Do You Really Need Smart Luggage?

These days, there are all kinds of tech gadgets that are designed to make traveling easier and more enjoyable. In recent years, so-called “smart luggage” has been introduced by many major luggage brands. One of the most notable features offered by many types of smart luggage is the ability to charge one’s devices on-the-go with a built-in battery.

Before you spend your hard-earned money on a piece of smart luggage for the convenience of charging your devices, however, there are some things you should know.

New Restrictions On Non-Removable Batteries

For starters, many of these smart luggage options that have built-in chargers come with lithium-ion batteries that are non-removable. Due to security concerns, many airlines (including American Airlines and Delta Airlines) have placed bans on any bags with non-removable batteries. This includes both checked baggage and carry-ons. The main concern with these non-removable batteries is that they can post a combustion/fire hazard. This is the same reason certain smartphones and even hoverboards have been recently banned from many airlines.

Unfortunately, for those who have already invested in smart luggage without a removable battery, this will essentially prevent travelers from being able to use it while flying. On the other hand, there are a few luggage brands that do make their batteries removable, and these will not be affected by the ban.

Those who have been thinking about purchasing smart luggage with built-in batteries and chargers may want to re-think this, especially since it is only expected that more airlines will continue to place bans on these items. Combine this with the fact that these smart luggage options are usually quite costly, and you could end up wasting a lot of your hard-earned money for a product you won’t even be able to take on a plane.

Alternatives To Smart Luggage

While the prospect of being able to charge your phone or other wireless devices while on-the-go may be tempting, the fact remains that there are more practical alternatives to consider before you spend your money on a piece of smart luggage. Consider, for example, that there are plenty of options for charging your devices at most airports. It’s usually not difficult to find an unoccupied wall outlet where you can plug in your own charger.

If that’s not your cup of tea, you can also purchase a portable wireless charger/battery pack for charging your devices anywhere at the airport without having to be plugged into a wall outlet. These battery packs can be charged up before you leave and can provide extra juice to your devices anywhere. Furthermore, most airlines will still allow you to keep these in your checked or carry-on bags, so there is no concern there. And of course, it’s a lot cheaper to buy an external charger or battery pack than it is to buy an entirely new piece of luggage with a lithium-ion battery built in. By having one of these external chargers, you can essentially turn any bag into a “smart” bag without the price tag or concern over whether or not it will be allowed on the plane.

If you’re still set on smart luggage with its own charger built-in, just make sure you’re purchasing one with a removable battery if you ever plan on bringing your luggage with you on a plane or even checking it. After all, it’s probably not long before many other major airlines follow suit and prevent baggage with non-removable lithium-ion batteries from being brought onto their planes.

Luggage Today

If you’re looking for quality luggage that’s designed with today’s traveler in mind, CHESTER luggage is the way to go. We offer a wide range of different styles, sizes, and colors to suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for a basic carry-on bag or luggage that’s loaded with unique storage compartments for all your belongings, we’ve got you covered. We take great pride in the fact that our luggage is built with some of the strongest materials on the market, so it will stand up to your travels.

Our luggage may not come with the bells and whistles of “smart luggage,” but we can guarantee that our bags won’t be banned from airlines anytime soon. At the same time, our baggage designs can help to make your life easier and take the stress out of traveling.

Don’t fall into the trap of “trendy” smart luggage when you can purchase your own external charger or battery pack for a fraction of the price and not have to worry about airline restrictions. Instead, be smart with your next luggage purchase by treating yourself to something that is both stylish and practical. No matter what you’re looking for, you can find luggage to reflect your unique personality here at CHESTER. We’re also proud to offer free two-day shipping with all orders, so you can have your luggage ready to pack before you embark on your next trip.