This issue’s savvy six picks are in honor of our new line of luggage.
Make a statement. The days of the solid black bag are just about over. It’s time for a dose of elegant whimsy. Find a sophisticated color scheme or playful pattern that suits your personality. Imagine yourself traveling through the airport as Audrey Hepburn, Lucille Ball or Sarah Jessica Parker — you wouldn’t catch them toting boring luggage, so why should you?
Cherish organization. Find a collection that matches your travel needs. Will a beach-friendly carry-all come in handy to transport your towel, sunglasses and reading material to your ocean side lounge chair? Will a fold-up nylon tote be just the thing for those shore excursions when you don’t want to drag around your entire handbag? Choose a luggage set that comes with options — including a wheeled carry-on with plenty of compartments to help you stay organized.
Identify yourself! Remember to keep your luggage tags updated with current contact information in the unlikely event you and your bag get separated. It’s no fun to think about dealing with lost belongings on a vacation — but simple steps can bring a happy ending in case of a difficult situation. Have ID inside and outside your bags. Address labels or business cards tucked into a side pocket can do the trick.
Think basics, baby — and then some. Your carry-on should be your “on the go oasis.” A dose of practicality and pampering will ease your journey. Remember hand lotion (3 oz. or less), a travel-size lint roller, a stain-removing stick, etc. Then stash a few favorite photos (laminate them for safekeeping), an herbal tea bag or two and a soft pair of gloves reserved for out of town use. Yes, it’s important not to weigh yourself down — but tiny creature comforts can make any delay or layover easier to shrug off.
Shoot! A photo of your bag, that is. Once again, we’re not anticipating any negative surprises. But “just in case” your bag is stolen or left behind somewhere, having a photo on your digital camera or your cell phone can expedite the recovery process.
Create a luggage think tank. When your carry-on is your constant travel companion, it should share the responsibilities of road warrior life. Okay, so you can’t expect it to do your expense reports or send out thank you notes, but it can hold a tiny calculator, a list of all your frequent flier/guest award account numbers and some extra 1-quart ziptop plastic bags. You may not need one, but the cute guy next to you in the security line — or the stressed mom hustling two toddlers through the maze of travelers — will be grateful that you planned ahead.