In this next installment of our Rome Travel Tips, I thought I’d cover luggage, where to buy, what to buy, and what to bring for a trip to Rome (or Paris, or Madrid, or really this can be modified to fit anywhere)

First, where to buy. We bought all of our luggage at a combination of Marshall’s, TJ Maxx, and Ross. We spent a few weeks just checking different stores in our area. You could definitely enlist the help of some friends/family to help.  Because of the quick turnover at these stores, we bought bags that we thought would work and then took the ones that didn’t work back after we brought them home and examined them a little more closely.

We were able to acquire 9 suitcases over a few weeks. Because Marshall’s TJ Maxx and Ross are all “off price” stores, one is able to get London Fog, Swiss Gear, Michael Kors, kate spade, Tumi, Coach, etc. for a fraction of their original price. And these are brands that can stand up to the wear and tear of getting thrown around by the air carriers.

So keep your eyes open at Marshall’s, TJ Maxx, and Ross, and don’t be afraid to buy, and then take them back. (Preferably on a credit card, rather than cash so it just goes back in your account, and you don’t get stuck with store credit.) And be sure to keep the receipt so it’s an easy return.

Next, what to buy! Well, that obviously depends on how long you intend to go for (A weekend? A week? 3 weeks? 9?), and where you’re going (Beach? Skiing?). But to start, check the restrictions of your airline carrier. US Airways/American Airlines gives you 1 checked bag, 1 carry-on, and 1 personal item (purse, computer bag etc.) for free. but it differs with each airline. Generally when we go, we’re going for an extended period of time, so we use all the allotted free baggage. But if you’re going for a week, a carry-on + personal item would suffice.

Our recommendations (adapt to fit YOUR style of travel) are as follows:

3-7 days, a carry-on and personal item.

2-3 weeks, a checked bag, a small carry-on and a personal item.

4+ weeks, a checked bag, a carry-on, and a personal item.

These are our suggestions, but again, you’re going to have to adapt to your own personal mode of travel.

As always we are happy to accommodate any questions!