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Ravenna or Rolling Carry On?

Posted by on

I'm considering using my travel credit for a new carry on, and was debating between these two. I have one rolling carry on, although it's a bit larger than the current model since I've had it for a while. It's the same size as the Ravenna. The Ravenna is about half a pound heavier, which could matter if you're trying to pack really light to meet the weight limits of some European carriers. And it is an inch larger than the rolling carry on. So far, though, I haven't had any problems with size of the rolling carry on when traveling on United or Delta. Will be on Alitalia this fall, and I know they have weight restrictions. The size restrictions, 55cm x 35cm x 9cm, appear to be just about OK for the Ravenna although 35cm is 13.8 inches, and the Ravenna is 14" high. The rolling carry on is definitely within the size limits.

I also can't tell from the photos if it opens book-style or has just a top.

If anyone has thoughts about which might work better for someone allergic to checking bags, I'd love to hear your insights!

Posted by
16409 posts

The handle of my Ravenna broke in week two of a 10 week trip. (And it's very heavy.) The telescoping handle of my rolling carry on broke before I even left on a trip. (It came that way.)

Use your credit to buy books or accessories and spend a bit more for a better bag. Take a look at Eagle Creek, Delsey, Lipault and even Samsonite. All offer bags that are much lighter and better conform to European carry on size limits.

Alitalia is not going to ding you for 0.2 inches but they will for their weight limits. The Ravenna is just over 7 lbs. Alitalia limits you to just over 17 lbs. That means you only have about 10 lbs to pack.

Dont' worry there will be people here who will tell you that's all you need since that's all they need.

Posted by
281 posts

Thanks for the suggestions, Frank. I didn't really need accessories and have all the books I need, which is why I was looking at the bags. I've had a rolling carry on for a few years, and haven't had any problems with handles. In looking at other bags, most aren't really lighter, and I do want to conform to the weight limits, which I've been able to do in the past. The lighter weight of the rolling one is a factor in its favor, since even the little extra weight of the Ravenna makes a difference.

The other factor is that I really don't want to spend $400 for a bag, even if it is of much better quality. I don't travel more than a few times a year (domestic and international), so if a bag needs to be replaced after 3-4 years and is less expensive, I'm OK with that. Would probably work out to be about the same in the end, since even more expensive bags don't last forever.

Posted by
16409 posts

Take a look at this bag. It fits Alitalia's size limits and weighs less than the RS bags. Eagle Creek bags are well made--I've had a few of them with no problems--and they have a "No Matter What" warranty. And it's $189. (If you are in no rush and can wait until one of their sales they usually go for 20% less.)

Eagle Creek Expanse International Carry On

I was going to buy this one but when my Ravenna broke I picked up a Samsonite bag in London that is great. 55 x 35 x 23 cm and weighs 1.7 kg (3.75 lbs.) Unfortunately they don't sell it in the U.S.

Posted by
44 posts

I have a Briggs & Riley (https://www.briggs-riley.com/). I never intended on spending so much for a suitcase but when I saw it, I knew it was worth the splurge. I have not regretted my purchase. I liked it so much I ended up buying their Work - Medium Multi-Pocket Backpack. As time goes on and we need to replace luggage we will definitely buy Briggs & Riley.

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