Sadly I've gone the el cheapo route. Did not have a choice in the matter...CFIing straight into first year FO pay, with lots of debt already from training....could not afford spending 500 bucks on my luggage. I spent less than 100 on both the chart case (it's called a catalog case if you want it for less money and a generic 22" overnight bag. I've had them for only 4 months on the job, but they are holding up well. Maybe I'll wait until second year to upgrade my equipment, if need be....can't afford it until then. Just looking at this thing realistically...not all of us have the means to afford the top notch luggage right away....sad but true.

I second everybody about getting spare uniforms...I got 4 of them and am glad I did. Wait until you're doing reserve trips and get the infamous last leg scheduling call...