Samsonite Stryde: The Design

I tested the Samsonite Stryde both on a road trip and my most recent trip to Colombia. First, I really like a square and wide design. I feel that it fits better in our car than the long, rectangle luggage. The outside is a hard-case with a stylish ridge design, which makes it stand out on the luggage belt. I got a lot of compliments from the bell hops at the many hotels that we stayed at. They see a lot of bags, so I consider it a compliment!

How I packed:

In order to carry the least number of bags as possible, I shared the luggage with my daughter. She’s still tiny so her clothes fit easily. The one thing that occupies space are the diapers. However, this is a bonus because as I use them, I create more space for souvenirs! I packed one side with my piccola’s items and the other side with mine. Dining Traveler Tip: when packing, choose your shoes first, and work your outfits around them. Shoes occupy the most space! I liked that the Samsonite Stryde has pockets on one of the sides, great to separate underwear and toiletries.

Samsonite Stryde: Functionality

I find the Samsonite Stryde to be very light, which is great given the strict weight restrictions on suitcases. You want to make sure that the weight of the actual items inside the bag are maximized. It has two handles, one on top, and the other one on the side, which makes it much easier to load/unload. My point for improvement is that one side has a zipped cover and the other one does not. Wish both sides had a zipped cover in order for items not to pop at you when you open the suitcase.

The Verdict:

I am very happy with my Samsonite Stryde suitcase! Given that’s on sale at $259.99, it’s an affordable yet stylish and durable piece of luggage. The suitcase also has a 10 year limited warranty, which gives you a warm and fuzzy that your suitcase is a long-term investment.

Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Samsonite but opinions are my own. I have purchased Samsonite products in the past and have always been satisfied by my purchases.

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What’s New: Unique Travel Accessories

Jabra MOVE Bluetooth Headphones:  I must admit, I am not a huge fan of headphones. I am one of those people that always likes to be able to hear what’s going on around me at all times.  However, on a long flight that may not always be the case. One must find a way to tune out the noise, whether it is from a screaming child or talkative neighbor.  The Jabra wireless headphones are light and comfortable, they also come with a cord, making it easy to use with the in-flight entertainment, and the sound quality is very good.  I also liked that the headphones are smaller than the other wireless headphones out there and at $79.99 they are at a more affordable price point. The only point for improvement would be for Jabra to offer a case to come with the headphones to protect them from getting banged up in the carry-on bag.

Human Charger:  Imagine a device that helps your beat jetlag by using light therapy through headphones.  This is what The Human Charger does.  I uploaded the Human Charger accompanying free app and started the light therapy a few days before my trip began and a few days after arriving at my destination.  Given I was in the first trimester of my pregnancy and wanted to sleep ALL THE TIME during the test period, I didn’t see a dramatic difference. However, I am intrigued by this technology and plan to give it a second chance now that my chronic fatigue has gone away. Human Charger, $219 for kit. 

Happy Luxe:  Why are planes always so cold?  Happy Luxe, a line of unique travel accessories came to the rescue with comfy eye masks, heated wraps, and pillows for your flight.  I liked the selection of colors and how you can insert a portable hand warmer to your shawl to make it warm around your neck.  The fabric is soft, like a good quality t-shirt, easy to wash, and very portable.  The Happy Luxe line was invented by Leah Murakami,  a US Air Force fighter pilot turned commercial pilot who is keen on developing comfortable and unique travel accessories. Happy Luxe wrap, $29.95; Happy Luxe Eye Mask, $15.95

Bubi Water Bottle:  I always feel like I am being robbed by buying water at the airport.  I used to always forget, but now I have been more diligent in carrying a reusable water bottle while traveling. Better for the environment and your wallet. The Bubi Water Bottle not only saves you money, it saves you space as well. It is made from a flexible plastic that allows you to fold it into a tiny package when not filled with water.  The bottle is also dishwasher safe and BPA free. Aside from travel, I used Bubi Water Bottle at the gym and office.  The only qualm I’ve noticed is that it doesn’t stand steady on uneven surfaces as the bottom is slightly rounded.  Then again, with a hard bottom it would be difficult to roll up.  I’ll take portability over sturdiness when it comes to a travel water bottle.

Pinrose Petal Packs:  I try my best to pack light.  Two-week overseas trip on a carry-on? Challenge accepted!  I was excited to hear about the Pinrose Fragrance Towelettes while researching unique travel accessories.  These come in paper thin individual packages with unique scents from sweet scents to musk.  They are more portable (and TSA friendly) than a perfume bottle and you can order them in a variety of scents. Once you apply, the scent comes on strong in the beginning (disclaimer: I’ve been pretty sensitive to smell these days due to Baby Dining Traveler on the way) but in 15 minutes it blends in quite well and the scent carries on all day. Pinrose Petal Packs, $24 for 20.

Ever Bamboo:  Do you want to take one last dip in the pool or get one last workout before your flight?  These unique travel accessories allow you to do that.  You just toss a charcoal sachet in your bag and the charcoal absorbs moisture and reduces the moldy scent you get from damp or sweaty clothes in your luggage.  I found these not only extremely portable but very useful not only for travel but for my gym bag.  Ever Bamboo, Product Range $9.99-14.99

I continue to be taken by the innovation we continue to see when it comes to unique travel accessories. From basics that have been enhanced like water bottles or eye masks to a device that tricks you into beating jetlag, there’s plenty out there to make your travel experience more memorable.  Have you discovered any unique travel accessories lately? Share in the comments!

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