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OVIS Auto-follow Suitcase, Side-follow Robot, 20 inch Carry-on, CES2020, Edison Award Winner (Red Dot Blue)

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About this item.

• UNBREAKABLE LIGHTWEIGHT SHELL- The carry-on is built from Makrolon Polycarbonate. Lighter than aluminum and more durable than ABS while the glossy finish, waterproof quality and elegant color selection make it invincible.
• FASHION TECH AT YOUR SIDE - Perfect fabric lining and elegantly simplistic design that is long-lasting. Suitcase deploys a series of complex algorithms with an obstacle avoidance system based on self-driving technology that allows the luggage to not only “see” as we do, but to accurately sense the environment.
• AIRLINE FRIENDLY - OVIS features a full lineup of 21st century convivences – ranging from an instantly detachable lithium battery, TSA Approved Lock, and USB ports for charging digital devices on the go.

Additional Information

3 year luggage protection plan.

• No Additional Cost: You pay nothing for repairs – parts, labor, and shipping included.
• Coverage: Plans starts on the date of purchase. Stains, rips or tears and seam separation covered from day one. Defects in materials or workmanship covered after the manufacturer warranty expires.
• Easy Claims Process: File a claim anytime online or by phone. Most claims approved within minutes. If we can’t repair it, we’ll send you an Amazon e-gift card for the purchase price of your covered product or replace it.
• Product Eligibility: Plan must be purchased with a product or within 30 days of the product purchase. Pre-existing conditions are not covered.
• Terms & Details: More information about this protection plan is available within the “Product guides and documents” section. Simply click “User Guide” for more info. Terms & Conditions will be available in Your Orders on Amazon. Asurion will also email your plan confirmation with Terms & Conditions to the address associated with your Amazon account within 24 hours of purchase.

4 Year Luggage Protection Plan

Asurion complete protect: one plan covers all eligible past and future purchases on amazon.

• Buy a lot of stuff on Amazon? Tons of items eligible for coverage, from the latest tech like laptops, game consoles, and TVs, to major appliances, sporting goods, tools, toys, mattresses, personal care, furniture, and more.
• Accidents happen. That’s why for your portable products we cover accidental damage from handling such as drops, spills and cracked screens. We also cover electrical and mechanical malfunctions, power surges, and wear and tear.
• Past and future purchases covered. 30 days after you are enrolled, all eligible past purchases (up to 1 year prior to enrollment) and future eligible purchases made on Amazon will be covered by your plan as long as you are enrolled.
• Fast, easy claims. Frustration-free claims, with most filed in minutes. We will fix it, replace it, or reimburse you with an Amazon e-gift card for the purchase price of your product (excluding tax). File at Asurion.com/amazon.
• No hidden fees. For just $16.99 a month + tax you’re covered for up to $5,000 in claims per 12-month period. *THIS PROGRAM IS MONTH-TO-MONTH AND WILL CONTINUE UNTIL CANCELED* Coverage for all products ends 30 days after the plan is canceled. Cancel any time.

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Product details

• Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 8.6 x 5.4 x 1.6 inches; 18.3 Pounds
• Department ‏ : ‎ unisex-adult
• Batteries ‏ : ‎ 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. (included)
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ ForwardX
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B088D5VVM6
• Country of Origin ‏ : ‎ China
• #2,218 in Carry-On Luggage

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OVIS Auto-follow Suitcase, Side-follow Robot, 20 inch Carry-on, CES2020, Edison Award Winner

ForwardX Official Store

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Product description.

The world's first suitcase designed to follow you wherever you go, hands-free, hassle-free, and always at your side.

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Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers are disappointed with the quality and functionality of the suitcase. They mention that the bracelet does not work and that the production unit is terrible.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers are dissatisfied with the bracelet. They mention that it doesn't work, is hard to make it work, and does not even charge.

"PRODUCT IS TERRIBLE, IT DOSENT EVEN WORK AFTER ITS BEEN ON THE CHARGER FOR 2 DAYS" Read more

"Once I received the suitcase the bracelet didn’t work ." Read more

" Hard to make it work as a robot..." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the quality of the suitcase. They mention that the technology is great, but the production unit is terrible.

" PRODUCT IS TERRIBLE , IT DOSENT EVEN WORK AFTER ITS BEEN ON THE CHARGER FOR 2 DAYS" Read more

"...The technology is great, but the production unit is terrible maybe that is why they are selling them at the discount Indigogo price and not the..." Read more

" Horrible horrible . Stay far far away..." Read more

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Self-driving luggage

Smart following suitcase.

Airwheel SR5 is a smart robot suitcase that can follow you automatically. The core technology of the smart luggage SR5 includes UWB and sensor technology by which it realizes auto-follow and intelligent obstacle avoidance. It can travel autonomously without bumping into people or objects.

• Load Drop Test
• Load Vibration Test
• Wheel Endurance Test
• Load Rolling Test
• Temperature Change Test
• Smog & Humidity Test

Self-driving Suitcase - Smart Luggage

Move the smart robot luggage using your mouse.

Smart luggage has the ability to make your life a lot easier, what with built-in USB charging ports, it can auto-follow and intelligent obstacle avoidance.

20 inch Standard carry on suitcase for airplane

International standard suitcase for airplane, can be on board directly, no need checking.

Innovative style of opening and closing

90 degree side open,easy to takeout your belongings and save your time.

Secure TSA lock

Secure TSA lock, the suitcase can go through the custom smoothly without being damaged

Three gear adjustable rod with all aluminum

Hight-strength thickened all-aluminum alloy rod,full-fit hidden design, controlled by telescopic height of tight components,stableand easy to drag

• Less Than 10mm Shaking Scope
• Three Different Draw-Bar Heights

Good quality material can take powerful impact force

ABS+PC material,light weight an durable.also with function of water-proof, scratch-resistant, shatter-resistant

Mute Shockproof Omni-Wheel

The omni-wheels ensures a smooth travel and the high-quality materials make it produce no noise pollution. Also, it is wear-resisting making it adaptable to different road conditions.

• Shock Absorption

A smart suitcase that can be taken onto plane and stored in overhead cabine

The appearance of the Airwheel SR5 cabinet is designed by international IF award winners.

External USB port,Autonomous luggage can charge your phone and table pc.

The removable 12000mAh lithium-ion battery complying with airline boarding requirements is able to charge your mobile phone, Pad and other electronics.

Secure and beautiful

Switch the main power,the LED will turn on.With follow/remote control mode,the breathing light will turn on With emergency,flash light will turn on

Two Colors Available

Black color and silver color optional

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The best smart luggage 2024: ride-on and auto-follow suitcases you can actually buy

Motorised suitcases might sound like something you’d spot in a sci-fi film, but they’re already here. This is your guide to the wackiest smart luggage you can actually buy for your holidays in 2024.

Alice Tuffery

We’ve all been there: running out of phone battery just as you get to the airport; struggling with an overloaded luggage trolley; dashing to the terminal at the last-minute. Happily, these problems are a thing of the past for many who own a piece of smart luggage.

We admit, while these smart suitcases and backpacks are incredibly cool, some might raise the odd eyebrow. The ride-on ‘scooter suitcase’ in particular is bound to attract some attention - until you speed past the onlookers at 8km/h. Others come with handy in-built power banks to charge your devices on the go.

So, if you’re ready to transform your travel experience - or just want a quick look at some of the latest tech to hit the market - keep scrolling. And you can find more of our favourite travel gadgets in our special guide.

Best smart suitcases at a glance:

• Best ride on smart suitcase : Airwheel SE3 Smart Riding Scooter Suitcase
• Best auto-follow smart suitcase : OVIS Auto-Follow Suitcase
• Best tracking smart suitcase : Samsara Luggage Tag Smart Aluminium Silver
• Best charging smart suitcase : Arlo Skye The Frame Carry-On Max
• Best ecofriendly smart suitcase : Horizn Studios Check-In H6
• Best cheap smart suitcase : The Bigger Carry-On with pocket
• Best smart rucksack : Samsonite Securipak Anti-Theft Laptop Backpack

The best smart luggage you can actually buy in 2024

Airwheel se3 smart riding scooter suitcase.

Let’s start with one of the most eye-catching smart luggage options on the market - the ride-on suitcase. Thanks to its in-built motor, you can save time and energy navigating the airport, getting to your gate and even finding your hotel when you arrive at your destination.

The suitcase has a max speed of 8km/h, so you’ll be able to overtake any old-school travellers making the journey on foot.

The design also includes a removable power bank, telescopic handle and grippy tyres. For safety, you can also take the detachable lithium battery with you in your hand luggage if you need to put your case in the hold.

• Buy now from Airwheel Luggage

OVIS Auto-Follow Suitcase

Buy from Amazon (£655.79).

If you’re not quite ready to ride your suitcase through the airport but you don’t want the hassle of having to drag it behind you, this option could be for you. The suitcase follows you as you walk, using clever sensors to avoid obstacles as they appear. It can drive itself for 13 miles on just one charge and has a max. speed of 4.5mph.

There's also an in-built power bank with USB slots, so you can charge up two different devices at once while you're on the move.

The shell is made from durable Makrolon polycarbonate, which is lighter than aluminium, and you can choose between four colour options: Nova White, Ion Silver, Carbon Black and Galaxy Blue.

Samsara Luggage Tag Smart Aluminium Silver

Buy from Samsara Luggage ($280.00) .

This Samsara suitcase comes with a few nifty features, but the ‘smart’ element comes in the form of its tracking technology. It arrives with an Apple AirTag in a slot at the back of the suitcase, so you can use the ‘Find My’ app on any iPhone to monitor your luggage.

Another handy design detail is the flat top, which you can use as a portable desk or table while you’re waiting for your flight.

As for the construction, Samsara creates its smart luggage with recycled, aviation-grade aluminium, so this suitcase is both sustainable and durable.

Arlo Skye The Frame Carry-On Max

Buy from Arlo Skye ($695.00).

If it’s fast charging you’re after, try this smart luggage option from Arlo Skye. With its removable power bank, it can top up your phone’s battery to 50% in just half an hour.

This suitcase also comes with inner bags for your shoes and laundry, as well as an anti-microbial lining to keep your belongings fresh. Plus, the 360° wheels are 15% quieter than standard rollers.

The hand-stitched leather handles and matching name tag are an added bonus.

Horizn Studios Check-In H6

This smart luggage choice from Horizn Studios stands out from others on the market thanks to its eco-friendly construction. It can charge your devices with its removable power bank and USB cable, but doesn’t compromise on sustainability.

Not only is this suitcase’s shell and lining made with recycled polycarbonate and polyester, it’s produced using a 99% waste-free manufacturing process and the brand offsets the shipping emissions to make them carbon neutral. It’s also 100% vegan and arrives in eco-friendly packaging.

Check out the Horizn Studios website to browse the many different sizes and tasteful colours available, including Blue Vega, Marine Green and Sand.

The Bigger Carry-On with pocket

Buy from Away Travel (£285.00) .

Here’s another smart luggage option with a removable battery pack. It can charge your phone up to four times before you’ll need to top up the power bank again at the mains.

This suitcase comes with a handy front pocket with an in-built 15” laptop sleeve, which is ideal for storing items like passports and boarding passes.

There’s also a ‘compression pad’ to maximise space inside, and a laundry bag, so you can keep any dirty clothes separate from the rest of your belongings on the flight home.

Samsonite Securipak Anti-Theft Laptop Backpack

With several clever security features and a USB charger, this backpack from Samsonite’s anti-theft range is ideal for travelling and would make a great addition to any smart luggage collection.

You’ll get a neat USB port for charging your devices, as well as two hidden side pockets with RFID technology to protect you against passport and credit card fraud. The eco-friendly anti-cut material is a cool addition to keep your possessions even more secure.

Plus, you can only open the rucksack’s main compartment from the back, so it’s almost impossible for thieves to access your belongings when you’re wearing it.

Whether you're a frequent flyer, a family embarking on a vacation, or simply someone seeking convenience and style in your travels, these motorized and ride-on suitcases provide an innovative solution. Embrace the fusion of technology and travel, and let these suitcases be your trusted companions on your next adventure.

Looking for more devices to make your life easier? Check out the our roundup of the best budget smart watches under £100 , 8 fun pairs of smart glasses , or the best smart coffee makers: Your new favourite kitchen gadget.

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Science focus, 44 cool gadgets: our pick of the best new tech for 2024, 34 best science and tech gifts for 2024, the best budget smart watches under £100, 8 fun pairs of smart glasses, priced between £120 and £1,300.

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Best smart luggage in 2024

These are the smartest suitcase for every traveler's budget.

If you haven't tried any of the best smart luggage yet, then you're seriously missing out. Adding some smarts to your carry-on suitcases offers up the best upgrades since the day someone realized how invaluable 360-degree wheels and telescoping handles could be. 

But those have nothing on the neat features you can get right now, including GPS locators, USB charging ports, motorized wheels, and even built-in measuring scales.  Most of them are TSA-approved too, though you will need to remove the batteries if you plan on checking them.

Smart luggage can be an incredibly versatile companion, especially if you regularly traveling by air. But picking up a piece of smart luggage can be a little daunting, and if you need some help we have you covered. 

Based on our research, these are the best smart luggage options for every kind of traveller.

1. Away Travel Bigger Carry-On

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Away is the cult favorite when it comes to smart luggage. Its sleek design, multiple size options and practical features made it the first suitcase to successfully break into the influencer market. We happen to thinks it's one of the best suitcases overall — the smart features just make it all that much better. 

Founded by former Warby Parker executives, the Away delivers on design while keeping your devices charged for any adventure. The Bigger Carry-On's compression bag gives you maximum packing capacity while still fitting into overhead bins, but the battery pack pops out quickly if you need to check the bag. The exterior is scratch-resistant, but if there's any kind of issue with your Away, you're covered with a lifetime warranty. 

2. Samsara Tag Smart Carry On

The Samsara Tag Smart Carry On has a feature that distinguishes it from every other carry-on on this list: an included AirTag. Keeping tabs on your luggage is a major anxiety for many travelers, especially for those who are always on-the-go with multi-stop trips. Since this luggage comes with an AirTag (and a compartment designed to keep it safe) you're able to see when your suitcase is with you, and when it's been left behind.

These features require you to have an iPhone with the Find My app, which excludes Android users. Still, if you do have an iPhone, you'll find it easy to know when your luggage is at all times. And we'll bet it's a lot of luggage, since the Samsara Tag Smart Carry On has a huge capacity. You'll also have several color choices to choose from, including a hot pink limited-edition partnership with T-Mobile branded the Un-Carrier On. This model comes with a battery pack and wireless charging compartment for added smarts. 

3. Horizn Studios M5 Cabin Luggage

If you're looking for a smart suitcase that feels premium all-around, the Horizn Studios M5 Cabin Luggage is among our top picks. It's not the most affordable carry-on bag, but it's packed with convenient features. It sports a secure laptop sleeve in the front, so you can tuck in your computer and any additional items you might need to access quickly. Like some of the other bags on this list, the Horizn Studios M5 Cabin Luggage also offers an optional portable battery pack, complete with a USB-C and USB-A inputs for charging two devices at once.

It helps that the luggage is nice-looking, too. After testing it ourselves, we especially like how the wheels let it sit close to the ground. It's a sleek companion for all kinds of travel — and if you bundle it with check-in luggage, you'll save $50 on the set. 

4. The Andiamo Classico

For those who can pull off the retro-trunk aesthetic, the Andiamo Classico suitcase delivers with vibrant, high-gloss finishes and a zipper-less frame. The "royal sapphire" option especially catches our eye. 

As for the luggage's smart features, the RFID-blocking technology pocket keeps sensitive materials safe. There's also a single USB port, but you'll need to supply your own removable battery. It's pretty heavy for a carry-on, and it's definitely not the smartest bag out there, but it certainly looks nice and reviewers seem to love it. 

What reviewers say: 

Forbes : "Now you can sparkle like the fanciest jet setters with the shiniest roller around."

Luggage Spots : "[It’s]  without a doubt one of the best pieces of luggage available on the market in recent years. It is now one of my most frequently used pieces and I love it. With a 100-day trial period, no harm in trying it out first!"

5. Arlo Skye The Frame Carry-on

Arlo Skye’s most popular carry-on is so for a reason: It's deceivingly lightweight, comes in five beautiful finishes, and has just enough smart features to make air travel easier. 

Two TSA-approved combination locks effectively end the need for luggage zippers. You can charge your device on the go with the USB C and A Ports, and pop out the battery with a simple press when your bag gets gate-checked. Silent Run Lisof wheels make the bag a pleasant companion, while hand-stitched handles add the designer touch you'd expect from Louis Vuitton and Tumi alums. Great customer service is simply an added bonus. 

Travel + Leisure: "I’ve never considered this a necessary luggage amenity, as someone who travels with a portable battery pack, but it is easier than unearthing a small battery from your backpack and potentially carries a higher charge capacity."

Forbes: "I tested it on a trip to Mexico and am reasonably confident I have never had such a big crush on a carry-on bag. Built of scratch-resistant aluminum with Florentine leather handles and trim, the 9.5-pound case sports a removable high-speed charger with two USB ports and purrs along on whisper-quiet Japanese quad wheels."

How we picked the best smart luggage

Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.

There's a lot out there, so to find the best smart luggage we tested some of the bags ourselves. We also looked at what customers and experts were saying. We looked at the top picks from the likes of Travel + Leisure, Forbes, TripSavvy, and other travel sites, as well as the top-selling smart luggage models on Amazon. We've also tested several of these models ourselves.

From there we were able to narrow the list down to the following models, taking into account smart features, price, practically, and other key factors.

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Upgrade your life with a daily dose of the biggest tech news, lifestyle hacks and our curated analysis. Be the first to know about cutting-edge gadgets and the hottest deals.

Kate Kozuch is the managing editor of social and video at Tom’s Guide. She covers smartwatches, TVs and audio devices, too. Kate appears on Fox News to talk tech trends and runs the  Tom's Guide TikTok account , which you should be following. When she’s not filming tech videos, you can find her taking up a new sport, mastering the NYT Crossword or channeling her inner celebrity chef. 

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Cowarobot Auto-follow Smart Luggage 20" Carry-on Suitcase with USB Charging Ports (Black) No Wristband, Black

Product details, about this item.

• The world's first Auto-follow suitcase
• Hands-free control
• Smart obstacle avoidance
• Intelligent tracking
• USB Charging Ports

Additional Information

Evoa smart luggage | by samsonite.

Finger Print Lock System | Bluetooth Proximity Tracker | Integrated Weighing Scale

• Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 55 x 38 x 21 cm; 5.44 kg
• Date First Available ‏ : ‎ 11 January 2020
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B07P4D5JR1
• Department ‏ : ‎ unisex-adult (luggage only)
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 5 kg 440 g
• Item Dimensions LxWxH ‏ : ‎ 55 x 38 x 21 Centimeters
• Generic Name ‏ : ‎ carry-on luggage

Product description

Cowarobot is the world's first AI robotic suitcase that auto-follows. No need for wearables or remote control, the laser radar with AI-powered and effortless autonomous control recognizes its owner, making it auto-follows and avoids obstacles. The case has a TSA compliant Smart Lock and the its power battery can be also used as a portable power bank.

• Automatically stays close and matches your pace. Just simply grab the handle and turn ROVER SPEED to manual mode.
• Maneuvers around obstacles and people to get right back on track quickly.
• Cowarobot knows where you are and sends alerts when you are more than 6 feet away.
• Cowarobot uses only the highest quality materials and components from top suppliers.
• Cowarobot comes with a 92Wh battery which allows you to be on the go for up to 12 miles, or to fully charge up to 8 mobile phones.
• We offer a 2-year warranty for the suitcase including the driven system, a 6-months warranty for the Lithium-Ion Power Battery/Power Bank and a 1-year warranty for the main circuit board.
• Yes, the Cowarobot battery pack complies with the UN 38.3, UL and FCC standards. The capacity of the battery is also in accordance with FAA regulations (up to 100Wh per battery). But you may be required to remove the battery from the case as you go through security checks.
• The smart suitcase can only follow automatically in the indoor environment.

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Would You Buy This Suitcase That Follows You Around?

Sick and tired of dragging your luggage behind you, or hauling around a cumbersome duffel?

ForwardX Robotics recently debuted their Ovis smart carry-on, which uses computer vision and artificial intelligence to recognize its owner, and follow him or her around (at a leisurely speed of up to 6.2 miles per hour).

"Originally, I was inspired by a robotics competition and realized that we could build a personal robot like R2-D2," ForwardX Robotics CEO, Nicolas Chee, told The Points Guy.

"We decided to build the technology for an intelligent rolling robot [that] customers could get access to immediately in the form of a self-driving suitcase," Chee said.

Unlike other smart suitcases that promise to follow their owners (yes, there are multiple) Ovis can analyze its owner's face and specific dimensions — as well as the surrounding environment — so it knows precisely who to follow, even in crowded airports.

Ovis (in Latin, that means sheep) can follow behind you and right alongside you: no wristband or remote control required. A ForwardX spokesperson claimed that while other prototypes have touted similar tracking capabilities, Ovis is the first suitcase of its kind to go to market with truly autonomous side-follow functionality.

During two separate demos in New York City, the TPG team got to play with the straight-out-of-sci-fi suitcase. The results? It's still a bit finicky.

The current prototype sometimes struggles to keep up and has a habit of zipping off in the wrong direction. On more than one occasion, it also bumped clumsily into the person it was supposed to be following.

If the Forward X Robotics team is able to keep Ovis from getting confused, it could be a smart solution for travelers who struggle with carrying heavy bags through the airport, or parents with young kids who want their hands free. And I suspect my father, who loves new technology even when it's more gimmick than marvel (sorry, Dad) would get a kick out of Ovis, too.

Ovis has plenty of other useful features, including a GPS tracker and weight sensor — important, considering it weighs just shy of 10 pounds empty. And despite the recent fall of major smart bag makers , Ovis is doubling down with its FAA-approved lithium-ion battery. Removable, of course.

If having a suitcase that follows you around sounds way more cool than creepy, it's available for pre-order from Indiegogo for $399 . It's not expected to ship out until December 2018, however, so the Forward X team still has time to improve the technology and get Ovis airport-ready.

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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

When you open up your favorite carry-on travel backpack, it should feel like you’re opening the door to a well-organized closet or sitting down at a clean desk, with everything in the right place and easy to reach.

This is your moment to center yourself, no matter how chaotic the journey.

What we considered

A 45-liter bag maximizes overhead space but can get heavy when fully packed; 35-liter bags tend to be more manageable.

A bag with a clamshell design opens like a book and is the easiest to pack, but a bag that opens traditionally tends to have more structure.

Ideally, a travel backpack has handles on all sides—especially the bottom—so you can pull it out of overhead bins or from under seats.

Some internal pockets are useful, but major organizing is better managed with packing cubes.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offer the best combination of features, quality, and durability. Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization. Though these backpacks are great as companion bags for any trip, they’re designed to ultimately replace all of your other luggage and become your exclusive bag as you travel.

This style of packing is not for everyone, but once some people try it, they’re forever hooked. Finding the right bag is a personal choice, though, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we also have picks that are great for people who travel for work , others that are designed to be carried over long distances , and a bag that’s basically luggage on your back .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, best small carry-on bag for most situations: cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack, best large bag for most situations: peak design travel backpack 45l, best mobile office: patagonia black hole mlc 45l, best bag for long journeys on foot: osprey farpoint 40 and fairview 40, best bag if you need a large suitcase on your back: tortuga travel backpack pro 40l, other good carry-on travel backpacks, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve been covering aspects of luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack, whenever possible. I spent nine months roaming around Hawaii with not much more than that, and I spent another six months nomadically couch-surfing in New York City.

I reached out to writers who specialize in traveling the world carrying everything they need in a single bag: Eytan Levy, the owner and operator of the Snarky Nomad travel website; James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker ; and Sharon Gourlay, of the Where’s Sharon? travel website. I also spoke with moderators of Reddit’s r/onebag and r/heronebag forums, as well as with Chase Reeves, bag fanatic, reviewer, and owner of Matterful .

We researched and tested bags designed for those who want to travel light and stay flexible while flying, without the burden of checking luggage. For some people, the challenge of cutting down a packing list is intimidating. But if you can get past that initial hurdle, traveling with a single bag is a revelation. With fewer items, you have more time to concentrate on and appreciate the journey.

• When you’re not loaded down by heavy luggage, it’s easy to remain more mobile. And it’s easier to adjust your plans mid-trip. If you’re willing to do laundry on the road, then one bag is all you need to travel indefinitely. At its heart, one-bag travel allows you to discover more—not just about the places you’re going but also about yourself and what you really need day to day.
• Size and weight still matter. If you desire more creature comforts or more gear, or if you plan to be away for a long time across multiple climates, you’ll want a bigger travel backpack . These larger bags tend not to be carry-on-friendly, however, especially in Europe, so be prepared to check them.
• No single backpack is perfect for everyone. Before you make any purchase, consider some basic points. How much can you carry? And where do you usually visit: the city or outback? Travel gear should feel like a welcome companion—there to support you when you need it but unobtrusive when you don’t.

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

This durable bag’s clamshell design makes it easy to organize your stuff. And due to its strap design, this bag can be worn on your back or carried in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is an easy-to-organize, comfortable-to-carry bag for getaways lasting just a few days or a whole week.

It’s one bag that can do it all. This is a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. There are handles on all four sides of this bag, so it’s easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it. It’s also protected by a full lifetime warranty, and it has the build quality to back that up. After more than four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item ) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage I use.

It comes in various sizes, but we think the middle-of-the-road version is the best. Cotopaxi also makes the Allpa in 28-liter and 42-liter sizes. But for us, the 35-liter bag is the best option. At 42 liters, this bag becomes heavy for most people to carry when it is fully packed, and we’d prefer that it had a more-robust hip belt. At 28 liters, the bag becomes a touch small for most people, and its internal organization feels fussy for shorter trips, such as an overnight. Cotopaxi also makes a hip pack , which is designed to fit snugly into the Allpa bag’s front top compartment. It’s a neat little addition to the bag, and it is worth getting if you like wearing fanny packs while you travel.

It’s organized, easy to pack, and easy to carry. The Allpa bag has a clamshell design, so it opens like a hard-sided suitcase—a large YKK zipper runs around three sides of the bag, allowing it to fall open into two halves when unzipped. On the right side is a deep compartment, spacious enough for two large packing cubes or half a suitcase’s worth of clothing (which you access through a mesh zippered flap). On the left, there’s space for one more medium-size packing cube behind a zippered flap. Above that there are two smaller pockets with high-visibility backing—useful when you’re looking for hard-to-differentiate personal items.

It’s secure but still accessible. The Allpa pack has two side-access zippers—great for on-the-go access, especially when the bag is hanging from your shoulder. One of these reveals a flat computer pocket with a padded false bottom; so if you drop the bag, it won’t land on the corner of your computer. The other reveals a “secret” pocket with a hidden zipper and access to the main compartment. All of the main compartment zippers are protected by security loops, which you thread the zipper through at the end of its run. This prevents anyone from subtly or quickly grabbing a zipper and opening your bag when you aren’t paying attention.

It’s comfortable to carry. The Allpa bag’s hip belt—which can be removed while the bag is on your back—is substantial enough that it’s comfortable to wear when you need it. With or without the hip belt, the Allpa bag is comfortable to carry over long distances. However, folks who have longer torsos (over 19 inches) may find that the waist belt sits a little high off the hips, unless you fully extend the shoulder straps. Speaking of shoulder straps, unlike the ones on our other picks, the Allpa bag’s straps are contoured to fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The Allpa pack is made with 1680-denier ballistic nylon, similar to the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . (Denier is a measure of a fabric’s fiber thickness.) It feels similar to a strong canvas, but it has a more prominent weave. This is the type of bag that’s as easy to toss into an overhead compartment as it is into the back of a rusty pickup truck. And it also includes a rainfly, which is unique in this category.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though this pack is well organized for packing, it’s less ideal as a mobile office. The Allpa pack has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth. This is where a good personal item comes in handy. However, if you want to travel with just this one bag, there are a few nooks you can hide things in. The front organizer is deep enough that you can also fit several small organizing pouches, if you want, or the aforementioned fanny pack.
• We prefer the model without the TPU front. Cotopaxi does enjoy playing around with fabrics and colors. Sometimes the company has released the Allpa pack without the TPU-lined front panel. The TPU panel improves water resistance, but after many years of traveling with our bag, we’ve found that the TPU layering can begin to flake in spots.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight: 3 pounds 5 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: adventurous Colors: assorted

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind. Yet most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility, clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a good choice for those carrying more expensive gear—especially camera gear. It’s also great for those who prefer a large, backpack-based packing system.

One bag provides many configurations. Some bags in this category are built to do one thing extremely well—be carried on your back. But the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is built to adapt. It’s the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. That’s not the case with the Peak Design: This bag looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack.

It’s expandable, with clever folds and zippers. You can access the bag through a back panel (which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch) as well as a front one (if you unzip the pass-through divider). You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps, which run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters. If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. In this configuration, it will still feel larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for being able to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400-denier nylon and polyester fabrics. It feels tough but not as tough as some other bags we’ve tested, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa.

It has fold-away straps, for easier storage. The Peak Design lets you tuck its shoulder and hip straps away when you’re not using them. But unlike any other bag we’ve ever tested, this pack has magnetic flaps on the back panel that open and close with an almost magical snap. Once you’ve played with them, you’ll wonder why every backpack doesn’t have something similar. A small, childish part of me still gets excited about tucking away the straps when I put the Peak Design into an overhead bin. Although the straps are thin, they’re still comfortable. The hip belt isn’t quite as plush as the one on the Tortuga pack; still, even when the Peak Design is fully loaded, the belt doesn’t pinch or dig into the body.

It’s great for carrying expensive gear. If you travel with a camera, you don’t have to use Peak Design’s camera cubes , but they do make carrying that gear a whole lot easier. The cubes come in five sizes. And if they’re situated properly in the bag with the provided clips, they line up with the Travel Backpack’s side-access flaps for quick access. Caleigh Waldman (a photographer for this piece and, full disclosure, my spouse) took this bag across the country for a wedding shoot. “I want this backpack,” she said after three weeks of travel. “I want to travel with it everywhere. With my cameras. Without my cameras. It doesn’t matter. I want to travel with it.”

• It’s expensive—especially if you commit to the entire system of packing and camera cubes.
• More complexity means more things that can break. The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses. Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty , which should alleviate most people’s concerns. But if you’re particularly hard on your gear and still need to carry as much as possible, you might consider the Tortuga bag instead.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: back-panel loader Style: minimalist and unobtrusive Color: black, sage

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

This bag’s split interior makes organizing easy. Those who travel for work will appreciate this bag’s dedicated panels for organizing tech, books, papers, and assorted miscellaneous items.

Free Expedition Perks membership required, price reflects in cart

If you travel often for business and prefer a bag that’s much easier to work out of than most of our other picks, you may like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L . This bag has a front panel and assorted pockets that make it feel like a small traveling office.

It’s built like luggage but organized like your office. Of all the bags we recommend, the MLC (short for Maximum Legal Carry) comes closest to being a suitcase on your back, due to its large size, simple interior, and minimal external features. The MLC is also one of the simplest bags we tested, divided into two leaves (imagine a book with only one page), with a main compartment for packing and a second compartment for document organization and tech storage. The MLC has a built-in laptop compartment that fits 17-inch laptops and is situated close to your back; this protects the computer and keeps its weight closer to your body.

Despite its size, it’s comfortable enough to carry. Most carry-on backpacks of this size, without frames, become somewhat unwieldy when fully packed. Thankfully, the Black Hole MLC bag, like the Cotopaxi Allpa, is a welcome exception to this rule. The MLC has two shoulder straps, a hip belt, and an optional shoulder strap, for easy carrying. When they're not in use, or when you’re checking your bag, all of the straps can be stowed away easily. When fully loaded, the bag was pleasant to carry—not as comfortable as the Peak Design or the Osprey, but decent enough. I wouldn’t want to carry it all day across a city, but I wouldn’t mind carrying it through an airport to a car and to a hotel.

It’s built from high-quality materials, with durability in mind. This pack is made from recycled polyester, and the fabric is woven in a cross-weave that’s very similar to what Patagonia uses in its long-lasting Black Hole series of duffle bags . This is a material I’ve come across a bunch with Patagonia gear, and I’ve tested it thoroughly; it’s very tough. The front of the bag is coated in a weather-resistant TPU, for extra protection from the elements. The bag has large YKK zippers (the industry leader) and smaller YKK zippers throughout. Unlike the Cotopaxi Allpa pack, the Black Hole MLC bag has no security loops.

It comes with one of the best repair programs and a lifetime warranty. Similar to our other picks, the MLC is backed by an excellent lifetime warranty , and we’ve always found that Patagonia’s repair program goes above and beyond other comparable companies.

• We wish the Maximum Legal Carry (despite the name) came in a few more sizes. The 45-liter capacity may be intimidating for some people, and there is no alternative.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 3 pounds 10 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell Style: retro Colors: tan, black, olive, green

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

A great starter option for one-bag travel, this bag is easy to pack, adaptable to most situations, and sturdy enough to take with you as you travel the world.

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

A scaled-down version of the Farpoint, this bag has shoulder straps that are slightly lower, to keep the bag’s bulk more aligned with smaller torsos.

Updated in 2023, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 packs are both built around a hiking backpack frame that’s easy to carry over long distances.

It’s built for travel but designed for hiking. The Farpoint 40 bag is well made, easy to pack, and comfortable to carry over most mid-length distances—such as walking across a city for an afternoon. (For simplicity’s sake, everything we say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.) Osprey makes excellent backpacks for hauling around, and its lifetime warranty is renowned within the industry . The Farpoint pack also has an optional messenger bag–style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

It’s simple to pack, but not as spacious as it seems. Opening the bag reveals a clamshell design; it’s deep enough to accommodate most large items, yet you won’t have to fumble awkwardly with zippers once it’s time to close up the bag. The feeling you get is not unlike when you’re packing a bit of sturdy luggage, and that’s something we love about bags like this one—especially when you use packing cubes . Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. But after using the Farpoint bag for a few years, we’ve decided that its rounded shape seems to cut into that theoretical packable space more than other bags do. In practice, the Farpoint pack’s available space is closer to—but still less than—that of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L .

It’s the easiest bag to carry among our picks. Like all Osprey bags, the Farpoint 40 has very comfortable shoulder straps. The years of design and consideration Osprey has put into its hiking backpacks are quite evident in the Farpoint 40. After more than seven years of long-term testing this bag, we’re still surprised by how great it feels to wear when fully packed. Crucially, the straps of the Farpoint 40 stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. However, when you’re using the shoulder straps, the design forces you to also use the hip straps. Though this isn’t a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa pack is more flexible, and it lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back.

The Fairview 40 has the same features, in a scaled-down size. The Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 packs basically have the same design, but the Fairview pack is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso. It’s also slightly lighter. However, it has the features and durability of the Farpoint bag. It also has the same hip belt and adjustability. On both, the chest-strap clip is also equipped with a small security whistle that’s surprisingly loud. It’s a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments.

• For a smaller carry-on travel backpack, this one has little to not like. However, we do wish Osprey would trade some of the sleeker contours for a little more interior space.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight (Farpoint): 3 pounds 3 ounces Weight (Fairview): 3 pounds 2 ounces Main compartment access: front-panel loader Style: active Colors (Farpoint): green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black Colors (Fairview): blue (Winter Night), red (Zircon), blue (Night Jungle), black

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. And it’s comfortable to wear over endless miles—as long as you don’t mind the heavier weight.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L maximizes packing space in a bag that’s durable, water-resistant, and customizable to fit most torso lengths (there’s also a 30L version ), with plenty of organizational features to suit any digital nomad.

It’s like a suitcase, with backpack straps. The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. It’s a nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. Opening the main clamshell zipper reveals a cavernous interior and a few organizational features that make the bag a cinch to pack. The front panel is a particular standout, great for keeping track of electronics and chargers. Of all the bags we tested, the Tortuga strikes the closest balance between the carrying comfort of a hiking backpack and the space and organization of a piece of luggage.

It’s as easy to pack as luggage. When it comes to packing, the Tortuga pack has a soothingly minimal interior, as any good suitcase should. In addition to the bag’s cavernous main pocket, its interior lid has a large vented panel. The panel is too narrow to hold additional packing cubes, but it’s great for holding light jackets or doubling as a dirty-laundry bag (if you’re really committed to one-bag travel). The Tortuga is available as a 40-liter pack (the maximum space for a carry-on bag), which we tested; there is also a 30-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. The more-diminutive version is a decent choice for weekend travel or for minimalist travelers—but for those uses, we prefer the space-saving profile and extra internal organization of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L bag.

It’s very customizable. The Tortuga pack is the most adjustable model we tested, thanks to its adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system. The adjustable strap system lets you manipulate the location of the shoulder straps (video) to fit a wider variety of body sizes, in both the 30- and 40-liter versions. Of the packs we’ve tested, this one (with its included load-adjuster straps at the top, to prevent the bag’s weight from sagging toward your lumbar region) is the best at distributing its weight (4½ pounds when empty—roughly 1½ pounds more than most of our other picks, except the Peak Design ). The hip straps are removable if you need, but the shoulder straps are not stowable.

• Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
• It's heavy. We’ve fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be (the difference is noticeable), and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. We are currently testing a new, lighter, and less-expensive version of this pack—aptly named the Travel Backpack Lite 40L —and will report back soon.  In the meantime, if you think you would struggle carrying the Tortuga, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

Capacity: 40 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: minimal, with a rigid construction Color: black

If you want to travel like a backpacker but also fit in at a board meeting (and you have the budget for it): Consider the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . This bag’s reputation for durability, adaptability, and a low-key aesthetic make it a favorite among many dedicated one-bag travelers. And after testing it, we think it’s a great bag too. That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks—and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability—you need to buy the internal frame , the hip belt , and (if you’re traveling with a suit or jacket) the shoulder strap . On a bag that already costs $330, all of this adds up. Everything about the Tom Bihn bag (the fabric, the zippers, the quality of construction) feels like an upgrade from other bags, but it’s simply too pricey, and its design is too rarified and specific for most people. The biggest flaw, from our perspective—apart from the price—is that the Tom Bihn bag lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. In its place, the company sells laptop sleeves (a fine version if you don’t have one) that clip into the bag’s central compartment. Not everyone needs a dedicated laptop pocket, but we prefer the more secure feeling of bags that do.

If you want a budget pick (but only when it’s on sale): The eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack (our former budget pick) is still your best budget option, if you can catch it on sale for at least half off the list price. It’s not comfortable enough for trekking long distances on foot, but there are plenty of external pockets for organization, a laptop sleeve (which holds the weight of your computer high up on your shoulders), and an easy-to-access main compartment. This pack also has the largest capacity of any bags we tested, expanding to 65 liters—well beyond any airline’s regulated 45-liter limit. However, the bag’s casual-to-basic looks might not be to everyone’s taste. In 2024, eBags raised the price of the Mother Lode to $200. We have seen it on sale for $100, and in our opinion it’s worth getting only at the sale price.

We’ve narrowed our specifications for a great bag to the following list of features, ordered from most relevant to least:

• Front- or back-panel loader or clamshell opening, for the main compartment: As with any good piece of luggage, with this type of bag, you should be able to open it and see everything you’ve packed. When you have a bag with a panel-loading or clamshell design—rather than a traditional, top-opening design—you can pack and unpack it just as you would a suitcase.

• Backpack strap comfort and design: You never know when you’ll be walking farther with your bag than you’d intended. The more comfortable and well designed the straps are, the easier traveling will be. “Ideally, you want a bag’s shoulder straps to adjust to the angle of your shoulders,” said Eytan Levy of Snarky Nomad. “Good shoulder straps are the difference between an easy trip and a hard trip.”
• Hip-belt comfort and design: A hip belt transfers heavy loads from your back and shoulders onto your hips, letting your legs—not your back—bear the brunt of the weight. Just having a waist belt is a plus, but having a padded and sculpted one—especially on bags with over 40 liters of volume—makes a world of difference.
• Material quality: Durability is critical for any type of luggage, but especially for a backpack that will be your only bag. Most bags worth considering are made of nylon, which resists abrasion more than polyester fabrics of similar density. Spending more, however, can get you exotic, light, and strong materials, such as Dyneema or sailcloth.
• Weight: Once the bags arrived, we weighed each one ourselves. Most of the bags weighed within a few pounds of one another. But unless you’re very strict with yourself, by the time you’re packed for a two-week journey, all bags are going to feel equally massive, even if one is just 2 pounds heavier than another when empty.
• Stowable straps: These are nice to have, but they aren’t absolutely necessary. “The more often you need to check a bag, the more often you need to hide away the straps,” Levy said. “But if the straps are tough enough, it doesn’t matter.”
• Accessory pocket layout and design: Some people will love an accessory pocket that has a specific space for everything; others may find that feature constricting and unadaptable. We prioritized bags with simple designs that guided our packing without constraining us.
• Style: This is purely subjective. We preferred bags that had a minimalist exterior style, but not all of our picks will please everyone. Most of the people we spoke with, however, preferred not to stick out like a tourist wearing a large, colorful backpack, if they could avoid it.

During testing, we flew across the country with these bags, took weekend trips to nearby cities, lived out of them on extended trips, and tried them locally in our daily routines. We also packed and unpacked each bag, using a standardized set of weeklong travel necessities and accessories, to see how well the internal organizational features (or lack thereof) aided or got in the way of efficient packing.

This is not a comprehensive list of all of the carry-on travel backpacks we have tested. We have removed any models that have been discontinued or that no longer meet our criteria.

The Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L is a rare miss from the Away team. This bag is resoundingly average for the price. Although it’s made from excellent materials, the bag is let down by its overall design, which lacks any kind of structure or attention to comfort. There are better options.

The cheap, no-frills Cabin Max Metz bag is intriguing for the price. Any bag at this price should almost be considered disposable. That said, if you need a simple bag that costs less than a seat upgrade, this might be the way to go—unless you can pick up the eBags Motherlode bag for under $100, which we think is a better deal at that price.

The GeniusPack Travel Backpack is the only model we came across that tried to fit a suit into a travel backpack. Though some people might need that, we think those who have to travel with a suit (or clothes that require pressing) would be better off with a piece of carry-on luggage . GeniusPack now offers a second version of this bag, but our conclusion hasn’t changed.

For certain people, the GoRuck GR3 is almost worth the cost. It’s strong and simple and covered by an iron-clad repair guarantee. The removable hip belt is comfortable to wear, and it’s good at displacing the weight of a 45-liter backpack. This is a decent bag. After testing it, however, we weren’t thrilled with the internal Velcro lining for compatible Velcro packing cubes. Velcro isn’t great: It wears out, it’s difficult to keep clean, and it clings to dirt. That might seem like a small thing, but for the price, this bag should feel perfect.

The Minaal Carry-On 2.0 was designed to be a backpack for business people. But if you’re carrying it for business, you’re probably wearing at least a blazer, so you wouldn’t use a backpack in any case. If you’re a business traveler who falls more on the casual end of the business-casual spectrum, and you’re not on a budget, this is a well-thought-out pack. But we think our picks are more versatile for world travel, and they come at a better price. Minaal has since introduced a 3.0 version of this bag ; our thoughts about it remain the same.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a slightly larger sibling of the Farpoint pack. The Sojourn Porter bag is about 2 inches longer, and it pushes right up to most airline limits. If you don’t mind possibly having to check your bag at the last minute, this would be an excellent alternative to the Farpoint pack.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Chase Reeves, Matterful.co , phone interview , October 10, 2018

Addison Ryan, moderator, r/onebag , email interview , September 8, 2018

Lindsay Lorraine Calderón, moderator, r/heronebag , phone interview , September 28, 2018

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably.

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

The Best Buy It for Life Backpack (Please Don’t Call It Tactical)

by Kit Dillon

A buy-it-for-a-lifetime backpack should last you for years of heavy use. But as with all investments, you need to decide if it makes sense for you.

I Took 5 Trips in 6 Months. My Go-To Weekender Bag Was This Surprisingly Spacious Backpack.

by Elissa Sanci

Struggling to pack for your weekend away? The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L fits so much more than you’d expect.

Best Luggage Trackers in 2023 (GPS, GSM & Bluetooth)

Smart GPS luggage trackers are super popular right now and for a good reason. Who wants to lose their luggage and be at the mercy of the airline!

With so much tech available to us today, there are a lot of smart luggage trackers out there that can help us keep our luggage safe and put the power back in our hands. After all, you don’t want to lose all your clothes, or an expensive travel laptop (if you checked it in that is). After all, you are not out on a survival expedition with your backpack and tent!

At A Glance: Our Favorite Luggage Trackers

• best gps tracker for international travel Tracki GPS Tracker Jump To Review
• Best Bluetooth Tracker Apple Air Tag Jump To Review
• Bluetooth & QR Tracker Tile Pro - Smart Tracker Jump To Review
• Best Android Luggage Tracker Samsung Galaxy Smart Tag Plus Jump To Review
• Luggage Tag QR Tracker DynoTag Jump To Review

But you might be asking yourself how do these luggage trackers work and which one is the best?

So, with those questions in mind, this post will show you the technology available and in use in luggage trackers and which one is best for you!

Note: If you want to understand how the tech works, scroll all the way to the end of the review section where I go into details.

In this guide:

Top Product Overview Smart Luggage Technology Do Luggage Trackers Actually Work? Any TSA Approved Luggage Trackers? Is A Luggage Tracker Worth It? Does Android Have A Luggage Tracker? Our Verdict

Top Product Overview

Best smart luggage trackers in 2022 (gps & bluetooth), tracki gps tracker.

Since the majority of the dedicated luggage trackers have gone out of business, I have been testing small trackers like Tracki GPS Tracker instead. The results have been fantastic.

This is a tiny tracker that weighs only 1.26oz and is 1.75 x 1.5 x 0.55 inches! You can put in any suitcase without taking up space and it comes with a worldwide SIM that covers 190 countries so that you get updated on its location no matter where you go.

What I love about this kind of tracker device is its simplicity. You just charge it, turn it on, throw it in your bag and you are good to go. Of course, you need to make sure it is working when you get it, but there is not much else to do!

There are some useful features you can set that help track your luggage too:

• Indoor tracking with wifi & Bluetooth
• Alerts for geofencing (alerts when your luggage goes outside an area), speed & movement
• Save battery life by only showing its location less often

All of this can be set up on the dedicated Tracki App which is where you can watch where your luggage is too.

Tracki App luggage tracking

You do have to be a bit careful with such GPS trackers because the battery only lasts max 3 days when it is moving all the time (when you travel). So adjusting the position updates on the app helps stop this from happening so fast.

You need to be aware that there is a monthly or yearly subscription . It costs anywhere from $9.95-19 per month depending on how long you subscribe. Of course, if you are a frequent traveler I recommend getting the 2-year option as that is the cheapest.

You have to pay for mobile network access because the device talks to the cellphone towers to update its position. This is always going to be the case for any tracking device except for a Tile or Apple Air Tag – because they just use Bluetooth

Apart from that, there are few downsides! And in my opinion, this is best GPS tracker for luggage money can buy.

• Small GPS tracker
• Very accurate
• Lots of useful features
• Battery life is not great for travel

Product Information

• Uses: GPS & GSM
• Indoor Wifi & Bluetooth tracker
• Subscription Options:
• - monthly, yearly
• Rechargeable batteries - 3 days (my testing has found this to be true)

Apple Air Tag

When Apple designs something, you know it is going to work and work well!

I bought my Air Tags to track a bunch of things (bike, campervan, luggage) and it is one of the best solutions for a Bluetooth luggage tracker for a variety of reasons.

It is super compact and can fit and hide almost anywhere. It is always on (once activated) and the battery lasts for a very very long time (some claim over a year). And when it does go flat, you just have to replace it with a standard CR2032 battery, not something fancy or expensive.

Air Tags are also super affordable and reliable, so are the best suitcase tracker for iOs.

They work by “pinging” any Apple device they see via Bluetooth. So, if your luggage passes another passenger, or airline worker with an iPhone (or iPad or Macbook) it will register its location. This is done anonymously, but its power is the network of Apple devices around the world!

The downside is limited accuracy in terms of “where” it is (until you go looking for it with a modern iPhone). This is something the more expensive trackers help with by using both GPS, Bluetooth and cellphone towers.

Here is a screenshot I took while tracking my just-checked-in luggage at Sydney Airport while flying domestically. I could tell me roughly where it was in the airport. So, if you want to know has it arrived, or is it close, then it does a good job.

Air Tag tracking luggage in Sydney Airport

When the luggage is getting closer, if you have a newer iPhone, you can also directionally track it with Bluetooth. So, if you don’t know which belt it is on, you can find it. Or if it has been stored in lost luggage perhaps.

Air Tag luggage tracking with bluetooth at luggage belt

However, an Air Tag does not require any subscription or yearly fee either. Just buy it, activate it and you are good to go.

They also come with some other useful features like alerting you when you leave something behind – which is not what you want with luggage, but might work with your carry-on!

If you want a solution that is cheap and simple, this is the one.

• Simple and affordable
• No subsriptions
• Light, compact and easy to hide
• Not as accurate
• Lacks options for tracking
• Size: 3.27 x 0.71 x 6.02 inches
• Battery: CR2032

Tile Pro - Smart Tracker

The Tile Pro  was not built as a luggage tracker but it’s so small and versatile it can certainly be used as one.

It only uses Bluetooth technology so you need to be quite close to the device to find it – 150m or 400ft. However, they do allow you to make use of the “tile network” which means that other tile users can anonymously tell if when they are near your device . So, even if your luggage goes “wild” you might still be able to find it. This is the functionality Apple more or less copied for the Air Tag.

This is  more of a “specific location” device  and not so much of a “did my luggage arrive” device like the others above. In that way, it really depends on what you want a tracker for.

Or, you could use this as a bit of extra security to the Trakdot above which does not come with Bluetooth. Especially since Tiles are pretty cheap (around $20-30) .

The Tile system is quite simple and again comes with an accompanying app to help you locate the “thing” it is used with. Its accuracy varies depending on who you talk to, but it’s a good addition to your luggage security, especially if you have expensive equipment. (Think camera gear, drones, skis, surfboard, etc).

Because it is meant to be used as a phone, keys, or pet tracker it also comes with an alert sound  that you can activate to help you find what you have placed the Tile on.

The battery lasts about a year and is replaceable – they use a CR2032 battery, which is a standard size you can get almost anywhere.

You can also get them in 1, 2 or 4 packs, or if you want to spend a little less, you can get the standard model which has less range (around 200ft).

They also have a QR code like the Dyno Tag (more on that below) so if you hang it on your luggage tag, you have two ways it can be found!

• Uses Bluetooth technology
• Battery life of one year
• Android or iPhone App
• QR Code for more security
• Very affordable
• Ideal for when you are nearby
• Not for luggage tracking specifically

Samsung Galaxy Smart Tag Plus

When the Air Tag came out it was only a matter of time before Samsung released the Galaxy Smart Tag Plus. It is also a very small plastic tag that uses the Samsung Galaxy network together with Bluetooth to track anything you like.

I won’t bore you with the details because if you have read the Air Tag review above you know how it works. However, it is a good suitcase tracker for a low cost and a great option for Android users who have a Sumsung Galaxy.

Warning: This only works with the Samsung Galaxy and not all Samsung phones or Android phones.

There is also the issue of Bluetooth range with a limit of 800ft, and as I experienced with the Air Tag, it is great for “rough” locating, but nothing super accurate. So, if you just need to know your luggage arrived in the plane with you, it’s a great option.

• Cheap and easy to use
• Works with Samsung Galaxy
• Limited Range
• Not compatible with other Androids
• Uses: Bluetooth tracking
• Dimensions: 1.54 x 1.54 x 0.39 inches
• Weight: 0.54 oz

LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker

The LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker is another option people often buy, but for me, it is not ideal for air travel.

First, it does not turn off when you are flying, which is often against airline rules.

Second, it has a strong magnet which is not something you want around other electronics, especially when you travel.

It is actually designed to track things on the ground and certainly works well, but it is not the luggage tracker of choice.

• Decent battery life
• Good tracking capabilities
• Not suited for airline travel
• Magnetic - which could ruin electronics

The DynoTag , is more of an old-school method. Like a luggage tag, only a lot more reliable. Luxury luggage brands like Tumi actually use this kind of thing on their luggage to help their customers find their luggage.

The DynoTag is not connected to the web/GPS – instead, it requires someone to find your bag, scan the code, and then you can see where it is online. So, not really a luggage tracker, but rather a way for anyone to register your bag as found.

This is of course the least you can do to ensure your luggage does not get lost, but you are still left waiting. I would combine it with an Air Tag or Tile given how cheap they are.

Smart Luggage Tracker Technology

There are a few different technologies to consider when looking at GPS tracker for luggage and they are:

• Mobile networks (GSM)

Most suitcase trackers use one or two of these technologies and they each have their pros and cons.

Let’s take a look at each one so you know what to be on the lookout for.

GPS Luggage Trackers

GPS luggage trackers might seem one of the best options because they include a GPS chip and can be tracked anywhere in the world.

GPS works almost anywhere and is incredibly accurate, but it does have a downside – it can be blocked quite easily by natural objects (trees, mountains etc) and also by buildings.

And this is where the  major disadvantage of GPS luggage trackers  comes in…

When you need your tracker to work you are probably standing in the airport terminal wondering where your luggage is.

So, you are in a building. And, unfortunately, you might not be able to track your luggage because of poor GPS coverage!

The upside is that GPS tracking devices are not dependent on any local technology (ie. whether your tracker works in the country you are in) or on proximity (like with Bluetooth – more on that below).

Mobile/GSM Luggage Trackers

Mobile or GSM luggage trackers get around the GPS coverage problem by using the local mobile network to help track your luggage.

The same way the FBI can pinpoint a criminal via cell towers ( triangulation ), these devices can be found when they are in the range of mobile towers.

And, it will work inside the airport terminal – just like your phone does!

The downside is that the country you are in has to support the SIM chip in the device (usually a GSM-based chip).

Currently, two countries that don’t support GSM are:

• South Korea

The rest of the world should not be a problem!

Bluetooth Trackers

Some trackers use only these technologies or use them in combination with Mobile to try to give you more options and accuracy.

Bluetooth typically only works within 30 meters (100 feet) of your phone, although some devices have ways to boost this.

So this is a great option when you are close to your luggage but trying to pinpoint it. When GSM or GPS is not accurate enough, this is a great addition.

However, most Bluetooth trackers are only that, and are really meant to be used at home to find your phone or lost keys. I would not use them alone to keep track of my luggage!

How Do Luggage Trackers Actually Work?

Depending on which of the three main technologies your tracker has, they all operate a little differently.

GSM trackers use mobile towers to locate and triangulate the device, so are not super accurate. But they do give you a rough idea of where the tracker is.

GPS trackers are far more accurate because they use very dependable satellites just as your car and phone do. However, when tracking your luggage specifically it depends on the software/app and tech used by the manufacturer. GPS itself can be accurate down to a number of feet, however, you are likely to need Bluetooth to locate your luggage inside an airport hall.

Bluetooth only works with hundreds of feet at best. So, either you use it in combination with GSM and/or GPS or you can only use it when your luggage is in the vicinity.

TSA Approved Luggage Trackers?

There are not currently any specifically TSA-approved luggage trackers. However, the TSA does allow GPS technology onto a plane and has not listed luggage trackers as something you cannot bring aboard.

Is A Luggage Tracker Worth It?

If you have expensive items in your luggage or your luggage itself is worth a lot of money then a luggage tracker is worth it. If you just want peace of mind, then you can buy a cheaper Bluetooth tracker like an AirTag or Tile as they are a lot cheaper.

Does Android Have A Luggage Tracker?

Most luggage trackers with an App work on Android devices. This includes both the Lugloc and Trackdot trackers as well as the Bluetooth tracker from Tile.

Other Options (Not Really)

Yes, there are other products and options on the market, but from what I have been able to find, nothing really worth adding to this review since I wrote it a year ago (today is April 2018).

Various companies have come out with trackers, but there are too many bad reviews –  Victorinox  & 1st Anti-Theft Tracker . I am surprised that Victorinox was unable to come up with something good as they are well-known here (in Switzerland where I am) and around the world for their quality knives and products.

I have even reviewed  one of their suitcases  and  passport wallets  before.

You could also try something like a GPS tracker that is not specifically designed for luggage tracking. They are relatively cheap and do the job, they just don’t have the extra features like proximity tracking (Bluetooth) and Airplane mode to put it to sleep until you land.

Here is an example, the LOC8ING :

The Verdict

At about the same price, the Lugloc and Trakdot are quite similar. However, given the limited battery life and lack of Bluetooth tracking (for closer tracking) for me, the Lugloc is the better bet .

Both the Lugloc and Trackdot devices are only meant to keep approximate track of your luggage and not follow it like the FBI in the movies. Keep that in mind. We are still not quite at that level of technology.

If you just want a cheap and easy tracker without all the fills, you can’t beat an Air Tag.

• #1 Worldwide Luggage Locator: Automatic Worldwide Tracking with Cell-tower Connected Technology

• Trakdot luggage tracker is designed to provide specific location information for your tracked luggage

However, for simple peace of mind, especially when dealing with lost luggage or expensive items (golf clubs, ski bags, etc) it might be worth the investment of a dedicated tracker. And, you can always throw in a Tile or Air Tag to give you a little more security using their Bluetooth app!

Related Post:

Best luggage locks for travelers.

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How simple luggage trackers became the hottest travel accessory

Out of the post-pandemic travel chaos, a hero has emerged.

Unassuming and undercover, this hero has spent much of the past year traveling the globe, stepping in when airlines mess up to save people’s precious vacations.

Its name? Well, it goes by a few. To you, it may be Tile, Chipolo, Pebblebee or – its best-known incarnation – AirTag. That’s right: compact, portable and potentially snatching your perfect vacation from the jaws of lost luggage disaster, the travel accessory of the moment is the humble luggage tracker.

We’ve seen it month after month, after airlines and airports laying off staff led to travel chaos throughout 2022. Not enough baggage handlers and exploding numbers of travelers meant bags not being loaded onto planes, bags not being taken fast enough off planes, unattended bags piling up by the thousands in airports – and many of them lost.

The bag mishandling rate was up 74.7% in 2022 compared to the previous year, according to data from SITA, which offers various IT solutions (including baggage tracking) for the aviation industry. Out of every 1,000 bags to take to the skies, 7.6 were lost last year, compared to 4.35 per 1,000 in 2021 and 5.6 per 1,000 in 2019.

Bags for international flights are eight times as likely to be mishandled than those on domestic flights, due to the likelihood of them being transferred (connections account for nearly half the incidents). However, you don’t have to have a complex itinerary for the airline to lose your bag – a whopping 17% of mishandled bags in 2022 were simply never loaded onto the plane in the first place.

“The sudden surge in travel has led to increased disruptions that are compounded by a shortage of skilled staff,” Thomas Romig, vice president for safety, security and operations of the Airports Council International (ACI) wrote in a report this year for SITA.

And 2023 could be even worse, according to Rory Boland, editor of UK-based consumer magazine Which? Travel.

“There remain significant problems with lost luggage this year, and this is likely to be worse still in the peak travel period this summer. That’s not just the odd bag going missing, but planes taking off with no luggage because staff shortages meant it wasn’t possible to load them in time,” he warns.

If losing a bag doesn’t sound like the worst thing that could happen on vacation, that probably means you haven’t ever lost one. “If you’ve lost a bag once you’re probably scarred for life,” says tech writer Kate Bevan , to whom it’s happened twice.

If you’re lucky, you’ll get a call or an email saying your missing bag has been located. If you’re not, you’ll be waiting indefinitely, always wondering what happened to that piece of luggage.

But if you put a tracking device inside it, as more and more people are finding, you can tell the airline where it is.

And while knowing where it is doesn’t guarantee you’ll get it back, you have more of a fighting chance.

“For me, tracking devices are essential because they help you help the airline find your luggage faster, but also offer peace of mind that you will get your belongings back at some stage,” says Boland.

A PowerPoint presentation to recover his bag

Jai Rawat was traveling home from London Heathrow to San Francisco in January when his bag went missing. Two days later, his airline, Virgin Atlantic, emailed to say that the bag had been located and would be returned to him “soon.”

Yet nine days after his flight, his AirTag was still showing at Heathrow.

Rawat – CEO of Zinrelo, which powers loyalty programs for brands – sent screenshots of its location to no avail. Virgin said that staff were “trying to locate the bag” – despite him showing them exactly where it was.

In desperation, after 34 days, he created a PowerPoint presentation, entitled “Helpful hints to find my suitcase.”

The six-page document gave a detailed description of the bag, and included maps, satellite photos, Google Streetview screenshots and an annotated map of Heathrow Terminal 4, marking the exact building which he deduced the bag was in.

It was no rush job – Rawat says he “spent a few hours scouring the internet for airport maps,” overlaying his AirTag location map against them. He was, he says, “desperate,” as the bag contained a precious item belonging to his daughter.

The result? Three days later, the bag arrived at his home in California. It had been opened, and “several things” were missing – but he was refunded for them 10 days after making a claim.

This was the first time he’d used a tracking device, and Rawat says he was surprised how long Virgin Atlantic took to find the bag.

“I thought that since the exact location was visible via AirTag, the airline should be able to find it easily. It was really frustrating that they were having a hard time finding the bag even after I gave them all the information – it felt that they were just not putting in enough effort,” he says. Possibly because he was one of many: “At one point the agent I was emailing with told me that the building had thousands of lost bags,” he said.

‘Airlines do too little’

“Ultimately, AirTags give travelers the peace of mind of knowing where their most prized possessions are at all times,” says Emily McNutt, senior travel editor at CNN Underscored, which has named the trackers the “ ultimate travel companion this summer .” The site has also compared AirTags against Tiles and Samsung Galaxy SmartTags , as well as reviewing Chipolo products.

“In years past, that luxury was largely unavailable as travelers had to wait for the airline to let them know where their bag was – and that could often be hard for airline representatives to actually track down,” she says.

“While AirTags aren’t perfect (they rely on Apple’s ‘Find My’ network, so they’re not as reliable in scarcely populated areas), they’ve given travelers the power of knowing exactly where their bag is in many cases before airline representatives can do the same.”

Boland says travelers are taking matters into their own hands for one reason: “Too many airlines do far too little to track bags down in a timely manner.

“Anyone who has had an airline lose their bags will know that you are often fobbed off with no answer as to where your luggage is and when you might be reunited with it.

“Passengers pay increasingly large amounts of money to many airlines to transport luggage, so it is completely unacceptable that it’s down to the passenger to tell the airline where it lost the bag.”

‘The police never called me’

Elliot Sharod was one of the first to go viral for tracking his lost luggage through its AirTag.

In April 2022, he and his wife were returning from their wedding in South Africa when one of their bags – containing mementos from the ceremony – was lost.

Thanks to his AirTag, Sharod could see where it was. But Aer Lingus – which had lost the bag – wasn’t replying.

In desperation, Sharod made a PowerPoint presentation and tweeted it at the airline. It swiftly went viral.

Not that Aer Lingus got the case back for the unhappy couple. Eventually, the pair traced it to a shed outside a block of residential apartments in London, and called the police, who broke in and recovered it.

More than a year on, Sharod’s unimpressed by how it all panned out.

The bag was “ripped to shreds – everything that could have identified us was destroyed,” he says. Their order of service and table settings from the wedding were gone, as were his wife’s perfume, hair straighteners and “anything they could sell.” Only clothes were left.

So what happened next? Not a lot, as it happened. “The police said they’d call me in for a statement but that never happened. They didn’t take it further and neither did the airline,” he says.

Sharod says he sent a 12-page document to Aer Lingus outlining the saga, and was asked “what was it we were looking for?”

“I just said frankly we’re six weeks on, I’d just like an apology and I’d like everything that was stolen to be replaced.”

The airline paid them around $1,000 compensation and threw in lounge access on a forthcoming flight, but refused to share more details, calling it an internal matter.

Sharod now goes carry-on only wherever possible, even on two-week trips.

Google enters the game

AirTags may be in the news, but they’re not the only trackers available. However, until now, alternatives such as Tile or Chipolo haven’t been perhaps as useful – because of how they work.

Lose your bag with an AirTag in it, and the tracker uses Apple’s global network to locate itself – meaning that any iPhone user passing by will passively locate it. Other brands, however, rely on other users of their same network – so if your missing bag has a Tile in it, the only way it’ll ping is if another Tile user, or a user of family safety service app Life360 , is nearby. The closest so far has been the Samsung Galaxy smart tag, which works with Samsung phones – which account for over one in five.

But in May, Google announced that later this year, its Find My Device “ecosystem” would be upgraded to work with trackers including Tile, Chipolo and Pebblebee – making it the largest network in the world. It’ll also alert you if an unknown tracker starts moving with you. (Some tracking devices have been used in stalking cases; Apple and Google are working together on an industry-wide effort to help limit the risk of Bluetooth devices being used for unwanted tracking.)

Bevan says that Google opening up its network is a game-changer. “In the rest of the world [outside the US], Android has much higher penetration [than Apple],” she says. “Google doing this is a big deal.”

The company is also rumored to be working on its own tracker device, codenamed Grogu.

Safety first

Are tracking devices safe? That’s a question the aviation industry appears to have been battling.

Lithium batteries, of course, are banned from traveling in the hold, and lithium fires are a regular occurrence in the cabin – the FAA’s running tally of lithium battery incidents “involving smoke, fire or extreme heat” is already at 25 for 2023, with 74 logged in 2022. Both Lufthansa and Air New Zealand seemingly banned bag trackers in the hold last year – before swiftly reversing the ban in both cases. (Lufthansa told CNN that the airline never banned them – although their social media team had said that trackers were “ classified as dangerous ” and “cannot be used.”)

The FAA isn’t concerned, however. Its rules say that metal batteries containing less than 0.3 grams (0.01 ounces) of lithium, are OK in checked luggage. Trackers have less – AirTags, for example, contain just over 0.1 grams and Tiles contain less than 0.1 grams on average, according to a spokesperson.

Airlines going DIY

Tracking your bags yourself can never hurt, but some airlines are offering similar services.

SITA offers a Bag Journey service to airlines, which tracks luggage at four stages of the process, and offers airlines the chance to share the real-time data with passengers. Just 25% of airlines have taken them up on this so far, but SITA says that 67% of airlines plan to allow passenger access by 2025.

The company has also developed a system that automatically identifies bags unlikely to make their connecting flight, and rebooks them on the next one, keeping the existing bag tag, while keeping the passenger informed. Again, though, it’s up to the airlines to buy into it.

“SITA is committed to working with the industry to ensure passengers are once again confident to check in their baggage,” CEO David Lavorel wrote in the company’s 2023 “Baggage IT Insights” report.

Meanwhile Delta passengers who use the airline’s app have received push notifications about their bags’ progress since 2016. The airline uses RFID technology in its bag tags.

Taking back control

For Sharod, personal tracking devices have “given the power back to passengers.”

“It’s changed how airlines have to interact with passengers,” he says. “They can’t hide behind generic responses on Twitter. They can’t keep pieing people off because we know where our bags are.”

He hopes that “AirTag awareness… has pushed airlines to look at their internal processes – and if they want to protect their reputations, hopefully that will benefit passengers. Ultimately, it should lead to it being better.”

For Bevan, the devices haven’t yet changed the way we travel, but says they “take one of the stresses out of traveling.”

So how to give yourself the best chance of getting your luggage back?

All our case studies, of course, advise buying a tracking device. And, perhaps, disguising it. Sharod’s wife hid the couple’s tags in balled-up clothing. “If you just chuck it in, you run the risk of [a potential thief] finding it,” he says. Luggage brand Samsara makes cases with hidden, and relatively indestructible slots for tracking devices – but so far they’re only carry-on size. The brand is working on larger versions.

Rawat advises photographing the bag at check-in, making an inventory of what’s in it, and writing your contact details on a piece of paper to put inside – as well as on a nametag outside.

And don’t forget that the majority of people do get their bags back. Last year, four out of five bags that didn’t arrive on time were merely delayed, rather than lost entirely, according to SITA’s data. Just 7% were lost or stolen – the rest were damaged or had items stolen from them.

Meanwhile, Boland – who never travels these days without a tracker – has a novel proposition to change the industry: “Airlines should refund passengers fees when they lose bags, as this would work as an incentive for them to reduce the number of misplaced pieces of luggage.”

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com

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Airport security made me lift my shirt! - Air Travel Forum

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Airport security made me lift my shirt!

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Hey everyone, so last week I was coming back from a trip in Europe, flying out of Barcelona. I went through the metal detector and put my bags in the scanner, but after that I was told by a security officer to follow her to a sectioned off part of the airport.

She told me to empty out everything in my carry on and wiped down my bag with some cloth. But then she asked me to lift up my shirt and hold it up for her as she wiped my stomach and waist with a similar cloth.

What was that exactly?

And I want to know if I'm able to refuse to lift my top as I found it somewhat abnormal.

65 replies to this topic

Just to answer some questions and give more context:

I was not traveling alone, I was traveling with 2 other women.

I do fly relatively often, mostly domestic since COVID but still fly international once or twice a year.

I've been patted down before, had my bags opened, and got questioned about illegal substances when entering another country.

I DO think that the people doing security checks are just doing their job and everybody should be subjected to searched including myself.

It is also true that I've seen pleasant and unpleasant, polite and less polite security people, usually the TSA in the US being on the worse part of the spectrum... But I've seen a range.

What I do think is unusual is the my experience during my last trip. I've had my shirt lifted slightly a few times in the past during a pat downs probably to get better access to the waistband, but this time the lady motioned to me with her hand to pull up my shirt high (she had her hand by her belly in motion as if she was holding her shirt and lifter her hand up to face level), making it seem aggressive, and she had me hold up my shirt lifted several inches for at least 15 seconds while wiping my stomach and around my waist. It was far more invasive than having your top lifted an inch for 2 seconds so your waistband can be checked with very minimal skin exposure.

If there was really no alternative method, I don't actually think refusing to the security check is a good idea but I want sure if there's a way to opt out for an alternative search.

As far as I know I didn't set off any alarms, but I can't confirm that. I was wearing a metal necklace that never caused an issue before, no other metal. Plain looking t shirt, shorts, no underwire. Don't recall sweating either, but I did use lotion earlier that day though.

Has anyone met these “Europeans who think women traveling alone are suspicious “??!!

I think it was a random check. Once in a while they have to do the full procedure in such situations, just to make sure that they remember all the steps they are supposed to go through.

“ I have a family member with a metal plate in their leg. Never sets off the scanners. But if you wand them the machine goes crazy”

I have metal in my back.

None of that helps when you buy some vintage camera gear during a visit and get pulled aside for the weird looking thing in your bag that has capacitors that look like plastic explosives on the machine and is gun shaped to begin with.

No I get checked a lot because despite me always saying, it’s ok I can walk through the scanner or stand in the scanner, in many airports they say no, just stay seated and we will check you with a pat down. there is a huge variety in what those Pat drones involve.

My white cane is swabbed 100% of times at EDI but not all the time at other UK airports (i don’t bother asking why, I just want to get through and get my flight ).

I get my hands swabbed for explosives around 30-40% of the time when travelling domestically in Australia but less frequently any where else.

I have travelled solo for 40 years and am European and frequently travel to other European countries and have never come across this Europeans being suspicious of women without a man allegation. I did encounter it in Oman and in India (only once the rest of the time was fine). I do occasionally get comments about travelling solo and being disabled but not in Europe or Australiasia or North America. India, South Africa, UAE and a few other places, usually the folk providing passenger assitance telling me rubbish like my family should not allow this or I should stay safe at home. To them i point out they would not have a job if we all stayed safe at home or only travelled when family members came along to take care of us!

To me this thread is a bit of a storm in a teacup. I was held once at Immigration for 3 or 4 hours and they left me with only a paper tissue, they had everything else. That was in the US. I was eventually cleared and allowed to go on my way. I was relieved to find my bags sitting in a corner in the baggage hall. Took them through customs and then found the airline desk to get rebooked on a later flight . It never once occurred to me to ask for my phone to call the British Embassy oor to do it th next day.

Given how long hearings take to arrange for court cases in the UK, I find the idea of resisting and demanding a hearing fanciful. You’d be looking at being in detention for a fairly long time and I see them taking the much easier option of refusing you entry and getting you on the first flight back home.

Air security is no longer the breeze it was prior to 9/11 but it is what it is

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Country: Russia

Continent: Europe

Population: 11,514,300

Country Capital: Yes

For all cities with a population greater than five hundred thousand, Moscow is closest to Tula and farthest from Auckland . The closest foreign city is Gomel and the farthest domestic city is Vladivostok . See below for the top 5 closest and farthest cities (domestically, internationally and by continent) and to see which cities, if any, Moscow is the closest and farthest to. Filter to include all cities over 100k, 500k or 1 million in population.

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40 Facts About Elektrostal

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 01 Jun 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy , materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes , offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development .

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy , with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

Elektrostal's fascinating history, vibrant culture, and promising future make it a city worth exploring. For more captivating facts about cities around the world, discover the unique characteristics that define each city . Uncover the hidden gems of Moscow Oblast through our in-depth look at Kolomna. Lastly, dive into the rich industrial heritage of Teesside, a thriving industrial center with its own story to tell.

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I'm a Packing Expert, and the 14 Travel Accessories That Help Me Double My Suitcase Space Are on Sale From $7

From packing cubes to tech organizers to my go-to handheld steamer.

Travel + Leisure / Jaclyn Mastropasqua

As a travel writer and the founder of packing site Just Packed , I’ve found that there’s only one way to minimize stress and maximize efficiency within the packing process: preparation. No matter the length of your trip, it’s always beneficial to take the time to think through what (and how) you’re packing. Sometimes, that means devising a list of your trip outfits a week before your departure. Other times, it’s ensuring your bathroom cabinets are well-stocked with travel-sized toiletries for easy grab-and-go packing the night before. 

With summer travel just days away — and can’t-miss Memorial Day sales already popping up online — now’s the perfect time to begin your packing game plan for the next few months. I recommend taking stock of the packing essentials you currently have (things like suitcases, packing cubes, and toiletry bags), and determining if there are any you may need to acquire or replace. And if you’re not sure which pieces to invest in for an overall easier time packing? I can help. 

Below, I combed through Amazon’s travel gear deals to find the best, highest-reviewed packing essentials, including a set of packing cubes and a durable, expandable suitcase. With these items in your travel arsenal, you’ll be completely ready to take advantage of any last-minute trips or weekend getaways this season — and you won’t have to spend a ton of money to do so. 

Hotor Packing Cubes

I’m a firm believer that every traveler can benefit from using packing cubes – whether they’re traveling with a carry-on or a checked bag. They’re ideal for keeping the contents of your suitcase organized, and I find they’re also useful for storing dirty clothes, damp bathing suits, or anything you’d rather keep separate from everything else. I usually suggest opting for sets of packing cubes that come with a variety of sizes, like this one from Hotor. For under $10, you get three packing cubes, a shoe bag, a drawstring pocket, and an underwear bag. 

Traveler's Choice Pagosa Carry-On Spinner

Suitcases can run the gamut in price, but you don’t have to spend a pretty penny for a high-quality, decent-sized piece of luggage. Case in point: The Traveler's Choice Pagosa Carry-On Spinner, which is currently on sale for under $70 (in certain colors). Armed with a scratch and water-resistant polypropylene hardshell, the bag comes with a built-in USB port, an interior power bank compartment, and 360-degree spinner wheels. It also has top and side rubber carry handles and an adjustable telescoping handle for greater maneuverability. Finally, all good carry-ons should have at least a couple of interior organization functions, and this one is designed with several zippered pockets and interior compression straps to keep your clothing secure. 

Vorspack Transparent Shoe Bags

Packing cubes usually steal the spotlight in the travel world, but don’t sleep on transparent (and affordable) shoe bags. Most travelers buy them to keep more delicate shoes from scuffing while in transit, but I also tend to use them to transport toiletries, socks, underwear, or other smaller-sized items. I might even pack an empty one or two — as they hardly take up any precious suitcase real estate — in case I have a need for an extra bag or organizational compartment during my trip.  

Iniu Portable Charger

There are some travel stresses that simply cannot be avoided (like delayed or canceled flights). Your phone battery dying because you can’t find a working outlet, however, does not need to be one of them. The night before I’m set to travel somewhere, I always make sure my portable charger is full of power and safely packed away in my bag. By buying a charger like this one from Iniu, I’ve never again had to experience the stress of arriving at my destination, only to realize I can’t call an Uber or access Google Maps until I find a plug to revive my phone battery. 

Raycon Everyday Bluetooth Wireless Earbuds 

For a long time, I swore by my large, noise-canceling headphones. While they’re comfortable and nearly impossible to lose, they take up a not-insignificant amount of room in my bag. To pack a bit lighter, I’ll switch out the bulky headphones for a pair of earbuds, like the Raycon Everyday Bluetooth Wireless Earbuds. On sale for 25 percent off, they’re the perfect alternative when you want to listen to your music or audiobook on the go, but you don’t have a ton of extra space. 

Kebnor Handheld Travel Steamer

The key to looking put-together while traveling is simple: You need a steamer. Forget the hotel iron (it takes too long to set up anyway), and leave the extra-large steamer at home. Instead, whip out the Kebnor Handheld Travel Steamer, currently marked down by 33 percent. In just 15 seconds, it will steam for eight minutes, allowing you to quickly freshen up your linen top or wrinkled pants. Plus, it’s small enough to easily slip into a personal item bag or a tiny space between your packing cubes. 

Tocelffe TSA Approved Silicone Travel Containers

Any traveler with a set beauty or skincare routine will know the struggle of packing your toiletries. Not all shampoos, conditions, moisturizers, and serums come in travel-sized containers, and you’ll frequently need to transport them in smaller containers when you’re only traveling with a carry-on bag — or risk airport security throwing them away. By having these Tocelffe TSA Approved Silicone Travel Containers on hand, you can use the funnel or spatula (both of which come with the set) to easily transfer your favorite products into either the silicone bottles, spray bottles, or cream jars. 

Bevegekos Cord Organizer Storage Case

Organization comes naturally to some travelers. For others, it’s a constant struggle, usually accented by unnecessary stress and worry. If you fall into the latter camp, you may benefit from the Bevegekos Cord Organizer Storage Case. Marked down to under $7, the travel pouch is designed to keep all of your electronic gadgets — like a power bank, charger cables, earbuds, and adapters — stored safely in one place. Gone are the days of digging through your backpack in a panic, searching for your charger or extra battery before your phone dies. 

Niveaya Hat Clip

If the beach, pool, or a generally strong sun will make an appearance in your travel plans this summer, you might be contemplating bringing along a sun hat. While important for sun protection, a wide-brimmed hat isn’t always the easiest accessory to pack — unless you use a magnetic hat clip. On sale for under $22, the Niveaya Hat Clip snaps onto your hat and then clips onto your tote bag or backpack, allowing for hands-free transportation. Thank me later.

Vorolo Crossbody Belt Bag

Whenever I’m flying, I’ll usually have an empty shoulder bag or belt bag tucked into my carry-on suitcase or personal item bag. That’s because while I like to have a smaller, on-the-go bag to use upon arrival, I also want to avoid an extra bag charge. The Vorolo Crossbody Belt Bag is the perfect example of this type of packable accessory. Not only is it functional (the nylon material is waterproof), but it’s sleek enough to wear with a variety of outfits and it can be worn as a crossbody bag, fanny pack, or an across-the-chest style. 

Travel Inspira Luggage Scale

A few years ago, I finally caved and bought a luggage scale — and I’ve never looked back. Prior to leaving for the airport, I’ll use it to measure the weight of my checked bag (instead of hoping for the best upon check-in). It’s also small enough to bring along on trips. That way, if you happen to pick up a few souvenirs, you can reweight the contents of your suitcase and adjust accordingly. I promise this will be the best $8 you’ve ever spent. 

Balulhg Travel Toiletry Bag 

A reliable, spacious toiletry bag is non-negotiable in my book, and I even have a few different shapes and sizes that I can alternate between on trips. One of my favorites is a hanging toiletry bag. It has enough room for all of my everyday products, and it’s designed so I don’t have to go digging through the bag to pull out a particular one. This style from Balulhg comes in two sizes, medium and large (as well as a variety of colorways), so you can pick whichever one makes the most sense based on how many products you typically travel with. 

Npcqun Compact Umbrella

An umbrella is often a forgotten packing essential, but I’ve learned the hard way you should always have one tucked into your luggage. While you might not use it every day, it’s the type of item that can make or break a trip, especially if you’re traveling somewhere with an ever-changing forecast. When broken down, this umbrella is only 11.5 inches in length, and it can easily be tucked into the bottom of your tote bag or the side of your suitcase. 

Molnia Travel Backpack

If you, like me, rarely travel without a laptop, it might be time to reevaluate how you’re transporting it from place to place. I try to always carry mine in a backpack, as it saves any undue pressure on my shoulders or arms. Marked down by 20 percent with an on-page coupon, this travel backpack can fit more than just a laptop, though. There’s plenty of space for clothes, a pair of shoes, a book, and even a small toiletry kit. And the best part? It’s still compact enough to fit under the airplane seat in front of you.

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