Latest news with #suitcases
The Sun
4 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Supermarket is selling suitcases starting at £12 perfect for long and short haul flights this summer
A MAJOR supermarket is selling suitcases starting at just £12, which are perfect for long and short haul flights this summer. Morrisons is selling a range of cases, with prices from £12 to £30. The retailer said in a post on Facebook: "Why pay for a bag for life when you can roll away with a whole suitcase for almost the same price?! "Starting at just £12!
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Travel + Leisure
10-07-2025
- Health
- Travel + Leisure
Your Suitcase Is 58 Times Dirtier Than a Public Toilet Seat, Study Finds—and Here's the Dirtiest Spot
Suitcases are one of the dirtiest travel items, and the wheels are the worst offender. The study swabbed both hard- and soft-shell suitcases. Harmful bacteria including Staphylococcus, Serratia, and Bacillus were found on luggage. We've all become a little more germ-conscious since the pandemic with hand sanitizer still lurking in pockets and bags across our closets. And while you may think you're being diligent by washing your hands frequently and perhaps even masking up during your travels, there is one place you really should be paying closer attention to: your luggage. The oft-used item is a shudderingly gross source of harmful bacteria with the wheels specifically home to nearly 58 times more bacteria than a public toilet seat, according to a recent study from InsureandGo that was shared with Travel + Leisure. To conduct its study, the company swab tested 10 different suitcases (a mix of soft- and hard-shell) at a London airport train station in partnership with microbiologist Amy-May Pointer to determine just how gnarly our luggage can get. Pointer also took swabs from control surfaces, including a public toilet seat and a flush button to compare. 'Suitcases, especially their wheels and bottoms, are germ magnets that can out-germ even a toilet," Pointer said in a statement shared with T+L. "Yet, with basic hygiene steps, you can prevent these traveling microbes from joining you in bed or on the dinner table.' Pointer was able to identify a range of bacteria grown from the swabs taken on the luggage, including Staphylococcus, which the study explained are common on human skin but could "get into cuts, can cause boils or impetigo (a highly contagious skin infection), and some strains (like S. aureus) even trigger food poisoning." She also spotted Serratia, which is usually harmless, but could "opportunistically cause urinary or wound infections in hospital settings," along with Bacillus, a bacterium well-known to cause foodborne illness. As for the wheels themselves, each swab found hundreds of bacterial and fungal colonies, making it critical that you never, ever put your suitcase on a hotel bed again. The next dirtiest spot was the base of the bag (where the Bacillus spores were found). Pointer warned soft-shell cases can harbor extra fungal growth compared to hard-shell luggage since fabric absorbs moisture more readily than plastic. Last up was the suitcase handle, which Pointer said was the likeliest spot for Staphylococcus. But Pointer doesn't want you to live in fear. Instead, she offered some helpful advice on how to avoid these germs, including storing your bags on a luggage rack, avoiding rolling your luggage into toilet stalls or through puddles when possible, washing your hands after touching your bags, and giving your suitcase a good wipe when you get home. 'The less gunk your wheels pick up, the less you'll have to worry about later," Pointer said, adding travelers should 'Treat your hands as if you just touched those surfaces, because indirectly, you did.' See the full findings and more sage advice from Pointer at
CNET
09-07-2025
- Business
- CNET
Prime Day Deal: Save $184 and Travel in Style With a New Travelhouse Suitcase
Taking a trip this summer? This four-piece luggage set from Travelhouse offers huge savings of $184, allowing you to go easy on the wallet and travel in style. Walmart is offering huge deals coinciding with Amazon Prime Day. That means now is the perfect time to upgrade your travel bags for a steal of a deal at only $95 for four different sizes of suitcases. These 100% ABS hardshell suitcases are durable and lightweight with scratch-resistant material. They feature 360-degree spinner wheels, meaning your suitcase will move smoothly and silently if you have to sprint to the gate for your connecting flight. The four-piece Travelhouse set includes a 28-inch, 24-inch, 20-inch and 16-inch suitcase, providing a variety of options for whatever your upcoming travels entail. The 16- and 20-inch suitcases are suitable carry-on sizes, while the 24- and 28-inch bags will likely need to be checked, depending on the airline's restrictions. The luggage's spacious interior features down straps and a zippered divider, so you can easily organize and secure all your belongings. It also has a TSA-approved combination lock for extra security. Walmart offers eight colorways, with fun options ranging from herringbone green to wine red -- all backed by a two-year warranty. For more massive savings, check out the best Prime Day deals under $100 or our list of the best luggage deals. Why this deal matters Travel is expensive. Whether you fly and pay all the extra airline fees or fill the gas tank multiple times on your road trip, everything adds up fast. Tack on the jacked-up food prices and expensive hotels, and you may quickly be over budget. That's why saving upwards of $200 on a brand-new four-piece suitcase set is a big deal -- that's money you can put toward the fun parts of your trip instead. This deal won't last long, so you'll want to act soon to bring home the Travelhouse luggage for only $95 at Walmart.
Forbes
03-07-2025
- Forbes
Away Vs. Monos: Which Popular Luggage Brand Is Right For You?
Away versus Monos has become a popular topic when shopping for new luggage, and it's not hard to understand why. These two luggage brands are among the most sought after on the market today, with suitcases that feature sturdy construction, stylish design and smooth-rolling wheels. But while Monos and Away luggage might look similar at first glance, their products have distinct differences. As a travel editor who has visited over 40 countries using both brands to tote my stuff, I have noticed several key differences. Monos versus Away is a popular debate among travelers, as both suitcases feature sturdy ... More construction, stylish design and smooth-rolling wheels. Astrid Taran For Forbes Vetted To inform this story, I used insights from my own extensive travel as well as tapping Forbes Vetted editors who have journeyed with products from both lines to share their opinions on which luggage brand is worth your money. I also spoke to travel content creators and luggage experts Jessica Morrobel, of Traveling With Jessica, and Ciara Johnson, of Hey Ciara, for their input. Read on as I break down the standout features of both the best Away luggage and the best Monos luggage, covering everything from design to value. Whether you're a frequent flier or casual traveler, understanding the strengths of each luggage brand can help you choose the perfect travel companion for your next trip. Here are the key differences to know. Founded in 2015 in New York City by former Warby Parker employees Jen Rubio and Steph Korey, Away has gained a cult following for sleek, durable luggage that comes with practical extras, like a laundry bag and a melamine sponge to scrub away scuffs. The hardside suitcases have become a favorite among travelers looking for style, functionality and longevity, and in 2024, the brand expanded its line to include softside luggage. Away offers a lifetime limited warranty that covers cracks or breaks in its shells, as well as fabric tears and broken zippers, wheels and handles. Pros: Durable hardshell and water-resistant nylon materials Wide range of colors and the ability to personalize products with monogramming Hardside and softside options Cons: With its popularity, it's easy to mistake your bag for someone else's (unless you opt for one of their limited edition colors or a unique luggage tag) The hardside suitcases' polycarbonate shell can scuff easily, especially in lighter colors, and its softside luggage tends to be on the heavier side After rigorously testing the best luggage on the market, I selected Away's The Bigger Carry-On as my top pick in its category. It features ample packing space while still fitting into most overhead bins, and it has a sturdy zipper that has given me no issues when I've packed the bag to the brim. It has a durable polycarbonate shell, multiple handles and robust 360-degree rotating wheels that have held up well in the five years that I've owned it. Monos was founded in 2018 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada with a mission to create high-quality luggage that prioritizes aesthetics and sustainability. The brand has gained recognition for its emphasis on eco-friendly craftsmanship, making it an increasingly popular choice among those who value ethical manufacturing. Monos luggage features a streamlined, modern design and comes in a wide range of muted jewel tone colors as well as seasonal pastels. The brand also offers a lifetime warranty that covers broken shells, zippers, wheels and handles. Pros: Eco-friendly construction using vegan materials Minimalist aesthetic in an array of pastel colors Interior lining is treated with anti-microbial coating to inhibit bacteria growth Cons: No softside luggage options The polycarbonate shell can scuff easily, especially in lighter colors Customers are charged a fee (typically between $20 to $45) to return an item The Monos Carry On-Pro comes highly recommended by Forbes Vetted kids and baby editor Esther Carlstone. 'It's surprisingly roomy and can easily fit a weeks' worth of clothes,' she says. 'I especially love the exterior pocket for my laptop or iPad.' Made from aerospace-grade polycarbonate, 'it's super durable,' says Carlstone. 'I've taken it on dozens of flights and it always fits in the overhead bin.' Away Vs. Monos: Construction And Design Both Away and Monos suitcases have spacious interior compartments, mesh pockets, compression systems and whisper-quiet wheels. They also feature telescopic trolley handles that are solidly built—just take note that while Monos' handles have four height settings, Away's handles only have two. A wide range of fun colors can be found across both brands: Away's recent release of Sunshine Yellow color has been one of my favorites, while Forbes Vetted managing editor Emmy Favilla is a fan of Monos' Desert Taupe palette, calling it a 'nice muted gold.' Away is known for its streamlined and sturdy construction using resilient materials like polycarbonate, aluminum alloy or water-resistant nylon. Monos suitcases focus on sustainable materials, such as polycarbonate made from partially recycled materials, 100% recycled polyester and vegan leather. Away introduced expandable luggage to its collection in 2021, while Monos announced its first foray into expandable luggage in 2024. I have traveled with both—check out my top expandable picks below. The Carry-On Flex is a particularly great option for overpackers. It expands by over two inches, making it ideal for travelers who don't want to check a bag but also want the flexibility to have more packing space. The tough-as-nails polycarbonate suitcase hold nearly 40 liters; I traveled with it on a five-day trip to Ireland and only expanded it on the way back to squeeze in some extra souvenirs. When not expanded, it's compact enough to fit into all or most overhead bins. With an expander zipper that adds 1.6 inches of depth to your luggage (for an impressive total volume of 53 liters), the Monos Expandable Check-In Medium is a great checked option for travelers who want a sturdy suitcase made with premium materials. I traveled with this on a three-week trip to Greece, Albania and Slovenia, and found it to be incredibly durable and easy to organize. I only wish it came in more color options—Monos' expandable line is currently only available in three colors. Away Vs. Monos: Extra Features Away's suitcases were some of the first to have extra features like a water-resistant laundry bag made from recycled polyester, a melamine sponge to scrub down scuffs and a leather luggage tag. Monos suitcases also come with a laundry bag, two shoe bags, a sponge and a vegan leather luggage tag. Both brands' luggage include integrated TSA-approved locks. Ultimately, the choice may come down to personal preference on which additional details are most useful to you. It's important to note that Monos' suitcases feature interior fabrics coated with an anti-microbial, silver-ion coating that's meant to prevents bacterial growth—the brand's two shoe bags are also made from this material. 'The anti-microbial lining is huge for beauty enthusiasts,' says Morrobel, who often packs her suitcase full of skincare and makeup products. With the exception of some travel accessories like the brand's racket bag that's made from an anti-microbial performance fabric, Away currently does not have anti-microbial linings in its suitcases. Roomy without feeling too clunky, Away's The Medium has a capacity of nearly 70 liters, with enough space to accommodate up to two weeks of travel (or more if you're doing laundry along the way). I took this suitcase on a two-week trip to New Zealand, and it provided enough space for a wide variety of clothes that I needed across different climates. Its water-resistant laundry bag was ideal for storing dirty clothing or damp swimsuits during my travels. The Monos Check-In Medium comes recommended by Favilla, who praises its generously sized and smartly designed interior. With two zippered pockets, it features a large zippered compartment for toiletries and shoes, which can be neatly stowed in the provided matching shoe bags. 'The shoe bags are really handy for keeping shoes away from clean clothing,' says Favilla. 'I also love using the laundry bag for my dirty clothing, since it's much more convenient—and eco-friendly—than bringing my own plastic bag." Away Vs. Monos: Value For Price Monos and Away are priced very similarly, appealing to those willing to invest in quality luggage, but perhaps not looking for an over-the-top luxury bag. Both brands deliver solid performance with durable construction and functional designs, and both come with a lifetime warranty that covers any damage to the shell, fabric, wheels, zippers and handles, although these warranties do not cover cosmetic damage like dents, scuffs, scratches or everyday wear and tear. Regardless, these warranties can be valuable. 'A few years ago, my luggage cracked on a long flight, so I walked it into the Away store in Houston and showed them the scratch,' says Johnson. 'After taking a look, they immediately replaced my suitcase—zero questions asked. That sealed the deal for me.' Take note that Monos charges customers a fee of around $20 to return items (deducted from the refund), which may be a deterring factor for some budget-conscious customers. While Monos hardshell carry-ons and checked suitcases are slightly less expensive than Away's comparable products, it's not a significant amount (the Away The Carry On is $275 while the Monos Carry-On is $255). And if you're on the market for an aluminum suitcase, both brands make aluminum models that are significantly less expensive than options from other popular brands, like Rimowa. Monos' Aluminum Carry-On Plus ($665) does cost more than its Away counterpart, theThe Bigger Carry-On: Aluminum Edition ($645). Again, the difference in price is not significant, so your purchase choice would ultimately come down to which specific style resonates with you more. Morrobel is a fan of Away's The Carry-On: Aluminum Edition and has traveled with it on trips to Italy, Cairo and through multiple domestic state parks. 'It's a statement piece,' she says. 'It feels sturdy and elevated, and the dual TSA locks and compression system come in handy on packed trips. It's heavier than your average carry-on and does scuff easily, but it's held up impressively given how hard I've traveled with it.' Along with Silver and Black, the suitcase is also available in a chic Rose Gold color. Monos' Aluminum Check-In Medium is constructed with an anodized and electroplated aluminum that is designed for extra durability. It features elevated interiors, like a black quilted taffeta lining, and can hold up to 70 liters of items. At 14.7 pounds, it's a bit heavier than Away's The Medium: Aluminum Edition (which clocks in at 13.3 pounds). And while it doesn't come in a Rose Gold hue, like the Away line does, it does feature a chic Champagne color for those who want an alternative to black or silver. Final Thoughts Whether you prefer Away or Monos ultimately comes down to personal preference and the features you prioritize. If durability is your primary concern, Away is your best option, as its hardshell suitcases are less prone to visible scuffs and scratches. Many travelers will also appreciate Away's extra underside handle, streamlined construction and smooth-gliding wheels. Monos, on the other hand, will appeal to travelers who seek products crafted from ethically sourced, vegan materials. Its ultra-sturdy telescoping handles and multiple pockets for intuitive organization also stand out. Due to the popularity of both luggage brands, it's important to keep in mind that many other travelers could be using the same suitcase as you the next time you're at the airport. 'Because everyone seems to have an Away suitcase, I'm less worried about someone accidentally taking my Monos luggage at the carousel,' says Favilla. If you're purchasing a popular style, consider going with a non-neutral color that will really stand out from the pack. Why Trust Forbes Vetted The Forbes Vetted travel team has researched, written and published dozens of in-depth roundups on luggage, including the best luggage, best carry-on luggage, best lightweight luggage and more. This story was written by Forbes Vetted's senior travel editor, Astrid Taran, an 8-year industry veteran who's visited over 40 countries and has traveled with both Away and Monos suitcases. This story was edited by Forbes Vetted deputy editor Jane Sung, who oversees the travel section and has relied on Away and Monos luggage in various sizes for transporting her belongings on trips. For this story, Taran spoke to Jessica Morrobel, a travel content creator who shares her adventures at Traveling With Jessica, and Ciara Johnson, a travel content creator at Hey Ciara. Morrobel owns both Away and Monos luggage and has traveled the world with both, while Johnson has traveled extensively with Away luggage. Which Brand Is Better, Monos or Away? Both Monos and Away are popular luggage brands with products that differ slightly. Some travelers might value the durability and sleek design of Away's suitcases, which tend to be more resistant to scuffs and scratches. Others may prefer Monos' thoughtfully designed interiors and focus on eco-friendly craftsmanship. Both brands embrace sustainability, but Monos uses vegan or recycled materials. Away suitcases can have a slightly higher price point, and also have a broader range of softside and hardside luggage to suit a variety of travel needs. Do Monos Suitcases Scratch Easily? Monos suitcases feature durable polycarbonate shells, but that doesn't mean they are scratch-resistant. Scuffs or scratches on Monos luggage may become visible after several trips, especially if you usually check your suitcase. If this is a dealbreaker for you, we recommend purchasing a darker color, which hides wear and tear much better than lighter colors. Is Monos A Japanese Brand? Monos is a Canadian brand that was founded in Vancouver, British Columbia in 2018. More Luggage Stories To Shop:
Yahoo
22-06-2025
- Yahoo
The Best Suitcases for Kids (so You're Ready for Summer Travel!)
This article may contain affiliate links that Yahoo and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links. Spending time in our favorite places and exploring new destinations are great reasons to pack up the suitcases and hit the road as a family. But family travel can present its own list of challenges. And just like any scenario in which I feel stressed, I find that the key to managing these potentially demanding situations is to make like a Boy Scout and 'be prepared.' By having the right supplies at our fingertips, I can be relatively confident that our travel will be comfortable so that we arrive at our destination ready to explore, have fun, and maybe even relax. Over the years I've tried several different luggage solutions for my two kids, now 13 and 7, and I've finally found the suitcases that meet all of our needs. Here's a look at the best suitcases for summer travel with kids. When selecting a suitcase for young travelers, it's important to consider the child's capabilities. A heavy, bulky suitcase with sticky wheels is going to lead to a meltdown in the middle of an airport (either your child's or your own), so go with something manageable that's in line with your child's size. Kids should be able to manage their own luggage, so make sure the zippers and wheels work smoothly, and the materials feel sturdy enough to endure inevitable wear and tear. A cute choice for a first suitcase, the Boppi Tiny Trekker is quite small, with a zippered compartment and an open packing area with enough room for about two days' worth of clothes, a couple of pull-ups, and a few toys. The small size makes it easy for kids to handle, and they'll love any of the suitcase's 10 charming designs, like a strawberry, a tiger, or a penguin. Amazon $60 Buy Now When you're ready to increase your frequency and duration of travel, this stylish and functional suitcase will serve you well wherever you roam. This Itzy Toddler Suitcase is a great starter suitcase for teaching kids the lifelong skill of packing for themselves. The maneuverability is great, even during long airport walks, and the size (spacious interior, but not too big outside) is just right for little kids. Maisonette $120 Buy Now Now that my kids are getting older, we've left the character suitcases behind in favor of something that's still fun but a little more age-appropriate. This lockable, hard-shell carry-on-size suitcase from Away is remarkably spacious yet still light enough for kids to carry without complaining (at least no more than usual), and it's available in 5 vibrant hues, including froggy green and cotton candy pink. In its two packing areas, the Kids' Carry On can easily accommodate about a week's worth of clothing and a few extras. I also snagged Away's Kids Packing Cubes for an extra level of suitcase organization. Away $225 Buy Now Whereas the Away kids' luggage is all about bright candy colors, Beis offers a more subtle color palette, with either the Atlas Pink or Olive in the Mini Roller suitcase, which is the perfect size for elementary-age kids but also chic enough for Mom to use for a quick jaunt out of town. The Mini Roller also has a handy zippered compartment up front, which is perfect for stashing a book or an iPad, and the suitcase features a TSA-approved lock for an extra level of security. Béis Travel $218 Buy Now Once your kids hit their teen years, they're probably ready to upgrade to more of a forever suitcase, and the Logan Suitcase from State hits the mark for durability and classic design while still offering some teen-friendly aesthetics, including a glittery pink and silver or a gender-neutral lightning bolt. My kids already loved State's durable, chic backpacks, which have held up nicely after several years of use, so making the investment in a State suitcase felt like a safe move. The Logan is a lightweight, soft-sided suitcase that has ample room for two weeks' worth of clothing and includes a zippered front pocket and a bottle holder for easy access during transit. And if you need a little more room, the Kane backpack and Bensen toiletry set are available in complementary colors to complete your set. STATE Bags $225 Buy Now The award-winning Stokke JetKids BedBox was named one of TIME's Best Innovations in 2021. It's designed for kids 2 to 7 years old (up to 77 pounds). Not only can kids self-propel using their feet, but they can also ride on the suitcase while caregivers tug it along by the adjustable strap, and the suitcase also transforms into a snuggly spot for your kiddo to rest on the plane! (Check your airline to make sure it's permitted first, though — even if it's not approved to use in the seat, it is still considered a carry-on.) However, the padding that creates the 'bed' does chip away at some of the interior space of the suitcase, so if you are not prioritizing that aspect (i.e., if you have a shorter flight or if your kids would be comfortable without the padding), you might want to ditch it and use the extra room for packing. Stokke $249 Buy Now It's a suitcase! It's a scooter! It's the most fun your kid can have on a layover! The Roll Rider is a hardshell suitcase with a built-in scooter (and light-up wheels!) for kids up to 110 pounds, which makes it a potentially good choice even for tweens. Designed by a mom, this overhead-compliant suitcase includes handy features like a water bottle holder and an iPad compartment so kids can grab exactly what they need and keep on rolling. Maisonette $140 Buy Now These 15 Kids' Storage Beds Have Hidden Depths We Tested 5 Ways to Get Slime Out of a Carpet and the Winner Left No Trace I Tried 8 Baby Food and Kids' Meal Delivery Services — Here Are the Best of the Bunch
