If you haven’t tried smart luggage yet – and you’re staying loyal to the old tried-and-tested because it seems to be doing alright and it has seen you through a fair few holidays – then you’re missing out. Missing out on the most revolutionary movement in carry-on bags since expandable zips, spinning wheels and telescopic handles.
The best thing is that smart luggage is something you can get involved in that doesn’t change any of your travelling habits – it just enhances it. Smart luggage incorporates all the essentials of 21st century technology such as battery packs and even GPS locators into easy-to-use everyday luggage. It's that simple.
A new breed of luggage-makers has espied the relatively uninspiring approach to the wheelie suitcase and decided to do something about it. Horizn Studios, the innovative design studio based out of Berlin, is spearheading a new generation of reliable and good-looking luggage that incorporates a range of ‘smart’ features. The German-based brand uses its signature aerospace-grade polycarbonate shell as a lightweight protective casing for each suitcase, which makes each one tough and durable. Not to mention good-looking. Nor, the best smart luggage carry on feature – the removable 10,000 smart battery charger.
You will probably be aware that some airlines are pushing back against smart luggage because of the lithium-ion batteries that most incorporate. As of January 15th, 2018, all battery luggage must be removable from the checked-in cabin luggage. However, for smart carry-on luggage, the battery pack can remain in place and be used through the flight. Either way, it isn’t a problem when it comes to the Horizn Studios M Suitcase because the battery is entirely removable. Travellers who use smart suitcases are usually going to be carrying it on the plane anyway, so the problem does cease to exist. However, if you’re in need of more space but still the same smart features, then check out the Horizn Studios' check in bag – the larger Model H Luggage.
The smart luggage features don’t stop there, though. Owners of any Horizn studios luggage also have the option of tracking their Horizn Luggage using a GPS system linked to a smartphone application with a device called the Horizn Guard Card, which features a proximity alert that helps you not leave things behind. It's not essential but its something you will certainly appreciate if you ever need to use it.
Horizn Studios Luggage Test
We thought it was all well and good to highlight the strengths and weaknesses – although they are largely strengths – of Horizn Studios luggage, so we thought we’d put it to the test. We took the Horizn Model M – the leading smart luggage carry on – on our travels last week and it soon became clear to see why it’s considered to be the best carry case around.
Despite its diminutive 55cm x 40cm x 20cm size the carry-on bag has a spacious volume of 35 litres. Which is plenty of space for two people’s luggage for a long weekend away. Beyond its ergonomic design, and easy-to-use smart features, the smart luggage is incredibly tough and hard-wearing. The Horizn Studios Model M employs the same hard polycarbonate shell that we outlined above, and it features a functional front pocket made of Italian Vacchetta leather which is lined with nylon. Great to keep all the essentials in easy reach and away from the larger zipped case.
But the best part is the versatility of the case. With the Horizn M case you can essentially jump on it and it springs back into shape. Which means you needn’t worry what tight spaces or scrapes the carry-on bag will get into, it will look great and not crack under the pressure.
However, it’s also the small, considered details that makes the Horizn M case particularly fun to use. The Japanese 360-degree spinner wheels offer a smooth glide that is easy to push through all long airport walks. They last, too. There’s no deterioration, just a smooth glide time after time. If there was any sign of age, though, it's not a cause for concern. All Horizn luggage comes with a 30-year warranty which will put your mind at ease when you do decide to put your bag in the hold and wonder what state it will come out in.
Horizn Studios Luggage Review
Any Horizn Studios review is best kept short and sweet. So here it is. The Horizn Model M is not only the perfect smart luggage case but the perfect cabin case. It’s good-looking, ergonomic, tough, affordable and incredibly long-lasting. In the last few years where the biggest innovation in smart luggage has been the change from two wheels to four, Horizn are raising the bar to new levels and being the technology disrupter in the modern travel industry.
The Horizn Studios Smart Luggage Specifications
- One-click removable smart charger – cabin approved for all airlines
- One-year access to Horizn GO
- High-end Japanese 360° spinner wheels
- Aerospace-grade polycarbonate hard shell
- Water-resistant front pocket for up to 15” laptop and travel essentials
- Inbuilt compression pad and premium laundry bag
- Height x Width x Depth 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm
- Volume 33 l
- Weight 4 kg
- 30-year warranty
Shop and explore all cabin bags and smart luggage at OPUMO.
