An aluminum suitcase is an on the spot traditional—like just a little black gown, the right white tee, or a good pair of jeans, it’s an funding that can by no means exit of favor. With a shimmering end, they’re at all times essentially the most recognizable suitcases on any baggage carousel, standing out amongst a sea of similar black luggage. Plenty of suitcases will see you thru a journey completely nicely—however no different end combines stable efficiency with such an air of well-traveled glamour.
Now, Carl Friedrik, considered one of our favorite luggage brands, has launched its personal aluminum carry-on—taking every part we all know and love from its unique Carry-On and remodeling it in a glistening silver shell. This new iteration retains the model’s signature understated ridged design, super-secure twin lock (no zips to bust right here), steel-reinforced corners, leather-based detailing, and buttery-smooth 360-degree spinner wheels.
The catch? It’s a critical funding at $845. While that is cheaper than competitor aluminum carry-ons (Tumi’s is $1,395 and Rimowa’s is $1,525), it marks a step up for Carl Friedrik price-wise: $200 greater than the brand’s Hybrid carry-on and $450 greater than the Core carry-on, which swaps among the extra premium particulars for extra accessibly priced options (similar to changing the lock with a zipper).
We’re large followers of Carl Friedrik’s current carry-ons, with a number of of our editors having taken them on numerous journeys. So, is it value investing within the aluminum end? I took the new Aluminum carry-on with me on two journeys—to Paris and Milan—touring by rail and air to seek out out.
My first impression
First, the nice: This is a gorgeous suitcase. From a purely aesthetic perspective, it feels instantly investment-worthy. Designed to evoke the Golden Age of journey, the ridged shell has a definite midcentury sensibility and a presence few different instances can match. It’s no shock that Succession’s Roy household—quiet luxurious icons of the small display—traveled with the model’s baggage when flitting about of their helicopter. The wheels are exceptionally {smooth}, and the stable, leather-wrapped handles make it simple to maneuver out and in of the airplane’s overhead compartment with a agency grip.
On the flip aspect, for all the extra model factors, it’s barely much less sensible than the model’s current Hybrid mannequin. While just about similar in measurement, the Aluminum carry-on provides 38 liters of capability in comparison with the Hybrid that may maintain 41 liters. If you’re a strict carry-on-only traveler– even on long-haul trips—that marginal lack of area could matter. That mentioned, it nonetheless feels impressively light-weight, and I was in a position to carry it into the overhead compartment unaided—which I can’t at all times do when testing suitcases.