Should you buy the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Rolling Tote for ultimate travel convenience? Review inside!

Description

Features

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Lightweight Rolling Underseat Tote Upright 2 Wheel Bag offers a range of features designed to make travel hassle-free. The 100% polyester construction, paired with a stain-resistant and water-repellent Duraguard coating, means this bag can handle minor spills and light rain without breaking a sweat. I found the built-in organizational compartments to be a lifesaver, especially for storing smaller items like chargers, snacks, and toiletries. The high-tensile strength zipper pulls felt sturdy, ensuring they wouldn’t snap under pressure—a problem I’ve encountered with other bags in the past.

The PowerScope Lite handle deserves a shoutout for reducing wobble while rolling. This, combined with the smooth ball-bearing wheels, made navigating busy airports a breeze. The bag’s rear stacking strap also came in handy, allowing me to slide it effortlessly over the handle of my larger suitcase during longer trips.

Design & Materials

The design of this rolling tote is understated yet elegant, with its sleek black finish making it suitable for both professional and personal travel. The softside construction feels durable but lightweight, which I appreciated when lifting it into overhead compartments. The polyester material doesn’t just look good—it’s crafted to withstand wear and tear from frequent use. While traveling through New York, I dragged this bag across uneven sidewalks and cobblestones, and it held up beautifully.

Inside, the bag features a roomy main compartment and thoughtfully placed pockets for optimal organization. However, I did find the velcro flaps on the interior a bit unnecessary, and I ended up removing them for easier access.

Size & Airline Compatibility

This tote is marketed as an underseat bag, but my experience was mixed. While it slid under most airline seats, I sometimes had to turn it sideways or wedge it in slightly. For short flights, this wasn’t a dealbreaker, but it might be worth noting if you frequently fly with airlines that have less legroom. Despite this minor hiccup, the compact size (13.75 x 16 x 8.5 inches) makes it ideal for carry-on usage.

Capacity & Organization

With a 32-liter capacity, this bag punches above its weight. I packed clothes for a weekend getaway, a pair of shoes, and all my essentials without any problems. The front flap provided quick access to my travel documents, while the built-in pockets made it easy to separate items like toiletries and electronics. I even managed to squeeze in a small souvenir from a recent trip without the bag feeling overstuffed.

Handles & Comfort

The top carry handle is padded, which made it comfortable to lift the bag when necessary. The telescoping handle, adjustable to multiple heights, felt sturdy and ergonomic. One small gripe I had was that the handle occasionally felt slightly stiff when extending, but it didn’t detract significantly from the overall experience.

Advantages

• Lightweight construction reduces strain during travel.
• Smooth, quiet wheels make for effortless mobility.
• Durable water-repellent material withstands minor spills.
• Multiple pockets and compartments enhance organization.
• Compact size fits most airline carry-on requirements.

Security & Locking System

While this tote doesn’t come with an integrated locking system, you can easily add a travel lock to the zippers for added security. I personally didn’t feel the need to use one during my trips, as the bag’s design keeps the zippers tucked away discreetly. However, for those who travel with valuables, this might be a minor downside.

Weather Resistance

The Duraguard coating is a fantastic feature for unpredictable weather. Caught in a light drizzle while waiting for a cab, I noticed the water beaded off the surface rather than soaking in. While I wouldn’t recommend testing this in a downpour, it’s reassuring to know the bag can handle light rain or accidental spills.

Warranty

One of the highlights of this product is its Limited Lifetime Coverage alongside the Travelpro Companion Promise, which covers repair costs for airline or carrier damage within one year of purchase. This kind of warranty gives peace of mind, especially for frequent travelers like me who put their luggage through the wringer.

Weight & Portability

At just 5.4 pounds, this bag is incredibly lightweight, which is a blessing when you’re racing through an airport. Even fully packed, it felt manageable to carry and roll. The compact design also makes it easy to store at home when not in use—a feature I’ve come to appreciate in my increasingly crowded closet.

Disadvantages

• May not fit under all airline seats without some maneuvering.
• The interior velcro flaps can feel redundant and get in the way.
• Telescoping handle occasionally feels stiff during extension.

Competing Brands

When compared to similar products like Samsonite’s underseat totes or Delsey’s compact carry-ons, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 stands out for its lightweight design and smooth rolling wheels. However, Samsonite bags tend to offer slightly better-integrated security features, such as built-in TSA locks. On the other hand, Delsey products sometimes have a more polished aesthetic, but they can be heavier and less portable.

If you prioritize weight and organization, the Travelpro option is hard to beat. Its durability and weather resistance also give it an edge over cheaper alternatives that often wear out after a few trips.

Worth Every Penny

Considering its combination of lightweight portability, durability, and practical features, this rolling tote offers excellent value for its price. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the quality and performance justify the investment. For anyone who frequently travels for work or leisure, this bag strikes a good balance between cost and functionality.

Additional information