The holidays rapidly approach, and those of us who travel as part of our profession are forever in need of that perfect piece of luggage that’s functional, or perhaps even flashes a bit of personal flair that causes heads to turn as it tumbles down the baggage chute.
I’m not normally one to seek external validation through my luggage—having only recently “splurged” on a soft-shell carry-on with wheels instead of slogging a glorified duffel bag over my shoulder, and all because I was required to have one for an upcoming Morocco trip.
Or maybe I’m just cheap.
Regardless, following are three luggage options that could make great gifts for the busy travel professional in your life—or yourself. Whether you’re a form over function traveler, or vice-versa, these three luggage options will get you off and flying into the new year.
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Samsonite Andante 2 Wheeled Rolling Duffel Bag
$55.99 at Amazon
This is the practical piece I purchased that will eventually save my neck and back, relegating that strapped duffel bag to a lonely spot in the garage before it manifests a new calling as a charitable donation. And after flying with this carry-on, I was a quick convert.
The soft-shell bag equates to an easy squeeze in overhead bins, and although on the bargain side, it boasts one of the most recognizable legacy luggage brands, Samsonite, so you can hold your head high while in transit.
[Related: The Best Black Friday Deals for Meeting Planners This Holiday Season]
Custom Photo Suitcase
$189.95 from YouCustomizeIt
If you’re like me, the absolutely worst part of a business trip isn’t being cramped in a tiny seat for hours on end, delayed or canceled flights or long layovers between legs. It’s having to leave your furry friends at home.
Fellow Meetings Today editor Taylor Smith can at least take a reasonable facsimile of her dog Romeo with her on the road via the Custom Photo Suitcase 20-inch Carry-on gifted to her by her aunt.
These customizable hard-shell suitcases come in three sizes: 20-inch carry-on, 24-inch medium and 28-inch large. Simply upload a photo online to personalize the design.
Not a dog person? No problem: cats, kids, reptiles or even your favorite inanimate object can be your loyal travel companion.
[Related: Wellness-Related Corporate Gift Ideas That Promote Attendee Health and Mindfulness]
The Backpack Islanders Guava Intense
$124.99 from Veria
The name Guava Intense sets the tone for this head-turning carry-on travel tour de force. And while traveling with a backpack may evoke up a certain “crunchy granola” aesthetic, this stunningly stylish full backpack from Veria is highly functional, offering a 16-inch laptop and shoe compartments in an easily accessible clamshell design, and boasting a tough, weatherproof build that will keep your important items fully protected as you venture into the unknown.
Featuring easy-access pockets that provide quick entry to essentials such as charging cables, electronic devices and other on-the-go needs, including a water bottle holster, this gorgeous guava gear also has a trolly sleeve so you can attach it to your suitcase while in transit—but you better make sure its companion piece is as stylish and color-correct as its striking ride-along!
Stay tuned for more Meetings Today shopping stories for the holiday season and beyond!
