the wheels on Zimtown Luggage tend to be a weak point, with users frequently reporting issues after just a few trips. In comparison, Travelers Club provides a more reliable wheel system, even if occasional issues can arise with heavy use.
Additionally, Travelers Club luggage offers better internal organization with zippered pockets and compression straps, which is something Zimtown models often lack.
In terms of price, Zimtown is usually on par with Travelers Club, but when it comes to a combination of style, durability, and ease of use, Travelers Club pulls ahead for travelers who prioritize performance over flashy designs.
Maintenance Tips For Travelers Club Luggage
Keeping your Travelers Club luggage in good condition can prolong its life, ensuring that it lasts for many more trips. Here are a few maintenance tips based on my experience:
- Clean the exterior regularly: The hardshell can collect dirt and scuff marks after multiple trips. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth and mild detergent works wonders.
- Lubricate the wheels: If you notice the wheels becoming less smooth over time, you can apply a bit of lubricant to the wheel axles. This will help them move more freely and prevent any jamming.
- Check the handle: Since the handle tends to wobble a bit, regularly checking for any loose screws can save you from potential issues. A quick tightening might be all it needs to stay sturdy.
- Interior care: The fully-lined interior can be vacuumed to remove dust or dirt. If you spill something inside, spot clean it immediately to avoid stains.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, Travelers Club luggage offers solid functionality and durability, especially for budget-conscious travelers. While it may not have the premium features of high-end brands, it provides excellent value for the price.
Travelers Club luggage is manufactured in China, like many other luggage brands. This allows them to keep costs lower while still providing quality products.
The Kardashians are often seen traveling with luxury luggage brands like Louis Vuitton and Goyard, which are known for their high-end materials and iconic designs. However, these come with a hefty price tag compared to more affordable brands like Travelers Club.
When it comes to safety, luggage with built-in TSA-approved locks, like Travelers Club, ensures that your belongings are secure during transit. For even higher security, some premium brands offer additional safety features such as advanced lock systems or tracking technology.
Conclusion: Should You Buy Travelers Club Luggage?
At the end of the day, Travelers Club luggage is a fantastic choice for those seeking a budget-friendly, durable, and functional travel companion. It’s perfect for weekend getaways or short business trips where you don’t need to pack your entire wardrobe.
The expandable feature, combined with smooth spinner wheels and a lightweight design, makes it an attractive option for many travelers.
If you’re planning to purchase one, I’d recommend starting with online platforms like Amazon or Walmart, where you can often find discounts and read other user reviews.
Local retailers might also carry it, so it’s worth checking out their options if you prefer to see the luggage in person before buying.
Is it the most premium luggage out there? No. But for the price,
