Month: November 2023

Choosing a Great Gift for The Traveler in Your Life

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Choosing the best Christmas gifts for travelers can be both exciting and challenging, as the perfect gift often depends on the traveler’s style, needs, and the type of traveling they do. Here are some universally appreciated gift ideas for travelers:

  1. Travel Journal: A high-quality travel journal is perfect for documenting adventures. Look for one that’s durable and maybe even water-resistant.
    We have a limited selection of Travel Journals at Traveling Bags, Made upon demand but are very nice. We can also make you a custom journal just let us know what you need, it takes less than 2 weeks to do, and yes you can order just 1!
  2. Portable Charger/Power Bank: A must-have for any traveler to keep their devices charged on the go. Make sure that they have the correct power outlets and consider getting a solar rechargeable power bank for those times when electricity is scarce. Check out our Power Banks
  3. Quality Travel Backpack or Luggage: Durable, lightweight, and with plenty of compartments for organization. Stop in or Shop Online Now we have a huge selection to choose from, literally something for everyone, and every need.
  4. Packing Cubes: These help travelers organize their luggage more efficiently and make packing and unpacking easier. We have many Packing Cubes to choose from
  5. Noise-Canceling Headphones: Ideal for long flights or train rides, helping to create a quiet and peaceful environment.
  6. Travel-Sized Toiletry Kit: A compact and TSA-approved toiletry kit is always useful.
  7. Kindle or E-Reader: Perfect for avid readers who want to save space and weight in their luggage.
  8. Universal Travel Plug Adapter: Essential for international travelers to keep their devices charged in different countries. Traveling Bags has great universal plug adapters with built-in fuses and USB charging too.
    Don’t be confused with the differences between Plug Adapters and Voltage Convertors they are not the same. Most if not all new applicants don’t need a voltage converter. Learn More about the difference between the two.
  9. Compact Travel Camera or Accessories for Smartphone Photography: For capturing high-quality photos without the bulk of a full-sized camera.
  10. Gift Cards for Travel Experiences: Consider a gift card from Traveling Bags, or something bigger like from an airline, hotel/resort, or even to a Travel Agent / Agency like Latitudes Travel inside of Traveling Bags
  11. Travel Guidebooks or a Subscription to a Travel Magazine: Great for inspiring future trips.
  12. Comfort Travel Accessories: Such as a high-quality neck pillow, eye mask, or travel blanket.
  13. Travel-themed Decor or Map: For decorating their living space and tracking past and future adventures.
  14. Portable – Refillable – Collapsible Water Bottle: Useful for all travelers and those adventurers who might venture off the beaten path. These water bottles are also great eco-friendly gifts as they the eliminate need to buy a plastic disposable water bottle as well save money as most fill stations are free.
    Traveling Bags also carry Collapsible Bowls for fur babies too!

Remember, the best gift often reflects the recipient’s personal travel style and needs, so consider what might enhance their travel experience the most.

Any Questions about Luggage stop into
Traveling Bags store located at 3830 S. Moorland Road in New Berlin, WI,
Find us online at TravelingBagsMKE.com or
Call us at (414) 817-0222

Are Compression Socks Helpful When Traveling?

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Wearing compression socks while traveling, especially during long flights or car rides, can be beneficial for several reasons:

  1. Reduced Risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Long periods of inactivity, like sitting during a long flight, can increase the risk of blood clots in the legs, known as deep vein thrombosis. Compression socks help by applying gentle pressure to your legs, promoting blood circulation and reducing the risk of clotting.
  2. Decreased Swelling: Compression socks can also help reduce swelling in the feet and ankles, a common issue during long travels due to prolonged sitting and reduced circulation.
  3. Enhanced Comfort: Many people find that wearing compression socks makes their legs feel less tired and achy after a long journey.
  4. Varicose Veins Prevention: For those prone to varicose veins, compression socks can help manage and prevent exacerbation of the condition during travel.

However, it’s important to choose the right type of compression socks:

  • Fit and Compression Level: They should fit well – not too tight, not too loose. The compression level (measured in mmHg) should be appropriate for your needs. Mild compression (around 15-20 mmHg) is usually sufficient for travel purposes.
  • Material: Ensure they are made from a comfortable, breathable material.

At Traveling Bags,
we carry Sockwell Compression socks.

If you have pre-existing health conditions like peripheral neuropathy, peripheral artery disease, Heart problems, or skin infections it is a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before using compression socks.

For most people, wearing compression socks during travel is a safe and effective way to maintain good circulation and comfort, especially during long periods of immobility.

Any Questions about Luggage stop into
Traveling Bags store located at 3830 S. Moorland Road in New Berlin, WI,
Find us online at TravelingBagsMKE.com or
Call us at (414) 817-0222

Dopp Kits – What are they?

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The Dopp kit, a staple in travel gear, has an interesting history that dates back to the early 20th century. Its name comes from Charles Doppelt, a German leather goods designer who emigrated to the United States. He invented this type of toiletry bag in 1919. Doppelt’s design was a simple leather toiletry case, initially intended to help men keep their grooming essentials organized while traveling.

Dopp kits have long been,m and continue today, a common gift for men at Christmas, Father’s Day, Birthdays, and even as a wedding gift from the Bride to the Groom.

The difference between a Dopp kit and a toiletry bag often comes down to style and historical context rather than function. Fundamentally, both serve the same purpose: to organize and transport personal care items while traveling. However, there are subtle distinctions and at Traveling Bags we sell Leather and other styles of Dopp Kits & Toiletry Bags.

This image shows three different types of bags. A traditional Dopp kit, a military Dopp kit, and a modern toiletry bag, each with their distinct styles and materials.

Historical Origin: The term “Dopp kit” originates from the early 20th century and is named after Charles Doppelt, a German immigrant to the U.S. who designed a specific type of toiletry bag. The Dopp kit gained popularity, especially after being issued to soldiers in World War II.

Design and Material: Traditionally, Dopp kits were made of leather, had a simple, boxy design, and were often more compact. Modern versions might maintain these design elements but can also include various materials like nylon or canvas. Toiletry bags, on the other hand, come in a wider range of designs and materials and may have more compartments and features.

Cultural Connotation: The term “Dopp kit” often carries a classic or vintage connotation, partly due to its military association and longstanding history. It’s sometimes perceived as more masculine, likely due to its origins and use by soldiers. Toiletry bags are more generic and inclusive, with no specific historical or cultural connotations.

Usage: While both are used for the same purpose, the term “Dopp kit” is more commonly used in the United States, influenced by the brand’s history there. “Toiletry bag” is a more universally understood term and is used more broadly.

In practice, the terms are often used interchangeably, and the choice between them may come down to personal preference or regional vernacular rather than any significant difference in design or function.

The Dopp kit’s enduring appeal lies in its practicality and simplicity. It is more than just a bag; it’s a symbol of mobility and readiness, reflecting the increased mobility of the 20th century and beyond. Its design caters to the essentials, allowing for an organized and compact way to carry personal care items.

Today, Dopp kits are available in a wide range of styles, sizes, and materials, catering to diverse tastes and needs. They continue to be a popular gift item and a travel essential, embodying a tradition of practicality and compactness in personal grooming that has stood the test of time.

More about Charles Dopplet
Doppelt’s company, which he ran with his nephew, began producing these kits in significant numbers. The Dopp kit gained widespread popularity during World War II when it was issued to millions of American GIs. This military endorsement not only made it a common item among servicemen but also helped establish it as a household name. The term “Dopp kit” became synonymous with any small toiletry bag, regardless of its brand or design.

After the war, returning soldiers continued to use their Dopp kits in civilian life, which further boosted its popularity. The original design has evolved over the years, transitioning from a simple leather design to include various materials like nylon and canvas, with added features like waterproof linings and compartments for better organization.

Any Questions about Dopp Kits or Luggage stop into
Traveling Bags store located at 3830 S. Moorland Road in New Berlin, WI,
Find us online at TravelingBagsMKE.com and of course, you can call us
Call us at (414) 817-0222

Don’t Let the Bed Bugs Bite…

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Traveling is the only thing we can really do in life that opens the door to new experiences and memories, yet it may also inadvertently open your suitcase to tiny, unwanted guests like mites, fleas, and the worst of all bedbugs.
Traveling Bags is here to help. These pests are seasoned hitchhikers, notorious for their global spread and tenacity. A bedbug infestation at home can start with a single critter wandering from a hotel bed to your luggage. Protecting yourself from these pests is crucial to ensure your travels are remembered for the right reasons. Here’s how you can stay vigilant and keep bedbugs at bay.

Premo_Guard_3oz_ TSA Travel approved Bed Bug Spray

Understanding the Enemy

Bedbugs are small, nocturnal insects that feed on human blood. They’re not known to transmit diseases, but their bites can cause itching, allergic reactions, and emotional distress. They’re experts at concealment, hiding in cracks and crevices during the day, making them difficult to spot. Hotels, hostels, and other high-turnover accommodations are prime hotspots for these pests.

Before You Go: Preparation is Key

  1. Research Your Accommodation: Check reviews for mentions of bedbugs. While a single report doesn’t confirm an infestation, multiple reports should raise a red flag.
  2. Pack Smart: Use good suitcases, which offer fewer crevices for bedbugs to hide in compared to fabric ones. Consider using sealable plastic bags to compartmentalize your belongings.
  3. Protective Covers: Consider investing in bedbug-proof encasements for your luggage, pillows, and mattresses if you’re planning an extended stay.

During Your Stay: Vigilance and Inspection

  1. Inspect Your Room: Upon arrival, leave your luggage in the bathroom (an unlikely place for bedbugs) and inspect the room. Check the bed, headboard, bedside tables, and any sofas or chairs. Look for live bugs, rust-colored stains, or tiny black dots (bedbug droppings).
  2. UV Light Sweep: You can be your very own CSI agent and use a UV-A flashlight to look for bugs.  If present they will glow bright, like how Scorpions glow under the save UV light.  We carry the Torchy UV Light from Neebo This light unlike most offers a Dual Band UV/black light to make it one, if not the best light for this purpose.
  1. Use a Spray & Kill Them: Consider spraying the bed, bedding, and floor of your room. Our choice is the Travel Size Bed Bug & Mite Killer Spray from Premo Guard.  With this spray you can simply spray your bed and surrounding area with a non-toxic Premo Guard Travel Spray, anywhere bed bugs can be found, and once dry, jump in and sleep like a baby!  It’s that simple.  It is eco-friendly and safe for everyone even pets and kids when used properly. You can order directly and get Free Shipping from Premoguard here.
  2. Elevate Your Luggage: Keep your suitcase on a luggage rack, away from the bed and walls. Regularly inspect the rack itself for any signs of bedbugs.
  3. Minimize Contact: Keep your belongings in your suitcase rather than unpacking them into drawers or closets. Use the suitcase stand if provided, and keep your suitcase closed when not in use.
  4. Avoid Clutter: Keep your room tidy and your belongings stowed away to reduce hiding spots for bedbugs.
  5. Consider Using Protective Bags: If you’ve brought them, use protective bags for your shoes and electronics, which can also harbor bedbugs.

Personal Vigilance: Don’t Let the Bedbugs Bite

  1. Sleepwear: Consider wearing pajamas that cover as much skin as possible, reducing the area where bedbugs can bite.
  2. Inspect Your Sleeping Area: Give the bed a quick check each night. Pull back the sheets and inspect the mattress seams and box spring.
    This is where the UV Flashlight is so very important.
  3. Be Cautious with Shared Laundry Facilities: If you’re using shared laundry facilities, transport your clothes in plastic bags and fold them in your room.

After Your Trip: Prevention and Early Detection

  1. Unpack Carefully: Do this immediately upon returning home. Outside or in a garage is best to prevent any potential bedbugs from entering your living space.
  2. Spray and Treat items: Again, products from Premo Guard might be a great thought here if you have the little buggers or just want to be safe.  In addition to the travel-size bottle, they do make bigger bottles and lots of products to safely kill Bedbugs, Mites, Fleas, and more with Eco-Friendly products that are guaranteed to work.
  3. Laundry: Wash all your clothes in hot water and dry on the highest setting for at least 30 minutes. Bedbugs cannot survive high temperatures.
    Premo Guard also has laundry soap – Buy Direct now
  4. Vacuum Your Luggage: Carefully vacuum suitcases before storing them away, and immediately dispose of the vacuum bag in a sealed container outside your home.
  5. Inspect and Store: Give your luggage a thorough inspection before putting it away. Store luggage away from your bedroom if possible, such as in a garage or basement.
  6. Be Proactive: If you suspect you have brought back bedbugs, contact a pest control professional immediately. The sooner an infestation is addressed, the easier it is to control.

In Case of Bedbugs: Mitigating the Situation

If, despite your best efforts, you suspect that bedbugs have traveled home with you, it’s important to act swiftly:

  1. Isolate: Keep the suspected items isolated to prevent the spread.
  2. Inspect Everything: Perform a thorough inspection of your belongings, bedding, and furniture.
  3. Heat Treatment: Consider using a portable heating chamber designed to kill bedbugs in household items.
  4. Professional Help: If there’s evidence of an infestation in your home, contact pest control professionals who specialize in bedbug extermination.

Travel is a wonderful way to enrich your life, but it pays to be cautious. The steps outlined here will help you prevent bedbugs from turning your home into their vacation destination. By staying informed and proactive, you can focus on creating pleasant travel memories, free from the unwelcome aftermath of bedbug infestations.

– Safe travels

Any Questions about Luggage stop into
Traveling Bags store located at 3830 S. Moorland Road in New Berlin, WI,
Find us online at TravelingBagsMKE.com or
Call us at (414) 817-0222

Is Your Luggage Ready to Travel?

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If you plan on traveling in the future, or have a student heading off to college and plans on using luggage… make sure they are ready to go. It only takes a minute.
We are reminding you about this because travel season is coming fast and if your bag needs repair it takes time…. Or you maybe should add New Luggage to your Shopping list.

WE FIX LUGGAGE, bags, purses, and more… repair times are getting back to normal but it still takes time. Estimates are usually free and if we can’t fix your bag we always offer a little something if you choose to replace that bag with us here in the store We can’t fix everything but we are pretty good.

As for more new luggage than ever. New lines new styles, and as always are trusted Travelpro and Briggs & Riley brands too. All reasonably priced luggage.

Plan now so there isn’t a Luggage Emergency in your future.

Safe Travels Everyone…

Any Questions about Luggage stop into
Traveling Bags store located at 3830 S. Moorland Road in New Berlin, WI,
Find us online at TravelingBagsMKE.com or
Call us at (414) 817-0222

Luggage Warranties – Everything You Need to Know

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Luggage warranties, also known as baggage warranties or suitcase warranties, are policies provided by luggage manufacturers or retailers to cover certain types of damage or defects in your luggage. These warranties vary in terms of coverage, duration, and specific conditions, but they generally serve to provide some peace of mind for consumers when purchasing luggage. Here are some key points to know about luggage warranties:

  1. Types of Luggage Warranties:

    Limited Warranty: Most luggage warranties are limited in scope and typically cover manufacturing defects and workmanship issues. This means they will repair or replace your luggage if it experiences problems due to faulty materials or craftsmanship. These warranties are usually in effect for a specific period, often a few years. These warranties may be listed as Lifetime, 10-year, 5-year, or just “Limited” The important part to note is the word “LIMITED”.  At Traveling Bags, we do see issues that are covered by this type of warranty but more times than not, the issues brought in for repair are not covered under a limited warranty.

    Full Warranty: In some rare cases, luggage manufacturers may offer more comprehensive warranties that cover a wider range of issues, including wear and tear. These warranties often have longer durations, possibly extending the life of the product.  Some manufacturers do however make it a little more difficult to get service.  You may have to ship your bag back to them for service at your expense, while others have authorized repair centers like Traveling Bags that do repairs for manufactuers locally.
  2. Coverage:

    Manufacturing Defects: Luggage warranties commonly cover issues like broken zippers, damaged handles, stitching problems, design issues, and wheel malfunctions that occur due to manufacturing defects.

    Material Quality: They can also cover issues related to the quality of materials used in the luggage, such as issues with the shell, frame, or other components.

    Limited Wear and Tear: Some warranties may offer partial coverage for wear and tear, which is less common. This coverage may vary depending on the warranty terms.
  3. Exclusions:

    Luggage warranties often have limitations and may not cover damage caused by mishandling, abuse, accidents, or airline mishandling. They may also exclude damage caused by extreme conditions, like exposure to extreme temperatures or liquids.

    It is easier to think of it like your automobile.  Things that go wrong not caused by you using it properly are covered. Things like tires, not changing the oil, and driving your car through a Hailstorm are not warranty issues, just like damage caused by using your bag, or having the gorillas at the airport abuse the bags.  We know it sucks, but there are bags that do have great coverage.
  4. Duration:

    The duration of luggage warranties varies widely. Some warranties are for one year, while others may extend for several years or even offer a lifetime warranty. The length of the warranty may reflect the manufacturer’s confidence in the quality of their product.
  5. Warranty Registration:
    Some luggage manufacturers require you to register your product after purchase to activate the warranty. Failure to register might result in the warranty not being valid.
  6. Proof of Purchase:

    To make a warranty claim, you usually need to provide proof of purchase, such as a receipt or invoice.  A good idea is to make a copy of the receipt. Put it in a plastic baggie and leave it in the suitcase in a small pocket or even behind the service zipper in the bag.  That way you will have it, and it will be easy to find.
  7. Warranty Claims:

    If you encounter an issue covered by the warranty, you typically need to contact the manufacturer or retailer to initiate a warranty claim. Generally, you will need to use their website and hunt a little bit to find the customer service/warranty area.  Hopefully it will guide you through the process, which may involve sending the luggage for inspection or repair.
  8. When Damage Occurs

    The best advice we can give you is whenever you give someone else your luggage to handle, if possible, watch them and always check your bag. Be it at the airport, or buses, train, taxi, shuttle, etc. when you get the bag back check it over, top to bottom,

    Wheels
    Grab Handles on the top bottom, and sides
    The Pull-Up-Handle / Trolly Handle
    Zippers, broken and missing
    Bumpers and FeetSeams
    The case for crack & tears

    Make sure to check your luggage if find any damage. Photograph The Damage and document It with that company immediately.  Often companies have a 24 or 48-hour rule to report damage. But it is always best to do it immediately.  Take the attitude that you don’t need to resolve the issue immediately only that you get them to document the damage they caused and provide you with proof of that.  You can sort out the details later.
  9. What luggage to choose

    There are all types of luggage available for all different types of travelers.  If you primarily take car trips and handle your own bags, you can probably get a lesser-quality bag because you will take care of it.   On the other extreme if you travel even 2 -3- 4 times a month by air you really need to consider making the investment into quality luggage. 

    It’s important to carefully read and understand the terms and conditions of a luggage warranty before making a purchase, as they can vary significantly between different brands and models.  If purchasing online, take the time to search out the information, don’t be fooled by the bold headings, read the fine print.   If shopping in a store, ask the salesperson who is helping you if they don’t know anything about the products they are selling, consider that you may be in the wrong store.  Would you buy anything else from a salesperson who couldn’t explain the product they are selling?
  10. Things to look for when selecting luggage are not just looks, features, and price, but also these things:
  • Where can I take it if I have an issue”
  • What is the return/service Policy?
  • What is the actual Warranty?
  • If/when I have an issue how do I get service?
  • If it is something simple will they just send a part?
  • How long does the service process take?

The last big thing to remember when it comes to dealing with damaged luggage is to remember often Travel Insurance helps cover the cost of not only lost luggage but Damaged Luggage too.
If you’re concerned about potential luggage damage during air travel, consider talking with your travel agent (or contact Holly the owner of Latitudes Travel) about travel insurance, which can provide more comprehensive coverage for your belongings, including your luggage, while in transit.

Any Questions about Luggage stop into
Traveling Bags store located at 3830 S. Moorland Road in New Berlin, WI,
Find us online at TravelingBagsMKE.com or
Call us at (414) 817-0222

Customer Service

Call Us: 414-817-0222

Contact Us

Traveling Bags
3830 S. Moorland Rd.
Suite C
New Berlin, WI 53151

Phone: 414-817-0222

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