The Under-$200 Carry-On That Changed My Travel Experience
Our take
The pursuit of elevated travel experiences is increasingly intertwined with the pursuit of elevated self-care, a trend we’ve long observed and championed. It's no longer enough to simply arrive at a destination; the journey itself must be imbued with a sense of ease and refinement. This recent piece highlighting a carry-on bag under $200 that dramatically improved a beauty editor's travel experience perfectly encapsulates this shift. We've seen similar sentiments echoed in our own community – the desire for seamless functionality doesn’t preclude a desire for understated luxury, as evidenced by the enduring appeal of items like This $45 Quince Silk Pillowcase Is My Hidden Beauty Secret, a small indulgence offering tangible benefits to both beauty and sleep. The beauty editor’s analogy of "buttery smooth" to a suitcase maneuver is insightful; it speaks to a growing expectation that even the most mundane aspects of travel should feel luxurious, effortless, and ultimately, restorative.
The core of this resonance lies in the understanding that travel, particularly for those who prioritize self-care and aesthetic sensibilities, is an extension of one’s personal brand. It’s not just about where you go, but *how* you go. A well-chosen carry-on isn't merely a vessel for belongings; it's a statement about one's commitment to quality, efficiency, and a curated lifestyle. The article’s focus on a relatively accessible price point is also key. It democratizes the concept of luxury travel, proving that elevated experiences don't necessarily require exorbitant spending. This aligns with our broader editorial philosophy—finding the sweet spot between aspiration and attainability. This conversation also echoes the thoughtful packing strategies our readers appreciate, as demonstrated in What I Packed for a Wedding, Beach Days, and Broadway in One Suitcase, revealing a desire for adaptable, versatile pieces that minimize bulk without compromising on style.
The broader significance of this trend is a subtle but powerful reimagining of the travel industry. Traditionally, luxury travel has been synonymous with lavish hotels, first-class tickets, and exclusive destinations. However, a new generation of travelers is redefining luxury, prioritizing personalized experiences, thoughtful details, and a seamless blend of functionality and aesthetics. This extends beyond luggage; it encompasses everything from travel-friendly skincare to noise-canceling headphones to thoughtfully designed travel journals. The rise of direct-to-consumer brands offering high-quality travel essentials at accessible prices further fuels this shift, disrupting the traditional luxury market and empowering consumers to curate their own elevated travel experiences. It’s about agency—choosing the elements that contribute to a feeling of calm and control amidst the often-chaotic nature of travel. Even the occasional splurge, like a beautifully crafted travel accessory showcased in If You Only Buy One Piece From Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale, Pick From This List, becomes a deliberate act of self-care, a tangible reward for mindful travel.
Looking ahead, we anticipate a further blurring of lines between travel, beauty, and wellness. The demand for travel accessories that seamlessly integrate these three pillars will only increase. What’s particularly intriguing is the potential for brands to leverage the emotional connection travelers have with their luggage—transforming a simple suitcase into a symbol of personal identity and aspirational lifestyle. Will we see a rise in bespoke luggage options, allowing travelers to personalize their carry-ons with unique materials, colors, and even custom-designed interiors? Or perhaps a shift towards modular travel systems, allowing for greater flexibility and adaptability on the go? The ongoing conversation around sustainable travel practices will also undoubtedly influence the design and materials used in future luggage innovations, demanding both luxury and responsibility.
As a beauty editor, when I think of "buttery smooth," the effects of a good lotion come to mind — rarely does the maneuvering of a suitcase. Let me explain: my experience with luggage up until this point has been largely lackluster. My last suitcase boasted a handle with loose screws that always threatened to fall out when my group was called to board, and the four wheels on the bottom rotated at their leisure, though sometimes not at all. My luggage growing up was the family's collection of softshell bags that seemed to get bullied by baggage handlers and always emerged at the other end of my destination noticeably less perky than before. However, my less-than-stellar experience with luggage ended recently when the Quince Expandable Carry-On Hardshell Suitcase ($170) arrived at my door.
What I Like About the Quince Expandable Carry-On Hardshell Suitcase
The first thing I noticed about the Quince Expandable Carry-On Hardshell Suitcase is how easily it moves. I've rolled it over carpet (why LGA remodeled all of the terminals with so much carpet, I'll never know), concrete, and even cobblestone streets on my recent trip to Italy, and had no issues with the wheels getting stuck. If anything, this Quince suitcase moves a little too well — if you are on a sidewalk with an incline, it may try to make a quick getaway.
The inside of the bag is a highlight, divided into two distinct sections. On the left side, the bag has a zippered compartment. I like to use this section for shoes, keeping them away from clothing. While some suitcases have optional zippered pouches, this one should stay closed once you've packed it to keep your things organized. The other side of the bag comes with a removal divider, cinched in place with two sturdy plastic buckles. The front of the divider has a mesh pocket where I like to stash things like sunglasses, jewelry, and an extra book. On the other side of the mesh pocket is your standard suitcase interior, with the bonus of a small pocket containing a rolled-up bag for dirty laundry inside.
The suitcase is also very sleek looking. I went with the dark green colorway, and while I was initially apprehensive to go with something other than my go-to (black), I found it to be a complementary shade to my other carry-on bags.
What's Worth Noting About the Quince Expandable Carry-On Hardshell Suitcase
Fans of luggage with one large, open compartment may find the zippered pouch on the left to be an adjustment. While convenient for footwear or separating your items, the zipper can limit how much you fit on that side. That said, space-saver bags can easily help you combat any challenges there.
The suitcase also has a tendency to show wear. On its inaugural outing (a quick weekend trip), I noticed small scuffs on the hard shell from different surfaces it brushed up against. However, Quince has a solution: in the mesh compartment when you first open the bag, there is a sponge eraser (think Mr. Clean) that can buff out most marks.
Who Is the Quince Expandable Carry-On Hardshell Suitcase Best For?
This suitcase is perfect for the frequent flyer and weekend getaways. The expandable middle allows for more storage space if you're feeling confined while retaining the rigid exterior shell that protects your belongings. I know from experience that the suitcase can stand up to a two-week trip around Europe.
Where Is the Quince Expandable Carry-On Hardshell Suitcase Available?
This suitcase is available on the Quince website.
Additional Details About the Quince Expandable Carry-On Hardshell Suitcase
The suitcase is made of a lightweight and durable polycarbonate hard shell, with a water-resistant 75D polyester pongee.
It comes with a three-digit security combination lock near the handle.
You can choose from 11 colors, from dark green to lavender.
It also comes in four sizes: two carry-on approved (20 inches and 21 inches) and two checked-bag options (24 inches and 27 inches).
— Additional reporting by Adelaide Giesey
Jessica Harrington is the Section Lead of Beauty at Popsugar, where she oversees all vertical coverage across the website, social media, and newsletter. With over nine years of industry experience, she has interviewed numerous celebrities, reported on hundreds of beauty trends, and swatched more lipsticks than she can count. Prior to PS, Jessica worked for publications such as Makeup.com, Skincare.com, and The Zoe Report. She's based in New York City and has a degree in journalism from Hofstra University. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, traveling with her husband, thrifting, and cooking. Adelaide Giesey (she/her) is a shopping writer at Popsugar. With over seven years of industry experience, she is an expert in all things beauty and enjoys writing across fashion and lifestyle categories. Prior to PS, she helped shape the beauty verticals at Byrdie, Coveteur, and InStyle.Read on the original site
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