9 Smart Luggage Options That Will Transform Your Travel Experience
Unfortunately, before your plane touches down, you'll probably spend a few hours — sometimes days — getting there. And this is when things can get a bit annoying.
Maybe you arrive at the airport and it turns out your carry-on weighs more than your airline allows, or your flight is delayed and your phone/laptop/tablet runs out of battery — and all the outlets at the gate are taken by other passengers. Or you miss your connecting flight and can't stop thinking about whether or not your bag made it to your new aircraft.
Related:The Best Carry-on Luggage
This is where “smart luggage” comes in: Thanks to technology, you no longer have to endure even a second of luggage-related anxiety during any part of your trip. With built-in features like GPS locators, USB ports to charge your devices, solar-powered batteries, and remote lock systems, smart luggage is a game-changer in the travel industry.
And you don’t have to sacrifice the look of your suitcase for its efficiency. Sleek design and durable materials make these backpacks and suitcases your stylish companion guaranteed to last for years to come.
Although do note, as per recent regulations from airlines, you'll want to make sure the battery in your suitcase is removable, even if it's a carry-on.
Arlo Skye Aluminum Carry-on
Arlo Skye has created the sleekest, most perfect carry-on. It is lightweight and features a built-in charger, anti-microbial lining, shoe and laundry bags, and no outside zippers. Instead, you can open and close it with code-protected locks that will make sure no one but you can access your valuables.
To buy: arloskye.com, $550
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G-RO Tough Terrain Expandable Carry-on
This carry-on has a sleek yet funky design thanks to its neon-hued oversized wheels that let you navigate even the bumpiest cobblestone streets of your favorite city. The suitcase comes with a portable charging station with two USB ports as well as dual TSA-approved locks. And with multiple compartments and pockets, you can keep your belongings organized even when you’re away from home.
To buy: amazon.com, $449
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Away The Bigger Carry-on
As the name suggests, Away’s The Bigger Carry-on is slightly roomier than their standard carry-on (by about an inch in every direction). The durable, polycarbonate suitcase comes stocked with an ejectable 37-watt battery that’s capable of charging your phone and most other devices.
To buy: awaytravel.com, $245
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Travelpro Crew 11
Travelpro is known for the quality and durability of their suitcases, which if you are a frequent traveler, we’re sure you’ll appreciate. At only 7 lbs., it’s probably one of the lightest carry-on suitcases you’ll find on the market that also packs a lot of smart features such as an RFID-blocking interior pocket that prevents identity theft and an exterior USB port.
To buy: ebags.com, $200
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Samsara Smart Luggage
This suitcase truly looks like it’s from the future. And it has equally impressive features — it is entirely made of lightweight aluminum alloy and has an anodized coating for protection and a long-lasting look. The flat top allows you to use it as a table, propping your laptop up to work on it during a long airport layover. Download the Samsara app and you’ll receive a notification each time the suitcase is opened out of your sight. The built-in battery can charge your phone up to ten times.
To buy: samsaraluggage.com, $435
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Modobag
You probably saw this one coming. The Modobag went viral last year and for a very good reason. It’s the world’s first motorized suitcase which means you can ride it to the terminal and get there much faster. Its tech features include two USB ports, LED light controls, app-controlled tracking and proximity alert, and a riding range of up to eight miles.
To buy: modobag.com, $1,295
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Voltaic Systems Converter Rapid Solar Backpack Charger
This backpack is lightweight and super padded, making it ideal for laptop or tablet transportation. It’s the bag for the true adventurer, as it includes a USB port designed to charge cameras and camera batteries in addition to most phones and tablets. But don’t just stow it away in your hotel room once you reach your destination — the Voltaic is capable of charging your devices outdoors and on-the-go using SunPower and built-in solar panels.
To buy: amazon.com, $129
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The Marlon Carry-on
The Marlon has oversized wheels that are less likely to stumble or get caught when you’re racing through the airport. On top of that, its simple, sleek design makes it stylish yet subtle enough for any type of travel. It’s also incredibly spacious and features a USB port with a removable battery, making it both user-friendly and TSA-friendly.
To buy: marlontravel.co, $209
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Tylt Powerbag and Charging Station
This carry-on backpack is easy to use and essential for no-stress travel. It easily converts into a tote bag and is stocked with a 5,200 mAh battery, which will provide up to two full phone charges or 1.5 tablet charges. And don’t worry about your devices’ cables ever getting lost or tangled, because this bag’s got a built-in cable guidance system.
To buy: amazon.com, $130