Some months ago, there was a discussion about the RS 20 inch rolling bag(suitcase). Several people were dissatisfied with it to the point of sending it back. I think I remember that one issue was that it tipped over when piggy-backing an under seat bag. I have the old 22 inch bag and have been happy with it. But we will be flying Air France (although booked through Delta) and it looks like we will need the smaller bag. Has anyone had any recent experiences with this bag? Wheels are a necessity for us. Thank you. Ashley
Posted by
Seattle, WA
17559 posts
Tipping over should not be a deal breaker. My 22" tips over, so I just lean it up against something when I let go.
Posted by
Texan in CA
4415 posts
I know that the Rolling Backpack has a real problem with tipping over, without much provocation :-(
I have yet to use my 20" Rolling Bag; sorry.
As you, I've had no problems whatsoever with tipping with the (old) 22" bag!
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16895 posts
What I've heard anecdotally around here is that the redesigned, 20-inch bag from our new manufacturer has less tipping feedback than the previous version. All vertical bags can have the issue, to some extent. Packing your heaviest items in the bottom helps keep the center of gravity low; adding another bag on top can turn that center of gravity on its head.
Posted by
Idaho, USA
7876 posts
Hi Ashley, I had the old 22" RS roller but had to update last year when we were flying - same issue with Delta/Air France. I looked at all of the options and purchased the Eddie Bauer Travex® Expedition Drop-Bottom Rolling Duffel - Medium. It has an internal bar design that really does keep the suitcase from being able to tip over. I also really wanted a suitcase with rugged zippers. I purchased the sapphire blue color - nice to spot in a group of luggage if you're required to gate check at a small airport. I like that the depth of the suitcase is flexible, depending on how much you tighten the straps. So, when I'm flying domestic, I can easily pack my jacket in the bag. I use two packing cubes and have been able to pack everything I need for a 2-week trip to Europe to the mountains in Switzerland & southern Italy, or a 2-week business trip.
Posted by
Atlanta, GA, USA
2792 posts
I have one of the old bags and it is horrible about "tipping" over if you actually use the strap to attach a bag to it. I think it is part of the weight trade off. My more costly bag is a bit more counterbalanced, but weighs a little more.
Posted by
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, USA
14816 posts
Jean, do you know how much that Eddie Bauer Travex medium weighs? I don't see the weight listed on the website. Thanks.
Posted by
Toledo, Ohio, US
11613 posts
I have the 20" rolling bag, it's fine. If you pack well, it won't tip over. Good on cobblestones, too.
Posted by
Idaho, USA
7876 posts
Hi Pam, I don't know the exact weight. I checked at the Eddie Bauer store when I purchased it, and they had the spec sheet - just remember that it was close to the RS suitcase.
Posted by
Lander, WY, USA
31 posts
I bought the new 20" bag and have used it a few times. No tipping problems, but I'm disappointed in the smaller size. Also I had a problem with the telescoping handle that now only comes out to the first stop. Now I'm searching for a bigger 22" bag.