Design Hunting - For the Traveler Who Never Checks a Bag

Their least favorite part of any trip is waiting for the overpackers to claim their checked bags. They don’t mind repeating outfits to save on bag fees, and the only souvenirs they buy are tiny trinkets. Yet, whether they’re headed to the gym or on a week’s vacation, everything goes in the same (increasingly worn out) duffel. It’s time for an upgrade.

Available in 40 or 49 cubic liter sizes, the Catalina Deluxe has interior and exterior zipper slip pockets, which keep smaller items neatly stowed and travel essentials within easy reach. A separate bottom compartment can isolate footwear or dirty clothes – especially handy after an outdoorsy weekend (or just a sweaty gym session on the way to work).

Meanwhile, a messenger strap with optional memory-foam padding makes it easy to schlep from the plane’s overhead bin all the way to the impossibly far away Uber pickup area. And if your light-packing friend does cave and bring a checked bag, a suitcase handle sleeve makes transporting both items a breeze.

“It doesn’t hurt to ask your recipients to create a five-to-ten-item wish list. You can use it as a jumping-off point to find something within the same vein, or if you do end up just buying something off their list, it’ll still be a semi-surprise.” – Kitty Guo, writer