Travelpro® Introduces New Walkabout® Lite 4 Collection -Lightweight, Durable Luggage that Goes the Distance- [PRESS RELEASE]
June 1, 2011 by Scott Applebee · Leave a Comment
(May 17, 2011) Boca Raton, FL – Travelpro® the inventor of Rollaboard® luggage and leader in innovative, high-quality luggage design is pleased to introduce the next generation of the highly successful WalkAbout® collection, Walkabout® Lite 4. This new collection offers the ideal combination of lightweight durability, functionality and affordability for the frequent business and leisure traveler.
Walkabout Lite 4 22" Expandable Rollaboard Suiter
“We’ve developed the Walkabout Lite 4 collection to provide an exceptional value to frequent travellers, allowing them to choose between 4-wheel spinner models or 2-wheel Rollaboards. Now, consumers can get exactly what they want all in one line, making it easier to match aesthetics and functionality when they shop for additional items,” said Scott Applebee, Vice President of Marketing for Travelpro.
The Walkabout Lite 4 collection includes a wide array of innovative features that ease the hassles of travel. The lightweight 22” Rollaboard®, less than 8.5 pounds, can be expanded on demand to gain up to 35% more packing capacity. It is perfect for business or leisure trips when you want to avoid check-in and have everything you need. Its versatile 3-in-1 Suitfolder and Packing Board System is the perfect organizer and keeps clothing wrinkle-free when packed. In addition to its features that simplify the packing process, the Walkabout Lite 4 was built for the long haul. Its durable, nylon fabric is stain and abrasion resistant and the sealed ball-bearing inline skate wheels ensure easy rolling and long lasting service. The smooth-action and strong telescoping handle system has two extension stops at 38” and 43” to meet the ergonomic needs of travelers of various heights. Walkabout® Lite 4’s large front pocket offers ample storage room for jackets, newspapers, paperwork, and other last minute items.
The Walkabout® Lite 4 collection is available in stylish black and dark blue fabric colors. The entire line includes the following options: Deluxe Tote, Rolling Computer Tote, 20” Expandable Business Plus Rollaboard, 20” Expandable Wide Body Spinner with Suiter, 22” Expandable Rollaboard Suiter, 24” Expandable Rollaboard Suiter, 25” Expandable Spinner Upright with Suiter 26” Expandable Rollaboard Suiter, 28″ Expandable Rollaboard Suiter, 29” Expandable Spinner Upright with Suiter and Carry-On Rolling Garment Bag. A Limited Lifetime Warranty extended by Travelpro guarantees that the luggage is free from defects in materials and workmanship. Walkabout® Lite 4 collection is available in Blue and Black.
About Travelpro
For over two decades, Travelpro International has prided itself on design innovation and durability in crafting the highest quality luggage for travellers worldwide.
Since transforming the ease of modern day travel with The Original Rollaboard® wheeled luggage, Travelpro® has been the brand of choice for flight crews and frequent travelers worldwide. Travelpro is dedicated to building a lifelong relationship with its customers by consistently understanding and exceeding their needs. The company offers a variety of innovative, high-quality luggage collections and computer briefs; each aimed at a specific user lifestyle and rigorously tested. Travelpro was the winner of the 2009 and 2010 Leading Edge Award from Executive Travel Magazine for “The Best Carry-on Case.”
Please visit Travelpro for a complete list of the latest products and retail locations. You can also find us on Facebook at and Twitter at .
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Travelpro Announces Its New WalkAbout® Lite 4 Line of Rollaboard® and Spinner Luggage
June 1, 2011 by Scott Applebee · Leave a Comment
We’re very proud to announce the launch of the new WalkAbout® Lite 4 collection of Spinners, Rollaboards, Totes and rolling carry-on luggage. Our design and development teams have worked very hard to come up with the latest improvements in design and materials, in order to provide lightweight durable luggage at an affordable price.
The WalkAbout Lite 4 collection is extremely durable with a lightweight, strong honeycomb framing system and EVA foam. In fact, the 22-inch Expandable Rollaboard® Suiter weighs less than 8.5 pounds. The extension handle is made with airline grade aluminum tubes for added strength and stability. It has two stops at 38” and 43” to ensure a comfortable roll for users of different heights.
Walkabout Lite 4 22" Expandable Rollaboard Suiter
The 20-inch Business Plus Rollaboard® includes a padded laptop sleeve and business organizer. It’s ideal for the business traveler who only wants to carry-on one bag, eliminating the need to bring a separate briefcase.
Our 360 degree, dual-wheel Spinners roll effortlessly any way you want them to move. Their over-sized rear wheels switch easily from rolling upright beside you to being pulled behind, making it easy to navigate through busy airports.
Our new WalkAbout Lite 4 collection includes:
- Deluxe Tote
- Rolling Tote
- 20” Expandable Business Plus Rollaboard®
- 20” Expandable Wide-Body Spinner Suiter
- 22” Expandable Rollaboard® Suiter
- 24” Expandable Rollaboard® Suiter
- 26” Expandable Rollaboard® Suiter
- 28” Expandable Rollaboard® Suiter
- 25” Expandable Spinner Upright
- 29” Expandable Spinner Upright
- Carry-On Rolling Garment Bag
For more information go to Travelpro.com.
Should You Rent A Car Or Use Public Transportation When Traveling Abroad?
March 24, 2011 by Scott Applebee · Leave a Comment
Among the many decisions you must make when traveling abroad is whether to rent a car or use the public transportation system.
As with most international travel decisions, the answer is: it depends. Your choice of transportation depends on your budget, itinerary, level of confidence, degree of patience and need for spontaneity.
As always, cost is a major factor. Renting a car, especially in major European cities, is very expensive, with gas often costing two to three times as much as it does in the U.S. Plus, extra fees may be assessed for cars with automatic transmissions and certain destinations, such as London and Milan, also can charge pollution fees.
That’s a lot of cost to bear, especially if you’re traveling alone and have no one to split the expense with.
As far as cost effectiveness goes, it’s hard to beat a Eurail pass and an up-to-date transit schedule for the destination you’re visiting. Many overseas cities have extensive public transportation systems that all but eliminate the need to drive.
The trade-off comes with the frequent crowding of these trains and buses, their periodic delays, the potential for transit strikes, and their limitations in serving “off-the-beaten-track” spots.
If your itinerary does include exotic destinations that aren’t readily served by train and bus routes, a rental car gives you far more flexibility. But, in addition to your desire for spontaneity, you’ll need both confidence and patience for such excursions.
Driving abroad poses many challenges. If you’re driving in Australia, the UK or Jamaica, you’ll be traveling on the opposite side of the road while steering the vehicle from what you consider the front passenger seat. And, in many parts of the world, driving patterns are widely unpredictable regardless what side of the road you’re on. When you throw in street signs in a language you don’t understand, the confusion quickly mounts.
If you have the patience for such a challenge, we strongly recommend renting a GPS unit with the appropriate map software (in English) installed. Just remember to always keep the unit with you when the car is parked.
Be sure to enjoy the region’s sights and sounds, regardless of the mode of transportation you use to access them. And, keep in mind that your choice doesn’t have to be an “either/or”.
Use public transit where possible and rent a vehicle when it makes sense. The key is to experience your destination fully.
Must-Have Items For Traveling Abroad
March 17, 2011 by Karen Amin · 1 Comment
The key to successful international travel is thoroughly planning for both for your convenience and safety.
As if “the road” isn’t inconvenient enough, traveling abroad often involves the need to transport more items over greater distances for longer time periods through unfamiliar areas. Which, of course, can be risky for both traveler and his belongings.
Austin House, a division of Travelpro and leading brand of great travel accessories offers a number of travel and personal security items perfect for those far from home.
Gatesafe: Simplify your trip through airport security with this boarding pass holder that provides quick and easy access to identification.
Hi-Lo Converter: You’ll need to account for voltage differences in order to avoid damaging any electrical items you bring. This device converts 220V/240V foreign electricity to 110V/125V for use with most North American appliances rated from 0–1875 watts. Research the voltage requirements for each country you plan to visit, and buy any adaptors you need from Austin House.
Digitime Alarm Clock: A dependable battery-powered clock that features a large, well-lit screen, snooze button and loud, crescendo alarm. Three Button Cell batteries are included.
Personal Safety Alarm: Protect yourself with this small alarm which is worn around the neck and emits a high pitch sound when its string is pulled.
Waist Safe/Leg Safe/Neck Safe: Protect your money and other valuables with these undetectable travel wallets. All are made from washable, lightweight poly/cotton material with Agion treated Cool-Max back panel to wick away moisture and kill odor causing bacteria. Each also features elasticized straps with fabric grip tabs that adjust to fit all sizes.
Compact Door Alarm: A protection device for the door (or window) of your hotel room which emits a high pitched sound when the clips placed between the door and door frame are separated.
In order to use your cell phone when traveling abroad, you may be able to purchase a prepaid SIM card from a vending machine at your destination airport. You’ll need to make arrangements with your carrier to “unlock” your phone beforehand (which some carriers may not agree to).
Finally, the best way to streamline international travel is to check one large Travelpro Rollaboard bag and carry-on a smaller bag that can be strapped to the rollaboard. Be sure to pack essentials (toiletries, medications and some clothing) in your carry-on, in case your checked bag is lost or delayed.
With a little planning and a few Austin House items, your overseas trip as safe as it is exciting. Safe travels!
What Are The Best Sources For Travel Information?
February 10, 2011 by Scott Applebee · Leave a Comment
With the wealth of travel resources available online, we at Travelpro are often asked which sites we recommend for comprehensive information on popular destinations.
Obviously there are many good sites catering to both common and exotic locales, but we have found that the four sites below consistently provide useful information:
Concierge.com: The digital version of Condé Nast Traveler, the industry leading travel magazine is published by Condé Nast Publications. The site offers extensive information on popular destinations worldwide organized in an extremely easy-to-use format.
Concierge.com allows you to quickly access information on the specific city, region or country you’re going to visit. Both detailed articles and user reviews on your destination’s hotels, restaurants, attractions, stores and nightlife are instantly available, along with photos, videos, trip maps and suggested itineraries. You can also explore the site by “interests,” which range from Active/Adventure to Arts & Culture to Green Eco-Travel to Spa & Wellness.
Travelocity.com: Travelocity is a full-service travel planning and purchasing website offering extensive flight, hotel, car rental, cruise and destination information, along with last minute travel deals. Plus they have the cool Gnome commercials.
TripAdvisor.com: TripAdvisor is the world’s largest travel site which offers advice from real travelers, plus a wide variety of planning tools. It is owned by TripAdvisor Media Group which operates 18 popular travel sites and attracts over 50 million visits per month.
Here, you can not only search flight options to your destination, but compare all fares available from online booking sites. Tripadvisor also provides detailed hotel, restaurant, cruise, vacation and activity information, along with valuable forum in which fellow travelers share their experiences.
Expedia.com: Expedia has everything you’ll need to research, plan and purchase your trip. You can access one of the broadest selection of travel products and tools in North America, as well as localized versions in Europe, and partnerships in Asia. Whether you’re a family booking an extended trip or a businessperson planning a sales trip, Expedia can get you from door to door.
In this computer age, there are as many excellent sources for destination information as there are destinations to visit. The choice, in both cases, is to find the best place for you.
What the TSA’s Secure Flight Requirements Mean To You
February 8, 2011 by Scott Applebee · Leave a Comment
Getting through airport security can be a hassle, but most travelers agree that ensuring the safety of the flying public is well worth some minor inconvenience.
Hold that thought because, as the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) “Secure Flight” program went into effect on 11/1/2010, travelers learned that additional inconveniences could possibly await them.
Or, they may not. It all depends on the information you provide when booking your flight, and whether that information matches what’s on your government-issued ID.
First, some background: The 9/11 Commission recommended that the TSA assume responsibility for comparing passenger information with government “watch lists” before each flight is boarded. Since that recommendation was made law in 2004, the watch list matching process has been plagued by the misidentification and detention of travelers with names similar to those on the “no-fly” list.
The “Secure Flight” program addressed this problem by requiring that passengers provide not only their name (as it appears on their government-issued ID), but their date of birth and gender, when booking their flight. This additional information more fully identifies each traveler, helping the TSA differentiate between individuals with like-sounding names.
This should reduce the travel woes of passengers with names close to those on the watch lists. But, the hassles could increase for everyone else. For instance, if your reservation does not contain your name, gender and date-of-birth, the Secure First system will not allow the airline to issue a boarding pass.
And, what happens to travelers who provided complete information, but whose boarding passes don’t exactly match their government-issued IDs? According to the TSA website (www.tsa.gov):
Due to differences in boarding pass systems, boarding passes may not always display the exact name you provided when booking your travel. The name you provide when booking your travel is used to perform the watch list matching before a boarding pass is ever issued, so small differences between the passenger’s ID and the passenger name printed on the boarding pass, such as the use of a middle initial instead of a full middle name or no middle name/initial at all, or hyphens and apostrophes should not cause a problem for the passenger.
Obviously, it’s extremely important to make sure you provide all necessary information, regardless of whether you’re booking your flight with the airline, a travel agent, or online.
It’s also a good idea to make sure the information you provide matches your ID exactly.
Hot Luggage Trend: The Emerging Business Backpack
November 3, 2010 by Karen Amin · Leave a Comment
This post originally appeared as an article in South African Airlines’ inflight magazine.
The backpack has come a long way, from backcountry hiking and now to the boardroom. Today’s no-nonsense business exec is toting an updated business backpack, tricked out with a padded compartment for laptops and designed to accommodate the mobile business traveler.
Compact, super lightweight and uber functional, the business backpack is loaded with features to ease the stress of travel – and even lower the cost. With many flying execs using a rolling upright as a carry-on bag, the business backpack is seen as a versatile “second” bag that flies for free.
The bags are not just for the younger set either. They’re finding broad popularity, as daily bags and multipurpose bags, for everything from business meetings to outdoor and urban adventures. Unlike traditional brief cases, these bags are not all work and no play.
High-tech lifestyle
As execs everywhere carry more electronic gear, business backpacks are ideal for the always-connected lifestyle. With intelligently-designed pockets and an incredibly practical layout, the roomy main compartment lets you store cables, adapters, discs, files, music players and electronic tablets in a highly manageable bag.
Of course, most business backpacks come equipped with a padded sleeve or compartment to store laptops and notebooks. The best of the breed are Checkpoint Friendly. That means you can open the bag and slide it through airport security without removing the laptop. Another innovative format lets you “side load” your computer into the bag for quick and easy access. Either way, moving through security is a breeze.
Cool new features
Today’s all-purpose business backpacks also come with cool nooks and crannies to handle an array of travel stuff.
A hidden iPod® earphone port allows you to listen to music while hiding electronics. Shoulder straps feature cell phone (or media) pockets, so your phone rings in the front strap and is easy to reach. Built-in eyeglass straps hold eyewear. Dangling over-sized key holders double as bottle openers.
Some new backpacks even come with a moisture-insulated beverage/food pocket to keep drinks cool and sandwiches hot for the next flight.
All the conveniences
To accommodate business travelers, business backpacks make it very easy to organize business essentials inside the bag. Look for a deluxe business organizer. By zipping open a large front pocket, you can store and find any accessory you need quickly — pens, business cards, keys, CDs, computer accessories. To complement the organizer, exterior accessory pockets can be used for bulky electronic gear, shoes or even an umbrella.
Business backpacks easily piggyback on rolling luggage. Elastic loops slip over the luggage handle to ensure a secure ride. But if you want to wear the backpack, wide shoulder straps are usually padded with non-slip neoprene for added comfort.
A staple for all backpacks is the water bottle pocket. Some are now hidden behind a zipper and double for storage of medications or personal items.
Built for long haul
Business backpacks are built from high-tech materials that ensure exceptional durability in a lightweight design. Tough ballistic nylon fabric with a water-resistant coating offers protection against moisture damage, stains and tearing. Also, large, ergonomic zippers and nylon coil zipper pulls ensure effortless opening and closing over the long haul.
Today’s business backpack is a synergy of intelligent design and lifestyle needs, a hallmark of Travelpro, one the leading brands of durable, lightweight, quality luggage. Today more than 500,000 pilots and flight attendants use Travelpro products, day in and day out. You can view Travelpro’s many rolling luggage and business backpacks on our website.
What are you carrying? If you’re a mobile worker, are you using a backpack or carrying a briefcase or satchel? Let us hear from you in the comments section.
Why Some NBA Teams Think Rolling Garment Bags Are A Slam Dunk
October 13, 2010 by Scott Applebee · Leave a Comment
As an average, everyday airline traveler, you’ve probably had your share of packing challenges. Accommodating everything you need for an extended business trip, a major presentation, or a family vacation can test your skill and patience.
Just think if you were packing a week’s worth of XXXL designer suits, overcoats, dress shirts and size 16 1/2 shoes.
Such is the world of the NBA player. Packing everything you need for 41 road games held from coast to coast over a six to seven month season.
Fortunately, for teams ranging from the Miami Heat to the Minnesota Timberwolves to the Indiana Pacers, Travelpro offers the Platinum® 6 Expandable Rolling Garment Bag.
Professional sports teams know that the key to traveling with a large wardrobe is intelligent design and capacity. The Travelpro® Platinum 6 bag offers roomy main compartments which maximize space and packing flexibility. It has an extra large area for hanging suits with a patented foam bar that minimizes wrinkling.
It also has a very large area for storing shirts with 2 1/2 inches of expansion for the long road trips. The pros also utilize the large interior side pockets for socks and and other folded garments.
Players from the Nets, Bulls and Hornets also appreciate the bags durable construction, which features ballistic nylon fabric with a Teflon® coating and a rugged Duraframe® EVA molded frame system. They respect the durability that comes from the bag’s removable, sealed, ball-bearing inline skate wheels and unique I-Beam extension handle that is designed to take heavy loads.
Travelpro Rolling Garment Bags fit quite well in the NBA. It’s an ideal product for people who carry suits when they travel.
For more information on Travelpro luggage, visit our Travelpro Retail Locator on our website.
How To Pack Your Carry-On
September 27, 2010 by Scott Applebee · 1 Comment
So, you’re sick and tired of lugging multiple bags through airports, checked bag fees and waiting to retrieve your luggage. “One bag travel” is for you. What’s the best way to pack everything you need for your trip into one carry-on bag?
First, take advantage of the many features of Travelpro® Rollaboard® luggage. For example, use the interior pockets to store small items, such as belts and portable electronics. And don’t forget to utilize the top lid to store shirts and other folded garments.
If your bag has a removable Suiter system, use it to neatly fold your dresses, suits and other formal wear. If your travel wear is more casual, the Suiter also accommodates shirts, pants and other outfits while keeping them wrinkle-free.
Place heavy objects on the bottom of the main storage compartment, then arrange your garments on top. Also, be sure to secure your clothing with the interior tie-down straps to prevent shifting and wrinkling in transit.
Opinions vary on whether folding or rolling your garments is the best method for packing a rollaboard. Each approach has its advantages and disadvantages:
Folding Your Clothes for Carry-on Packing
Rolling Your Clothes for Carry-on Packing
Finally, whether you fold, roll or take the “hybrid” approach, you should also resist the temptation to pack extra shoes. Wear shoes that are appropriate for both formal and casual occasions, and don’t take up valuable luggage space with additional pairs.
And remember, slip-ons will get your through security much faster than shoes with laces.
A question from Jonathon regarding the suiter, here is a picture of a removable suiter on Travelpro Luggage:
Travelpro Crew 8 Luggage Suiter Click to Enlarge
The Art Of One Bag Travel
September 22, 2010 by Scott Applebee · 2 Comments
More and more business travelers are beginning to appreciate the art of one bag travel.
They relish the artistry of Ryan Bingham, George Clooney’s character in the movie “Up In The Air” who traveled 322 days a year.
Recognizing that checking bags add an average of 35 minutes to each flight, Ryan swore by his Crew Expandable Rollaboard Suiter which could accommodate everything he needs for his endless business trips.
Travelpro offers many types and styles of luggage that meet carry-on size restrictions, eliminating the cost of checking your bags at departure, and the headache of retrieving them upon arrival.
If the film were shot today, Bingham might prefer the 20″ Crew 8 Wide Body Expandable which offers the packing capacity of a 22″ carry-on or the 20” Crew 8 Business Plus Rollaboard which incorporates a business organizer and laptop sleeve in the Rollaboard. It also comes equipped with a hidden security pocket for items like passports, money, or jewelry.
The most efficient (and artistic) approach to business travel is packing all your essentials into one carry-on bag. Here are some proven one bag travel tips:
- Select neutral colors so your outfits are easier to match, and limit yourself to two pairs of shoes.
- Carefully consider each piece of clothing in your wardrobe and how important it is, or how frequently you will wear it. Can it be borrowed or bought at your destination?
- Pack using the “bundle” method. Wrap clothes around large objects (such as bags of toiletries or pairs of shoes), rather than folding or rolling clothes. The bundle method saves the most space and also prevents wrinkling.
- On long trips and extended stays, take only the essentials with you on the plane and ship everything else to your final destination.
- Make sure you comply with the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule, which allows travelers to carry-on one quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag containing 3.4 ounce (100 ml) bottles of the gels and liquids. You’ll breeze through security by placing the quart-sized bag in the screening bin which airport security X-rays separately.
With a little planning and the right Travelpro luggage, you’ll soon master the art of one bag travel.
Enjoy both its beauty and convenience.
