Explore if Travelers Club Harper Carry-On Luggage is the best choice for you!

Description

Design & Materials

The Travelers Club Harper Luggage, model number HS-87720-001, strikes a perfect balance between durability and sleek design. I’ve taken this carry-on on several trips, and the ABS hardshell exterior has held up impressively. It’s lightweight yet tough, shrugging off minor impacts with ease. The scratch-resistant surface is a lifesaver for someone like me who tends to throw luggage into overhead bins without much care. The black finish, while classic, gives it a modern and professional look. A more vibrant color option might have made it easier to spot, but the understated design works well for business and leisure travel alike.

Handles & Comfort

The retractable handle on this luggage is smooth and sturdy. I’ve had bad experiences with wobbly handles in the past, but this one feels solid even when fully extended. There’s a push-button mechanism that makes adjusting the height straightforward, which is a blessing when I’m in a rush at the airport. The side and top handles are equally robust and comfortable, making it easy to lift the bag into overhead compartments or car trunks. However, after a long trip, the top handle felt slightly less cushioned than I’d prefer, but it’s still manageable for short distances.

Features

One of the standout features of this carry-on is the four-wheel spinner system. Maneuvering through crowded terminals felt like gliding on air. I couldn’t help but notice how smoothly it rolled, even on slightly uneven surfaces. The recessed locking handle system adds to the convenience, keeping the handle tucked away when not in use. The scratch-resistant ABS hardshell ensures that the bag maintains its polished look, even after a few rough trips. However, I did find myself wishing it included a TSA-approved lock for added security.

Size & Airline Compatibility

I tested this luggage on both domestic and international flights, and it fits perfectly within the carry-on restrictions of most airlines. Its dimensions, 22 x 11 x 9 inches, allow for easy stowage in overhead bins. On one budget airline, I was slightly nervous about its compatibility, but thankfully it passed without issue. It’s always wise to double-check airline regulations, though, as some carriers have stricter size limits. The compact size makes it ideal for weekend trips or shorter getaways.

Capacity & Organization

Despite its compact size, this carry-on surprised me with its interior space. I managed to pack for a four-day trip, including shoes, toiletries, and a couple of jackets. The zippered divider is a great touch for keeping items organized, and the elastic straps help secure clothing in place. However, I did feel the lack of additional internal pockets or compartments for smaller items like chargers or travel documents. I ended up using packing cubes to make up for the lack of built-in organization.

Weight & Portability

At just 6.54 pounds, this luggage is incredibly lightweight. I appreciated this particularly during a hectic trip where I had to carry it up a couple of flights of stairs. Its portability is one of its best features, and the light weight means I can pack more without worrying about exceeding airline limits. However, once fully packed, I noticed it became slightly top-heavy, which made it prone to tipping over if not handled carefully.

Security & Locking System

While the push-button locking handle system is convenient, the absence of a built-in TSA lock was a noticeable downside. For someone like me who always worries about security, this meant purchasing a separate lock to secure the zippers. It’s not a dealbreaker, but given how common TSA locks are on modern luggage, it felt like a missed opportunity.

Weather Resistance

During one trip, I was caught in a sudden rainstorm while waiting for a taxi. The ABS hardshell proved to be decently water-resistant, as my belongings stayed dry. However, the zipper area isn’t entirely waterproof, so I wouldn’t recommend exposing it to prolonged wet conditions. If you’re traveling to a particularly rainy destination, a luggage cover might be a wise investment.

Warranty

The warranty details on this carry-on were a bit vague, but I reached out to Travelers Club for clarification. They confirmed that the product comes with a standard one-year warranty, covering manufacturing defects. While it’s reassuring to have some level of protection, I wish the warranty period was longer, given the wear-and-tear luggage endures over time.

Merits

• Smooth and effortless four-wheel spinner system.
• Lightweight yet durable ABS hardshell material.
• Compact size fits most airline regulations.
• Scratch-resistant surface maintains a polished look.

Areas for Improvement

• Lack of built-in TSA-approved lock.
• Minimal internal organization options.
• Zipper area isn’t fully waterproof.

Competing Products

Comparing this carry-on to similar models, I found it holds its ground well but does have some competition. Samsonite offers a comparable hardshell carry-on with a built-in TSA lock and slightly more internal organization. However, the Travelers Club Harper Luggage is more lightweight and often priced more affordably. Another competitor, the AmazonBasics hardside spinner, provides similar features at a lower cost but lacks the premium feel of the Harper.

For those prioritizing security, Samsonite might edge ahead. But if weight and portability are your main concerns, this carry-on by Travelers Club is a tough contender to beat.

Price to Quality Ratio

In terms of cost-effectiveness, this carry-on delivers excellent value for its price. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the quality of materials and ease of use make it worth the investment. Travelers who don’t mind spending a little extra for features like a TSA lock might look elsewhere, but for frequent flyers who value durability and lightweight design, this carry-on is a smart choice.

Additional information