
Best travel luggage to invest in this summer
Smart packing is essential, not only for convenience but also to conform to ever-changing airline regulations. Be sure to check baggage guidelines in advance, especially for cabin restrictions, weight limits and security rules.
When choosing luggage, prioritise cabin-friendly dimensions – typically around 55 x 40 x 23cm for most airlines – and opt for lightweight yet durable materials such as polycarbonate, aluminium or ballistic nylon. Smooth 360° spinner wheels, telescopic handles and internal organisation compartments are also must-haves, especially for seamless airport navigation.
Look out for features that simplify travel: expandable compartments, built-in garment sleeves, USB ports or tech organisers. Investing in a quality carry-on bag can save time and hassle and always weigh checked-in baggage before leaving for the airport to avoid surprise fees.
The best luggage blends style with practicality and the right choice can make all the difference. Here are eight pieces of luggage to consider.
Budget cabin bag: IT Luggage Lite Black Cabin
Known as the 'world's lightest soft cabin' luggage, the IT Lite Cabin bag weighs just 1.56kg but offers 39 litres of space. This Emirates-approved cabin bag is a light packer's dream. Functionality comes in the form of smooth in-line wheels, a handy exterior pocket, a shoe pouch, a wet pouch and an expandable body which gives up to 25 per cent more space. It also comes with a five-year warranty.
Dh325.27; Amazon.ae
Premium cabin: Samsonite Proxis Global Carry-On Spinner
Samsonite's featherlight 55cm carry-on case is built from space-tested Roxkin. At only 2.2kg, it delivers remarkable durability, dual spinner wheels for easy mobility, and expandable capacity. The eye-catching design comes in several bold colours, including green, gold and silver. It also has a 10-year warranty.
Dh2,130; Samsonite.ae
For children: Flyte Darwin the Dinosaur ride-on suitcase
This suitcase transforms into a scooter to entertain children and help them move swiftly through the airport. Featuring Darwin the Dino, it has 25 litres of interior space, LED roller wheels and a sturdy shell. Ideal for fun airport transport and adventures once you arrive at your destination.
Dh574.70; Amazon.ae
Best luggage set: Antler Single Stripe Suitcase Set
Minimalist and bold, Antler's Single Stripe set is designed for every kind of journey, featuring three hard‑side cases in carry‑on, medium and large sizes. Lightweight yet durable, each is crafted with a recycled lining, smooth custom wheels and a stylish signature stripe. Designed to maximise space and ease, this trio is perfect for the style-conscious or families who love to match.
Dh2,825; antler.com
Luxury specialist: Tumi Alpha 3 Continental Carry‑On
Perfect for solo summer escapes or short trips, the Tumi Alpha 3 Continental Carry-On is compact, functional and effortlessly sleek. With dual front access for easy packing, a built-in USB port to stay charged on the go and a garment sleeve for keeping clothes fresh, it's made for smooth, stylish travel. Lightweight yet ultra-durable, it's a go-to for summer weekend getaways and spontaneous city breaks.
Dh4,460; Tumi.ae
Lifetime investment: Rimowa Original Trunk Plus
Made in Germany from anodised aluminium, the Rimowa Original Trunk Plus is designed for long-haul travel. Its distinctive vertical shape maximises interior space, while the smooth-rolling multi-wheel system and TSA-approved locks ensure seamless, secure journeys. Engineered for durability and elegance, this is an heirloom-quality investment for travellers who value craftsmanship, innovation and style. It's now available in a striking new bronze colour.
Dh5,435; Rimowa.com
Ultra-luxury statement: Louis Vuitton Horizon 70
The Louis Vuitton Horizon 70 is the pinnacle of travel sophistication, crafted in Monogram canvas with leather trim and sleek aluminium accents. Designed in collaboration with industrial designer Marc Newson, it has a 58-litre capacity, flat-bottomed interior, dual zipped dividers and ultra-smooth double wheels. A wide aluminium trolley system ensures stability, while thoughtful extras such as a bag holder and protective cover elevate every journey.
Dh21,484; louisvuitton.com
For boutique travel: Bric's Bellagio 21" Carry-On
Combining refined Italian craftsmanship with smart functionality, the Bric's Bellagio 21-inch Carry-On is ideal for stylish short-haul trips. Made of recycled polycarbonate with elegant leather accents, it features a front tech sleeve with USB access, a TSA lock and an expandable zip for added capacity. Inside, a compression system keeps items in place, while 360° spinner wheels and a sturdy aluminium handle ensure smooth, effortless manoeuvring. It is compact, durable and timelessly elegant.
Dh1,652; Bric's UAE

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles

The National
an hour ago
- The National
How the Gulf could emerge as a global hub for wellness travel
The travel industry is undergoing a profound transformation. What was once a sector dominated by leisure, sightseeing and business conferences is now being reshaped by a more purposeful motivation: wellness. According to the Global Wellness Institute, wellness tourism is set to more than double in value from $651 billion in 2022 to a projected $1.4 trillion by 2027, growing at a compound annual rate of 16.6 per cent. This is not a passing fad – it is a structural shift that signals how we, as a society, are redefining the value of travel. At its core, wellness tourism is the intersection of travel and self-care. It spans far more than detox retreats or luxury spa getaways. Today's wellness-seeking traveller is just as likely to be on a silent meditation retreat in Bhutan, as attending a biohacking clinic in Switzerland or participating in a movement-based therapy programme on the beaches of Oman. The motivations are varied and include mental resilience, physical renewal as well as emotional healing – but the economic impact is universally clear: wellness is now a defining force in global tourism. This trend has been accelerated by several macro forces. First, the long tail of the Covid-19 pandemic has left a deep psychological imprint. The isolation, disruption and stress of those years have triggered a mass re-evaluation of lifestyle choices. Consumers are now allocating time and money towards experiences that offer restoration – not just recreation. Second, demographic shifts are at play. Millennial and Gen Z travellers, who now form the bulk of global travel demand, prioritise holistic well-being as a central part of their identity. This is the first generation for whom vacationing and healing are not mutually exclusive. Finally, digitalisation has enabled travellers to discover, plan and access highly personalised wellness experiences at scale. The Middle East, and the Gulf in particular, is uniquely positioned to benefit from this surge. The region has invested heavily in high-end hospitality infrastructure, but until recently, much of this was aimed at luxury leisure and business travel. The wellness economy presents a compelling adjacent growth opportunity. Destinations like AlUla in Saudi Arabia, the Hatta Mountains in the UAE and Oman's Dhofar coast offer natural settings that are ideally suited for immersive wellness experiences. Coupled with strong air connectivity, an increasingly diversified hospitality sector and supportive policy environments, the Gulf could emerge as a global hub for wellness travel. But capturing this opportunity will require more than beautiful resorts and Instagrammable yoga decks. The winners in this space will be those who take a systems-level view. First, cross-sector collaboration is key – linking tourism boards, healthcare providers, tech firms and the hospitality sector to create integrated offerings. Second, data and personalisation will be critical. Wellness is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. Travellers expect experiences tailored to their biometric data, lifestyle habits and cultural context. Third, credibility matters. As wellness tourism grows, so too does scrutiny. Governments and operators must ensure that standards are rigorous, claims are evidence-based and that wellness does not become an empty marketing slogan. At its core, wellness tourism is the intersection of travel and self-care There are also implications for the workforce. Wellness tourism demands a new breed of professionals – holistic health practitioners, mindfulness coaches, fitness experts and traditional medicine therapists – all of whom must be trained, accredited and fairly compensated. This presents an opportunity for regional economies to invest in human capital, diversify employment and foster innovation within the broader health and hospitality ecosystem. From an investor's perspective, the sector's performance is increasingly compelling. Studies have shown that wellness travellers typically spend 35-45 per cent more than the average international tourist. And unlike mass-market tourism, wellness offerings tend to be high-margin, low-volume and less seasonally volatile – an attractive proposition for developers, sovereign wealth funds and private equity alike. What's more, wellness tourism aligns closely with the rising demand for ESG-aligned investments. Sustainable resort developments, nature-based retreats and culturally rooted healing traditions offer not only strong financial returns but also measurable social impact. As institutional investors look to diversify their portfolios with purpose-driven assets, wellness tourism presents a rare confluence of profitability, resilience and long-term relevance. In a fragmented and volatile world, people are searching for meaning, balance and connection. Wellness tourism is not just a product category; it is a reflection of deeper societal desires. For the Gulf, this is a chance not only to capture economic value but to shape the global narrative around what purposeful travel looks like in the 21st century. The destinations that embrace this shift – with authenticity, strategy and bold investment – won't just attract travellers. They will build ecosystems of health, resilience and renewal that transcend tourism altogether.


Khaleej Times
10 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
Dubai-bound Emirates passengers stranded overnight at Zurich Airport after flight delay
Passengers on Emirates flight EK086 bound for Dubai endured a gruelling night at Zurich Airport after their flight was delayed overnight on July 19 due to a reported technical issue. While some travellers were provided with hotel accommodation, others — particularly those holding single-entry Schengen visas — were unable to leave the airport terminal. With the airport closing at 11pm, these passengers found themselves effectively stranded, without access to food, rest facilities, or clear information. Some affected passengers turned to social media to document their frustration. 'We literally have nowhere to go and no way to wait this out comfortably. Flight back tomorrow at 8pm as Emirates airline announced," Negin Jafari, one of the passengers, posted at around 1am. By 2am on Sunday (July 20), the same passenger shared a photo of makeshift beds inside the terminal, writing: 'So this is how it ends up for us. We have to wait here till tomorrow for any updates. The only hope for food is when the Emirates lounge opens at 8.30am. Just wait and survive the night somehow.' Later that morning, at 7.58am, she reported that staff had begun waking passengers. 'They just came and woke everyone up because the airport is opening, and apparently these 'beds' have to go!' she wrote. Her 9am update summed up the mood: 'We're still stuck here — hungry, exhausted, and with no clear answers. We can't even leave this area to buy food ourselves. Literally trapped in the airport with nothing. This is unbelievable." Frustrated, she added: "No one is taking responsibility! They just keep telling us to wait for someone from Emirates to show up… and we're still waiting." In a statement to Khaleej Times, an Emirates spokesperson confirmed the delay. "Emirates flight EK086 from Zurich to Dubai on July 19experienced an overnight delay due to a technical issue. Affected passengers have been provided with food and refreshments, and hotel accommodation where possible. "Regrettably, some passengers were unable to leave the airport; however, we worked closely with the airport authority to ensure they received the best possible support under the circumstances." The airline added that the flight has been rescheduled for departure at 8pm local time on July 20. 'Emirates sincerely apologises for any inconvenience caused. The safety of our passengers and crew is of the utmost importance,' the spokesperson added.


Khaleej Times
16 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Long weekend break, mega shows? What to expect from 54th National Day festivities
Each December, a festive spirit fills the air across the UAE as the country gears up to celebrate the historic unification of the seven Emirates on December 2. What has been known until 2024 as the UAE National Day has now taken on a new and meaningful name: Eid Al Etihad, which translates to 'Festival of the Union'. Eid Al Etihad emphasises the theme of 'union' (Etihad) and celebrates the unification on December 2, 1971. The excitement around UAE National Day, or more appropriately, Eid Al Etihad, goes far beyond just the long public holiday; it's a full-fledged celebration of country's "identity, symbolising heritage, unity, strength, and national pride". What's the backstory Back in 1971, the rulers of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah came together and formed the Union. Ras Al Khaimah joined in early 1972. And with that, the UAE was born, with vision of a powerhouse that is now emerging not just in the region but world wide. Public holidays For most residents, Eid Al Etihad means public holidays. Typically, both public and private sector employees get two days off, December 2 and 3, allowing time for staycations, road trips, or simply relaxing at home. This year, residents will receive midweek holidays on Tuesday, December 2, and Wednesday, December 3. But why stop there? You can turn this into a week-long break by applying for annual leave on Monday, December 1, and Thursday and Friday (Dec 4, 5). With the two weekends included, you will have a 9-day holiday to wrap up the year. Celebrations in the past two years Authorities have announced that the preparations are now underway for the 54th Eid Al Etihad, and everyone who calls the UAE home is encouraged to begin preparing for this year's celebrations. In 2022, the 51st National Day was all about storytelling. The official show was held in Abu Dhabi and later aired nationwide. It was an artistic spectacle with synchronised drones, dancers floating above water, and Emirati culture on full display. The celebration also paid tribute to Sheikh Khalifa and showcase UAE's next transport marvel — the Etihad Rail. In 2023, for the 52nd Eid Al Etihad, the theme was 'The Story of Our Union'. The celebration featured next-level tech with immersive visuals, augmented reality, AI-generated landscapes, telling the story of the UAE's growth. The fireworks were everywhere, from Dubai Festival City and Global Village to Sharjah Corniche and Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. Basically, if you looked up, there was probably something bursting and making you smile. In 2024, 10,000 artists, camels descended in Al Ain for Eid Al Etihad celebrations. The towering peaks of Jebel Hafeet in Al Ain served as the majestic backdrop for the UAE's 53rd National Day celebration. Real camels, palm tree props, and the enchanting Thuraya constellation set the scene for a spectacular show, interweaving nature's elements with the UAE's history and traditions. What to expect in 2025 Let's just say, the UAE doesn't do low-key celebrations. Although the full schedule isn't out yet, we can expect more of everything, more lights, more tech, more drones and maybe even a surprise concert or two. Possibly a new thematic show streamed nationwide, similar to the previous two years. Here's what we expect to see: Massive fireworks displays across all Emirates (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah). Drone shows have become a must-have in recent years telling UAE's story like never before. Free public events like parades (think Downtown Dubai, Global Village, cultural dances, and music festivals). Discounts and offers as malls, restaurants, and hotels love to join the celebrations. Traffic fine reduction. In 2024, motorists in four emirates of the UAE were offered a 50 per cent discount on traffic fines as part of a special UAE National Day initiative. Free public parking for motorists. However, with Parkin taking over the most parking areas in Dubai and Parkonic in Abu Dhabi, we will be watching out for the announcements this year. The last month of the year is a time when skyscrapers are lit up in red, green, white, and black, and families come together to reflect, rejoice, and look ahead. Eid Al Etihad celebration is a proud reminder of where the UAE came from and where it is heading — onwards and upwards.