Best Carry Ons
 

I am having some difficulty about making a decision about luggage. So before I go and spend $200-300, I figured I would ask around. I have heard alot about Purdy Neat, any insight would be greatly appreciated.

I love the Purdy Neat. Built by airline pilots for airline pilots. I bought the metal frame bag with the lap top pouch. A little spendy (almost $300) and a little heavier than some but worth not having to hassle with going to the luggage store every 3 months to have the bag fixed and arguing with the luggage guy about what is and is not covered by the "lifetime warranty". Wheels are easy and cheap to replace (if its ever necessary). What sold me on it was talking to a United pilot at the luggage store who was buying a purdy neat because he was fed up with his travel pro.

Which purdy neat do you recommend? I saw there were many types on their web site. Also what do you recommend for a headset and flight case for the ERJ? I'm an XJT new hire and I'm not sure what is good to get from them and what to get on your own. Thanks for your help.

The Purdy Neat 22" would work for most pilots.

http://www.stopoverstore.com/product...m/pnid/1/nid/2

As for flight cases, I spent the extra money and bought a Scott Leather Square Top Flight Kit.

http://www.scottleather.com/product/catalog.cfm/nid/176

The ERJ cockpit is pretty noisy. My hearing is somewhat marginal, and for that reason I'm glad I got an ENR (electronic noise reduction) headset. There's lots of different ones out there.

Is the metal frame one worth it? For ERJ guys, which ENR headset have you found to be the best?

Do you actually keep a laptop in that pocket? Just wondering how much protection it affords, and if it's more convenient than carrying a computer in a separate case.

I bought a standard 22" Samsonite carry-on from TJ Maxx. Cost me $35.00 + tax (I was lucky and found one on super clearance). But to spend $100+ on carry-on luggage? Seriously? WTF? I don't think there was anything there for over $70.00. All name brand. If it's a 22", as long as it's not overstuffed, it'll fit in the overheads on the RJ's. If you are nervous, just get one with the same measurements as the Purdy Neat bags.

I put my laptop in my carry-on, nestled between a layer of clothing. Works well. No additional bag to carry, and at security it's a breeze - just unzip and pull 'er out :D.

There is a big difference in the type of carry on my fiance needs (using her as an example) and the type of carry on I need. I bought her a samsonite bag, probably similar to what you have. It will be great for that one trip a month or so. Me on the other hand, I got the purdy neat 22" stealth from stopoverstore.com I need a bag that will stay together if it gets chunked off a building. The last thing I want is to be on Day 1 of a 4 day and have the handle break, a wheel fall off, or a zipper jam up. If you have an airline job, get something tough. Get a tough flight kit also, if you get a cheap one the handle will probably fall off on day one of my situation above and you will have to carry the damn thing four days. I have a purdy neat split grain leather flight kit. The Scott leather ones are very very nice, but they cost a fortune. As for a headset in the ERJ, those things are loud. Get something good and ANR, your ears will thank you for it when you get old. I have a Telex 850 for the CRJ.

Different strokes for different folks. I prefer to spend the money on an overnight bag that is well-known for longevity and toughness. You prefer to go frugal and will probably have to replace your bag within three years. After two years of being dragged and thrown in/out of cargo bins in all sorts of weather, my $50 Samsonite died. Good thing I wasn't on a trip.

Amen, brother, amen... ;)