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[taltalim]

A generous research travel grant turned me into an academic vagabond for this academic year and the coming. I tried to reduce the stuff I am shlepping through three continents, but still, I need one regular (regular on the smaller side) and one small trolley that can pass as a carry-on if necessary. United Airlines ruined the regular suitcase (a Samsonite polycarb) on the first flight, and now Turkish Airlines shredded the smaller suitcase (a Skywalk nylon).

Obviously, neither polycarb nor ballistic nylon is the solution.

My suitcases are my "home" right now, and I need something reliable that will survive the two years. Right now, I am in Europe where I saw aluminum suitcases made by "Rinowa." They are unbelievable expansive but since I don't pay rent this year and the next, I am willing to invest two months rent into new suitcases if I can be sure that my books and other research material will travel safely.

Any recommendations or experience with these aluminum suitcases?

Thank you all!

[deleteplease]

I haven't tried aluminum, but always worry that hardsided luggage will
get crushed.

Eagle Creek makes very durable soft luggage.

One trick for awful airlines -- get a cheap canvas duffel (miltary
surplus, e.g.) and before you check your main piece of rolling
luggage, put it in the $20-30 duffel. If the duffel gets wrecked,
it's cheap to replace and your real luggage will stays intact inside it
(and the duffel can be stuffed into your suitcase when you are not
using it)

[taltalim]

Thank you!
Double-wrapping is a good idea. I am just afraid that it means a lot of shopping stress since I often stay at one place for not more than five days. Istanbul was really stress: archive closes at 6 pm, I don't speak any Turkish but had to run around shopping for a new suitcase in the evenings.

I am longing for uncrushable fire- and water-proof stainless steel travel safes :)

[dolljepopp]

Rimowa has a very good reputation, although they are out of my price range. Ditto Tumi and Victorinox.

I've had good service out of a hundred-Euro regular pull-behind from Nike. (It was a gift -- I wouldn't have thought to buy Nike luggage.)

I don't fly more than a few times a year, but I am on a train about every other weekend.

[euro_trash]

Here is another point - if you can get a weird or unusual colored case it will help you find it at the airport.  I got my Samsonite on steroids custom painted florescent orange.  I never have a problem finding it...