Luggage can be fickle when it comes to price. Do you choose yours based on price point and hope against hope that a zipper won’t slip, the fabric won’t rip and a wheel won’t fall off. Or do you bight the bullet and invest in a high-quality luggage set, knowing that you’ve spent the equivalent of a short vacation on a device that only stores clothes?
You don’t have to do either if you choose luggage based on which features are important to you and which brands can offer them at a reasonable price. Obviously, not every feature is created equal, which means that price point can vary drastically based on your priority list.
Multiple Handles
Traveler’s Choice Rio 2-Piece Lightweight Carry-On Luggage Set; $60.95
At seven pounds and 21 inches tall, this bag is a great size. This is further emphasized by its strategically placed handles, which provide ample support based on its size and weight. It’s got two small handles on its top and side, as well as a pull-out handle that allows for easy rolling.
Well-spaced Wheels
Ciao 4 Pc Luggage, Black; $59.99
All three pieces in this very affordable luggage set have wheels that allow for maximum weight distribution. They aren’t on the edges of the bag, which would make it hard to turn, nor are they too close to the middle of the bag, which could cause it to flip over on a turn. Rather, these wheels support just a little overhang from the bag, drawing some weight away from the middle and making it more maneuverable.
Accessible Compartments
Embark Luggage Set – 6 pc; $79.99
This luggage set has multiple exterior compartments that would be perfect for cosmetics, itineraries, eyeglass cases, crossword puzzles or any other thin item that you’ll need easy access to. These compartments are large enough that they hold a reasonable amount of small items, but aren’t so large that they cut into the interior compartment’s space when filled. These inside compartments are ample as well, with the largest piece sporting an interior nine inches deep.
Color Contrasts
Liz Claiborne Luggage Chelsea Wheeled City Bag; $99.95
This stylish bag will delight any woman. It’s got a sleek color combination that’s accented by bold black trim, straps and zippers – making these features easy to locate. The top strap doesn’t look super sturdy, but luckily this bag’s on wheels, which means it also has a pull-out handle.
Easy-to-Operate Features
Coleman Luggage Ridgeline 3-Piece Luggage Set; $179.96
The beauty of this luggage set is in the materials. Sure, it’s got the standard plastic pull-out handle, but it also features cloth straps that make the zippers easier to grasp, tug and open. Additional carry handles mold to your hands as you grip them, making the load less burdensome and more comfortable to carry.
Size
Traveler’s Choice Amsterdam 25″ Expandable Rolling Upright; $32.60
As we mentioned in our Guide to Elder-friendly Luggage, carry-ons must be less than 46 linear inches to meet TSA regulations. The Amsterdam comes in at 40.5 inches and weighs only 11.5 pounds, yet is ample enough that it could be your sole bag on a two- or three-day trip.
The RC46 clock radio by RCA is the perfect companion in the morning. This alarm clock rates high in all the major categories. Throw in its' affordability, and this is one of the better ones out there.
A simply snazzy alarm clock. The Electric Alarm Clock from Elgin gives you 7 different display colors to choose from.
The iC172 iPod dock alarm clock radio by Emerson features more than an iPod docking station. It features an integrated LCD projector which allows you to project the time in LARGE numerals onto your wall or ceiling. The large projected display is ideal for anyone who has poor vision or a difficult time seeing without the aid of eye glasses.
Wake to your docked iPod, the radio, or--if you must--a classic buzzer alarm. Whichever you choose, a gradual alarm feature gently raises the alarm volume, so it's not too jarring. Great options and features on a great alarm clock.
Newly designed for 2010 with a bigger display and bigger sound, the iP90 represents the latest in iHome's #1 clock radio franchise. Made to charge, play and wake to iPhone/iPod, it has many great features including a remote, AM/FM pre-sets, dual alarm, Time Sync, 7-5-2 alarm settings and more.
With a unique wedge design and silver case with a blue lens cover, the Sharp SPC019F Red LED Alarm Clock with a Wedge Style Case will add a dash of color and flair to your bedside table. A red 0.6-inch LED display ensures that you'll always know exactly what time it is, and an alarm with a snooze feature means that you can catch a few extra winks before starting your day.
