Delsey Helium Trolley! Everyone has packing their favorite packing method…..here is mine!

Let’s establish my basic packing plan.  It is a simple plan and is easily summarized in two words.

CARRY ON

That was simple!  Easy to understand and easy to accomplish.

The only time I can justify the expense and time to check a bag is when there is NO other choice.  The only scenario I have justified these sacrifices is when scuba diving equipment is involved.  There is absolutely no method to pack a BC (buoyancy device) and fins in a carry on size case.  However I would always carry on my regulator and mask….that is a whole blog.

Returning to today’s carry on recommendations.  I love my Delsey Helium Aero Carry-On Spinner Trolley. It is a hard sided case and opens in a clamshell configuration with both sides being equal in size.  There is an additional zipper opening to access items when the suitcase is upright.

Within this area is a padded space for a small laptop computer although a full-size computer will fit in the entire space.

The sides are hard so hopefully a computer would be protected if the case fell over, however, this may be risky.  I typically place a small jacket, work-related files, travel file with reservations or other documents, maps related to my destination.

The case has a TSA approved Swiss army combination lock on the side.  You can set the combination yourself for easy recall.  The case is expandable by approximately 2 inches when a bit of extra space is needed.  I have never had a problem with the case fitting in the overhead bin space even when expanded.

There are 3 well-made zippers on this case.  The zipper connecting the clamshell parts of the case is larger than the expandable section or the front storage area, but all are smooth, well made and easy to pull.   The case is 21 inches tall including the wheels.

As I mentioned, the two interior sides of the case are of equal size, each with a strap and clasp to hold items in place when opening.  One side does have a cover to zipper over the entire space.  This cover helps to secure smaller items, for instance, I typically place my small cubes or other items (hairbrush, camera battery charger, phone charging cord, etc.) I need to throw in at the last minute.  One drawback on this side of the case is the frame of the retractable handle impedes the space.  Strategic placement of small items is needed to not lose this space.  I often place socks or snack bars in this space to utilize every inch.

There is a small pouch located at the fold of the two sides of the case.  I leave items in this pouch that are not often needed, but that I want to make sure are included on each trip.  For instance, a bottle of pain reliever, toenail clipper, a copy of my passport, etc.

The exterior of the case is also well made.  The retractable handle has the typically shape and button to raise and lower the handle.  As expected it moves between 3 heights for the handle.  There are two handles on the case itself at the top and side to help when maneuvering overhead.

The Delsey has four wheels which I believe is a MUST when traveling by plane.  These four wheels make the walk down the narrow aisle of the aircraft easy and smooth rather than pulling or pushing the suitcase while bumping into seats and people as you make your entrance apologizing to everyone along the way.   These 4 wheels also allow you to walk along with your case at your side when in the terminal which I find easier when maneuvering through crowded areas.  I have never had an issue with the smoothness of the wheels as the rotate easily when needed.  Each of the four corners of the case has a set of two wheels for great balance.

The overall dimensions are within the standard carry on requirements for airline travel.  As you can see, the entire case is 21 inches tall including the 4wheels and 10 inches wide when not expanded.  The weight is hard to judge but is only a few pounds when empty. The hard sides are is resilient and scratch proof.  After a year of use, I have one smudge on the corner.  I am not sure if this occurred during the one time the case was gate checked (another blog!) and taken through baggage claim.  However, I travel nearly every week with this case and carry it on each time.

The Delsey Helium Aero Carry-On Spinner Trolley is running approximately $100 is the best way to spend this money in my opinion!

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