Bags and Luggage Reviews

Gift Suggestion for the Traveler: Bungalow Bags

by Kirsten on December 16, 2010

Looking for a great gift idea for your favorite world-traveler? Perhaps you know someone that spends a lot of time on the road, whether it be for business or pleasure? Bungalow Bags make a great gift for just about anyone, and they happen to have a bag that fits just about any lifestyle!

I was the lucky recipient of two different Bungalow Bags, their Original Deano Scout Tote and their Life Support Carry On Travel Accessory. Both of which are already making their way into my regular rotation of use. There is a lot to love about these bags, and they make a great gift for a loved one – or even as a purchase for you!

The first bag up for review is the Original Deano Scout Tote. This bag started it all for Bungalow, and it’s easy to see why.

Made of a very durable polywoven fabric, it’s perfect for traveling, trips to the beach, groceries, and more. Not only can it easily be wiped clean (a feature that I happen to LOVE), but it also is water resistant, making it perfect for almost any type of environment. It’s reinforced handles assure an extra level of protection and strength when you happen to carry a full load. I chose this really fun print, Vine of the Times, but if it’s not your style there are 10 other options available – both printed and solid colors.

The next bag, has a very different function, one equally important and destined for years of great use. The Life Support Carry On Accessory really sparked my interest as it has a few great features that I love. Made of a coated 100% cotton twill, it too is water resistant and easily able to be wiped clean – which is definitely needed for a bag that carries toiletries! My favorite feature is that it rolls-up for transport, but when opened completely, it has a strap that allows it to be hung – fully open and with all your items displayed. This is especially great when you don’t want to clutter up a counter-top! It deceptively holds a lot of items and definitely works great for traveling. How much do you love this print? So fun and cheerful!

And just for fun, I loved their background story and want to share it with you!

I absolutely love both of my bags and think they make amazing gifts – and at such a reasonable price! Check out their website now and see how many lifestyles they cater to: the traveler, the college student, for home, sports, work, kids, and so much more!

Head to Bungalow Co now!

Love, K.

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Looking for a way to carry everything while traveling? Try the Go Caddy!

by Kirsten on November 10, 2010

There are plenty of times that a purse just doesn’t work while traveling. Sure, a backpack can go in it’s place, but often you don’t have enough stuff to need the whole backpack. Many hate the feeling of wearing a backpack, or the possible tan lines it can cause if you’re in a sunny location. Luckily, there is an alternative – the Go Caddy!

How many of you have tried to carry a water bottle, keys, wallet, a little bit of makeup, and perhaps a few other important items, but did not want to use a purse? Perhaps your travel plans included hiking, or exploring old ruins, churches, or walking miles and miles through different towns. Whatever the case may be, purses and backpacks aren’t always what you need.

I was intrigued to receive the Go Caddy to test out as I currently have a great purse I use for traveling, as well as a clutch for smaller items, and a backpack when I need to carry more. The GoCaddy definitely has a niche that I think many regular travelers, or those new to traveling, will be able to appreciate.

Available in a couple colors and a few different styles, the Go Caddy holds up to a 1.5 liter water bottle (so awesome to not have to lug one around by hand) and has an extra long strap that can be worn in a cross-body style. In addition, it has plenty of room to hold your cell phone in the back elastic pouch, and has a velcro area to hold any important documents (think cruise ship passes). Made out of a nice microfiber material, it folds flat and is easily able to be packed in your luggage.

Definitely worth checking out, I recommend it to those in need of something a little different!

Pick up the Go Caddy in Black here or in pink here!!

Portions of the sales of the pink Go Caddy benefit the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. I love that!

Love, K.

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Travel Friendly Laptop Bags by Bobarra

by Kirsten on October 21, 2010

I am always on the lookout for new travel-friendly bags to share with all of you. You may be thinking to yourself – wait, aren’t all bags travel-friendly? – not so, my friends. I am sure all of you can remember a time that your bag was ergonomically uncomfortable, made of shoddy material, too bulky, not big enough, the annoyances are endless.

Thankfully Bobarra Laptop Bags do not fall into any of those categories. In fact, it is an amazing bag, and I know you are going to love it.

This laptop bag is specifically designed to never have to remove your laptop while going through security at the airport. Both functional and chic, it has an array of practical features. It comes in two sizes, a large and small, depending on the size of your laptop.

So what makes this bag so functional? Check this out – the bag has three compartments. The first being a large zippered portion to place your laptop in. The middle compartment can be completely unzipped so that the bag falls open and can be laid flat. (See the pic below). The third compartment can hold anything else. Notepads, powercords, pens, whatever you may need.

Notice the clear quart-sized pouch? Yes – you guessed it. A perfect spot to put your liquids!

Just follow Bobarra’s instructions to quickly and efficiently get through security – without having to remove anything from you bag.

Unzip the center section, allowing the bag to be fully open, giving an unobstructed view for security to scan your bag.
Flip the quart-sized pouch to the outside of the bag, and breeze on through!

Simple, right?! Did I mention how gorgeous the bag is in person? It is made of super high-quality materials, and I get complimented on mine all the time. It has a micro-fiber interior, is completely water and stain resistant, and even has four metal feet on the bottom to keep it upright. They come in an array of great patterns, or they have a solid black as well. I highly suggest picking you one for yourself – or a loved one!

Pick up your own Bobarra Laptop Bag here!

Love, K.

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Beautiful, Handmade Luggage Tags by Tagsmith

by Kirsten on October 19, 2010

I often get asked about the various ways one can spice up their travel wardrobe and accessories. You would think that it’s all about the clothes, shoes, and handbags, but travel style goes much beyond the usual suspects. Picking up a new piece of luggage is one way to achieve a new travel look, but the price-tag associated with it is usually on the expensive side. So what about the little things?

Tagsmith, by Steve Neal, has created a line of handmade leather luggage tags that are eye-stoppers. Each are individually dyed and stamped with a beautiful design – all by hand.

In addition to beautifying your travels, they also help distinguish your bag from others. It has become increasingly difficult to find a piece of luggage that not only looks good, is functional, and lasts a long time – but also one that appears different from the hoards of other luggage on the baggage carousel. I have seen everything from people tying different pieces of string, to stickers, to even – gasp! – marker written on their bags. None of these options accomplish what I am looking for; I would much rather have a hand-made item, a luxury artisan crafted piece of artwork that is the Tagsmith Luggage Tag.

Take a look at how he makes the them; it is intricate work, and you know you are receiving something special.

Isn’t it amazing! I am so excited to share his stuff with you. Here is a bit more info from his website:

In handcrafting TAGSMITH tags, I combine timeless leatherworking techniques with a fresh eye for hip design and modern style. I’m known for my tooled leather, but I make non-tooled leather tags as well. I’ve created a truly unique travel accessory, using the finest American vegetable-tanned leather, nickel-plated brass hardware, and the highest quality thread and dyes. My tags are crafted for durability and will get more beautiful with age. A TAGSMITH luggage tag is also a unique gift for the stylish traveler.

Here is an actual picture of the one I was sent. As you can see, it is just as beautiful as the online pictures, and the real life version is exactly what you would hope for and expect!

Pick up your Tagsmith Original Luggage Tag here!

Love, K.

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Cute TSA Approved Bags for Liquids – kiki*c GlamBags

by Kirsten on October 18, 2010

Ah, yes, a traveling fashionista’s worst nightmare – cramming our luxe liquids into a small, TSA approved, quart-sized bag. The friendly skies changed forever when this rule was implemented, and although it is a must for security, it doesn’t make it any less annoying.

Thankfully, kiki*c came up with an alternative. GlamBags are a fun, cute, and stylish way to carry your liquids. These bags are the same size and accomplish the same task as regular ziploc bags, but they are much more fun to look at, and something that doesn’t remind you of what you pack your sandwich in. (Finally.)

Every girl likes to have a little something that sets them apart. A way to change the mundane into something more stylish and chic. GlamBags do just that. Although they don’t become Mary Poppins’ magic tote bag, complete with never-ending space and a whole bunch of flair, they do dress up the boring, and in a very fashionable way!

Each box comes with sixteen glam bags, which if you recycle them a few times like I do, will last you quite a long time. I received the black and gold pattern, and was really pleased by the fun box it came in as well as the quality of the bags. (If you think that all plastic bags are created equal, you are mistaken, my dear friend! Try shoving in every last liquid and you will quickly realize that the cheap bags bust at the seams.)

kiki*c carries more than just the glam bags, so I suggest checking her website out for more fun items. In the meantime, pick up a box of these babies – when it’s time to pack your liquids on your next trip, it will be a little less painful, and a lot more stylish!

Love, K.

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How to pack lingerie for travel – Luxe Innovations Lingerie Bags

by Kirsten on October 15, 2010

Ever been embarrassed when TSA sifts through your bag and all your lingerie is out in the open for everyone to see? Yeah, it’s not fun, and it’s a great reminder to try and hide those pieces a bit better in your luggage. Unfortunately, with how detailed – and slightly intrusive – TSA can be, there is a not a great way to hide your lingerie; everything ends up out in the open.

Thankfully, there is Luxe Innovations, designed and invented by Chelsea Logan. Chelsea wanted to design a way to protect your lingerie while traveling while also keeping your undergarments discreetly packed. She hit a home-run as these bags are beautiful.

I was sent this gorgeous blue and silver swirl bag, it borders on the edge of glam, and is a perfect way to pack your intimates while traveling. The quality of the material is amazing, and the interior silver silk lining is an ideal place to keep even your most expensive lingerie; totally protected and hidden.

I took the pictures above so you can see how beautiful the bags are in person. No special shooting techniques; they are gorgeous as they look online!

I highly recommend picking up a lingerie bag of your own! Not only can it be used for holding your beautiful lingerie, but it also can double as a clutch when you arrive at your destination!

Love, K.

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Cosmetic bag for travel – innovative, flirty, and luxurious by Vemayca

by Kirsten on October 12, 2010

Cosmetic bags are a staple in every girl’s beauty routine. Often we have a couple in rotation – one for make-up, one for toiletries. Sure, they can be found everywhere from your local Target and Walmart or as a free gift with your recent $50 cosmetic purchase at Nordstroms – but I can guarantee they don’t have the features of a Vemayca bag.

Yes, I am a huge fan of multi-purpose items. For those of you that read my blog daily, it’s definitely an underlying theme in just about every product I recommend. Vemayca bags are just that – innovative, multi-functional, and beautiful.

Vemayca was founded by Veronica Mayo. She created a line of cosmetic bags that are not only absolutely luxurious in style and feel, but also serve a multitude of purposes. One of the best features – it’s removable pearl lining.

Time and time again I pack my toiletries or make-up into my cosmetic bags, and they spill, leak, or create a film of make-up powder that just never comes out. You take a look inside the bag and it’s gross – full of residue and not a pretty sight. With Vemayca’s removable Soft Pearl Liner, this no longer is an issue!

Simply take the the removable liner out, and it’s a breeze to wash and clean. Snap it back into the bag, and it’s as though you have a brand new bag! Finally – a product that even as it wears, it remains beautiful.

The outside of the bag is to die for. I could not take my hands off of it! So luxuriously soft, it’s amazing. I happen to have on-hand the red version, and the color is so vibrant, it makes me happy just looking at it. Is that silly? Nah.

Check out all the great uses for her bag – some you may have thought of, but I bet others are new!

Baby: bibs, bottles, diapers, snacks, teething rings, wipes
Beach: cash, first aid kid, paperback book, sunglasses, sunscreen, swimsuit
Business Traveler: business cards, eyeglasses, mp3 player and headphones, prescriptions, passport/tickets, vitamins
Crafts: art supplies, paintbrushes, photography equipment, quilting, sewing notions, scrapbooking tools
Everyday: cosmetics, credit and gift cards, gum/mints, makeup brushes, receipts, tissue
Gym:car keys, hair brush, hair clips and ties, razor, shampoo/conditioner, shower gel
Personal Travel: camera, cell phone, hand lotion, electronic cords and attachments, feminine hygiene products, delicate lingerie
School: calculator, cell phone charger, hand sanitizer, highlighters, mini stapler, pens and pencils

In addition to the innovative removable Soft Pearl Liner, the Vemayca cosmetic bag features:

* Generous central compartment for your favorite beauty and personal items
* Two large zippered side pockets for additional storage and organization
* Light-colored silver satin lining, making the contents highly visible
* Custom metal zipper pulls that are easy to grip
* Flat bottom so the Vemayca cosmetic bag stays upright
* Super soft and and lightweight
* Size: measures approximately 9 inches wide, 6 inches high and 2 inches deep

You can’t go wrong with this purchase, and for only $35 – you know you are making a great investment in a product that will last for a long time!

Pick up your own Vemayca bag here!

Love, K.

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Great Messenger Bag for Travel: haiku bags by Sharon Eisenhauer

by Kirsten on October 11, 2010

Every now and then I like to highlight great items made from smaller companies, or single individuals. Especially during this day and age, it’s nice to support our smaller run businesses. This is precisely why it is my pleasure to introduce you to Sharon Eisenhauer’s haiku bags. I had the pleasure of checking out one of her beautifully designed messenger bags in person. A perfect option for the most discerning traveling fashionistas – it’s high quality, globally-responsible and carries a very unique, dynamic message behind it.

Sharon began haiku with the vision in mind to create a handbag company founded on the concept of beauty and utility. As their website states: “A bag that’s just beautiful isn’t haiku enough. A bag that’s just functional isn’t haiku enough. To qualify, to be haiku enough, a bag must be the perfect union of style and substance.”

If you haven’t been paying attention lately, messenger bags are everywhere. We can rarely go a day without seeing someone carry one about town, in the airport, or in the glossy pages of the latest magazines. It really is the bag to have! Whether traveling or at home, one can always find a use for one.

The Rumi Collection by haiku carries a beautiful messenger bag known as their “Bough” style. This bag is even more beautiful in person and with its amazing features, it rivals as one of the most functional messenger bags I have seen.

This particular messenger bag is their everything bag. Complete with yoga mat straps, laptop and roller bag sleeves – they call it the work, play, and get serene bag! The embroidery on the outside is simply beautiful, and get this – the bag is made completely of recycled plastic! Yet another reason to support her beautiful creations.

In hand, I loved the way this bag felt. Very sturdy, high quality, and yet had a very individualized feeling. It’s unique – something you don’t see everyday, and it really would stand out in a crowd. In addition, it’s a great size and could easily carry your must-have items while traveling (making it a perfect companion for your carry-on personal item)!

Click here to pick up your own haiku messenger bag from Zappos!

Love, K.