Travelpro TP8008S6111 Tourlite Deep Purple Carry-On Luggage Review: Is it Worth It?
After using the Travelpro TP8008S6111 Tourlite Carry-On in deep purple for several weeks of travel, I can confidently share my personal thoughts on this sleek luggage. Whether it was bustling through crowded airports or packing for a weekend getaway, this carry-on had plenty to offer, but it also came with a few drawbacks you might want to weigh before purchasing.
Design & Build Quality
The deep purple color is stunning and stands out in a sea of generic black luggage. I appreciated the softside construction made from DuraGuard material. It felt durable yet lightweight, which was a significant plus when lifting it into an overhead bin. The anti-stain and water-repellent features were put to the test during a rainy layover, and the suitcase held up beautifully—no soggy clothes here! However, the fabric did show slight scuffs after a few trips, which might bother anyone particular about keeping their luggage looking pristine.
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Wheels & Mobility
This carry-on features 360° spinner wheels that glide effortlessly across different surfaces. Even navigating tight airport corners felt seamless. There were moments when the wheels felt slightly wobbly on uneven sidewalks, but overall, the maneuverability impressed me. I particularly liked that I could pull or push it without straining my wrist, thanks to its smooth rolling design.
Handles & Comfort
The telescoping handle is adjustable with two height options—38 inches and 42.5 inches—making it comfortable for users of all heights. The patented Contour Grip, with its rubberized touch points, provided a secure, ergonomic grip. Additionally, the side and bottom grab handles made it easy to lift the suitcase when necessary. My only gripe here is that the telescoping handle can feel a bit flimsy when fully extended, especially if the luggage is packed to the brim.
Security Features
While it doesn’t come with built-in locks, the zippers are high-tensile and sturdy. I used a separate TSA-approved lock for added security, and it worked just fine. The discreet ID tag holder on the side was a nice touch—subtle yet functional for avoiding lost luggage woes.
Organization & Compartments
The interior is where this carry-on really shines. It offers a full-length mesh pocket, a smaller mesh side pocket, and adjustable compression straps. Packing was a breeze, even for someone like me who tends to overpack! The two exterior pockets were perfect for last-minute additions like a book or travel documents. I also loved the expandable zipper, which added two inches of space when I needed it, though it did slightly affect the bag’s balance when overfilled.
Durability
Travelpro is known for its long-lasting luggage, and this one is no exception. It survived multiple trips without any major wear and tear. However, I noticed some fraying near the zipper after heavy use. The wheels and handles, though, held up much better than I expected.
Water Resistance
Rainy weather didn’t faze this carry-on. The water-repellent DuraGuard material kept the contents dry, even during an unexpected drizzle while waiting for a taxi. This feature is a lifesaver for travelers who frequently face unpredictable weather conditions.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to lift into overhead bins.
- Vibrant deep purple color makes it easy to identify.
- Smooth 360° spinner wheels for effortless movement.
- Plenty of organizational pockets and expandable packing space.
- Durable and water-repellent material.
Cons
- Telescoping handle feels slightly wobbly when fully extended.
- Fabric can show scuffs and fraying over time.
- No built-in TSA lock for added security.
- Wheels can be unstable on uneven surfaces.
Comparison to Competitors
Compared to the Samsonite Omni PC Hardside, the Travelpro Tourlite has the upper hand in terms of flexibility and weight. The Samsonite offers better scratch resistance with its hard-shell design but lacks the expandable packing feature and multiple compartments that make the Tourlite so convenient. Additionally, the Tourlite is far lighter, which is ideal for travelers who prioritize ease of handling.
When stacked against the American Tourister Moonlight, the Travelpro wins with its ergonomic handle and superior water resistance. However, the Moonlight edges ahead in design variety, offering more trendy patterns. If aesthetics are your priority, the Moonlight may be your pick; otherwise, the Tourlite delivers a more practical experience.
Cost Analysis and Value for Money
While the exact price fluctuates, the Travelpro TP8008S6111 Tourlite falls within a reasonable range for its category. It might not be the cheapest option, but its features justify the cost. The durability, ease of mobility, and thoughtful design make it a worthwhile investment for frequent travelers. That said, if you’re on a tight budget, there are less expensive alternatives with fewer features.
Final Thoughts
Testing the Travelpro Tourlite firsthand gave me a clear understanding of its strengths and limitations. This carry-on is perfect for those who value lightweight design, water resistance, and excellent organization. However, if you need a suitcase with a more robust handle or prefer built-in security, you might want to look elsewhere. Despite its minor flaws, I found this piece of luggage to be a reliable travel companion, especially for short trips.