Peak13

I purchased a StrongBags Vortex 1 (they have the 2 out now) back in April of 2008 and I still use it. It's a little expensive ($230)

The wheels are roller blade wheels and are quiet and smooth - the handle is comfortable with two positions and the frame of the suitcase is metal and that gives you A LOT of room on the inside - I could easily pack for a 5-6 day trip with a pair of gym shoes and bathroom bag - and theres a pocket on the front to fit a 15 inch laptop. The bag gets pretty heavy with all of that...but that's pretty standard. It will fit in the smaller overheads sideways and wheels out on any larger plane you might commute on.

I haven't tried their cooler on there, but I've heard good things about their other products. I'll buy another one when mine decides get a flat tire.

JustaRampagent

Sorry to change the subject but I have a question regarding giving a Skywest Buddy pass. If you give a skywest buddy pass to someone, does the flight have to be operated by skywest or Delta mainline? Can the flight be operated by Expressjet??? Thanks in advance!!!

ThisGuy

How do you like the StrongBags, I know they have the telescoping handle, do you see it as a weakness on that bag as it is on the LW bags.

GATAM06

They are good on any Delta or Delta Connection flight. So Expressjet if fine. You just can't use them on code shares...i.e. Air France.

Snatch

I've been trying for over 10 years.

Peak13

The only complaint I had with the bag was that the zippers on the back of the bag (when standing) broke off within a few months from plane side checking it and them probably just launching it in the cargo hold. I think they addressed this issue as we as putting metal corners on the exterior of the bag - the exterior of mine at those corners is showing some metal...so they fixed that.

As for the handle - it's telescopic; however when it's all the way down it fits within the shell of the bag, so it doesn't stick out or you have to secure it with a strap - it locks into place and I've never had an issue with it locking all the way down or either of the two extended positions. The handle is a thick rubber - mine is worn a bit (5 years of use). Majority of the parts are replaceable on their website. but I have yet to do so on my bag. The wheels still rolls smooth and quiet.

I'd recommend a strong bag to anyone, and I will purchase another one to replace this one.

Peak13

Anyone have an interview within the past couple weeks?? What's the scoop?

turbotrash8er

Show up, paperwork in order and a good attitude. Above all, if you don't know an answer admit it and move on.

MatchPoint

Get the 22", the 26" is WAY too big and very hard to commute with since it won't fit wheels first into overhead bins.

Denver

Ended up going with the Ebags Cooler II. I almost submitted for the Strongbags Canadian Ice but could not justify the $92. The Ebags are going for $35 right now with free shipping. I got hot pink. You guys think that will be ok?