Which TUMI luggage is best?
Whether you’re preparing for a high-stakes business trip or a long-awaited tropical vacation, TUMI has a piece of luggage that will fit your needs and exceed expectations. Founder Charlie Clifford founded TUMI after serving in the Peace Corps in Peru, and his function-forward designs reflect his understanding of quality luggage. However, choosing the right TUMI luggage can be a challenge. If you’re in the market for a durable, versatile and sleek suitcase for any type of travel, the TUMI Alpha 3 suitcase is the best choice.
What to know before you buy TUMI luggage
How much structure do you need?
While we recommend structured suitcases in general, if you don’t travel by plane frequently, you may be better off with an unstructured duffel or tote bag. Structured bags offer better protection but aren’t as flexible and can’t be stuffed into a crowded car trunk as easily. If you’re looking for maximum protection and structure, consider purchasing a hard-shell TUMI suitcase.
Size
The biggest factor to consider when choosing the right size is the average length of your journeys and the mode of transport you usually take. If you prefer extended international trips, choose something structured and large that will fit various airline standards. If you’re looking for something to throw in the trunk for long weekends, a duffel or even a small tote will do just fine.
Portability features
While all TUMI suitcases are portable, some offer more travel technology than others. If you’re a frequent flyer, consider a structured suitcase with a telescoping handle and four individual spinner wheels. However, these features take up space and make your suitcase less flexible in terms of packing. If you don’t need wheels or protection, opt for a slimmer suitcase that prioritizes weight saving.
What to look for in a quality TUMI luggage
Integrated technology
TUMI has been at the forefront of travel technology innovation for decades, and you can expect to find evidence of this experience in all of their luggage. However, higher-end TUMI luggage, especially those designed for business travelers, includes built-in charging capabilities and TUMI Tracer, which can locate your bag anywhere in the world at any time.
Organization features
In addition to pioneering travel gadgets, TUMI has spent years mastering the craft of organization. Keep your eye out for handy features like integrated garment bags, removable laptop folders and zippered interior pockets.
Durable materials and features
While you can count on all TUMI luggage to be made from durable materials like aluminum and ballistic nylon, certain pieces feature Tegris, a TUMI-exclusive composite material that’s lightweight and highly impact-resistant. Other suitcases may be made from recycled materials or include the patented Omega Closure System that extends the lifetime of the zippers. Be on the lookout for these features when shopping for your TUMI luggage.
How much you can expect to spend on TUMI luggage
TUMI products have a wide price range; entry-level suitcases and bags start at $100, while their top-tier siblings often cost upward of $1,000.
TUMI luggage FAQ
How can I clean my TUMI luggage?
A. While not all TUMI bags are made from the same materials, most are made with nylon and leather accents. A simple fabric refresher will do the trick to clean TUMI nylon. To maintain any leather accents on your TUMI luggage, use leather cleaner.
What are the standard carry-on dimensions?
A. Although there is slight variation among the different airlines, the standard carry-on dimensions for domestic flights are 9 inches by 14 inches by 22 inches. For international flights, the dimensions are usually the same but the weight restrictions may be tighter.
What’s the best TUMI luggage to buy?
Top TUMI luggage
TUMI Alpha 3 expandable suitcase
What you need to know: The Alpha 3 from TUMI is overflowing with premium features and useful luxuries, which makes it a favorite among business and leisure travelers alike.
What you’ll love: Whether you’re getting away for a long weekend or taking a well-deserved multiweek international vacation, you can rely on the Alpha 3 to keep your personal items safe and organized. This suitcase is made from aircraft-grade aluminum wrapped in durable FXT ballistic nylon. It’s perfectly sized to fit into international carry-on standards although it can be expanded if you need some more space. To top it all off, the TUMI Alpha 3 comes with built-in charging capabilities, an onboard organization system and TUMI tracer.
What you should consider: As a top-of-the-line model, this TUMI suitcase is quite expensive.
Top TUMI luggage for the money
TUMI Voyageur Leger International Expandable Carry-On
What you need to know: This suitcase is well-suited for international travel.
What you’ll love: Featuring several handy pockets for easy access and expansion capabilities, this suitcase is as easy to use as it is functional. You can expand it by 2.25 inches to pack all your essentials, and its spinner wheels allow you to push the bag upright.
What you should consider: Some people thought the wheels weren’t as smooth as other TUMI suitcases.
Worth checking out
TUMI Alpha 3 Deluxe 4 travel briefcase
What you need to know: Optimized for the business traveler or the ultra-organized weekender, this travel briefcase holds everything you need for a productive journey.
What you’ll love: Equipped with four spinner wheels, on-the-go charging capabilities, a removable laptop compartment and luxurious leather handles, this premium suitcase offers a suite of useful features. Don’t let the name fool you — this briefcase holds far more than your business essentials. The Alpha 3 Deluxe 4 can expand a full 2 inches, giving you extra room to bring clothes, shoes and toiletries.
What you should consider: The onboard power bank must be purchased separately.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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