Shopping for the always-on-the-road — or always-in-the-air — business traveler can be difficult, but we have a few ideas that are sure to please.
1. Tumi Lightweight Continental Carry-On
For the traveler whose bags weigh him down, this lightweight luggage from Tumi is a convenient and stylish alternative. A sturdy, protective back and resilient nylon fabric make for one durable carry-on. And the four 360-degree wheels make the case extremely maneuverable in a crowded terminal. Bumper guards, an aluminum extending handle, the Tumi Tracer bag tracking system, and multiple inside and outside pockets complete the package. Pair it with an expandable carry-on bag in the same style if more capacity is needed.
Available from Tumi, $595 for Alpha Lightweight Continental Carry-On or $445 for Alpha Expandable Carry-On.
The super small Steam Bug Travel Iron fits easily in a bag or suitcase and heats in a fast 15 seconds to rid clothes of wrinkles. The one-touch control, dual-voltage design and three heat settings make this little steam machine a worthy addition to any business trip.
Available from Brookstone, $35.99.
For those bothered by a fellow passenger’s reading lamp, the Good Night Sleep Mask provides a solution. Its clever design doesn’t touch your eyelids, allowing your eyes to move for true REM sleep — the deepest and most fulfilling kind of rest there is, and a necessity for those who cross oceans to make morning meetings.
Available from Magellan’s, $14.50.
The best way to avoid pesky checked-bag fees is to weigh before you leave. With REI’s digital luggage scale, making sure your luggage is under the required weight limit is simple. The scale’s design allows for easy weighing; plus, the device is small and lightweight enough (at just 3.1 ounces) to pack — without packing on pounds.
Available from REI, $26.50.
Wired travelers can take better care of their electronic devices (and all the cords and accessories that go with them) with the GRID-IT! system. Fitting conveniently in a carry-on or laptop bag, the organizer’s design of overlapping, elastic grids keeps items in place and accessible on long journeys. The GRID-IT! comes in various sizes, but for the best buy, grab the bundle set that includes small, medium and large versions.
Available from Cocoon, $49.99.
Photos Courtesy of Tumi, Brookstone, Magellan’s, REI and Grid-It
