Traveler’s Choice and Samsonite are two of the most popular luggage brands on the market.
Both brands offer a wide range of luggage options, from carry-on bags to larger suitcases, and boast features such as durability, style, and functionality.
But which brand is better?
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at Traveler’s Choice and Samsonite, comparing their features, pricing, and overall value to help you decide which brand best fits your travel needs.
History
In 1910, Denver, Colorado, saw the birth of Samsonite, a luggage brand named after the legendary figure Samson who was known for his incredible strength.
Although the brand does not disclose its global sales figures, its staggering annual revenue of 19.4 billion U.S. dollars speaks for itself, suggesting a massive reach and customer base.
With such impressive financial success, the sky truly is the limit for this historic and iconic brand.
Check Out My In-Depth Article on Traveler’s Choice Brand
Established in 1984 in Los Angeles, California, Traveler’s Choice has quickly made a name for itself in the competitive luggage industry.
Selling over 1.6 million pieces of luggage each year, the brand has proven to be a force to be reckoned with.
Despite its relatively short history, Traveler’s Choice has received several accolades for its inventive designs, contributing significantly to its success.
Let’s dive in and investigate some of the best products from both companies.
Samsonite Omni PC Three-Piece Set Spinner
The Samsonite Omni PC Three-Piece Set Spinner is a clear customer favorite, and it’s easy to see why.
In fact, with over 21,000 ratings on Amazon, this set has become the best-selling three-piece luggage set, solidifying its reputation as a customer favorite.
The design team behind this set had a single-minded objective: to create the most utilitarian luggage possible.
The result is a case crafted from durable polycarbonate material with a distinctive bumpy texture that does an excellent job of concealing scratches and scuffs.
Each of the three cases in this set is outfitted with a convenient three-digit TSA-approved lock, providing a secure way to safeguard your belongings.
The roomy main compartment of each case features cross straps and a nylon zipper pouch, although the cross straps, unfortunately, cannot be adjusted.
While it’s worth noting that all three bags in this set can be expanded by a few inches, it’s important to exercise caution when using this feature.
Depending on your airline’s baggage policies, expanding your luggage could result in extra fees at check-in.
This model’s wheels are decent but not suited for urban adventures.
If you want to know more about this luggage, I wrote a comprehensive review here.
PROS
- A broad range of color options
- Easy to handle on all surfaces
- Sturdy case
- Cases can be nested into each other
CONS
- Plastic inner zippers, requiring extra care when handling them
Why do people love this set so much?
Have you ever wondered why so many people are crazy about this luggage set?
There are tons of options out there, so what’s so special about this one?
Well, it’s known for its durability, which is crucial for anyone who wants a long-lasting travel buddy making it a no-brainer choice.
It’s like buying an iPhone or a Volkswagen – you know you’re getting something good.
Instead of spending hours comparing features and prices, people tend to go for the easy choice.
Traveler’s Choice Tasmania Luggage Set, Large, Three-Piece
Crafted from durable polycarbonate, this set is similar in quality to the Samsonite Omni.
One cool thing that sets this luggage collection apart from the competition is the telescopic handle, which extends to a great length.
This makes it an ideal choice for those who are on the taller side and want a suitcase that’s comfortable to pull around.
Aside from their dimensions, there is little difference between the two products.
Both sets can be nested so that you can store them all in the biggest case.
Additionally, both are expandable and have an integrated TSA-approved lock.
Traveler’s Choice claims that its Tasmania Luggage Set has a unique construction that makes it more durable and better at absorbing impact than its competitors.
However, it’s difficult to know for sure if this is true or just clever marketing since there’s no way to verify their claim.
I did notice that Traveler’s Choice wheels appear sturdier than those on the Samsonite Omni.
Nevertheless, it’s hard to say which set will hold up better in the long run.
PROS
- Wheels of high quality that provide smooth and quiet rolling
- Ability to expand way more than the competition
CONS
- The handle could be sturdier
What should you choose between the two sets?
It ultimately comes down to your budget if you’re trying to decide between the two sets.
While the Tasmania and Omni sets are great options, the Tasmania set is considerably more affordable.
However, the Samsonite Omni is the way to go without hesitation if your budget permits it.
It’s worth noting that the Tasmania set is being discontinued, so it will only be available for a bit longer– just a few more months.
Keep this in mind as you make your decision.
Traveler’s Choice Birmingham Lightweight Expandable Rugged Rollaboard Rolling Luggage 21″
The material used for this luggage is 1680 denier water-resistant fabric, which is essentially a rugged ballistic nylon with a water-resistant finish.
The bag is padded with EVA foam for added durability and impact resistance.
Despite its sturdiness, the Birmingham model is surprisingly lightweight, weighing just 7.8 pounds when empty.
The bag also boasts numerous pockets and compartments that come in handy when you need to pack your belongings.
The two in-line skate wheels are made from polyurethane, a material that offers properties that are superior to those of plastic.
In addition, this luggage is a popular choice among European travelers due to its ability to easily navigate rough terrain, such as the cobblestone streets that are often encountered in many European cities.
PROS
- Made from durable fabric
- Quality wheels
- Price has decreased over the years
CONS
- Only two color options
- Outdated design
Samsonite Aspire Xlite Expandable Upright 21.5″
This two-wheel carry-on is made 100% from nylon, ensuring that this bag is lightweight.
Keep in mind that the four-wheel version of this luggage is made from polyester.
The Aspire Xlite offers ample storage space, including two interior pockets and a lower front pocket.
The lower front pocket can accommodate a laptop of up to 15″.
The telescopic handle is sturdy.
The in-line skate wheels are built to last and are made from polyurethane.
The case weighs only 7.5 lbs when empty and 8.2 lbs with its straps and mesh pockets.
Overall, this luggage is outdated.
A few years ago, it was a viable carry-on option. However, with airlines becoming more stringent with carry-ons, it no longer meets their requirements.
PROS
- Durable black fabric hides stains and will last
- Wheels are replaceable, though finding them might be difficult
CONS
- No built-in TSA-approved lock
- Black is the only color available
What About the Warranty?
Samsonite offers a ten-year limited warranty for their products, compared to Traveler’s Choice, which offers one to ten years limited warranty, depending on the item you buy.
Samsonite offers a worldwide warranty, whereas Traveler’s Choice only covers products purchased within the 48 contiguous states.
If you come across a great deal for a Traveler’s Choice luggage while abroad, keep in mind that you won’t be able to make a claim in the event of a malfunction.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the two manufacturers is a challenging feat.
The Samsonite Aspire is a good choice if you’re looking for a carry-on with ample pockets and a laptop compartment.
However, the Traveler’s Choice Birmingham Lightweight might be a better option if you’re planning to travel abroad.
As for the Samsonite Omni three-piece set and the Traveler’s Choice Tasmania three-piece set, some buyers may opt for the Tasmania due to its suitability for taller individuals.
In contrast, others may choose the Omni since it’s their best-selling product with many positive reviews from buyers.
While the brands share similarities, Samsonite emerges as the clear winner due to its ownership of the production chain, with factories located worldwide where products are manufactured in-house.
In contrast, Traveler’s Choice doesn’t operate a single factory; instead, the company relies entirely on outsourcing from Chinese factories.
When priced similarly, Samsonite products tend to be sturdier, while Traveler’s Choice attempts to compensate by incorporating minor enhancements in their cases, such as USB charging ports.
