“MyTags” Help MyBags Get to MyDestination

by Willy Volk on

If your luggage looks like everybody else’s luggage, then maybe you need to invest in some MyTags. MyTags are heavy-duty polyester webbing attached to a steel split keyring. Strap one on to your luggage and you’re good to go.

Each MyTag has two clear pockets: one is for your name and home address; the other is for your current trip itinerary so that if your bag gets separated from you, the carrier knows where to send your bag.

Available in a variety of colors, the only problem I can see with MyTags is if you have a funny name. Therefore, Mr. Harry Pitts may just want to write “H. Pitts” on his tag.

The Sick Bag Clinic

by Willy Volk on

I bought my carry-on bag at a flea market for $10 in early 2002. One of the wheels broke off about 6 months ago, so now the thing won’t stand properly: I have to lean it against the ticket counter or the side of the shuttle to get it to remain upright. In reality, I don’t really mind, but I guess I could always spring for a new bag. That…or I could send it to the Sick Bag Clinic.

The Sick Bag Clinic, as the name suggests, ministers to sick bags. Located in California, the Clinic caters to almost every brand of sick bag, assigns each a dedicated Case Worker, and attempts to complete each repair in under 48 hours. That’s better than some sick people clinics.

And in the sad, sad event that your bag can’t be cured from what’s ailing it? The Clinic also sells bags, so you can adopt a new one right away!

[Via TravelPost]

02Hide’s Transparent Bags: The Perfect Bags for Clothing-Optional Resorts?

by Willy Volk on

Now that you know where to go for your next clothing-optional vacation, you need a bag to stuff your toothbrush in, right? Why not show everyone how witty you are and take a see-through bag? After all, you got nothing to hide, right?

02Hide (pronounced “Zero to Hide”) bags are smart, stylish, and entirely transparent. Available in 6 different styles — including a city bag, a backpack, a messenger bag, and more — each bag comes with a detachable luggage tag and a 1 quart cosmetic bag, perfect for holding those 3-ounce liquid containers.

Choosing the Right Luggage

by Willy Volk on

I’ve always been of the mind that one piece of luggage is NOT as good as the next. In fact, I generally feel that the uglier the piece of luggage, the better. This thinking is based on the following:

  • If it’s ugly, it’s less likely to be stolen.
  • If it’s ugly, it’s easier to spot on the carousel.
  • If it’s ugly, it probably doesn’t matter if it gets dirty or beat up.

Consequently, updating luggage is not a priority to me. (If you don’t believe me, then consider my current bag: 2 of the bag’s 4 wheels are missing, and the stupid thing won’t stand unless it’s propped against a wall. Who’s going to take it?)

However, if you are quite unlike me — and I presume most of you are — here are some things to consider when selecting luggage:

  • What kind of traveling are you most likely to be doing in the coming year(s)? Jet-setting through Europe’s finest hotels will necessarily require different baggage than back country camping.
  • What’s your budget? You could shell out hundreds or even thousands on a suitcase. Me, I bought my last carry-on bag for $10 at a flea market. (Of course, as I mentioned, the wheels recently fell off. Cause and effect? You be the judge.)
  • Size matters. Are you a thrifty packer, or do you bring every pair of shoes you own?
  • Does the bag really have to have black? A non-traditional color will make spotting your bag much easier.
  • Where are the wheels and/or shoulder straps? Although the prefix of luggage is “lug-“, it’s surprisingly un-fun to lug luggage, especially if you have a long distance to walk.

Packing List Advice has some other tips for helping you to choose the right luggage. However, I’m curious as to what tips YOU have.

10 Myths About Luggage and Carry-On Baggage

by Jonathon Morgan on

While I’m a relatively well-traveled person, I have to admit that when I fly from one place to another, I have more or less no idea how my luggage makes the journey. I’d cobbled together some misinformation and plenty of assumptions, to arrive at a series of beliefs, that, thanks to this list from About.com, I’ve now realized were almost unanimously false.

You can read the full explanations here, but for starters, here are the top 10 myths about luggage and carry-on baggage:

1. You will be reimbursed for all the items in a lost piece of luggage
2. If you are connecting to another airline your luggage will automatically be accepted by another
3. Baggage allowances are the same on airlines
4. If you travel on more than one airline your luggage can be booked through
5. People won’t steal your carry-on items
6. Your luggage will automatically get checked through if you are connecting
7. If you are willing to pay extra fees you can check in excess luggage
8. Only checked baggage will be heavily scrutinized at customs
9. If you change airports in the same city your luggage will be transferred for you
10. Lost luggage will always be delivered to you when found

Intrigued? About has also compiled lists of the World’s Favorite Airports, Top 10 Myths About Air Travel and Airports, and Top 10 Myths about Airfares and Airline Tickets.