My Favorite Personal Item Bags

Рет қаралды 19,407

Күн бұрын

I'm on the road a lot and travel at least once a month. A personal item bag is one of the most important buying decisions you can make for your travel kit and today I'm sharing my 4 favorite personal item bags and what makes each one perfect. Which one I use depends on the trip but I'll be sharing all the details as well as how they work with my macbook pro laptop. The links below are affiliate which means you won't pay more but I do make a small commission.
•Tumi Oxford Underseat Bag→ bit.ly/40BQ2Jb
•Tumi Backpack →bit.ly/43WZtU8
•Away Travel Everywhere Tote →bit.ly/3Wqatc7
•Away Travel Everywhere Bag→ bit.ly/3kePis9
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Пікірлер: 108

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 15 күн бұрын

I'm putting this video up several days early because I'll be traveling next week so enjoy the early drop and I hope you love it! ALSO if you choose to look for the Tumi backpack on Poshmark really check the pictures and make sure you know what you're looking for to be sure it's not a fake because they are on there. Personally I'm always leary when it's new with tags and have better luck with actual used items.

@christineramseyer4721 14 күн бұрын

I have the Travelpro underseat rolling bag that I use for my main carry on as well as a 26L backpack. I can easily pack for a week even in colder weather. I am 67 years old with shoulder problems and I am able to put the travel pro in the overhead bin. My motto for traveling is “If I can’t pick it up myself, I don’t take it.”

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 14 күн бұрын

That’s how I operate as well. I travel solo to often and as of yet there’s no team following me around to carry my stuff 🤣

@christineramseyer4721 14 күн бұрын

@@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge I have always been a “do it myself “ kind of person. But my husband thinks I’m a weakling. Funny how that works.

@cliffdix 14 күн бұрын

Every time you pulled something out of your bags it made me think of Mary Poppins. I was expecting a floor lamp. hahahahahaha. Great video.

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 14 күн бұрын

lol I actually love that! 🤩and thank you!!

@maryd253 9 күн бұрын

Alaska Airlines, which I love, has different size under seat storage areas. It’s been very frustrating for me because I love that roller one you are showing! That is beautiful! I have learned that the window seat has a slighter bigger spot. The aisle seat is terrible. Thanks for the video.

@saraspalding5572 13 күн бұрын

I have 3 of your 4🤷🏻‍♀️…plus several more. I never know which of my personalities is packing 🤣.

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 13 күн бұрын

This is what I’m saying 🤪😘

@k3ttt 10 күн бұрын

Oh Im going with that! 😂😂😂 I don’t know which one of my personalities is going on this trip

@saraspalding5572 10 күн бұрын

@@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge so my new Away tote arrives today 🤓 and that personality is going to Antigua next week😎.

@ohhoney8662 15 күн бұрын

Yes, the zip and the luggage sleeve are the must! 😎

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 15 күн бұрын

Right? We’ve all chosen form over function once or twice but for travel will not work!

@Mckee4055 15 күн бұрын

As a larger person, I always look for a tote with a longer handle drop. Much more comfortable and can be hands-free when needed. And the trolley sleeve is the other necessity. I use a Longchamps le Pilage in everyday life. If it had a trolley sleeve, I’d probably never need to switch.

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 15 күн бұрын

I cannot tell you how many time I’ve told Scott I wish the Le Pliage had a trolly sleeve!

@virginialarsen8598 14 күн бұрын

Thank you for your informative video. I just subscribed. For bags/ backpacks that I may use on a trip that do not have a trolley sleeve, I ask my seamstress to add one ( you could bring your own material you prefer them to use. Most shoe repair, and some dry cleaners, may provide this service. I also use their services to sew on any patches I collect on some trips (Antarctica, for one) to personalize my bag, especially if it is a common black one. Great conversation starter.

@anneoestreicher7333 15 күн бұрын

I use a backpack from Target for about $35. It has held up to several international trips and I love that it has a lot of different compartments. It has a laptop compartment too. Just to say that it isn’t necessary to spend a lot of money for a great bag.

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 15 күн бұрын

I'm glad yours has worked out but sadly in the early days of my travel journey I had a backpack from Target that fell apart on me while I was on a trip:(. I agree there CAN be some great deals but I much prefer going with brands with great warranties.

@magicsheepmom7790 14 күн бұрын

I agree @anneoestreicher7333. My suitcase was about $80 and my backpack about $50 and both have held up through long trips all over the world. Taking them to Japan next. If you're on a budget, you CAN find good products. You just really need to research and shop around. The Away and Tumi stuff looks soooo nice, but I need all the money I can get for traveling!

@anneoestreicher7333 14 күн бұрын

@@magicsheepmom7790 yeah, those brands are way out of my price range.

@katia.luna213 9 күн бұрын

😮 Which brand?

@katia.luna213 9 күн бұрын

@@magicsheepmom7790 Hi, which brands?

@SarahCooper17 15 күн бұрын

I was a backpack person for a long time. I’ve used a tote for my last two trips and found it has worked great. Much easier to grab things in and out of. Documents, headphones etc.

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 15 күн бұрын

Yes this has been my journey too - I live my backpacks but the totes are about more versatile for sure

@rosemaryaugustine130 10 күн бұрын

I'm obsessed in buying more and more my personal item bags, What I take depends on where I'm going (and the airline) so far they all work... my carry on usually fits in the overhead... Thanks for this... loved your info.

@lilyellens 13 күн бұрын

I am obsessed with carry-on bags, probably too obsessed for someone who really doesn’t travel that often but I’m always looking at bags and thinking ‘now THAT would be a great carry on’ 😂 Like you, a zipper is a must and the more pockets the better. I also hate a cross body strap 🤭

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 12 күн бұрын

Yeah I’m like when a bag is big and heavy I just don’t get the crossbody thing…so awkward!

@pamelagoodson9034 13 күн бұрын

I have a newer version of the Tumi backpack. One of the side pockets has dual zipper pulls to secure the water bottle. Also a small hole for drainage in case you have a cold water bottle that has condensation. I really like this backpack. Good video. I keep looking at the under seat rolling bag but still am concerned if it will fit under seat. My dream is to be able to go with that small under seat as my main carryon and my backpack. No checked bag. So far it is just a dream 🤣

@kateharrison 13 күн бұрын

Loved this, love all your packing and what’s in my bag videos. I legit just love listening to you, also loved your solo travel video. I’m a big solo traveller and couldn’t agree more with what you said. Much love.x

@lindsaybreslin7106 14 күн бұрын

Well done, Jen! So helpful! I purchased the Away Bigger Carryon because of your helpful videos and now I think the tote is next! Your work is so appreciated ❤

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 14 күн бұрын

Yeah I was honestly on the fence about it but now that I own it I ADORE and thank you for the kind words!!

@robinharris7910 13 күн бұрын

United Airlines now considers anything with wheels, even if it fits under the seat, as NOT a personal item.

@juliel4096 13 күн бұрын

I love Tumi luggage, but I am like you, I wish they would have designed a water bottle pocket on the exterior! Everyone nowadays carries a water bottle so it’s not that it will « dress down » the look. I am big Tumi luggage fan. The zippered tote bag does come up as dark blue on screen. I do use my Neverful for travel, I have to carry a pillow to sit on (even in first class) so it provides me with the right amount of room. I do place a sarong (which I use like a blanket) over the top to cover the opening. I traveled to Asia in February and used a Beis Commuter duffle and it worked well for my overnight needs (pjs, toiletries, change of clothes, etc.). It is a little bigger than I want for domestic use but when you’re on a long haul flight, it’s nice to know you can carry everything you need. I am now a 4 wheeled luggage lover, and a luggage sleeve is a must (along with a water bottle holder!). thanks for your insight. Love it!

@shannongalloway9500 14 күн бұрын

I bought the away bag because of your review 3 yrs ago and love it! Been on multiple international flights

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 14 күн бұрын

Mine is showing the tiniest bit of wear but I think it makes her look tough.🤩

@kerritidwell1155 14 күн бұрын

🙋‍♀️ I have a personal bag problem too 😂

@annapower9799 14 күн бұрын

Another great video! A possible solution for the Tumi bag to carry a water bottle - what about bringing it to someone who can do industrial sewing - they could sew an elastic strip inside the side pocket giving you the stability you need for the water bottle or the option to continue to use it for headphones etc.

@melindam3429 11 күн бұрын

Thanks for the video! I have a lug tote and Vera Bradley backpack that I alternate, but was interested in your underseat rolling bag recommendation.

@sassyt1545 2 күн бұрын

The Away tote is an exact copy of the Briggs and Riley tote.

@lemonching 11 күн бұрын

I can attest to how good the Tumi Carson backpack is. I have the same style but with a waterproof lining in one of the side pockets for a water bottle (won’t fit large bottles though). The backpack also looks cute as an everyday daypack while on your trip if you want to hold more items. The organization and quality of Tumi is well worth the price, but better if you can get a deal 😊 Too bad this style is discontinued since I prefer the design and organization in the Carson vs the current Celina.

@nmernst 12 күн бұрын

Thanks for sharing ☺️. Scheduled to go to Paris and my first international flight ever (aside as a toddler) this September. The Away Bag (or perhaps the back pack) is what I am considering 😁. I have a good carry-on but will be checking dimensions.

@Intentionallivingnow 9 күн бұрын

I have the same Tumi bag - a water bottle fits well on the outside where you said you put your phone.

@sinistralwing 12 күн бұрын

I have the original Everywhere bag and I generally love it, it's been on a lot of trips over the years but a few minor annoyances make me think I should get the newer one.

@lorenadugan6355 14 күн бұрын

Long bideo but worth it. I have used a Baggalini tote for years USA to Australia and elsewhere MANY times. I have loved it. Thinking about upgrading to the Away tote or Away new Everywhere bag for a little more room.

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 14 күн бұрын

Baggalini is such a great brand!

@susanritzenthaler4502 12 күн бұрын

I have 2/4 of those bags (Team Away - the "new" Everywhere Tote is my new Work Bag too). Loved your descriptions and insight. Very helpful. XO

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 12 күн бұрын

I’m so glad!

@kyuukimi 15 күн бұрын

Finally someone talks about the everywhere tote together with everywhere bag! Love your content! I think I’m sold on the everywhere bag, although I’m still not sure if I can have it in my arms with the shorter drop!

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 15 күн бұрын

So because they have such a generous return policy I would order both! The drop works for me but you really have to try it to know for sure. And thank you for your kind words!

@lorihamlin3604 8 күн бұрын

Love the bags but too pricey for me. I use a wheeled underseat for overhead storage, as I can lift it easily, and a bag with crossbody strap with trolley sleeve for hands free boarding that easily fits even smallest underseat area. I can no longer lift larger carryon but 2 personal size works best for me. I’ve gotten packing for 2 weeks in those two bags. I’d like a spinner underseat size but wheels on those can be cumbersome.

@cindynelson4824 14 күн бұрын

I scored a Tami corporate back pack on Poshmark. New with tags. Great price

@packyourpixiedust 15 күн бұрын

I want two of the four of these bags!

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 15 күн бұрын

TREAT YOURSELF!🤩

@elizabeth2164 11 күн бұрын

I prefer the Pacsafe line of backpacks because of their travel safety features.

@kathygann7632 10 күн бұрын

Years ago I bought a Samantha Brown suitcase from QVC or HSN. The top folds down to be a free personal item that fits under the seat on Allegiant airline, but unzips to carryon size if you need the extra room. I LOVE it and haven’t seen anything like it.

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 10 күн бұрын

Her stuff is such high quality!

@gaylearebalo 13 күн бұрын

Oh girl....me too! At least 30.

@katieb6201 2 күн бұрын

Ohhh how I LOVED this video. I am in the market for a new personal item bag/carry on backpack!! Do I need one anytime soon? Nope. Still thinking about it though. 😂

@CyndiAKADisneyqueen 13 күн бұрын

I feel like I was watching Mary Poppins as you pulled items out of that backpack! 😂😂

@janine36 14 күн бұрын

I actually squealed when I saw this. Thank you so much for this one. I have a backpack from Vera Bradley that works well and has held up beautifully. I use it for work and travel. However, I have discovered that a backpack isn’t always ideal for travel. Things tend to get lost in the main compartment. I always seem to need something that’s in the bottom of it, and I have to take everything out to get it. I’m thinking the Away bag (not the tote one, the other one) is the way to go for me. Thanks again for doing this one.

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 14 күн бұрын

I’m so glad you liked it! It’s been requested many times and I knew it would be a long one but I’m happy to do it 😘

@janelleckes2272 14 күн бұрын

Great video - love how thoroughly you showed each bag! I recently got an "under seat" bag that is the same shape and dimensions as your Tumi and it fit under the seat on Southwest (1 flight so far) but did not fit on either of the Alaska flights I tried 😒 quite bummed because I love that shape & size!

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 14 күн бұрын

It really depends on the aircraft and I was ok with that as I travel a lot with it as the overhead bin bag too but yeah that’s a bummer

@Jodiestime4travel 15 күн бұрын

This is so timely Jen so thank you for taking the time to do this video. I have the Everywhere Bag and love it when using a US carrier for my personal bag. However, I’m Canadian and flying with a Canadian carrier soon. The dimensions are much smaller on our two major Canadian carriers (limited to 16 x 11 x 6). Yes, this is smaller than Easyjet and Ryanair and probably most if not all of the US ULCC! So I’ve been looking at pre-loved Tumi backpacks on Poshmark and doing some research. I hear what you’re saying about ensuring authenticity - what is confusing is that most Tumi bags have a 20 character serial “Tracer” number you can verify with Tumi while others don’t (your backpack I believe is the Tumi Calais and it apparently doesn’t). The newer backpacks such as the Celina, Carson and Halsey do so I’m patiently waiting for a great deal like you got! Have a wonderful trip!

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 15 күн бұрын

Yeah honestly? I didn’t even know there were fakes when I bought mine so I just got lucky but you have much better luck when they’re slightly worn if that makes sense? Unlikely a counterfeiter would take the time to age it especially at that price point.

@Chelle99 15 күн бұрын

I still want that purple tumi backpack. 😍

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 15 күн бұрын

I found a couple on Poshmark that looked not fake and also not beat to heck

@dianacopeland1981 13 күн бұрын

Hi! My name is Diana and I have a personal item bag problem! 😂😂😂

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 13 күн бұрын

Hi, Diana! Its such a relief to not be alone 🤣🤩❤️

@MicheleMaBelle67 14 күн бұрын

I feel seen! I’m heading to Washington DC in two weeks. I’ve had my favourite personal item bags out for a while thinking through the pros and cons of each. I’m Canadian and our personal item and carry on measurements are brutal and always the main consideration.

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 14 күн бұрын

You have found your people! lol and yes I have friends in Canada and they have said the same!

@MicheleMaBelle67 14 күн бұрын

@@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge I have found my people! I love it!

@marieoliphant8305 8 күн бұрын

$455 is crazy! I was a flight attendant for many years. My Travel Pro luggage lasted 30 yrs. About $130 for roller bag. I highly recommend.

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 7 күн бұрын

Thanks for watching! Travel Pro is a great brand for sure!

@agirlandhiscat 6 күн бұрын

Not sure how this comment is offensive but I agree. Thanks for the tip, will look at that one.

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 6 күн бұрын

@@agirlandhiscat lol I sometimes do say thanks for watching when the comment isn’t offensive at all 😂😂😂😍

@agirlandhiscat 6 күн бұрын

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 🤣 Oh i thought you were annoyed by this one haha, my bad.

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 6 күн бұрын

@@agirlandhiscat it’s my fault for joking about it like I do - I need to learn that sarcasm doesn’t always read on social media like I think it will!!

@TrishRainbowLightUnion 14 күн бұрын

feet up is a game changer!! so much more comfortable and less tiring somehow?!?

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 14 күн бұрын

Yes how and why I think has to do with circulation but once I started doing it I don’t dread long flights anymore!

@rosemarie9956 11 күн бұрын

Love seeing your pics. The Tumi rolling bag would not fit under the seats on any of the planes I have been on lately (mostly Canadian carriers) maybe in upper class on a larger plane? Also with everyone taking carry on they are much more strict with everything. EVERY flight they have called for volunteers to check the carry on suitcases with the threat of either checking it automatically if it doesn’t fit in the sizer or even charging (but not seen this but did see a lot of arguments at the counter. TBH more than half the carry ons would NOT fit in that sizer compartment 🤷‍♀️

@magdzioczek 14 күн бұрын

Just seen this away totes on their website however the only available colour is beige, waiting for black to come back in stock You must be the first one who showed it on you tube. I don't know whether to get that one or the everyday one however I think I like the tote more for longer straps and shape it might even hold more stuff. Would you mind to do a comparison of them two with stuff you'd normally pack for your trip?

@brat32179 15 күн бұрын

I would love a video about how you deal with security when you travel. I thought I was careful but still managed to have two credit cards compromised on a trip to DC, even with using RFID wallets. Do you think there's any value in things like the slash resistant bags, vs maybe carrying as little as possible and keeping it very close to your body. I think too many people think of it as only being an international travel concern, but obviously it can happen anywhere. (Personally I think it's worth being that much more careful when cruising. Targeting cruiser who may have limited internet access would be a great way to get away with using a credit card for days or more before the cardholder notices.)

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 14 күн бұрын

Honestly? I must just be really lucky because I haven’t had an issue! I do keep an eye on my transactions and have apps for all my cards so I. A quickly lock them if anything gets lost? I’m so sorry that happened to you - awful.

@GlamorousGlenys 10 күн бұрын

Do you have a video reviewing Beis?

@juliedi2 14 күн бұрын

I have been eyeing that Tumi bag ever since your original review. So, now that it is on sale, I just grabbed it. Although, it’s a splurge, I think it will totally be worth it. Do you still have your Away backpacks? I have a small one that I use for work and love.

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 14 күн бұрын

I still have one (the coast one that matches my bag) and I use it less but it’s a lovely bag!

@nicolaijute539 14 күн бұрын

& another insightful video Jen! I had been looking at the tote bag but a colleague said it seems to be designed for women. What are your thoughts?

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 14 күн бұрын

I mean it’s a tote bag which I think works for everybody? It doesn’t feel that way to me

@kathygann7632 10 күн бұрын

I went to a “Left on board” sale at Alaska Airlines. Never travel with an item with an open pocket.

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 10 күн бұрын

Yup. I feel like stuff falling out is the real danger even more so than pickpockets!

@lsummy1961 5 күн бұрын

Didn't you have a. Mono's bag with a removable pouch on the front? Can you tell me why it didn't make the top four? I'm shopping. Thank you.

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 5 күн бұрын

I did and I recently sold it. It's not a bad bag I just liked the Everywhere bag better and also with the fron pocket attached it didn't fit under the seat which was kind of a pain.

@livingpositivelytoday 13 күн бұрын

I had been going through heck to find an under the seat bag at 17x10x9 for United where I'm putting my carryon in the overhead bin. Do you ever worry about someone behind you getting into your under the seat bag?

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 13 күн бұрын

No I don’t at all.

@livingpositivelytoday 12 күн бұрын

@@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge Ok. Thanks

@dyannesharp7343 10 күн бұрын

So many bags are 18”, when airlines are going to 17”!

@livingpositivelytoday 8 күн бұрын

@@dyannesharp7343 I think only United. Lol

@christinecharbonneau4448 5 күн бұрын

No, seats are too close together for anyone to be able to reach that far forward to get your bag without crawling on the floor.

@angieharris8015 14 күн бұрын

lol...the very small oh-so-subtle "symbolisms" lol (MacBook Pro stickers)

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 14 күн бұрын

Oh yeah I’m gonna represent every opportunity I get!!!!😍😍😍

@lcflngn 14 күн бұрын

I have the Away Everywhere due to you some time back (same color, so pretty!) and I love it. Only recently saw yr older review mentioning it being a good footrest, something I desperately need for my shorty legs on a long haul flight, which is coming up in June. About to purchase their larger carryon, not to actually carry on tbh but to be small enough to walk around European cities a bit, haul up flights of stairs, & not break my back! Looking forward to my first snazzy matched luggage set, grown up at 60 😉

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 14 күн бұрын

I LOVE THIS SO MUCH! Yes, you deserve the snazziest of snazzy luggage!

@leilaniwilliams1474 15 күн бұрын

Thanks for this video! I've been looking at bags, but I want something that is wheeled and not heavy as at my age I'm not interested in lifting anything over my head.

@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge 15 күн бұрын

Yes I get this! The Tumi bag might be perfect for you and I love the way the wheels work. Very smooth.