After navigating two international airports in less than 12 hours on a recent business trip, it became obvious that my chosen messenger bag was falling short of functionality expectations. Well-designed luggage can mean the difference between a fabulous or frustrating travel experience. Follow these frugal tips to get the luggage you need while spending less.
Sources: Military and law enforcement equipment suppliers carry tactical attaché cases, patrol duffels and combat-ready messenger bags in sturdy, ballistic nylon. By purchasing pieces in black rather than camouflage, you’ll obtain stain-resistant pieces designed to hold laptops, camera bodies, lenses and other freelance gear necessary for a work-from-the-road lifestyle. These bags cost a fraction of their specialty-store counterparts, clean easily and allow seamless transition between business and adventure travel.
Patience: Find a piece you know will do the job and search out an affordable price point. Recently, a $400 rolling garment bag I’ve had my eye on for years went on clearance for roughly $100. It corners like it’s on rails and fits more than a week’s worth of business outfits into an extremely small space. Normally, that same hundred dollars would have barely purchased a mediocre case with minimal functionality. Overstock.com is a helpful resource for those dealing with time constraints, while Retail Me Not provides online coupon codes to savvy shoppers in search of a deal.
Priorities: Deciding where high-end gear is really necessary will stretch luggage funds as far as possible. While function and design are critical for my carry-on and day-to-day pieces, the big boxy luggage I check when moving the rest of my wardrobe to a new home across the globe only needs to be sturdy. That’s when the thrift store becomes my retail option of choice. The suitcase I lean on most frequently for basic storage is a giant, hard case model that’s seen its share of hard knocks. The cost of this go-to gem was only $5 at my local Goodwill store.
Strategy: If sales and second-hand shopping still don’t produce the piece of luggage you need, customize affordable, basic duffels and boxy suitcases with clear, zippered pouches and double-sided packing cubes. This will keep clothing and professional items compartmentalized and easy to find. Zippered fabric pencil pouches from Dollar Tree are also a personal favorite. They have a clear side for easy viewing, and side grommets for easy carabiner attachment to interior loops and hooks.
Recommended Reading: How to Travel with Less Luggage
Photo Credit: GeishaBoy500
