My Favorite Suitcase for Traveling

I've had this bag since my first international trip (summer of 2013), and it's one of the best bags I have ever owned. My mom was so kind enough to buy me this suitcase, and she got it from the Rick Steves' Travel Site. If you don't know Rick Steves, he is a travel guro. He has tons of travel books that are super helpful, as well as tons of resources on his website for planning a trip. Well, he also sells suitcases, and they're amazing.

Rick Steves' Rolling Carry-On Suitcase

Dimensions: 21" x 13.5" x 9" (including wheels)
Weight: 6.65 lbs
Capacity: 2430 cubic inches (2970 expanded)
Materials: Polyester fabric with molded shell frame

Cost: $160

Positives: 

• Lightweight bag (only 6 lbs by itself) that allows for easy lifting and maneuvering  
• Small enough bag so it fits in overhead bins, even the smaller ones on Europeans flights
• Expansion capability where you gain 2 additional inches of cargo depth - my favorite feature that I use all the time, although the bag will have to be checked
• Durable wheels that have handled all different kinds of pavement (including NYC's harsh sidewalks)
• Soooo many pockets - two deep pockets on the outside and a mesh pocket on the inside
• It's a different looking bag, depending on the color you choose, so it's easy to spot
• The bag has a shell that gives it shape, but at the same time it's very flexible so I can always stuff a ton into it
• Amazing quality and I haven't had any rips or zipper problems

Negatives: 

• The expansion capability makes the bag fatter, so it generally tips over if you aren't holding on to it
• Sometimes it can be too small (this generally means I'm overpacking then)
• A bit expensive

If I had to rate the bag from a 1 to a 5, I would easily give it a 5. Although the bag is generally mean for carry-on, I have rarely used it for that. A smaller bag is what you're going to want while traveling internationally because it'll be lighter and easier for you to carry it around a ton if need be. The expansion capability will also make it easy if you buy a lot of souvenirs and need a little extra room in your bag (this is what I always do). It is a bit pricey but it's totally worth it. 

For more info: https://store.ricksteves.com/shop/p/rolling-carry-on