SPRING 2017 // TOUCHDOWN
Suitcase
scores
Putting the Lock’n
’Roll to the test
When Richard Holmes needed
luggage that could stand up to four
long-haul flights, six airports and a
4 000-kilometre train journey across
the United States, he decided to
see if the Bold American Tourister
Lock’n’Roll suitcase was up to
the challenge.
THE LOW-DOWN
The 69-centimetre medium-sized
(83-litre) hard-shell Lock'n'Roll from
American Tourister boasts four double-
wheels for easy rolling, top and side handles
and an all-polypropylene construction to
balance weight and durability. It comes with
an integrated TSA-approved three-digit lock.
MADE BY
American Tourister is part of the
respected Samsonite luggage family and
this European-made case boasts many
of the same design and production
innovations at a more affordable price.
YOU’LL LOVE IT WHEN…
You need a case that can hold enough for
a week (easily two, if you’re not a
fashionista) on the road and want
affordable high-quality luggage that
will keep your kit safe while globetrotting.
The Lock'n'Roll range also comes in small
(cabin-ready) and large (if you don’t want to
pack lightly). I managed a 10-day trip with the
medium with plenty of space to spare.
A great innovation is the use of three
locking clips, rather than zips, to secure the
case. This makes the case more protected
against tampering, while quality moulding
on the seams keeps your kit dry if the
case gets wet.
EASY DOES IT
On the road, the case glided smoothly
through airports and handled New York’s
bumpy pavements with ease thanks to the
larger rear wheels. The retractable handle
releases and moves smoothly, but shows a
little strain when the case is heavily loaded.
BUILT TO LAST?
The case feels sturdy and well constructed,
although the lid is not as hard as you might
expect. As always, it’s a balance between
weight and strength, so while it’s not entirely
rigid it should keep your gear protected.
LOVE/HATE
This case has converted me to four-wheel
roller cases, making light work of long
airport and train station transfers. If there’s a
complaint it’s that the interior compartments
are overly simple: the top compartment is
divided into a single zipped compartment.
Some smaller dividers in the lid for
underwear, belts and clothing would have
been useful.
THUMBS UP/DOWN
Would I buy it again? Absolutely. In fact
I’m actively praying for the death of
my old two-wheeled suitcase so I can
add another Lock'n'Roll to my quiver of
travelling kit.
WHAT IT’LL COST
Recommended retail price R2 899.
Visit www.houseofsamsonite.co.za
GEA R
&
AD V I C E
MAKE MEMORIES FOR LIFE // 55