Travel Center Tip #2

Attaches

This is a fully framed, box-shaped case that comes with a key or combination lock. The inside of the case is fitted with pockets for files, business cards, pens, calculator, PDA, etc. It opens flat, so that the contents are easily seen and you can use it like a desk. If this idea works for you, but you’re looking for something different than the traditional, leather case, you won’t be disappointed. There are contemporary styled ones out there that look very high-tech.

Briefbags and Flapovers

A typical briefbag that opens at the top with a hinged frame, has a combination or key lock, and usually has a flap closure. The interior is either one large compartment, or divided into two or three sections; sometimes referred to as a single gusset, double gusset or triple gusset case. The gussetted sections allow for expandability. Since a large volume of books or papers can fit inside, they are popular with attorneys, accountants and students.

You can also get a flapover case that is in fact just that. It doesn’t have a frame, it’s a soft case with a flapover that’s secured by a turn-lock or one or two buckle system.

Zip Styles

A popular bag and one which you see the most of. They come with a top zipper or one that zips around. Options include organizer pockets inside, outside pockets, a top carry handle, a detachable shoulder strap and expandability features. Check the size of the organizer pockets to make sure what you want to carry there fits, like your PDA, cell phone or other specialized electonics.

Catalog Cases

A long single flap closes these rectangular cases or doubles flaps where one fits over the over. The most popular ones today are wheeled. They are rigid cases designed for maximum carrying capacity. The 18” is seen more often, but if want to carry computer printouts and/or even more stuff, look for a 20” size.

Envelopes, Slim Briefs and Portfolios

If you carry a minimum of papers home with you, or for just going to meetings, this is for you. Underarm styles are simple and lightweight. Others have a detachable shoulder strap and/or a top carry handle. Some have retractable carry handles. Zippered expandability is another feature. You might want to consider this in addition to the traditional briefcase you own, as many times a lightweight, slim profile portfolio you can grab, throw in what you need and go is just the ticket.

Offices on the Go

Relatively new on the scene are all in one cases that roll, secure your laptop and files, as well as providing a separate section for clothes and items needed for an overnight trip. Some designs allow you to operate your laptop right from the case. Very cool.

Alternative Ideas

This very well may be the hottest category of all. As our lifestyle continues toward the more casual, manufacturers have come up with all sorts of styles. For women, there are business totes that look simple on the outside, but with interiors fitted for business essentials. What about a computer backpack? Front flap messenger bags in all sorts of fabrics and colors are available. Even more styles are outfitted with bungee cords, mesh side compartments, water bottle compartments and more.

What about Construction?

We all know you can find a dozen cases at your local office supply store. But are these really constructed well enough to withstand the usage a business case really goes through? Here are some things to look for after you’ve honed in on a case:

Leather. Is it really leather? And if its labeled as such, does it say what type? There are so many different types, this subject is an article in itself. However, watch out for split grain and “leather-like”. And smell it. If it doesn’t smell like it’s supposed to, then there’s something wrong! Good quality leather is defined as top grain, full grain, cowhide, nappa, and belting. The smell of top quality leather should transport you to sitting in a brand new leather interior car – wonderful!

Construction & Hardware. Important. Does the lid of an attache stay open? Put something heavy in a soft case and check if the bottom sags downward. If it’s a framed case, twist the case slightly to make sure it doesn’t wobble from side to side. If it’s a case that’s supposed to stand up on its own, make sure it does. Check the quality of the hardware and lock mechanism. If it’s a keyed lock, it should be solid brass for durability.

Handles. Pick up the case, and again put something heavy in it. Are the handles comfortable and do they seem sturdy enough? Put the shoulder strap on. Is it both removable and adjustable? Does the case hang the way you like it when it’s on your shoulder? Walk around the store with it.

Finished Edges and Stitching. If the case is leather, look at how the edges are finished. Look under the handle and see if there’s a gap where the edges meet. Make sure the coloring doesn’t come off when you rub the edges. Are all edges bound, or turned and sewn close to the edge? Make sure the stitching is evenly spaced, no loose ends, and no places where the stitching ends prematurely.

Interior. Check out what material is used for the interior of the case. This is where the cheaper cases really suffer, because manufacturer’s will use inferior quality materials to line a case. Are all the pockets the right size? Will it accommodate legal size file folders if you need it to?

Zippers. Do the zippers look the right size for the case? Do they zip and unzip smoothly and stay closed? Make sure they’re sewn in and not just glued.

And last of all, ask what the store’s return policy is. If you start using it and something just doesn’t work right, you want to be able to take it back and get something else. And remember , if you get it monogrammed with your name or initials, it’s yours!