travel bags used by pilots

The 5 Best Luggages for Pilots and Flight Crew (2024 Reviews)

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You need luggage that will keep up with your constant travels. The last thing you want is for your suitcase to fall apart on the plane or tarmac on the first day of a trip. It has to endure vans, cabs, airport stairs and escalators, overheads, cockpits, and sometimes baggage compartments . There are plenty of suitcases to choose from, but you need something elite to the average passenger roller.

First, here’s the information you need to narrow down your search for the right bag.

Our Luggage Buying Guide

There are three main features to look for when you’re choosing luggage: size, weight, and warranty. Price and appearance are also important, but you can consider these aspects once you’ve narrowed down your options.

Luggage Size

You want the luggage to be large enough to hold your clothes and personal items, but not too big that it won’t fit in the overhead bins. Bags that measure around 22-inches are roomy and still fit in most baggage compartments in US. Also, keep in mind that in Europe, carry-on size limits vary and can be as small as 16 x 8 inches, and airlines weigh and use sizers more often. Many manufacturers, including those recommended below, offer smaller versions of the same bag better suited for European travel.

Luggage Weight

Optimally, your suitcase should weigh around 10 lbs. before it’s packed. Even for short trips, you’ll be packing it full, so you still want it easy to carry. You will be lifting it over your head to put in the overhead, putting it in the cab or van, or carrying it up stairs many times per day. You’ll appreciate a bag where most of the weight is from your own things. Save the arm workouts for the gym.

Luggage Warranty

Look for luggage that comes with a manufacturer’s warranty. Even a limited one will give you some protection. Undoubtedly, all the bags we recommend are very durable, but a warranty covers your investment even further. Again, as a pilot or member of the flight crew, you’ll be putting a lot of miles on the luggage.

Straps, wheels, and zippers can and do break. Other problems can also occur with suitcases over time. If the damage is due to normal wear and tear, a warranty will ensure you don’t have to pay out-of-pocket to get the luggage repaired or replaced.

Additional Features

Finally, think about whether you need interior pockets or ones on the side. Extendable handles and 4 “spinner” wheels on the bottom are other features you might want to have. A “suitor” is a nice feature to pack and keep your uniform blazer wrinkle-free. For maximum durability, luggage that comes with metal frames can last for years.

The following bags are our top picks, designed with the important qualities mentioned above and airline personnel in mind.

Our List of Best Luggage for Pilots and Flight Crew

Luggageworks stealth premier 22” rolling bag.

Standout Features:

• Metal frame with aluminum handle rods
• Fitted ballistic fabric shell with new protective padding and reinforced handles
• Rubber wheels with steel Bearings
• Optional airline logo and monogram text
• Limited 3 year warranty included
• Ergonomic grip handle

Briggs & Riley Spinners, Black, 22-Inch

• Unconditional Lifetime guarantee
• Garment pockets
• Lightweight
• Durable construction, made with ballistic nylon outer fabric that resists wear
• Expandable/collapsible design to increase packing capacity 34%
• Powerpocket: Conveniently store battery pack for charging on the go

Vortex 21 Flight Crew Luggage Roller

The Vortex 21 is another extremely durable bag with an aluminum frame, designed with flight crew in mind, at a very reasonable price . It weighs at 12.8 lbs. There are plenty of outside pockets to hold keys, passports, and magazines, with a mesh pocket inside . Also, it comes with a lifetime warranty on the frame, but the outer fabric is only covered for three years. Further, the “skin” is replaceable, so if it wears out, you can keep the frame and buy a skin. Pilots report that it fits well in the CRJ200, better than other crew bags.

• Stainless steel rivets and reinforced bolts
• Highly tear & abrasive resistant waterproof cordura ballistic nylon
• Smooth wheel action
• YKK stainless steel zippers
• Includes personalized embroidered top handle
• Lifetime warranty on the frame

Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Luggage, Black, Carry-On 22-Inch

TravelPro’s newest product for flight crews is selling quickly and builds on prior models.  It uses the same durable and lightweight materials, weighing only 7.7 lbs. Most important, the Limited Lifetime warranty covers wheels, zippers, extension and carrying handles. A 3-year “Companion Promise” warranty covers all repair for damage caused by an airline. A USB port is built into the suitcase, with a dedicated battery pocket, however you must provide your own battery pack . An ergonomic, heigh adjustable handle makes it easy to control the suitcase through crowded airports . 

Our favorite feature is the built in, fold out suitor. Many times we need to travel with our blazer, without needing to constantly wear it. The suitor keeps our uniform blazer wrinkle-free during travel. Furthermore, for non-work travel, we love the removable quart sized wet pocket for toiletries. It makes life easy, especially after the increased KCM randoms. 

If you prefer four 360-degree wheels for upright gliding, click here . 

• Built-in USB charging port, however you must provide your own battery pack
• Limited Lifetime warranty plus 3-year Companion Promise for handling damage
• Built in fold out suitor
• Removable quart-size TSA compliant wet pocket
• High quality ballistic nylon construction
• Stain and scratch resistant DuraGuard coating
• Option for 8 ultra-durable, 360 degree magnatrac spinner wheels using precision glide system.

Timbuk2 Co-Pilot Luggage Roller Suitcase

The Timbuk2 Co-Pilot is sleek, stylish, durable and weighs less than 10 lbs. This affordable bag comes with a lifetime warranty that covers defects in materials or workmanship for replacement parts . It does not cover normal wear and tear or cosmetic damage. A padded outer pocket protects electronic devices, and there’s a mesh divider inside to help keep your belongings organized . Owners love the removable smooth, quiet, skateboard wheels, and the reinforced grab handles on all sides for easy loading in overheads. Make sure to get the medium (22″)  or small (20″) to use as a carry on. 

• Lifetime warranty in materials and workmanship
• Removable skateboard wheels
• Mesh divider inside and padded outer pocket
• Bike-inspired comfort roller handle system

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21 Best Pilot Luggage: Top Bags Pilots And Flight Crew Use

Your guide to the best pilot luggage with the best features for air travel including the perfect small size carry-on bag as well as pilot suitcases in larger sizes.

Nathan Heinrich

• January 6, 2024

My father has been a private pilot for nearly 50 years, I can tell you, from personal experience, that no one holds the secret to the best pilot luggage better than pilots themselves.

I come from a family of pilots.   Two of my grandfathers were pilots, my dad and his brothers were pilots and I have four brothers who are pilots.   So I’ve been exposed to a wide range of pilot luggage and gear over the years.

The typical commercial pilot, as well as private pilots, knows that the best flight bags are made of high-quality material, are lightweight, and are a compact size with enough extra space for a change of clothes, flight documents, or anything else that a good pilot might need to pack for a trip.

Besides some of the best pilot luggage options available on Amazon, I will also share two secret flight industry sites that only pilots and flight crew know about and use for all their luggage and flying supplies.

Have You Ever Noticed How Smart Pilots And Flight Staff Look With Their Bags At The Airport?

When walking through an airport, have you noticed crew members and pilots, in their sharp uniforms, pulling their high-quality suitcases with their sleek designs?

It is no accident that flight attendants and airline pilots appear to have the most durable luggage with the best features.

It’s because, after millions of miles flown, they have discovered exactly what the best pilot bags are.

After recently speaking to several airline pilots and private cabin crew, I would like to share with you their opinions on the best pilot flight bags with the best options for both the short weekend trip as well as long trips.

While you can spend a lot for a good flight bag, there is a wide price range in luggage options and it is very possible to find the right bag that is both high quality and a very reasonable price.

The Best Carry On Bags And Luggage For Pilots & Flight Crew

This is a collection of the most durable luggage that flight crews and pilots prefer to use as a carry-on bag when packing smaller items in a larger bag is not practical.

Often these smaller flight bags and carry-on bags are paired with a smaller pilot flight bag or larger rolling bag, depending on the duration of the trip.

Briggs & Riley

For a long time, Briggs & Riley has been considered one of the best brands for pilot luggage.   

Whether you’re embarking on your first training flight or maybe you have been a pilot or member of a flight crew for years, the many different bags available from Briggs & Riley, with their attractive features and lifetime guarantee, are some of the best pilot bags, and best luggage products on the market.

Tassia Pilot Luggage

If you’re searching for a pilot’s bag for your constant travels as a member of a flight crew or as a commercial pilot, you’re sure to find an excellent bag at Tassia.

Specially made for the professional pilot, and designed to be stowed under or behind the pilot’s chair as well as in an overhead bin.

The perfect bag with plenty of pockets and a main compartment suitable for everything from a water bottle to personal items and important documents.

With a very reasonable price tag, this TravelPro   Maxlite carry-on is a great option for student pilots.

There are plenty of side pockets for all the small items you will be packing.

This TravelPro flight crew carry-on bag has a front pocket that is perfect for laptops and the padded pocket will ensure that your electronics arrive at your destination undamaged.

This is one of my personal favorite pieces of luggage from one of my luggage brands.   

The fact that Briggs & Riley offers a limited lifetime warranty on their bags makes them a very good idea for pilots or flight crew who travel more than anyone.

Briggs & Riley

This is not only an elegant spinner carry-on bag by Briggs & Riley it is also a highly practical luggage solution with enough pockets and storage space for several days worth of clothes.   

The best part is that this compact bag, which is perfect for flight crew and pilots, fits under the seat of commercial airlines.

This Swiss Gear soft-side bag is a low-cost option with more than 16k reviews averaging 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon.

This is the #1 Best Seller on Amazon for luggage.   While it might not be the last bag you ever buy, it’s a great starter bag for new pilots and flight crew.

ASA Airclassics

This is the classic student pilot bag.   Many pilots who start using this bag early in their careers come to love it so much that they end up using it for many years to come.   This is not a bag to pack clothes and other personal items, because of its small size.   

Typically this bag is used for specific items such as flight documents.   

The adjustable shoulder straps and the quality of this bag are some of the reasons my dad still has his first version of this pilot bag.

Sterling Pacific

Sterling Pacific is the bag you buy to make a bold and impressive statement.   Although the price tag is a bit steep, this beautiful piece of luggage is the last bag you will ever need to buy and you are guaranteed to get compliments and admiring stares every time you walk through an airport and onto a plane.

Pilots and flight attendants love this bag because it is highly durable and a truly classic piece of American luggage.

Samsonite is one of the most trusted names in the luggage business.   This is one of the best-selling bags with easy access front laptop compartment.   

If you’re interested in more carry-on luggage options, I wrote an article on “The 50 Best Carry-On Bags With Laptop Compartment” that you may find interesting.

This is another under-seat spinner carry-on bag by Samsonite that is a favorite of flight crew and pilots.   

In my opinion, it is an excellent option for someone who would rather not spend over $500 on a similar style Briggs & Riley bag.   One of my favorite details of this bag is the USB port.   

This “Grace” model Level8 carry-on bag makes it the perfect pilot bag with a laptop compartment.    Not only is this bag an Amazon’s Choice option it also has 8 roller wheels with a TSA combination lock.

Taygeer Laptop Pilot Bag

As any good pilot knows, you need to check your fuel before you fly.   One unique feature this pilot’s bag has is a number of water-resistant pockets – one of which can be used as a fuel tester pocket.

The side pockets and padded shoulder strap make this economical well-designed bag an excellent choice for pilots.   The affordable price of this city tote, crew-style bag puts it within easy reach of student pilots as well as commercial pilots.

Tumi brand luggage pieces are some of the most luxurious on the market.   Even though they are more commonly found in the first-class passenger cabin, I’ve seen a number of flight crew with one of these iconic bags.

Highly rated and highly admired, you can’t go wrong with a Tumi bag.

There are lots of garment bags on the market but there are none better than this particular model of Modoker duffle garment bag.

Not only can you carry this compact bag separately with its handy padded shoulder strap but you can also pack it into a larger carry-on or checked bag.

As small under-seat carry-on bags go, this is my favorite.   The spinner wheels make this bag so easy to navigate through an airport as well as down one of Italy’s cobblestone streets, which is where I live part of the year.

This is the type of bag that will last a lifetime and is a favorite of both pilots and flight attendants. 

This handsome roller bag looks like a million bucks but is actually quite affordable.   One of the highest-rated bags at this price point, this is a perfect bag for pilots and flight crew.

A handy built-in USB port, an easy-access laptop compartment, double TSA-approved security combination locks, a solid aluminum frame and exterior, and an overall appearance that will make you proud to pull this bag through any airport security checkpoint, make this one of the best pilot bags available.

72% of customers find this TravelPro Platinum Elite hard-side expandable to be with a 5-star rating.   

This is a very smart choice for a pilot or for anyone who travels regularly and wants a high-quality stylish bag to check or as an oversized carry-on.

This Level8 TSA-approved hardshell carry-on luggage is perfect for anyone looking for a modern design pilot bag.    

This is rated 5 stars by 75% of customers on Amazon.   In fact, this bag has earned the coveted title of an “Amazon Choice” product.

As legacy brands go, very few American luggage brands are more iconic than Samsonite.   

A 10-year warranty offered on this bag along with the recessed TSA combination lock and high-quality craftsmanship make this an excellent choice for a traveler who is putting in a lot of flight miles.

Read My Recent Article About The Best Italian Luggage Brands

Where do pilots shop for luggage, these are two secret sites where pilots shop for their bags and flying supplies.

Besides Amazon, there are two specialty sites where pilots and flight crew and I am going to share both of them with you here:

1. Crew Outfitters

Crew Outfitters is the flight industry’s leader for bags, luggage, and all pilot supplies.

Here’s what Crew Outfitters has to say about themselves on their website:

“Crew Outfitters and Stopover Stores have joined forces to bring you the best products and services for all airline personnel. Our team has years of industry experience to target exactly what you need. We proudly serve you from 11 locations conveniently located in airport terminals or on adjacent property.

The Crew Outfitters uniforms are unparalleled in quality, comfort and consistency. Together with our sister companies LuggageWorks and Premier Hat we offer the best products to meet your needs. In fact LuggageWorks products and your Premier Hat is manufactured in the Crew Outfitters distribution center in Aurora, Missouri.

We are dedicated to seeking new and innovative products to help you with the demanding job requirements of the airline industry. We listen to your wants and needs in order to provide you with the best experience. We strive to be YOUR one-stop shop.

Whether you’re a new or returning customer we want to welcome you to the Crew Outfitters experience. If you have any questions or comments please contact us at   [email protected] “

2. LuggageWorks

LuggageWorks is the The Pilot’s Choice For Luggage.   This American company has been serving the flight industry for over 30 years.   

Here’s what they have to say about their company:

“LuggageWorks was founded in 1989 with the mission to produce the best luggage to service the unique needs of the airline industry. Over the last 3 decades our luggage has evolved with the industry but the mission has remained. We now offer over 50 products for pilots and flight attendants with durability and functionality built into every item.

Our “Stealth” pilot bag is the industry standard and the definition of durability for tens of thousands of airline pilots. The aluminum frame and stainless steel handle have kept several models rolling in frequent use for 10+ years. The Stealth Air series was added recently to bring durability in a lighter package. Our Executive Series brings a plastic frame with enhanced durability and functionality. Our Aurora series brings that durability message to a functional package that is perfect for flight attendants.

Our luggage is built with serviceability in mind. Our Repair Center can handle any problem from a quick wheel change to a complete overhaul of your bag. Our service is enhanced with our sister company Crew Outfitters performing needed repairs at 9 locations located on airport property. We will keep you rolling.

Our customer service team is here to meet all of your needs. We are proud to be the luggage of choice for thousands of airline personnel. Whether you’re a new or returning customer we want to welcome you to the LuggageWorks experience. If you have any questions or comments please contact us at  [email protected] “

https://luggageworks.com/

What Does Every Pilot And Flight Crew Member Need For Travel Besides A Great Bag?

Vigaport J-Hook

Pilots know that the secret to carrying multiple bags through an airport is to use a J – Hook .

My favorite type of J Hook is the Vigorport brand version.   There are several different brands that make a similar product, but in my opinion, the Vigorport J Hook is by far the best option.

Once you get used to traveling with a J Hook you will never be able to travel without one again.

Best Luggage Brands For Pilots And Passengers

Crew outfitters, luggageworks, american tourister, amazon basics, eagle creek.

What Are Commercial Airline Regulations For Carry On Travel Bags?

General rules rules for most airline bag size requirements:.

• Personal item: Maximum 17 inches by 10 inches by 9 inches
• Carry-on baggage: Maximum 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches

What Is A TSA-Approved Lock?

Built-in luggage locks or independent luggage locks help to secure your baggage.

However, if you use the wrong type of lock, you may have serious problems with airport security if you use the wrong luggage locks.

The secret to success is to use TSA-approved luggage locks.

These special locks are uniquely designed locks that can be opened with a special security key  by TSA agents if a bag needs to be searched by airport security when the owner of the bag is not present.

Best TSA-approved Combination Locks

Here are some of the best TSA-approved locks you can buy:

• AnvilTSA Approved Luggage Locks
• Forge TSA Approved Luggage Locks
• Lumintrail TSA Approved All Metal Combination Lock
• Master Lock 4688D Luggage Lock
• Sure Lock TSA Lock with SearchAlert – 2 Pack

We have covered the 21 best pilot luggage options so you can find the right size bag whether you’re a pilot, flight attendant, or business traveler.   The luggage we discussed here covers all the bases.

Also, I shared with you two secret pilot and flight industry sites where pilots and flight crew have been buying their gear for decades.

As my two grandfathers, dad, uncles, and brothers, who are all pilots, would say:

“All clear”

“Keep the blue skies up”

“Red over white, you’re all right”

“Aviate, Navigate, Communicate”

“Red sky in the morning, pilot’s warning Red sky in the evening, pilot’s delight”

“Roger that”

Best of luck with your shopping for the best pilot luggage and fly safe.

Disclosure:

Here at All Roads Lead To Italy, we only recommend products we would use ourselves and all opinions expressed here are our own.

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In some cases, we may earn a small commission.

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Nathan is a writer, designer & horticulturist. He is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of "All Roads Lead to Italy" Magazine & host of the Top-10 Travel Podcast, "I'm Moving To Italy!". Nathan was born and raised in a 6th generation farming family in Northern California, he is currently, a dual Italian citizen, living in the Prosecco Valley of Northern Italy, near Venice.

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What Luggage Do Pilots And Flight Attendants Use?

Last Updated on September 12, 2023

Key Takeaways

• Pilots and flight attendants often fly with 2 bags to take full advantage of carry-on size limits
• Luggage Works, Strong Bags, Briggs & Riley, Travel Pro, Rimowa, Level8, and Zero Halliburton, are brands that are popular with pilots and cabin crew

Pilots and flight attendants fly more often than any other group of people.

Even frequent business fliers don’t usually travel anywhere near as much as pilots do!

So it makes sense that if you want to know what the most durable luggage is…

Ask a flight attendant or a pilot!

We did exactly that and this post examines the responses so that more pax (that’s what pilots call passengers) like you and me can figure out the most durable luggage.

Pilots and cabin crew often travel with a 2 bag setup:

• The 1st bag will be a larger carry on bag sized to fit inside the overhead bins.
• The 2nd bag will be a pilots flight bag designed to be taken inside the cockpit

Often the pilots flight bag will be seen strapped onto the carry on bag. Flight bags also often have wheels themselves and if the pilot or flight attendant has checked their luggage they can be seen rolling these smaller flight bags around the airport.

When it comes to pilots luggage there seems to be 2 main approaches.

• Buy a case with a really good warranty so if it breaks it can be repaired
• Buy a case that is “indestructible” because of a steel frame or aluminium hard shell

In view of that let’s take a look at luggage brands that are popular with pilots and flight attendants.

Luggage Works

The Luggage Work Stealth Series of rolling bags are coveted by pilots who don’t have one yet and treasured by the pilots that already picked one up.

Some models have steel frames and are built to last!

While I’m sure “indestructible” is an exaggeration they are built to withstand the rigors of daily use by professional fliers.

The warranty period is three years from the date of purchase. They are particularly loved because they are easy to repair.

The downside might be the added weight. It might be that while these bags are the best for working pilots they are not ideal for travelers.

Pilots are traveling for work and on domestic flights often end up back in their own bed at night. On layovers or turnaround flights their airline puts them up in a hotel near the airport.

This means the the life of a pilots carry on bag isn’t the same as a tourists carry on bag. They are not dragging their carry around cobbled streets or taking it with them while sightseeing.

Pilots also sometimes choose a specific bag that suits the plane that they fly. For example, Luggage Works produce a bag that is specifically designed with no side pockets to fit in the pilots tight storage space on a Boeing 737.

Luggage Works are the only company that I know that have positioned themselves as “makers of suitcases for pilots and crew”. It’s all over their marketing and they will even customize your bag with the logo of the airline that you work for.

I bet you never knew it was so complicated!

Pro Tip – If you do check your bag Luggage Works bags are generally recognized by TSA staff as pilots luggage and are less likely to be selected for inspection.

Briggs & Riley

Briggs and Riley make fantastic high quality luggage and they are the only company that I know of that offer a lifetime guarantee.

This has led them to be very popular with pilots who gain comfort from knowing that if their carry on bag breaks Briggs & Riley will repair it.

A pilot or flight attendant really can use 1 carry on bag for their entire career.

At first glance it might seem like pilots are abusing the repair policy by using and abusing the suitcase day in day out and getting the suitcase repaired every few years.

I expect in reality Briggs & Riley will be delighted by the exposure and positive publicity they get by all those pilots using their luggage.

Even if selling a Briggs & Riley bag to a pilot is not economically sensible because of lifetime repair costs the endorsement by pilots is worth it.

The only downside for us regular Joes is that they are more expensive that other luggage brands. If flying is your career the price tag will be justified but for ordinary passengers it can be a little sore on the wallet.

Flight attendants aren’t paid a fortune either and you might seem them using something like a TravelPro who also make great cases.

Strong Bags

Strongbags have emerged in recent years as the main competitor to Luggage Works in offering suitcases designed for the extra requirements of pilots, travel attendants and frequent fliers.

Some people don’t like the fact that these bags are made in China.

As the name suggests these bags are made to be strong but from the reports we have heard they are not as durable as the Luggage Works bags.

Travelpro Crew

TravelPro are a great mid-range brand of luggage that make cases specially designed for flight crews.

They make the Crew range which is inspired by the bags that pilots and flight attendants use.

Not every pilot travels with an expensive carry on.

There was a time when many pilots were using cheaper CostCo Kirkland Signature bags. You might be surprised at this but if the bag broke the pilots were simply returning the bag for a replacement.

The CostCo policy of replacing these bags without question had led to their popularity.

Unfortunately these Kirkland Signature bags are not longer available, but the take-away lesson is that even a cheaper bag can be good if the company is prepared to replace damaged bags.

Zero Halliburton

Zero Halliburton made the cases that were used to bring rocks back from the moon after the Apollo 11 landings.

Not a bad sales pitch!

These cases are made from premium aluminum that they claim is as strong as steel but without the weight.

I have seen a few pilots using these cases but they are not mainstream.

Rimowa Luggage For Pilots

Some pilots and cabin crew often go from suitcases by Rimowa.

Pilot Patrick swears by his Rimowa aluminium hard case.

Again it’s another pilot going for a strong case with extra protection.

We can see that pilots and cabin crew tend to choose bags based on 2 criteria.

• If this breaks can it get it repaired?
• What can I do to stop my carry on from every breaking.

In a way that’s just what regular folks like you and I do too. It’s just that since they are professionals and fly so frequently it’s worthwhile spending a little more.

If you fly a lot maybe you can learn from their approach but if you just take 1 or 2 trips per year any well made case from a trusted brand like Samsonite or TravelPro should last you a long time if you take care of it.

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The Best Flight Bags for Pilots in 2022

Best Flight Bags for Pilots

1. flight outfitters lift flight bag, 2. asa airclassics fight bag, 3. lightspeed aviation gann flight bag, 4. rothco vintage canvas flight bag, 5. aerocoast pro crew flight case.

• 6. Alpine Swiss Rolling 17" Laptop Briefcase

7. Laptop Briefcase Brightline Bags Flex B7 Flight Echo Bag

8. flight gear hp crosswind flight bag, what should you look for in a flight bag, consider durability, determine how many compartments you need, consider size.

An excellent flight bag is a piloting essential. Whether you’re an experienced pilot with thousands of hours under your belt or boarding your first training flight, this article will assist you in identifying the best flight bag to suit your needs.

We’ve unpacked some of the top options available, with something for every price range. Firstly, let’s discuss what to look for in a flight bag before reviewing the top picks.

Let’s look at the following flight bags to determine which is best suited to you.

• Thoughtfully designed pockets
• Compact and secure to hold essential items
• Reputable brand
• Difficult to clean
• Less versatile pockets

The unique Flight Outfitters Lift Flight Bag is designed by a fellow pilot, offering sturdiness and convince. The bag is made from high-strength materials with reinforced sides and braided wire steel-reinforced carry handles.

The bag provides several thoughtful compartments, such as an easy-access pocket to store your water bottle or backup radio, two external chart pockets, and a fuel tester pocket.

Additionally, it has a fleece-lined and padded headset pocket assuring your headset won’t budge. The fleece-lined inner is orange, making it easy to spot your items in the dark. The bag’s exterior is black, offering two options for colored accents.

The bag can be carried with one hand and has adjustable shoulder straps for your comfort. This compact bag won’t get in your way with 12″ x10.5″ x9″ dimensions.

Furthermore, Flight Outfitters , the bag manufacturer, is reputable for its high-end products in the aviation industry. Unfortunately, the bag may be too small for some, and the pockets are designed for specific items causing the bag to be less versatile than others.

• Well-priced (ideal for student pilots)
• Professional style
• Adjustable dividers
• Several pockets
• Lack of color options
• Small side pockets for headset storage

Look to the AirClassics Flight Bag if you need an economical flight bag. Due to its low cost, it is among the finest choices for a student pilot.

The flight bags from ASA are among the most practical pilot bags on the market and are refined enough to be worn from the plane to the boardroom.

The ASA wings logo is beautifully embroidered in silver on top of each black bag. Unfortunately, these bags are only available in one color.

These 600D polyester bags are developed to withstand harsh treatment. The bag is strengthened by additional straps that wrap around it, and its semi-rigid bottom guarantees that it will last for many years.

The bag has roomy sections that accommodate numerous books, while electronics fit comfortably in the external compartment. Additionally, you can put smaller items, like flashlights or gasoline tests, in the front pocket. A unique feature is the ID window on the side of the bag. The movable dividers inside the main pocket of this flight bag are another distinctive feature. The flight bag has two ways to carry it: a removable strap and practical handles.

• Several pockets and compartments
• Easy to carry
• Less durable material

Despite not recommending leather, I could not leave the Gann flight bag off this list.

Charmingly, the long flights and magnificent novels of the pilot and author Ernest K. Gann inspired this bag.

The Gann is a supple, handmade leather flight bag with solid stitching, magnetic button clasps, and a PVC base. It is hugely cabin friendly with the pop-open top of a carpenter-style bag. This luxurious bag also offers several compartments, pockets, and an adjustable interior.

An outstanding feature is a middle zipper that unzips to reveal a sizable compartment that is big enough for headsets, charts, and all your other gear. A transceiver pocket with a cut-out flap allows antenna-on storage, and a front organizer pocket is included for smaller items.

It must be mentioned that leather is less durable than other materials. This bag does not have special care requirements, as the natural oils in the leather will permit the bag to age to a rich patina.

• Three main compartments
• Versatile pockets
• Narrow shoulder straps

Take off with the retro-inspired flight bag from Rothco in one of three colors.

The flight bag’s 14 oz cotton canvas construction ensures dependability but may be difficult to clean.

The flight bag has several sections to keep your items separated and easy to find. Depending on your needs, you can utilize the pockets which include: a substantial zippered main compartment, a front pocket with engraved text, and two small side pockets with loop and hook closures.

The flight bag is somewhat comfortable to carry due to padded and adjustable shoulder straps, although some may find that they are too narrow. Additionally, if you want to carry the bag in your hands, it has a top carrying handle.

• Water-resistant
• Reasonably priced
• Laptop sleeve
• No specific compartments for pilot gear
• Unspecified material
• Somewhat bulky

Aerocoast’s Pro Crew bag is a popular pick. It is an excellent bag at a reasonable price.

An exclusive feature of the Pro Crew is an interlocking ergonomic grasp grip. It

also has a padded shoulder strap to ensure comfort no matter how you carry the bag.

A 15″ laptop can fit in the padded laptop compartment, which includes a large main compartment and numerous internal pockets. Additional exterior pockets, such as the upper accessories compartment, are ideal for keeping smaller items within easy reach.

The two front compartments, one of which has an organizer panel, are very roomy. Additionally, there are two smaller side compartments, a large slip pocket, and a luggage strap.

This is undoubtedly one of the best solutions if you’re searching for a bag that will help you stay organized and keep all your belongings readily available.  

It has a water-resistant exterior, which is most likely made of nylon or polyester, although it isn’t specified. Unfortunately, there aren’t really any designated compartments in the bag for transceivers, headsets, fuel tests, or lamps.

6. Alpine Swiss Rolling 17″ Laptop Briefcase

• Large main component
• Professional look
• Durable material
• No durable wheels
• No shoulder straps

The Alpine Swiss Rolling Laptop Briefcase is a fantastic choice for a professional pilot because of its formal look.

It looks more like a briefcase than a bag or suitcase because of its horizontal shape.

This pilot briefcase is a stylish, practical, and well-made choice for a business-traveling bag.

The flight bag is highly robust because it is made of ballistic nylon, which doesn’t scuff or wear. Additionally, nylon travel bags are light.

The laptop briefcase features a telescopic rolling handle with three configurations for easy maneuvering. Furthermore, you can carry the suitcase using the top handle.

Although the briefcase is simple to move because of the smooth inline skate wheels, these are vulnerable to damage. It features combination locks that can be set to different codes and includes an expandable lockable front compartment.

The inside flap consists of a straightforward organizer for cards and pens and a sizable, zippered compartment for other necessities. A spacious interior compartment has a sizable laptop sleeve. Along the opposite interior wall from the laptop sleeve is another file separator.

• Customizable size
• Versatility in use
• High quality
• Color-coded compartments
• Difficult to move

If you are looking for versatility, the Flex B7 Flight Echo bag is the one for you.

This customizable bag allows you to attach or remove compartments as you desire, giving you both a large and small bag.

This bag boasts a high-quality and intelligent design. However, this two-in-one option is on the pricey side.

The bag consists of various small and large compartments that are color-coded. Two complete headsets, a water bottle, two iPads, and other small items can all fit comfortably.

This flight bag allows you to access your water bottle without the risk of damaging your documents or electronics. It also functions as an unbeatable carry-on personal bag when traveling on commercial flights or as a fantastic daily bag for various personal and professional uses. Although, some may find it too heavy and difficult to maneuver.

• 3-year warranty
• Ideal for student pilots
• Lack of external pockets

The HP Crosswind flight bag is ideal for student pilots who are strapped for cash.

The bag is made from Ripstop nylon, which is solid and water-resistant. The bag will prove to be durable against daily use. At an affordable price, you even get a 3-year warranty.

There is more than enough space in the bag’s main compartment for a kneeboard and your books. Inside, a padded iPad compartment will keep your gadgets secure and handy. F light Gear’s Gear Mods can expand the main compartment’s pockets. You attach detachable compartments inside the bag.

All the flight bags from this company are compatible with them, so if you decide to continue with Flight Gear when it comes time to upgrade the bag, you can use the Gear Mods . The bag has several outside pockets that let you keep the essential items close at hand. In addition to a sizable, zipped compartment for a headset, there are exterior slip pockets for sunglasses, fuel gauges, and water bottles.

The HP Crosswind bag is unquestionably not as ornate or functional as other flight bags. However, this is designed for novice pilots who do not carry all the gear experienced pilots do. It is the best flight bag available in its price range.

You will use your flight bag on a regular basis. Therefore, you should opt for a bag constructed of high-quality materials.

The best flight bags are often made of heavy-duty nylon or canvas, though there are some respectable polyester versions as well. Although popular, leather has a trade-off since it is naturally less structured and fortified than other materials whilst being pricey.

Unfortunately, in the case of flight bags, the more expensive options do offer much higher quality. If you opt for a cheaper option, you may be replacing your bag regularly. Therefore, consider investing in a quality flight bag that will stand the test of time.

One of the more crucial factors to assess when purchasing a flight bag is how many compartments you need. Multiple storage options are beneficial since they keep you organized, which makes finding items during your flight quick and easy.

However, they reduce the bag’s overall capacity as well. Perhaps compile a list of all the items you need to fit in your flight bag before making your selection.

Given that your flight bag will be placed right next to you in the cockpit, its size is obviously crucial. Purchasing a bag that is too large will prevent you from keeping it next to you. Yet, you won’t be able to fit everything into a bag that is too small. Therefore, be sure to check the dimensions before purchasing your flight bag. Both larger and smaller flight bags are included in the list below.

As you may have realized, there are various flight bags on the market for every kind of aviator. Your flight bag shouldn’t only be stylish but also functional and durable as it’s a long-term investment. Who doesn’t like looking cool while being practical?

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Most travel luggage is geared towards leisure travelers, who typically use a small carry-on and a small backpack. Pilots and flight attendants aren’t restricted by the same size restrictions for baggage, and they have different priorities – their bags need to be durable, really well-organized, and large enough to fit clothing and accessories for one or two days. That’s why it’s usually hard for pilots and flight attendants to find good flight bags .

In this article, we’ll share the 12 best flight bags for pilots and flight attendants, so you can hopefully get inspired for your search or even settle on a flight bag that fits your needs.

Top-Rated Flight Bags

Tips on buying flight bags (guide), selecting the correct type of flight bag, 1. tote bags.

A tote bag is a medium to large bag with parallel handles on the sides. They are extremely useful as they are quite versatile. These bags are unfastened at the top, making it convenient to slip things in and out.

A tote bag works well as a flight bag as you can keep a few essentials close and have easy access to them while on board a flight. Larger tote bags are ideal for carrying your device and tech accessories so that they can be easily removed at the boarding gate.

Tote bags are manufactured from a variety of different fabrics ranging from lightweight cotton or canvas to more durable leather. These bags are great for the fashion-conscious buyer as they are available in bright colors and intricate patterns, making them stylish yet practical.

2. Briefcases / Laptop Bags

Laptop bags can be purchased with or without wheels. They are fitted with sleeves, compartments, and pockets, which make it easy to store your tablet, laptop, and other small accessories. Other small items, like a wallet, keys, and passports, may also be carried in a laptop bag, but there isn’t much room for much else. Depending on how much you need to carry in your flight bag, a laptop bag may suffice, but it would be worthwhile to consider the average length of your trips before purchasing one.

Read Next: 12 Best 17-Inch Laptop Backpacks in 2022

3. Backpacks

Backpacks have the capacity to carry more than laptop bags do, but you’ll need to pack smartly in order to get the most out of the limited space. A travel backpack opens up from the front, like a suitcase, which makes it easier to organize your items. These backpacks have a main compartment for clothes, a separate compartment for your laptop, and additional pockets for smaller items.

This makes it a great flight bag, especially since it comes in a carry-on size. They do not offer much protection for your laptop, so it will be wise to first place your laptop in a protective case before placing it in the backpack. Backpacks are also kind on your back, allowing you to carry them across big airports and up and down stairs without strain.

4. Other Bags

Other bags that can be used as flight bags include modular bags, cooler bags, and others. When looking for a flight bag, it’s essential to consider your packing habits and individual needs, as there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for everyone.

Read Next: 12 Best Underseat Bags Without Wheels in 2022

Understanding What Size Flight Bag You Should Get

If you’re a pilot, you more than likely want to stow your flight bag next to your pilot’s chair. In this case, it’s recommended that you keep your bag within 18 x 14 x 12 inches (45.7 x 35.6 x 30.5 cm), as it’s the most common size next to the pilot’s chair on most aircraft.

Flight attendants, on the other hand, aren’t as restricted but should still aim to keep flight bags within the airline’s carry-on restrictions, which typically are somewhere around 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm). The same, of course, applies to passengers.

It should be noted, though, that a larger flight bag may become more of a hassle to carry, so it’s best to look for something that offers you ample space without becoming a burden.

Other Things to Look out for Before Buying a Flight Bag

• Compartments: Flight bags usually feature several zippered pockets on the exterior. These pockets are extremely useful for organizing your small items and keeping them safe. While these compartments come in handy when separating your travel items, too many pockets can limit the overall packing space for larger items. A good flight bag should have a larger compartment for a few clothing items, a padded laptop compartment to keep your device safe, and a few smaller pockets. Items like chargers, keys, passports, sunglasses, snacks, and basic toiletries can be stored in these smaller pockets, so they are easily accessible when needed.
• Durability: The material that the bag is made from is very important as it determines how long the luggage will last. You want a bag that will survive a few trips and not rip, dent, or crack too soon. Different materials have different life spans, so you’ll want to choose a material that will stand the test of time. Most flight bags are softside, so try to opt for nylon or canvas if it is within your affordability, as these fabrics are incredibly resistant to wear. You’ll find, though, that most bags are made from polyester, as this material offers decent durability at a low cost.
• Weight: It’s best to choose a bag that is lightweight, as you’ll be carrying it on you on every flight. Unless you choose a bag that is wheeled, a heavy bag will certainly become a point of frustration. Be sure to take note of this aspect of any bag you are considering before finalizing your purchase.
• Brand reliability:  Oftentimes, flight bags are made by manufacturers that aren’t very well-known in the luggage industry. For this reason, it’s essential to take a closer look at their after-sales policies, customer support, and the experience that other customers have had when interacting with the brand. The warranty period will also give you a good indication of how long your bag will last before you begin noticing faults.

Read Next: 11 Most Durable Luggage Brands in 2022

Best Flight Bags in 2022 Compared

1. best overall: brightline b7 modular flight bag.

The Brightline B7 was built by a pilot for pilots. The founder of Brightline understood how a pilot’s needs would change from day to day and created a bag that could be adapted accordingly. The modular design of this bag includes a number of segments that all zip into each other – leaving you to decide whether you’d like to use all of them or you’d prefer to leave one or two off on some days for a more lightweight feel.

When all modules are in use, the bag measures ‎14 x 8 x 12 inches (35.6 x 20.3 x 30.5 cm) and weighs 5.6 lbs (2.5 kg). It’s designed to fit in two pilots’ headsets, a number of charts, and other paraphernalia that you may need during your flight. The main cavity offers seven inches of storage depth, giving you ample space to pack clothing or toiletries for overnight trips.

Compartmentalization is a breeze with the Brightline B7, as each module is fitted with organizers, pockets, and pouches that make it easy to arrange your items in the way that makes it most convenient to access them. The front module offers three separate pockets on the exterior that you can use to store keys, sunglasses, passports, cables, and even your cell phone. There is also a pen organizer, which is particularly useful for students who hope to take notes while receiving instruction.

The bag is made from durable nylon and can be quite heavy , so you’ll have the option of purchasing the folding cart that accompanies it. While this won’t be practical to take with you on your flight, it can be used to transport the bag through the airport and stored in the pilot’s locker when it’s time to fly. It may also be useful if you intend to use the bag for other activities, such as photography. The bag is fitted with a strap on its rear to secure it onto the retractable handle of the folding cart, ensuring that your belongings are always completely safe.

Alternatively, the bag is equipped with a sturdy and comfortable PU leather carry handle that clips onto any one of the modules, so it can be used no matter how your bag is arranged. Unfortunately, shoulder straps are no longer included with the model, so you won’t have the option of carrying it on your back. There were many customer complaints about this component, and as such, the manufacturers felt it would be better to exclude it altogether.

While you won’t have a variety of color options for this bag, the black it’s available in is smart and classic and adds to the overall aesthetic of the pilot’s gear. If you’re a pilot or aviation student who needs a flexible bag with loads of compartments, you won’t go wrong with Brightline.

• Can be modified according to your needs for the day
• Loads of compartments for packing optimization
• Sturdy fabric, zippers, and components
• No shoulder strap
• Only available in black

2. Runner-Up: EMPSIGN Rolling Laptop Bag

Luggage can often be an expensive purchase that, if you don’t travel often, might lay around until your next trip. So, when a bag can offer some flexibility and be used for other purposes in your day-to-day life, it offers great value for money. And that’s exactly the case with the Empsign Rolling Laptop Bag. The baggage has great capabilities to aid you as a flight bag when you need it, but once you take it home, it can be used for anything else you see fit .

The bag has excellent organization abilities, so whether you need to pack in books, clothing, electronics, or food, you’ll find the ideal spots to compartmentalize your items. The inner compartment has a laptop compartment that features two separate sleeves to fit your devices, the larger of which can accommodate a laptop up to 17.3 inches.

When you open the main cavity of the bag, you’ll find compression straps that will help you keep some items separate and secure from the rest of your loose belongings in this section. This can be used for clothes, books, or anything else you deem fit. This compartment is remarkably spacious, so you can be as liberal or conservative with your packing as you’d like.

One of the outer compartments features an organizer, which is great for storing cables, electronic accessories, pens, and credit cards. The section is fitted with RFID technology, so you can rest assured that your cards are completely protected while stored here. This also negates the need to carry a handbag over and above this bag or keep bulky wallets and purses in your pockets. There’s even a mesh pocket on the side of the bag for your umbrella or water bottle, so you can keep your hands free as far as possible.

Moving this bag is a breeze, as you’ll be able to roll it silently behind you using the inline skate wheels. The bag’s telescoping handle extends as far as 21.7 inches (55.1 cm), so you can adjust it to your preference. You can also carry the bag using the carry handles that can be conveniently clipped together or place it securely on top of a larger wheeled suitcase using the attachment strap.

Overall, if you’re looking for a sleek and elegant bag that can be adapted to a variety of uses and settings, you won’t go wrong with the Empsign rolling laptop bag.

• Built to be used in a variety of settings
• Great organization capabilities
• RFID technology and other security measures keep your belongings secure
• Only one color option

3. Best Value: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Tote Bag

The Travelpro brand is almost synonymous with quality, so it’s no wonder that the Maxlite 5 Tote Bag ranks at the top of this list. This flight bag boasts a number of top-notch features for a really great price. Most notably, it weighs only 1.6 lbs (0.7 kg) , making it an excellent choice if you prefer a bag that won’t be too much of a hassle to carry.

Despite being incredibly light, the bag still offers ample packing space, with dimensions of 11 x 18 x 8 inches (27.9 x 45.7 x 20.3 cm). Some travelers quipped that they were able to pack an entire weekend’s worth of contents in with absolutely no fuss. This means that, whether you’re a pilot, cabin crew member, or passenger, you’ll be able to pack in all the knick-knacks needed to make your flight comfortable.

The bag offers good compartmentalization, with the exterior featuring two pockets on the front and one on the side. It zips open on top to reveal a large cavity as well as a mesh pocket for valuables. The interior is also coated with an H2O guard that will protect your belongings from moisture . Travelpro is moving toward using an environmentally-friendly lining, so the color may not be the same as what is pictured when you make your purchase. However, you can rest assured that you are contributing toward sustainability.

Travelpro bags are built to stand the test of time. This bag is made from 100% polyester, and to increase its durability, the manufacturers have used Duraguard coating – a substance that makes the bag stain and water repellant . With high-tensile zippers and other strong components, you’ll have peace of mind that your bag will last years to come. In fact, Travelpro is so confident in the quality of its products that it has extended a lifetime warranty for manufacturing defects and includes a 1-year Trusted Companion Promise that covers you for any damage within this period – even if it was caused by airlines or other carriers.

Handling this bag should be quite effortless, as its weight, combined with the padded shoulder strap, makes it easy to tote on your shoulder if need be. However, you can also make use of the rear strap to place it securely on top of your wheeled suitcase if you’re taking one on your journey. The carry handles also velcro-strap together for a more comfortable grip if you’d prefer to hold your bag this way.

Perhaps one of the best aspects of considering this bag as your flight bag is the wide range of color options you’ll have to choose from . Each shade is classic and elegant, so you won’t have to worry about your bag going out of fashion. There are 11 options to choose from, with both bright and subtle options in the mix.

Overall, if you’re looking for the ultimate flight bag that will last you many years to come, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Tote Bag is an easy choice.

• Made by a reliable brand and backed up by a warranty
• Small enough to fit next to the pilot’s seat or under the general seat in the plane
• Very lightweight, giving you more room and making it easier to carry
• The lining may not come in the color advertised

4. Best Affordable: Matein Carry-On Backpack

If you think a backpack is the ideal flight bag to meet your needs, this model made by Matein will exceed your expectations. And yet, it won’t break the bank! Despite the abundance of features this bag brings to the table, it’s still the cheapest on this list , which means that you’ll be getting excellent value for money. It will be important to take extra care with it, though, as rough handling of the backpack may cut its lifespan short.

When it comes to capacity, this bag packs a punch. You’ll benefit from 40L of packing space yet still be able to fit the bag under the seats of most airplanes . It measures 20 x 13 x 8 inches (50.8 x 33 x 20.3 cm) and weighs only 2 lbs (0.9 kg), giving you ample space to fit in everything you need for a short trip.

The organizational capabilities of this backpack make it a great fit for those who enjoy maximizing their space and optimizing their packing. There are three zippered compartments, each built for a unique purpose. The back compartment is ideal for storing a device and can fit a laptop up to 17-inches. It secures the item with a velcro strap, so you have peace of mind that it is safe throughout your journey. The middle section can be used to store larger loose items and even includes a breathable compartment at the bottom that can be used to keep shoes or wet items separate from the rest of your contents. The front zippered section has a built-in organizer so you can keep passports, stationery, cables, or anything else you deem fit in the range of pockets at your disposal.

The exterior of the bag is made from durable nylon and includes breathable fabric on the straps and back of the bag, which makes it very pleasant to carry. There are even more pockets on the front of the bag that can be used to carry quick-access items like lip balm, plane tickets, or tissues. Your water bottle has its own designated pocket on the side of the bag that is made from an elasticated mesh, ensuring that it stays secure at all times. You’ll also have the pleasure of using the built-in USB-charging port that you can connect to a power bank (this isn’t included) and charge your phone while on the move.

The manufacturers of this backpack have created it with security in mind – especially since many people might use it to transport devices. The zippers on the laptop section of the bag are made with lock holes that make it easy to secure them together with a small padlock. You’ll also find a small pocket between the carry straps of the backpack that can be used to safely stow money or a wallet – allowing you to carry your bag on your back without fear of being pickpocketed.

The backpack is available in four different designs, and whether you prefer a solid color for a more professional look, or something funkier, there’s an option for you. Overall, with the right care, this backpack has the potential to meet your flight bag needs for years to come.

• Extremely affordable
• Spacious, with great potential for packing optimization
• Secure and lockable
• May not last long if handled too roughly

5. Best for Women: Kroser Classic Rolling Laptop Bag

For the ultimate feminine flight bag look, you’ll want the Kroser Classic Rolling Laptop Bag. The bag is available in a stunning black and pink floral design that will have you standing out from the crowd as you roll it through the airport and undoubtedly leave you the object of many women’s envy. However, aesthetics are just the tip of the iceberg with this bag, as it’s packed with an array of nifty features yet still comes at a decent price.

The capacity of this bag is astounding, allowing you ample space to pack much more than you need on the average flight. This means you’ll also have the option of taking along clothing or toiletries if you wish to. The bag measures 16.5 x 14.5 x 8 inches (41.9 x 36.8 x 20.3 cm) and is large enough to accommodate headphones, food, travel mugs, books, or whatever else you deem necessary. The laptop section of the bag is large enough to accommodate devices up to 15.6 inches, padded for extra protection, and fitted with a strap that keeps it securely in place.

Security is a priority for the manufacturers of this bag, as they’ve included several features that will offer you peace of mind that your belongings are as safe as possible. The laptop compartment of the bag comes with a combination lock that attaches to the zippers , as it’s likely your device will be the most valuable item you take with you. Furthermore, the front of the bag has a built-in organizer that is fitted with RFID technology, so if you decide to keep your credit or bank cards there, you won’t fall victim to fraud. The bag is also made from water-repellent nylon, which ensures that your belongings are well-protected from the elements.

Maneuvering this bag is a pleasure, as the inline skate wheels are designed for silent movement . You also won’t suffer any strain from holding the handle since it extends up to 25.65 inches (65.2 cm), and its telescoping capabilities make it ideal for people of different heights. If you’d prefer to hold your bag by its carry handles, they conveniently clip together to make lifting and setting it down hassle-free.

Overall, if you enjoy having a beautifully feminine bag that had a pocket or pouch to keep everything in its place, this bag is the one for you.

• Gorgeous floral design
• Excellent compartmentalization
• Great safety features
• Easy to maneuver
• Only one color choice

6. Most Compact: Flight Outfitters Lift Pro Flight Bag

Another bag that’s designed specifically with pilots in mind is this one, made by Flight Outfitters. It’s super compact, making it convenient to pack in everything you need on a flight without lugging around a heavy piece of baggage . The bag measures 12 x 10.5 x 9 inches (30.5 x 26.7 x 22.9 cm) and weighs only 2 lbs (0.9 kg), meaning that it’s definitely small enough to fit next to you while you’re in the pilot’s chair. If you’re a flight attendant or regular passenger, the bag won’t take up much space under the airplane’s seats or in the overhead compartment.

Despite its small size, this bag still offers great packing capabilities and is designed with nifty compartments to keep your belongings organized . Pilots will enjoy being able to pack a headset, tablet, radio or water bottle, and spare batteries or pens into their designated areas in the bag. And, sections that are meant to hold fragile items are made with soft fleecy padding that provides an extra layer of protection. The bag also has a key clip, so you won’t have to rummage through loose items to find your keys when you’re in a hurry. There are also sections large enough to fit flight charts, as well as mesh pockets for cable organization.

The bag is available in black or orange, taking cues from the design of the MA-1 bomber jacket. This adds to the overall aesthetic that most pilots enjoy and makes it fit cohesively with their uniforms. And, the manufacturers have built it to last, as it’s made from nylon, which is a tough, softside fabric. The carry handles also strap together with a fabric that incorporates metal hardware and braided wire for extra durability. If you do encounter any issues with the construction of the bag, you can claim the 5-year limited warranty that has been extended.

Since this bag is extremely light, it’s easy enough to carry it alongside you using the carry handles. However, if you’d prefer to, you can attach the adjustable shoulder strap and carry it cross-body while you hold other items in your hands.

If you feel that you’d like something a little bit bigger or more spacious, Flight Outfitters also offers the Lift Flight Bag in an XL model , which measures 18 x 10.5 x 9 inches (45.7 x 26.7 x 22.9 cm) and is large enough to hold two headsets and even a 15-inch laptop. However, many customers who upgraded from the Pro to the XL commented that it was not as sturdy and poorly designed in some aspects. For this reason, we chose to recommend the smaller version of the bag for the purposes of this list.

• Compact and lightweight
• The design makes it easy to organize items
• Built with durability in mind
• Few external compartments

7. Most Minimal: Mark Ryden Expandable Backpack

Often, when owning any piece of luggage, the item’s longevity boils down to the quality of its components. Zippers rip or handles break, forcing you to replace an otherwise intact bag sooner than you’d like. That’s far from the case with the Mark Ryden Expandable Backpack. This bag is fitted with YKK zippers – the highest quality zippers on the market. You’ll also benefit from strong, high-quality buckles that secure the bag on its side and at the shoulder straps. The bag is fitted with a thickened, widened handle on its side, so you can carry it more comfortably on its side if you’d prefer to do so.

Aside from this, you’ll also have the option of carrying the bag using the shoulder straps, which, along with the entire back of the bag, have been designed with spongy, breathable fabric that allows for decompression, ventilation, and heat elimination. This feature goes a long way in preventing fatigue if you intend on carrying it on your back for long periods. You can also lift the backpack from the top using the handle, or place it securely on top of a wheeled suitcase by making use of the attachment strap.

Another way this bag is quite unique is in its expandability . When compressed, it offers a 23L capacity and measures 19.6 x 12.6 x 5.9 inches (50 x 32 x 15 cm). However, it can be unzipped to a capacity of 40L, with dimensions of 19.6 x 12.6 x 9.8 inches (50 x 32 x 25 cm) . This adaptability is particularly useful in a flight bag, as your needs often change from flight to flight. The bag is manufactured from a water-resistant oxford, which is a type of polyester that is weaved in a different pattern. This makes it incredibly lightweight at only 2.87 lbs (1.3 kg).

The interior design is impressive, with three spacious compartments to neatly arrange your items. The front compartment features an organizer that is well-suited to hold your phone, passport, and other miscellaneous items. The middle section zips completely open like a suitcase , making it ideal to pack clothing, shoes, and toiletries. The back compartment is designed to hold a laptop up to 17.3-inches, as well as a tablet up to 9.7-inches. There is a pocket on the exterior for quick access items, as well as a USB-charging port that makes it easy to stay connected on the go.

Overall, if durability is your priority, you won’t go wrong with the Mark Ryden Expandable Backpack.

• Made from high-quality components for greater durability
• Expandable, offering flexibility to meet your travel needs
• Thoughtfully designed for packing optimization
• No side pockets

8. Best for Private Pilots: Farm Blue Tactical Flight Bag

If you’re an airforce pilot looking for a bag that’s built for stealth and the rugged outdoors , the Farm Blue Tactical Flight Bag fits the bill. Made from water-resistant nylon and heavy-duty hardware, this bag was made to withstand compromising situations. Yet, it still offers great aesthetic value, available in a grey or green that fits in very well with military attire.

The medium-sized model offers the most value, measuring 14.65 x 13.31 x 1.46 inches (37.2 x 33.8 x 3.7 cm). However, if you’d prefer, there is a smaller version of the bag available. Both options are incredibly lightweight at only 1 lb (0.5 kg), so you can carry it without it becoming too cumbersome on your shoulder. Neither the shoulder strap nor the carry handle is padded, so it’s best not to overpack the bag in order to keep it manageable.

Fit for military service, the bag comes with a parachute clip that is genuine and fit for its purpose , as well as a stealth compartment in the bag to keep your most important items safely concealed. This pouch measures 7 x 7.5 inches (17.8 x 19.1 cm) and can be used to keep money, electronics, or important documents away from prying eyes.

The inner compartment itself is incredibly spacious, offering room to pack clothing, books, camping gear, and more. Overall, if you need something versatile, high-quality, and great for military use, this bag is the right choice to meet your needs.

• Stealth pocket for tactical missions
• High-quality materials contribute to durability
• Lightweight and spacious
• Not very comfortable to carry

9. Affordable & Practical: Bostanten Laptop Briefcase

Nothing goes better with a pilot’s uniform than a sleek, professional-looking briefcase. The Bostanten Laptop Briefcase will look great with your formal attire and still offer great features to meet your flight bag needs . The bag is available in nylon and canvas, so you’ll also be able to select the material that better meets your needs. Both models are incredibly durable and come in solid black for excellent versatility.

My favorite feature of this bag is its expandability. It measures 17.32 x 7.48 x 12.59 inches (44 x 19 x 32 cm), but you can unzip it for an additional two inches if you need to . This offers you the flexibility to back in a few extra items when necessary but keeps the bag compact and manageable on most occasions.

The laptop briefcase is loaded with compartments and pockets, and as its name suggests, one of these is specifically designed to keep a device secure while in transit. The laptop compartment is padded and has a strap to keep your device in place without fear of it accidentally falling out and being damaged. Other sections of the bag allow you to easily organize books, charts, pens, cables, and anything else you’d like to take with you.

It’s very lightweight, weighing only 3.48 lbs (1.58 kg) , making it easy to carry with its comfortable carry handles. If you’d prefer, you can make use of the adjustable shoulder strap or place it on top of your wheeled suitcase using the luggage strap on the exterior. Overall, if you’re looking for something elegant, versatile, and durable, this laptop briefcase from Bostanten is a great contender.

• Sleek and elegant for professional use
• Available in different materials
• Expandable to meet your travel needs
• Components may not be of the highest quality

10. Great Durability & Price: ASA AirClassics Flight Bag

When it comes to luggage durability, you can get a good sense of the quality of the material by its Dernier count. With the ASA AirClassics Flight Bag, you’re in luck. The bag is made from 600 Dernier nylon, which is an indicator of thick, strong, and long-lasting threads that provide excellent resistance to wear and abrasion . For this reason, this bag would be a great choice if you’re looking for something to stand the test of time.

This bag has been incredibly well-received by pilots, most of whom have quipped that it exceeds their expectations. It’s spacious enough to fit in anything you’d need in flight . In fact, each side of the bag features a zippered compartment that is ideally suited to fit headsets. This, combined with the sections inside the bag that make it easy to organize charts and devices, makes it a great choice for aviators.

The bag is really easy to tote, as the carry handles strap together for a more convenient grip. You can also attach the adjustable shoulder strap if you’d prefer to keep your hands free. This bag is professional-looking and offers you the flexibility to use it in a number of different settings. Overall, it’s a great choice if you’re looking for something that is built to last.

• Made from extremely durable nylon
• Spacious and capable of meeting all pilot needs
• Lightweight and easy to carry
• Not many pockets in the interior

11. Great Organization Features: GES Tactical Messenger Briefcase

It’s not surprising that most bags on this list don’t offer much variety by way of designs and colors since flight bags tend to be for work-related uses. However, GES has found a way to offer customers several choices while keeping the overall aesthetic of the flight bag elegant and professional. You’ll be able to choose between Armygreen, khaki, black, and even camouflage according to your personal preferences.

The bag is made from water-repellent nylon which makes it incredibly durable and fit for those who work in the military because of its resistance to abrasion . Despite the reinforcements and high-quality material, the bag remains lightweight at only 2.6 lbs (1.2 kg). It’s also a convenient size to carry around, measuring 14.2 x 11.4 x 5.9 inches (36 x 29 x 25 cm).

This bag is also quite unique in the number of pockets it has available on its exterior. This is incredibly useful in a flight bag, as you can stow everything you need in its own pocket and be able to reach for it at a moment’s notice . You’ll also have space within the bag to store a device up to 15.6-inches and secure it using the strap provided. Overall, if you’d like to choose a reliable flight bag but opt for a more vibrant color, this bag is a great choice.

• A variety of colors to choose from
• Loads of pockets on the exterior for easy access
• Not very spacious

12. Best Cooler: F40C4TMP Flight Attendant Lunch Bag

Let’s face it, airline food becomes monotonous and exceedingly boring if you eat it too often, so if you’re looking for a flight bag primarily with great food storage capabilities, the F40C4TMP Flight Attendant Lunch Bag is a great choice. The bag is available in three models, each of which is named according to the number of cans it accommodates. We’ve focused on the largest bag, known as the Black-36Cans model, measuring 15 x 8.6 x 11 inches (38.1 x 21.8 x 27.9 cm).

This bag is optimized for food storage, being capable of keeping food warm for up to 12 hours and keeping it cool for up to 23 hours. It also offers a waterproof lining, so you don’t have to worry about liquid spillage. The lower compartment is ideal for keeping things cool, while the top section is suited to keeping food fresh. With that being said, you need not use this bag only for food, as it is large enough to fit in anything else you’ll need on a flight as well. There are several pockets and pouches to organize your items and make your flight that much easier.

Despite offering a 23L capacity, this bag is lightweight at only 2.36 lbs (1.1 kg), making it incredibly easy to carry. You can use the carry handles that velcro together or the adjustable shoulder strap for a cross-body approach. This strap is padded too, to relieve pressure on your shoulder. If you’re toting a wheeled suitcase, this bag will attach on top of it and remain secured by the strap on its rear. Overall, this bag offers excellent flexibility, adapting to your various flight bag uses.

• Insulation capabilities make it great for carrying food
• Lots of pockets for easy compartmentalization
• Waterproof lining to prevent liquid spillage
• No designated pocket for a device

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The Best Flight Bags for Pilots | Pick the Perfect Bag

Liz Brassaw

In this post I’m going to help you sort through the many flight bags for pilots and pick the perfect one for you.

During my 10+ years of flying I’ve gone through several flight bags. While some flight bags were great, others were quickly returned.

Whether you’re jumping in a Cessna for your very first training flight, or you’re a pilot with thousands of hours under your belt, I’ll help you find the best flight bag to meet your needs.

We receive commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

If you want to jump directly to the flight bags for pilots use the links below. Otherwise I’m going to first start with a few things you should consider when purchasing your first flight bag as a student pilot.

Jump to the best pilot bag for: Student Pilots Recreational Pilots Airline Pilots

Click to view the specific bag.

What to Look for in a Flight Bag

The type of flight bag you buy will largely depend on the type of flying you do.

If you’re a brand new student pilot, you may want a larger aviation bag to carry all of the extra study materials you’ll need when you’re at the airport.

If you just fly occasionally, or always go on short day trips, you can usually get away with a smaller bag that will just fit your headset and an iPad/charts.

Of course, if you’re an airline pilot, or about to be one, you’ll want a much larger bag to carry all the gear you need.

Overall, you’ll want a bag made out of a durable material that won’t wear down easily.

What to Carry in Your Pilot Bag

Every pilot has different opinions on what the  essential flight bag gear  is but in general, you’ll always have these items:

• Pilot certificate and Medical
• Backup Batteries (if needed)
• Extra charts
• Water & snacks
• Aviation Sunglasses
• Fuel Tester

As you look at flight bags for pilots, it may help to write out a list of everything you’d like to be able to carry with you. Some pilots also like to have a backup handheld radio and other emergency/backup gear.

Whatever you decide, make sure you buy a bag with enough storage space to comfortably fit everything.

Now that you know what gear you need to store in your flight bag , let’s take a look at some of the best options on the market.

Best Flight Bags for Student Pilots

Editors pick: flight outfitters lift flight bag review.

The Flight Outfitters Lift Flight Bag is the bag I personally used for many years.

It’s a sturdy and highly convenient flight bag that’s easy to carry in one hand but also offers ample space for everything you could need.

There’s a separate pouch for a water bottle for easy access, or a back-up radio pocket. There’s also a fuel tester pocket, and 2 external chart pockets.

The fleece-lined headset pockets make sure that your headset will be kept in place, while the adjustable shoulder strap makes it easy to carry around the airport.

Dimensions are 12”x10.5”x9”.

What’s great about this bag is just how clearly it has been designed specifically for pilots – with lots of thoughtful compartments and design features. The manufacturer Flight Outfitters is well known for creating premium pilot products, and this bag is no different.

The pilot bag is also particularly sturdy and compact, meaning it doesn’t get in your way and you’ll never have to worry about damaging your possessions.

The bag comes in a few different colors, mainly with a black body and colored accents. The fleece interior is lined orange to make it easier to find in the dark.

This is the best pilot bag for flight instructors because much of the time you don’t need to carry much gear. You really just need a headset, iPad, and a few other small training aids (plus snacks and water for those busy days).

The drawback is that this bag is relatively small and with very specific pockets. That is to say that it isn’t quite as versatile as some other aviation bags on this list. Some buyers might also prefer a leather aesthetic.

• Compact Size for essentials
• Popular with private pilot students and flight instructors
• Well-thought out pockets
• Extremely durable
• Small in size
• Can’t be easily cleaned
• Only one color option available

Notice Title

Discover the best gifts for pilots in our latest gift guide article.

Mygoflight PLC Lite iPad Bag

As the name suggests, the Mygoflight LC Lite iPad bag was designed around the iPad. And, given that nearly every pilot you’ll meet flies with an iPad or tablet, there’s a huge market for this type of bag.

As you might expect then, the bag features a large, padded iPad pocket that has a handy pass-through slot for charging.

It likewise comes with the usual headset pocket, and fuel tester pockets, organizer pocket (with key ring), and more.

Its compact size once again ensures that it won’t get in the way, and makes it perfect for fitting into cockpits or under chairs.

The front of the bag unzips entirely, which means you’ll be able to easily get in and access all the things you need.

Measurements are 14”Hx11”Wx6″D. This makes it just slightly bigger than the previous entry.

The bag only comes in one color, which is black.

Like the previous option, this bag is very structured with very clearly defined compartments for specific roles. If you stick your headphones inside, this doesn’t leave a lot of space for additional items – such as lunch or any books.

• Good looking, Premium Bag
• Front-Opening
• Nice large pocket that can fit up to an iPad Pro
• Lacks external pockets to store items like a water bottle or fuel tester.
• Less resilient than the previous offering from Flight Outfitters

AirClassics Dispatch Pilot Bag Review

This bag is the smallest on the list and less rigid than the previous two options. It functions just like a standard shoulder bag. This will appeal to some readers and not others.

While it isn’t rigid, it is made from a durable 600D polyester and the interior tablet pocket is also padded.

The interior is also very spacious with two separate pockets including the main compartment and smaller area for charts and any other small documents. The large space provides room for headsets, along with one or two other items.

You’ll also find a front pocket with space for pens and spare batteries, side slots for fuel testers, flashlights, and water bottles, and an adjustable strap. Note that the water bottle pocket is not specifically intended for that role and won’t fit all bottles.

The interior is lined blue to make it easier to find what you’re looking for in the dark.

While the front compartment is front opening, the two main pockets need to be accessed from the top.

Dimensions are 11.5”x9”x4.5”.

• Compact Bag for the bare essentials
• Blue Interior for easy visibility
• Looks more like a “regular” bag, making it slightly more versatile
• More difficult to access everything
• Fewer specific pockets

Best Flight Bags for Private Pilots

Design 4 pilots cross country bag review.

This bag is a little different from some of the others on the list so far. This is shaped more like a gym bag, being a longer and more oblong design.

That said, it’s still a rather compact bag and the simple handle makes it easy to carry in one hand.

This shape gives it a much larger main compartment, which the manufacturer describes as “cavernous” (perhaps a tad generous!).

There’s certainly a lot of room in here for books, a kneeboard, and some extra gear compared to the first three bags.

It also comes with many of the benefits you associate with the Flight Gear brand, such as a high visibility interior for easily finding things in the dark, exterior pockets for fuel testers and water bottles, and a comfortable padded strap.

That said, it only comes in a single color and has fewer “specialty” pockets for pilots. It also lacks any additional reinforcement that would make it more durable.

• Design provides large interior space
• Still easy to carry one-handed/store

Best Pilot Backpack

Myogoflight plc pro pilot flight backpack review.

This pilot backpack is taller than many of the others we have looked at, at 16”x10”x3”.

This gives it a shape more like a suitcase or even a backpack – and it can be worn on the pack or attached to a separately sold “luggage cart.”

This versatility makes it a strong choice for a lot of pilots.

Likewise, the amount of storage it affords will also be very beneficial for many. The entire front compartment opens up, allowing easy access to the roomy interior.

Here, you’ll be able to store an iPad in a pocket, as well as numerous other gadgets and tools in the mesh pockets on the opposite side. These are perfect for headphones, cables, chargers, and more. A handy strap is also perfect for fuel-testers.

The only downsides here are the price and the fact that it is somewhat large, meaning you’ll need a bit more storage space for it.

• Lots of storage
• Versatile system can be worn as a backpack or pulled on a luggage cart
• Plenty of pockets
• One of the most expensive options
• Bottom of bag isn’t reinforced

This is easily one of the best backpacks for pilots.

Best Pilot Bag for Airline Pilots

Brightline flex b7 flight – echo review.

The B7 Flight-Echo is the best flight bag for airline pilots.

As an airline pilot, I personally use this bag and have seen many other airline pilots use this, or another Brightline flight bag .

This is a much larger bag that has a thicker depth and a whole lot of pockets.

This bag has pockets everywhere.

In fact, it has three separate attachment points for shoulder straps – and even three pockets right on the front!

It definitely took a while to remember what pocket was storing what.

The bag also comes with a big adjustable water bottle pocket and a particularly strong main handle with slots for a J-hook.

The B7 Flight is designed specifically for airline pilots but is suitable for everyone else too. The huge number of pockets, compartments, and zippers means there is plenty of room for all the gear you need.

And with a whole lot of storage space, it’s ideal for a large number of personal uses as well. This will easily hold an iPad AND a keyboard, including cases. You can even fit a 13″ MacBook Pro in here, along with a ton of adapters and documents!

And you can actually fit two sets of headphones in (which may not be that helpful as an airline pilot flight bag ).

Despite all this, it’s actually rather compact and easy to carry in one hand – though it might create a few more space challenges than some of the other options we’ve looked at so far.

It’s a durable pilot bag, though it isn’t specially reinforced as some other options on this list are.

One other handy feature of this bag is its ability to separate into different bags. So if you’re headed to the airport to fly IFR and need more gear you can bring the whole thing. If it’s a VFR day, you can separate the bag and take just take a third of the bag.

No other brand on the list has this unique functionality.

• Premium bag that’s extremely versatile
• Huge number of compartments
• Ability to split into separate bags
• Can get rather heavy when fully loaded with gear
• Not specially reinforced
• Higher priced bag

Flight Outfitters Bush Pilot Rucksack Review

Flight Outfitters rucksacks make great bags for pilots, and this flight bag backpack is no different.

If you need to haul more stuff around the airport this aviation backpack is exactly what you need.

Unike other bags, this one has a drawstring opening at the top instead of a zipper. Here, there’s ample internal space for all your gear. However, you’ll want to store your headset in its own bag inside.

There is an iPad/laptop sleeve, and enough space around the rest to fit a host of other items.

• Opens all the way
• Easy to Carry
• Headset doesn’t fit in the bag very well

Flight Outfitters Bush Pilot Bag Review

This bag comes in a light canvas that has leather accents.

It stands out immediately from the crowd thanks to its color scheme, while the leather elements make it feel premium without limiting the practicality.

The padded headphone pockets (two of them!) mean you don’t waste precious internal storage, of which there is plenty.

The interior is large enough to store a lot of additional items, while the metal-reinforced handle is enough to hold weightier items.

This is another pilot flight bag from the excellent Flight Outfitters, and again comes with a lot of extremely thoughtful design features.

For example, the Bush Pilot Bag features a pass-through strap on the back which lets you easily slide it over rolling luggage handles. The orange interior meanwhile makes it easy to find things in a dark cockpit.

We love this bag, but it’s a shame the design won’t be to all tastes.

• Premium design
• Reinforced handle
• Suspends headphones in the pocket
• Headphones pocket takes up a lot of space

Best Leather Flight Bag

Lightspeed aviation – the gann, leather flight bag.

For this writer, a flight bag should be a premium item for a successful professional. And for this writer, a premium bag should be leather.

That’s what makes this such a standout option, along with many other excellent features such as the center zipper that opens to reveal a large interior compartment that is more than spacious enough for headsets, charts, and all your other gear.

The front is divided with an organizer pocket for useful items and documents. A zippered rear pocket is great for storing iPads, and the side pockets are ideal for water bottles and fuel checkers – or you can use it for storing a transceiver thanks to the handy antenna-on storage feature.

There’s a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can check out the bag first and return it if it’s not for you.

Of course, there is a trade-off with leather and this option is not as structured or reinforced as some others. It’s also not likely to hold up as well to the weather. But if you want something really premium with lots of pilot-centric features, the Markham is a cut above.

• Lots of highly useful compartments and pockets
• Great size and comfortable to carry
• Extremely premium design

Have a flight bag recommendation we missed? Let us know in the comments below. And be sure to check out the  best books for pilots  and add them to your flight bag !

Best Pilot Bag Brands

When looking specifically at pilot bags, there are a handful of brands that stand out for producing high quality bags.

Brightline Bags

Brightline Bags is known for their modular and customizable pilot flight bags. Their Flex B7 Flight Preconfigured Modular Bag is a popular choice among pilots, featuring a 4.9 rating on Amazon.

As an airline pilot, this is the flight bag I use and can personally attest the high quality nature of these bags.

With a modular design, it offers loads of pockets and compartments to store items, and it is made from sturdy components and materials. This bag allows you to easily organize and carry your gear.

Flight Outfitters

The Flight Outfitters Lift Flight Bag  is another excellent option for pilots.

As mentioned above, this flight bag is excellent for student pilots. Flight Outfitters has made flight bags for years and produces some of the best selling flight bags for student and private pilots.

If you’re looking for a high quality option that doesn’t break the bank this is it.

Jeppesen is a well known brand in the aviation industry, and their flight bags are no exception.

They offer a range of pilot flight bags with different features and designs, catering to the varying needs of pilots. From compact bags for students to versatile bags for professionals, Jeppesen has a reliable selection to choose from.

I’ve used the Jeppesen student book bag and, while it isn’t a flight bag , it is a great option if you want a bag specifically for hauling books to and from the airport.

ASA AirClassics

ASA AirClassics is recognized for producing quality flight bags for pilots. Their  ASA AirClassics Flight Bag  is a popular model amongst pilots, featuring multiple compartments to keep your gear organized, durable materials to withstand heavy usage, and a comfortable shoulder strap for easy carrying. This makes it a reliable and efficient choice for pilots at any level.

Want to go even deeper on what makes the best pilot bag? Check out this section.

Top Flight Bag Materials

The material of your flight bag is really what determines its long term durability. There are obviously pros and cons to the most common materials.

As you select your flight bag here’s a few things to consider for each material.

Nylon Flight Bags

Nylon is a popular choice for flight bags due to its durability, lightweight, and water-resistant properties.

It can withstand daily wear and tear and protect your gear from harsh conditions. Nylon bags are also easy to clean. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of nylon flight bags for pilots:

• Lightweight
• Water-resistant
• Easy to clean
• Less premium feel
• May fade over time

Leather Flight Bags

Leather flight bags for pilots provide a classic, timeless appeal.

High-quality leather is not only durable but also ages beautifully, making these bags a long-lasting investment. However, they tend to be heavier and require more maintenance.

• Stylish and timeless
• Durable and long-lasting
• Heavier compared to other materials
• Requires regular maintenance
• Susceptible to scratches and scuffs

Canvas Flight Bags

Canvas flight bags offer a more casual alternative to leather and nylon bags.

Made from heavy-duty cotton, canvas bags are highly resistant to wear and tear, and their breathability makes them ideal for carrying equipment and gear without trapping moisture. They’re also easy to maintain.

• Casual look
• Eco-friendly and breathable
• Heavy-duty cotton offers durability
• Less water-resistant than nylon
• May not be as stylish as leather options

What to Know About Flight Bags for Pilots

What features should one look for in a high-quality pilot flight bag .

When choosing a pilot bag, consider features that make the bag durable, functional, and easy to organize.

Look for materials like water-resistant fabrics, sturdy zippers, and strong stitching. The bag should be lightweight, have adjustable compartments, and feature pockets to store essential items like your headset, logbooks, tablets, and other essential gear.

Make sure the bag is comfortable to carry, either with a shoulder strap or a handle.

Which flight bags are best for students vs. professional pilots?

When you’re a student pilot, a more compact and affordable flight bag is ideal.

The Flight Outfitters Lift Flight Bag and MyGoFlight iPad Flight Bag are good options.

For professional pilots with more experience and a larger number of items to carry, consider the Brightline Bags Flex B7 Flight Preconfigured Modular Bag. That’s the bag I carry as an airline pilot and I’m really happy with it.

How do leather flight bags compare to other materials?

Leather flight bags, like the Lightspeed Aviation Markham Leather Flight Bag , are often more stylish and offer a luxurious touch compared to bags made from other materials.

However, they can be heavier and might require more maintenance to keep them in good condition. Other materials like water-resistant fabrics are typically lighter, easier to maintain, and more affordable.

What makes Sporty’s and BrightLine bags popular among pilots?

Sporty’s and BrightLine bags are known for their durability, functionality, and organization capabilities.

They offer a variety of sizes and designs to accommodate the needs of different pilots.

These bags often feature customizable compartments, pockets for specific items, and water-resistant materials, making them suitable for various flying situations.

What’s your opinion, what’s the best flight bag for pilots?

• About the Author
• Latest Posts

Liz Brassaw is a first officer for a regional airline and the former Chief Pilot and Chief Flight Operations Officer for Thrust Flight. She holds an ATP, CFI, CFII, MEI, AMEL, ASES with over 2,500 hours of flight instruction given. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the Utah Valley University School of Aviation Sciences . She’s passionate about flying and enjoys instilling that love in the instructors on her team and the new students she trains.

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Best Flight Bags for Pilots

Table of Contents

As a new student pilot, you might wonder why you need a specialist pilot flight bag at all?  After all, you may reason, how much stuff do you have to take on a flight, particularly if you rarely go flying for more than an hour or so.  And you can’t imagine being airborne for longer than that.  So wouldn’t an ordinary kitbag or briefcase, or even a carrier bag, be good enough?

This was how I felt when I started learning to fly.  I was already spending what seemed like a small fortune on flying lessons.  Why would I want to spend extra on what seemed like an overpriced flight bag?

However, I quickly changed my tune on this.  I gradually found that I needed to take quite a lot of equipment with me on every flight.  The stuff I carried varied, so I really needed a bag that was flexible enough for different flying trips.  And finally, I needed to be able to find items easily, so the flight bag needed to be well organized, with dedicated spaces for smaller items.  Believe me, it’s no fun when you have to hunt through a collection of charts, notebooks, and radio equipment, in order to find a fuel tester or your mobile phone.  And yes, that happened to me!

This was all many years ago, and the choice of pilot flight bags wasn’t as extensive as it is now.  So I ended up in a long search for the best flight bag for pilots, and I used several in this ongoing hunt for perfection.  No one seemed to make exactly what I wanted.  But things are much easier now, with a huge variety of bags for all types of pilots.  So read on my guide on the best flight bags for pilots for more details….

Bottom Line Up Front

A dedicated pilot flight bag may seem like a non-essential item, but having a suitable one certainly makes flying easier.  Flight bags come in different shapes and sizes, and are made from different materials, and with the interiors arranged in different ways.  So it is worth doing some research to find out what be would be best for you, whether you are a student, private pilot, or commercial pilot.  For most people, a flight bag with a lot of versatility is ideal.  I would particularly recommend the Brightline Bags Flex B7 Flight Preconfigured Modular Bag for its size, design, and versatility.

Flight Outfitters Lift Flight Bag

• MyGoFlight PLC Lite Ipad Aviation Flight Bag

Design 4 Pilots Cross Country Flight Bag

• Flight Outfitters Bush Pilot Folio Flight Bag
• Brightline Bags Flex B7 Flight Preconfigured Modular Bag.

Lightspeed Aviation – The Markham Leather Flight Bag

Best buy – brightline bags flex b7 flight preconfigured modular bag, why do you need a pilot flight bag.

As mentioned above, students and some low-hours pilots often think that any ordinary briefcase or kitbag will do for carrying their flying gear.  Well, you might be able to manage with just any old bag, but a well-designed flight bag will make things much easier for you.

Why will it make things easier?  There are a large number of items that you need on every flight.  These may vary at different times in your flying career.  A student pilot will probably need space for a headset, an ipad or tablet, and perhaps charts or books.  Private pilots going out on short fights may dispense with the books, but will probably find they need a flashlight, spare batteries, a fuel tester, and a few other items.

Later in your flying, if you go on longer trips, such as overnight, or particularly if you work as a commercial pilot, you are likely to need a few pieces of extra clothing in addition to your day-to-day flight gear.  In fact, you may want to carry such things anyway.  Fairly soon after I got my private pilot’s license, I got unexpectedly stranded overnight due to extensive thunderstorms that hadn’t been forecast.  I had virtually nothing with me for an overnight stop.  But I learned from experience, and after that I always carried spare food, spare underwear, and a toothbrush, at the very least, however short I expected the flight to be.

Although you could carry all of these items, and more, in any bag, it really helps if they’re organized in separate compartments and so easy to lay hands on when you need them.  It is also a good idea if at least some of these compartments are padded to protect delicate items such as headsets.  And these are the reasons why a specialist flight bag is such a good idea.

What Items Will You Keep In Your Pilot Flight Bag?

Let’s now take a look at what any pilot is likely to need to take on a flight, in case you still don’t believe that so much is required.

For Student Pilots

• Your pilot logbook
• Flight planning materials
• Various emergency items.

For Private Pilots

You need the above, and also..

• High visibility jacket
• Spare handheld radio for emergencies
• Extra charts
• Fuel tester

For Commercial Pilots, And Also Private Pilots On Long Trips

You need all the above and also…

• Extra clothing and personal items for overnight stops
• Spare batteries
• Snacks and drinks
• Mobile phone

There may of course be other personal items that you require.

What Features Do You Need In Your Pilot Flight Bag

When looking for a flight bag, you need to decide what sort of flying you’ll be doing.  Even if you’re a student pilot, it could well be worth buying a flight bag that you can grow into, as it were, with space for more items than you need at present.  On the other hand, you may prefer to buy a more reasonably priced student flight bag for now, and then get something more extensive and versatile if and when you need it.  The choice is yours of course.

Flight bags are made from different materials.  Leather looks classy and wears well, but it is expensive and heavy. Polyester is cheap, but not that durable.  Canvas and nylon are both hardwearing, although canvas is heavy and not that waterproof.  Again, it comes down to needs versus cost, and also personal preference, so do think carefully about this.

Also, think carefully about how many compartments you need, and how large you want your bag to be overall.  Again, you can choose something to grow into as your flying progresses if you wish.  But also bear in mind how much space you have when you’re flying.  In most light aircraft, the bag will have to go in the back.  However, in larger aircraft, even if there is space in the back, you may want something that is small enough to fit by your seat, which is most convenient and what the majority of airline pilots do.

On the other hand, your needs may be more specialized.  As a helicopter pilot flying the Robinson R22, I needed a bag that would fit under my seat, as this was the only storage space available.  This meant I had to discard my trusty old flying bag, as it was much too big, and invest in a specialist helicopter bag of the right size!  So these things are not always that straightforward.

Where Can You Buy Pilot Flight Bags

These days you can buy pilot flight bags in many places.  There are physical shops and websites for all the well-known aviation supply companies, such as Pilot Mall, Sporty’s Pilot Shop, and Airport Pilot Shop, among others. You may also be able to buy pilot flight bags from your own flying schools, on Ebay or Amazon, or secondhand from other pilots.  The choice may not be so great from these sources, but it may be quite acceptable for you.  Again, the choice is yours.  But do make sure you do some research first, and buy what you need for the type of flying you do.

The Best Pilot Flight Bags

Now we come to the nitty-gritty – which bag should you buy?

Since there are a huge number of pilot flight bags available, and many of them are very good, I found it quite difficult to compile a shortlist of the best ones.  There were so many factors to take into account.  But in the end I came up with half a dozen excellent bags, all different.  For convenience, I have divided them into three groups, although it must be said that there is a lot of overlap between groups…

• Budget priced bags for student pilots and those who need something simple
• Bags with more compartments for private pilots who are prepared to spend a little more money.
• Larger bags with more compartments, often costing rather more, for the commercial or airline pilot.  These are also suitable for the private pilot who does longer flights, and an ambitious student pilot may well decided to buy one of these so that he or she does not have to upgrade at a later date.

Do realize that these divisions and types are not set in stone.  Take a look, and whatever flight bag seems best for you, buy it if you want it, no matter what sort of pilot you are and what group I have put it in.

Budget Priced Bags

These bags cost around $100, which is actually quite inexpensive for a  good pilot flight bag.

This is one of the smaller flight bags, but is designed specifically for students and private pilots.  It is made of durable ripstop nylon, and has a number of pockets designed for specific items.  These include an ipad pocket, a padded compartment for a headset and spare batteries, and a pocket for various small items such as keys, phone, GPS, etc.  The bag even has a special pocket for a water bottle, which many cheaper bags don’t have.  It is quite good looking, and does not take up too much room in a small aircraft such as a PA38 or Cessna 150, which many people learn to fly on.  And if you’re trying to save money, and who isn’t when shelling out for flying lessons, it’s one of the cheapest bags around.

I like this bag because in spite of its lowish price tag, it is well-designed and durable, and probably has everything the student or low hours pilot needs.  You may need something more expensive later in your career, but that could be a decision for another time.

• Relatively inexpensive
• Compact size
• A number of useful compartments
• Too small for some people, particularly if you start needing more stuff for longer flights
• Not easy to clean
• Only One Colour Available

Mygoflight Plc Lite Ipad Aviation Flight Bag

Again this bag is relatively small and inexpensive, but I chose it particularly because it’s designed for ipad users, and more and more new pilots are relying on ipads rather than the more bulky books and charts, as we did in the past.  It has a roomy, padded ipad pocket, and also enough other pockets for students and private pilots who don’t carry all that many items.  Again, it’s a compact size and not too expensive.

If you are a committed ipad user when it comes to aviation, I’d suggest going for this bag rather than the one described earlier.  It’s slightly more expensive, but not very much more.  And I think you will like it.

• Good looking bag, in my opinion better looking than the Flight Outfitters Lift.
• Nice large pocket suitable for almost any size ipad
• Sensibly priced
• Has no external pockets for items like a water bottle or fuel tester.
• Only comes in one color option

Medium Range Bags

These bags are suitable for most private pilots, particularly those who don’t want to spend the earth!  There is a huge range of bags in this price category, so if something else takes your fancy, maybe go for it.

This bag has a very large central compartment, with room for more books and charts than the previous bags.  I like it for that reason, as I always find myself carrying more items than I expect to. With this bag, if you want to throw in an extra book or two, then you can.  It also has a high visibility interior for easily finding things in the dark, plus a padded strap in case you find it being heavier than you expected….when you added that extra book or two!  There are also some useful exterior pockets.

• large amount of space inside
• A good looking bag with a rectangular shape
• High visibility interior
• May be difficult to find everything in the large central compartment.

Flight Outfitters Bush Pilot Folio

This light brown canvas bag is very unusual, and you’ll either like it a lot or hate it! I like the fact that it’s rather unusual, and looks as though it’s suitable for aspiring bush pilots.  But it would be fine for any pilot who likes a more casual, outdoor style of flight bag.  It is also fairly large and you could even fit in extra items for a weekend away if you really needed to.  And it has a large number of dedicated pockets for your fuel tester, phone, sunglasses etc.

• Well made and good looking, and even suitable for trips that are not aviation related
• Has lots of space for extra items
• Very unusual color and design
• Light brown color is not to everyone’s taste.
• Fairly expensive, though cheaper than leather flight bags.

Top Of The Range Bags

These are the best flight bags you will find, although many of them have a price tag to prove it!  They are mainly designed for airline pilots, but that doesn’t stop the rest of us buying them, if they’re what you want.

Brightline Bags Flex B7 Flight Preconfigured Modular Bag

I just love this bag!  In fact, I want one, right now!  And I’d get one if I didn’t already have too many flight bags.

This bag has an absolutely huge number of pockets, so that you can keep individual items separate and find them immediately.  But more important, in my opinion, is the fact that it splits into several bags, so for shorter flights you don’t have to take the whole thing with you.  So if you need it, you have a very large bag which will hold everything.  But if not, then zip off the extra bits and leave some of it behind.

In my opinion this is a bag for every pilot.  It’s quite expensive, but if I was a new student again, I think I’d invest in this bag, and keep it forever.  It’s tough too, so it should last for your whole flying career.

• Extremely versatile
• Splits into a number of separate bags if required
• Has an incredibly large number of compartments
• Expensive – you won’t get much change from $300
• Takes up a lot of room and may be unsuitable for very small aircraft
• Rather heavy when fully loaded

If you want a leather flight bag – and let’s face it, they do look good – then this is the one to go for.  It is a relatively small size, but has a large number of pockets and a lot of internal space.  It also has a couple of external pockets.  And, being leather, it is very hard wearing, and each individual bag is unique with distinctive hide marking and grain.

I wanted to include one leather bag, and I think this one is the best.  So if you want a leather bag, bite the bullet and the expensive price tag and go for it!

• A good-looking leather flight bag that is sure to attract admiring glances
• Has a convenient central zipper into the main compartment
• Very hard-wearing
• Rather expensive, nearly $300
• Not everyone likes leather bags
• Relatively small sized.

My Recommendation/Best Buy

This just has to be the Brightline Bags Flex B7 Flight Preconfigured Modular Bag .

As I already said, I just love this bag, and I’m already trying to justify buying one.  Although designed for airline pilots, it is suitable for everyone who flies.  If you’re a student, you can zip off some of the extra compartments, and simply have a smaller bag.  And the bag will grow with you, as it were.

Years ago, I spent ages looking for the perfect flight bag.  This one is as close to it as I’ve yet seen.

Frequently Asked Questions – Best Flight Bags for Pilots

Question: do i really need a specialist pilot flight bag.

Answer:   You don’t absolutely have to have one.  You can carry your flight equipment in a briefcase or carrier bag if you really want to.  But having a dedicated pilot’s flight bag means you have a space in your bag for everything and can find things when you need them.  It certainly makes your flying a lot easier, and therefore a lot more fun.

Question: What should pilots pack in a flight bag?

Answer:   This depends very much on what you need.  The average private pilot will need an ipad or some books and charts, sunglasses, fuel tester, GPS, headset, and a collection of other items.  You need to carry quite a lot of stuff, so having a flight bag that will hold it all is an excellent idea.

Question: Is it worth paying extra for a leather flight bag?

Answer:   It isn’t absolutely necessary.  Modern materials such as nylon work just as well, are lighter, and are much cheaper.  Having said that, nothing looks as good as a leather flight bag, and they are very hard-wearing.  So if you hanker after one, and can afford it, then it will be worth it for you.

And Finally…

A pilot’s flight bag may not seem like an essential item.  But having a suitable one certainly makes your life as a pilot a whole lot easier, and it enables you to easily carry the items you need on every flight, and find them when required.  So hopefully you found this article useful, and you will now be able to go out and buy the best flight bag for you.

And then, as they say in aviation, I wish you blue skies and tailwinds.

Recommended Reads:

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• Part 61 vs 141 Certification
• Aero Corner. https://aerocorner.com/blog/best-flight-bags/
• Thrust Flight. https://www.thrustflight.com/the-best-flight-bags-for-pilots/
• Clever Journey. https://www.cleverjourney.com/best-flight-bags/
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5 Best Pilot Luggage Bags

Flying is all about keeping up with details, especially when it comes to gear. From logbooks and headsets to bottles of water and pens, there’s a lot to keep up with on every flight . Every pilot needs a flight bag, but they’re not all built the same. Here’s a rundown of some of FLYING’s favorite pilot luggage bags, along with the essentials most pilots stash inside them.

Quicklook: Best Pilot Luggage Options 

• Most Popular : Flight Outfitters Lift Flight Bag
• Best Modular Pilot Bag: Brightline Bags Flex B7 Flight Modular Bag
• Best Simple Pilot Bag: Simple Flyer Alpha Pilot Headset Flight Bag 
• Best Splurge: Lightspeed Aviation “The Gann” Leather Flight Bag
• Best on a Budget: Jeppesen Student Pilot Flight Bag

5 Best Luggage for Pilots Options

Here are some of the standout flight bags on the market based upon the size, price, and capacity.

Flight Outfitters Lift Flight Bag

This tough bag is designed by a private pilot, and it shows. There’s dedicated, fleece-lined storage space for your headset and electronics. The carrying handle is also reinforced with braided wire for heavy loads.

Best For: Staying organized in the cockpit

Dimensions: 9″ x 10.5″ x 12″

Weight: 2 pounds

Materials: Nylon

Special Features :  

• Sturdy construction
• Large headset pocket, iPad pocket, accessory pockets
• Steel-reinforced carrying handles
• Orange interior that increases visibility and makes items easier to find

Benefits:  

• Fleece-lined electronic accessory pockets 
• Water bottle, backup radio pocket, fuel tester pocket, external chart pockets
•  Adjustable shoulder strap

Disadvantages: 

•  Size may limit for some pilots needs

Brightline Bags Flex B7 Flight Preconfigured Modular Bag

In addition to providing seven inches of storage depth, this soft bag slightly expands in every direction. Additionally, you can store headsets, charts, and an ipad–with room to spare! The FLEX Systems module allows you to add other FLEX System modules and create a custom bag.

Best For: Configurable storage of cockpit essentials

Dimensions: 14″ x 8″ x 12″

Weight: 5.6 pounds

•  Configurable design allows you to scale up or downsize capacity based on your flight
•  Capable of carrying two full-sized aviation headsets
• Plenty of storage options
• Capable of carrying flight gear, along with personal items
•  Some purchasers have complained about long term durability

Simple Flyer Alpha Pilot Headset Flight Bag

This Simple Flyer Flight Bag has a straightforward design for all the cockpit essentials. It comes with a large headset pocket and a protected pocket for your iPad. It also has a large exterior pocket for water, as well as organization for must-haves, including pens, phone chargers, sunglasses, and handheld radios.

Best For: Compact organization

Dimensions: 15.28″ x 14.61″ x 3.19″

Weight: 1.56 pounds

Materials: Rip-stop nylon fabric

Special Features : 

• Large headset pocket
• Compact size 
• Comes in black or pink
•  Roomy organization for the price
•  Solid construction 
• Some purchasers have complained about pen pouch placement and the smell of the material

Lightspeed Aviation’s “The Gann” Leather Flight Bag

This all-leather bag features a carpenter-style opening that allows unfettered access to the inside. Interior compartments are lined, and a large transceiver pocket features a cut-out flap for the antenna. It also comes with a 30-day money back guarantee and a one-year limited warranty.

Best For: Staying organized in high style

Dimensions: 15″ x 12″ x 5″

Weight: 3.65 pounds

Materials: Full-grain leather

• Uncoated leather will soften with age and use 
• Purpose-built pockets for headsets, iPads, and transceivers
• 30-day money back guarantee, one-year limited warranty
• Premium style and quality
• Can be easily stashed behind the pilot’s seat
•  No exterior water bottle pocket

Jeppesen Student Flight Bag

This multipurpose pilot bag comes with plenty of exterior pockets to keep you organized. If you’re not sure about the need for a shoulder strap, no worries. It’s removable. The bag’s material also comes with a PVC coating that adds water resistance.

Best For: Best multipurpose bag for the price

Dimensions: 11″ x 5.5″ x 16″

Weight: 12.8 ounces

Materials: Polymer with a PVC coating 

• Seven exterior pockets
• Three small exterior pockets for pens, flashlights
• Interior key clip
• Double zipper opening
• Reinforced base

Benefits: 

• Generous size
•  Made of nylon material

What Should a Pilot Pack In Their Luggage?

A pilot’s bag is a receptacle for all needs foreseen, as well as those that could be handy in an unforeseen emergency. The bag should have room for: 

• Your headset (and perhaps a spare headset, if you’re an instructor)
• Pilot certificate
• Snacks, such as protein bars or peanuts
• Extra batteries
• Small first aid kit with a space blanket
• Handheld radio
• Airplane Manuals

READ MORE: What’s Really in an Airline Pilot’s Flight Bag?

How To Choose the Ideal Pilot Luggage 

While selecting the best pilot luggage is highly subjective to personal preference, it starts with pockets to keep your gear organized and within easy reach throughout your flight.

Quality and Durability

When choosing how to schlep your gear, pay attention to the quality of the material used in the construction of pilot bags. Nylon and rip-stop fabric can offer durability without a lot of added weight.

Flight bag size is a critical detail. It needs to be big enough to carry everything you need in the cockpit, but not so bulky that it can’t easily be thrown behind your seat.

Storage and Organization

Have you ever been midflight and in need of lip balm? Sitting behind the controls is not the place you want to be while rifling through a bag looking for a needle in a haystack. Dedicated storage pouches and pockets on flight bags are key to staying organized.

Customization 

Once you have an idea of the type of pilot bag that works for you, consider customizing the exterior. Many bags on the market are black, which means they could be prone to mixup during pit stops. Make your bag instantly identifiable by tying a colorful flight cord or ribbon to its top handle, or get fancy by having your name embroidered on the front.

Convenience 

A good flight bag is going to be with you through it all, so think about how you roll. Do you prefer a long shoulder strap that could allow you to wear it cross-body style? Do you prefer greater control by keeping your bag in your hand? Choosing a bag with versatile carrying options keeps things flexible.

Enhance Your Bag Game

An easy, sure-fire way to take your pilot bag game up a notch to pro-level is by having the most current issue of FLYING poking out the top. Subscribe to FLYING here . 

Pilots use specially designed bags geared for organizing cockpit essentials, such as headsets, pens, and plotters.

A pilot carries at least one bag with all flight essentials inside it.

Commercial pilots are typically able to fly for free or at a discount.

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The Best Pilot Luggage: Ten Top Picks (2024)

Whether you are a commercial pilot, cabin crew, or a frequent traveler looking for the highest quality luggage that professional pilots use, you will find the below top picks of the best pilot luggage on the market right now. Additionally, if you are looking for a durable suitcase, in the right size, with a lifetime guarantee, you will find a great option amongst the best pilot bags listed below.  

What to Look for in the Best Pilot Luggage 

Flight crews prioritize their luggage purchases based on bags with compact size, lightweight, and the most durable luggage that will last for an extended time. Compared to more casual travelers, an airline pilot or flight attendant’s carry-on bag will be thrown into and out of overhead bins on most days of the year. This usage requires rigid materials and quality stitching to ensure a bag can last.

The amount of storage space and the best features are also important aspects of finding the best pilot luggage. Flight attendants have different needs and can spend an extended time away from their home base, so for long flights, a change of clothes is necessary, and having the right pockets for personal items is essential for both short and long trips.

Lower in this guide, below the top picks, is a further analysis of the essential features to consider when purchasing the best pilot luggage.

The Best Pilot Luggage: Ten Top Picks

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Below are the best options on the market at the moment from the different luggage brands that have become popular amongst flight crew for their size, weight, durability, and features.

Best Overall: Briggs & Riley 22-Inch Baseline Essential Carry-on Spinner

One of the most popular makers of suitcases for the flight crew community, Briggs & Riley are known for their bag’s durability, well-thought features, and their unconditional lifetime guarantee. Their baseline essential spinner is as full-featured of a bag as you can find, with the unique feature of a built-in-tri-fold garment folder that keeps flight uniforms wrinkle-free and the one-touch CX expansion buttons that allow the bags to quickly expand for extra space.  

Made of ballistic nylon fabric with reinforced stitching, durable zippers, and shock-absorbing wheels, the Briggs & Riley Baseline has incorporated all of the experience and knowledge from their long heritage into ensuring that these bags can handle the wear from constant travel.

Travelpro Crew Versapack Softside 21-Inch Expandable Spinner

Another trusted name amongst flight crews, Travelpro offers one of the most full-featured softside spinners on the market. With a well-thought design for those traveling carry-on only, the Crew Versapack features a zip-in garment organizer to keep your shirts and jackets wrinkle-free. The bag also has several internal mesh pockets and additional organizers that can be purchased depending on your personal preference. With a power bank and charger front pocket, the bag is well-suited to meet the modern traveler’s needs. 

With a limited lifetime warranty and the brand claiming that Travelpro products are used by flight crews from over 90 airlines globally, the Travelpro Crew Versapack is a sensible option for those looking for the best pilot luggage.

Best Hardside Pilot Luggage: Briggs & Riley Torq Hardside Luggage 21-Inch

While hardside luggage is less commonly seen amongst flight crews than softside, there are still pilots and flight attendants that prefer the additional protection that comes with hardside bags. Amongst the selected hardside options is the Briggs & Riley Torq Hardside. Made of a 3-layer polycarbonate shell, the Torq features a large main compartment with a garment flap to keep shirts and jackets wrinkle-free. Additionally, the bag features a front pocket that provides easy access to laptops and tablets.  

The bag also features an external USB port that can be connected to a power bank (not included) inside the bag to provide easy charging while moving through airports. With a sleek design and the trusted quality of Briggs & Riley, the Torq is an easy choice for those preferring a durable hardside bag.  

Timbuk2 Co-Pilot Luggage Roller

Featuring a less common design amongst the best pilot luggage on this list, the Timbuk2 Co-Pilot is an extremely lightweight yet durable option that is great for those looking for a full-featured bag with a practical design. With a softside construction, the bag features a clamshell design with enough pockets to stay organized with both large and small items. Additionally, with an outer pocket for a laptop or tablet, access to the main compartment from the outside, and grab handles on all four sides; the Co-Pilot offers a lot of flexibility for use while traveling.  

The Co-Pilot also uniquely features skateboard-inspired wheels, which offer a smoother glide over rougher surfaces, and additional durability over years of use. In addition, the bag is backed by a lifetime warranty, ensuring that it will stand up to years of heavy use or be replaced or repaired as needed.

Best Lightweight Luggage: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable 21-Inch Spinner

One of the lightest bags on this list, the Travelpro Maxlite does not sacrifice durability to hit its weight of just over 5 pounds. The Maxlite offers multiple internal mesh pockets and tie-down straps, exterior pockets for a laptop/tablet and accessories, and can expand up to two inches for additional packing space. Made of water and stain-resistant nylon fabric, the Maxlite is perfect for those looking to limit the bag weight for additional weight for the contents.

Best Garment Bag: Briggs & Riley Baseline Garment Bag Spinner

The best travel garment bag available, the Briggs & Riley Baseline Garment Bag Spinner adds four spinning wheels to the design of what was commonly a bulky over-the-shoulder bag. With a large internal compartment that folds flat and zips, the Baseline Garment Bag allows for easy packing of shirts, jackets, and pants in the main garment compartment, with additional storage space for shoes and accessories. Quite possibly the best way to carry uniforms or clothes, the bag can be complemented by a pilot flight bag or briefcase that can sit on top of other travel accessories.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Garment Upright Carry-on

A more affordable wheeled garment bag than the Briggs & Riley Baseline, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 bag features a similar design with a foldover bag that can keep shirts, pants, jackets, and dresses wrinkle-free and with you in the cabin. In addition, with two wheels instead of four, the bag can be stacked with a briefcase or tote, making for the perfect complement of luggage pieces for flight crew or frequent travelers. Made of water-resistant polyester, the bag features the typical Travelpro quality and is backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

Travelpro Platinum Elite Hardside Expandable Spinner 21-Inch

The premier hardside carry-on bag from Travelpro, this sleek bag offers the thoughtful internal organizational pockets expected from the leading flight crew brand. With USB A and C ports on the outside that can be connected to your own internal power bank, along with TSA locks to protect your valuables, the Platinum Elite offers the most up-to-date features across the bags on this list. 

Backed by a limited lifetime warranty and with a strong 100% polycarbonate shell, this is an excellent option for those looking for a rugged bag that has a more modern aesthetic.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Rolling Underseat Tote

If you are looking for a compact carry-on with wheels that can tuck under the seat or easily fit into smaller overhead bins, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Rolling Underseat Tote is the perfect option. Slightly smaller than a standard 20-inch carry-on bag, the Maxlite 5 Rolling Underseat Tote offers the added benefit of more space than a typical backpack, with the convenience of the weight being off your shoulders. 

Great for a flight crew flying on smaller regional aircraft, or travelers looking for a rolling bag that won’t get checked, the Travelpro offers excellent value for a reasonable price.

Best Budget-Friendly Pilot Luggage: American Tourister 4 Kix Softside 21-Inch Spinner

Let’s be honest; budget-friendly and pilot luggage are typically not associated with each other. Given the beating a typical flight crew or frequent flyer’s luggage can take, the professionals will opt for more expensive and durable bags. To make this a well-rounded list of options, it’s worth having one bag that is more affordable.  

The American Tourister 4 Kix Softside provides a pilot luggage aesthetic and comes with a 10-year warranty. While the warranty won’t cover normal wear and tear, it does cover you for manufacturing defects, providing a bag that should stand a reasonable test of time at a great price.

Best Pilot Flight Bag: Lightspeed Aviation The Gann Leather Flight Bag

This couldn’t be a proper list of pilot luggage without including a flight bag or two. The Lightspeed Aviation The Gann Leather Flight Bag is the best out there in terms of quality, aesthetics, and features. With a large compartment that features dividers to separate smaller items like headsets, a fuel tester, and other flight gear, the Gann also features the vital roller bag sleeve that fits over the handle of a roller bag, allowing for easy stacking. The bag also includes a removable shoulder strap for easy carrying without a roller bag.

Best Modular Flight Bag: Brightline Bags Flex B7 Flight Preconfigured Modular Bag

The ultimate functional organization for pilots that need to carry more gear than the typical commercial pilot, the Brightline Bags Flex B7 is the most flexible bag and the best for organizing. You can customize this flight bag with modular sections that zip onto the center bag as you see fit. With large enough expansion options and a roller wheel attachment, this bag is hard to beat for pilots carrying headsets, tablets, fuel testers, charts, and more.  

Essential Considerations to Find the Best Pilot Luggage for You

Personal travel preferences are unique for every type of traveler. Commercial pilots, private pilots, student pilots, flight crew, or frequent flyers will indeed have their own travel habits and preferences. Below are some of the essential considerations and features to consider when choosing the right luggage for yourself.  

Size Considerations

Given this guide covers the best pilot luggage, the focus is on carry-on acceptable bag sizes. The key consideration when it comes to size is the specific dimensions for your airline or travel plans. While every bag in the list above fits into the 22-inch limit that is used by most major US airlines, there are European and Asian airlines that use a smaller 20-inch limit. Check with your airline or frequent airlines that you fly with to determine the right size for your travels.  

Beyond the allowable sizes, you may want to consider different sizes depending on how large of a bag you need to travel with and whether there will be enough space. A larger bag will provide a sizeable main compartment and plenty of room to fit extra clothing and specific items in additional compartments. In contrast, those looking for a small size will find they offer easy access and more portability. 

Naturally, the amount of weight a carry-on bag can take will be limited, so having the right bag weight before a bag is packed is essential to ensuring you have a manageable bag that you are comfortable lifting. If you know you are someone who likes to maximize their packing, consider a lightweight bag to save the extra few pounds in weight.

Storage Features

While most of the bags listed in the best pilot luggage top picks will appear as a typical suitcase, many offer unique storage features. Pilots and flight crew need to keep clean and pressed uniforms in their bags, limiting the chances of having wrinkles cuts back on ironing time in hotel rooms. Consider bags with garment storage or even specialty garment bags.  

If you are a traveler who likes to stay organized, consider getting the type of bag with enough pockets or a specific organizer pocket on the outside. These options will give you enough places to store small items and keep you organized throughout your travels.

One of the most critical considerations for finding the best pilot bag is having a bag made from high-quality material. This is the crucial factor that distinguishes between the bags used by flight crews and those that are of a similar design yet sold at discount stores. The quality of the material makes all the difference.  

While hardshell options are available, which can sometimes be seen being used by flight crews, the soft shell options are more common due to their durability. Strong nylon material with reinforced stitching is hard to beat for the long term; these bags will stand the test of time. While hardshell suitcases may offer a sleeker look when they are purchased, depending on the material, that shine can fade as they get scratched up.

Make sure to read reviews and validate a bag’s material to ensure that different materials can put up to the wear expected as part of regular travel. These bags will be wheeled continuously through airports and parking lots, thrown onto x-ray screening tables, and into overhead bins. The bags on the list above are from brands with long histories of supporting flight crews, though, for other bags, you should validate each bag’s materials through cross-referencing reviews.

Two Wheels or Four?

Often a matter of personal preference, the four-wheel spinning bag has become the standard amongst modern travelers. This phenomenon can be observed at any airport gate or baggage claim. While four wheels are often easier to use, the practicality can be seen in two-wheel bags with their durability. However, more wheels and spinning wheels leave more moving parts that can break and a higher potential need for repair.

High-quality bags are often backed up by lifetime warranties. If you are buying a bag for the long term, make sure to closely read the warranty information before purchase. It’s a good idea to know what is covered by the warranty and guarantee as they often cover unexpected damages, though they will not cover normal wear and tear. So the more you know, the better your expectations will be managed if you need to repair your bag.

Bottom Line: The Best Pilot Luggage

While the options for the best pilot luggage for your travels are seemingly limited in size and features, there is a relatively wide range of bags available with different features and price points. Consider what features matter to you the most, and make sure you are comfortable with the warranty and durability of the bag, as these are bags that you should expect to last you for a long time.

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What Luggage Do Pilots Use? (Airline Approved Brands)

• November 23, 2023

When it comes to long hours on the move, no one knows luggage better than pilots! They’re the frequent fliers we often forget about, zipping around the globe and needing to have their essentials on hand at all times. 

So, what luggage do these air travel experts use? What brands have earned their trust? If you’re curious about airline-approved luggage brands that stand up to the rigorous demands of a pilot’s lifestyle, you’re in the right place! 

Buckle up, as we take you on a journey to explore the luggage brands that pilots swear by!

Table of Contents

Factors flight crews consider when buying luggage, durability / long time use.

When it comes to the importance of durability, pilots really can’t afford to compromise. Imagine rolling your suitcase through countless airports, lifting it into overhead compartments, and sliding it into tight spaces on a near-daily basis – it’s clear why durability is a top priority! 

A bag that can’t withstand this rough and tumble routine would not only be an inconvenience but could potentially disrupt a pilot’s tightly scheduled work routine. Therefore, pilots prefer luggage brands that promise long-term use and can weather the wear and tear of constant travel. 

They invest in high-quality, durable suitcase that can keep up with their fast-paced lifestyle and keep their valuables safe and secure, no matter where their work takes them!

Lifetime Warranty

Another major factor that pilots consider when purchasing luggage is the warranty provided by the manufacturer. A lifetime warranty is especially appealing as it demonstrates the brand’s confidence in the durability and quality of its products. One such brand revered by pilots for its incredible warranty is Briggs & Riley . 

This brand stands out in the crowd with its ‘Simple as that®’ lifetime guarantee which covers all damage, even if caused by an airline. This means that if your Briggs & Riley bag is ever damaged, they will repair it free of charge. This level of customer service and assurance of product longevity makes Briggs & Riley a preferred choice among many pilots.

Lightweight

When it comes to considering the weight of their luggage, pilots have a unique set of factors to take into account. Constantly on the move, they require their luggage to be as lightweight as possible. Managing a heavy suitcase can be challenging, especially when navigating through crowded airports in a rush.

Additionally, every extra pound can become a burden during long flights and multiple layovers. Opting for lightweight luggage ensures easier maneuverability and reduces physical strain, which is crucial for pilots who need to remain alert and focused once they step into the cockpit.

That is why brands offering lightweight yet durable luggage options, such as the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage, are popular choices among flight crews.

Retractable Handle That Can Survive Heavy Use

The retractable handle is a vital feature for any luggage, particularly for pilots. The nature of their job often entails rapid movement through vast airport spaces, moving to and from various types of aircraft, and sometimes even navigating up and down stairways. A suitcase with a sturdy, easy-to-use retractable handle can significantly reduce physical strain during these transitions. 

Moreover, the handle plays a pivotal role in the suitcase’s maneuverability. Quality retractable handles allow for smooth steering, offering pilots the ability to swiftly and easily transport their luggage across different surfaces and around obstacles. 

And let’s not forget about durability! Given the heavy use and the frequently harsh environment, the retractable handle needs to be resilient and designed to withstand the test of time. A broken or dysfunctional handle can render a suitcase virtually useless, and that’s the last thing any pilot would want in the middle of a tight schedule!

When it comes to retractable handles, brands like Travelpro Platinum Elite have set high standards with their robust and ergonomic designs.

Spinner Wheels (4-Wheel vs 2-Wheel Luggage Bags)

4-wheel vs. 2-wheel luggage: what's the difference.

When it comes to mobility and convenience, your choice between 4-wheel and 2-wheel luggage can make a significant difference. 4-wheel suitcases, also known as “spinners,” are renowned for their easy maneuverability. They can rotate 360 degrees, making them effortless to navigate through crowded spaces like airports, where you might need to turn your bag around corners or weave through people. However, they are more vulnerable to wear and tear as the wheels are often externally mounted.

On the other hand, 2-wheel luggage, or “rollers,” only move forward and backward. They’re typically tilted and pulled behind you and might require more arm strength to maneuver, especially when fully loaded. However, these bags often prove more durable as the wheels are generally partially recessed, providing better protection. Plus, they’re less likely to roll away if you’re on a slope!

Renowned for their robust two-wheel constructions, luggage bags like Delsey Paris Helium DLX are widely recognized for their exceptional durability.

So, the choice between 4-wheel and 2-wheel luggage boils down to your preference for maneuverability versus durability.

Expandable Luggage vs Non-expandable luggage bags

The decision between expandable and non-expandable luggage might seem minor, but it can significantly impact your travel experience.

Expandable luggage, as the name suggests, offers the ability to increase the bag’s capacity, providing you more space to squeeze in those extra souvenirs or clothing items.

Brands like Briggs & Riley are renowned for their spacious expandable designs, allowing for up to 25% additional packing capacity!

On the flip side, non-expandable luggage has a fixed capacity. While this might seem like a disadvantage, it comes with benefits of its own. Non-expandable bags tend to be more durable and rugged, as they lack the zippers and seams that make expandable bags more susceptible to damage.

In essence, your choice between expandable and non-expandable luggage depends on your need for flexibility versus longevity in your travel gear.

Hard-sided vs soft-sided roll-aboard bags

When talking about roll-aboard bags, another significant consideration is whether to choose a hard-sided or soft-sided design. Let’s delve into the differences!

Hard-sided roll-aboard bags are typically made from materials like polycarbonate or ABS plastic. These materials offer excellent protection for your belongings, making hard-sided bags a great choice for travels that may involve a little rough and tumble. They’re ideal for protecting fragile items, and they also tend to be more water-resistant. Brands like Rimowa and Samsonite are famed for their high-quality hard-sided designs.

Soft-sided roll-aboard bags, however, bring flexibility and lightness to the forefront. They are usually made from materials such as nylon or polyester, which can flex and compress to fit into tight spaces—perfect for those overhead bins in airplanes!

Soft-sided bags often feature exterior pockets for easy access to essentials during your journey. Travelpro and Briggs & Riley are brands well-regarded for their superior soft-sided luggage.

In summary, the choice between hard-sided and soft-sided roll-aboard bags boils down to your preference for durability and protection versus flexibility and convenience in your travel gear.

When it comes to color, black is often the standard, especially for uniformed professionals who require a more formal and consistent look. However, for personal travel, the world is your oyster! Feel free to select a hue that matches your personality or helps your bag stand out on the carousel. 

While a black luggage bag can be elegant and universally appealing, a bright, unique color can make your travels more fun and your luggage easier to spot. Remember, it’s all about your personal preference and style when choosing the color of your luggage.

What Type of Bags Does an Airline Pilot Use?

Rolling bag / roll-aboard.

A rolling bag is essentially the basic requirement for an airline pilot. With the demands of their profession, a bag that can be easily maneuvered through busy airports is absolutely critical. Rolling bags not only provide convenience during travel, but also reduce the strain on the body, especially when they’re loaded with flight essentials like charts, headsets, and uniform items. 

Furthermore, they must be sturdy and reliable, as they are used almost daily. Therefore, a high-quality rolling bag like a TravelPro or Briggs & Riley can be seen as an investment for any airline pilot, ensuring smooth and efficient travel from one destination to the next.

Tote bags are another staple in an airline crew’s roster of luggage. Their size and design make them practical for carrying items needed within easy reach during flights or while on layovers. These bags often contain personal items such as small electronics (like tablets for entertainment or personal laptops for work), travel documents, personal grooming essentials, a change of clothes, and sometimes, snacks or a packed meal. 

They may also carry a book or e-reader for leisure reading, a neck pillow for comfort during long flights, and, in today’s context, sanitizing items like hand sanitizers and wipes. The tote bag acts as the crew’s personal carry-on, housing items that make their travels comfortable, convenient, and in compliance with their airline’s policies.

Duffle bags are commonly used by flight crew for items that don’t need to be accessed during the flight but are necessary for their stay at their destination. These are larger items that won’t fit in a tote bag or aren’t required on hand in the rolling bag. For instance, extra sets of uniforms, civilian clothing for layovers, toiletries, fitness gear for hotel workouts, and extra footwear often make their way into this bag. 

Depending on the destination’s climate, a duffle bag might also hold weather-specific gear like a heavy jacket for colder climates or bathing suits for warmer locales. In essence, the duffle bag is like a compact mobile wardrobe for flight crew, carrying all items required to make their layovers as comfortable as possible.

The lunch bag is a crucial component of the flight crew’s luggage set. Flight schedules can often be unpredictable and strenuous, making it difficult for crew members to maintain regular meal times. 

Having a lunch bag allows them to carry homemade meals, snacks, or beverages, ensuring they have access to nutritious food even during packed schedules. It also provides a healthier and cost-effective alternative to airport or airplane food, which may not always cater to the crew members’ dietary needs or preferences. 

Bags with sleeve attachments

Some bags come with sleeve attachments, allowing them to be slipped onto the handle of a rolling bag. This feature enables flight crew to maneuver through airports more quickly and efficiently, as they can stack their luggage and have it roll alongside them, freeing up their hands for other tasks.

So, what Luggage Brands Does an Airline Pilot Use?

When it comes to luggage, airline pilots have a plethora of brands to choose from. Each brand offers a unique blend of functionality, style, and durability that caters to the diverse needs of these hardworking professionals. Let’s explore seven of these brands that airline pilots often prefer. 

• Briggs & Riley
• Luggage Works 
• SwissGear by Wenger

Their products range from sleek carry-ons and duffles, to lunch bags and bags with special sleeve attachments, each designed to make a pilot’s travel experience smoother and easier. 

Stay tuned as we delve deeper into what makes each of these brands a favorite among airline pilots!

Briggs & Riley

Briggs & Riley is a favorite among pilots for numerous reasons, the topmost being its unmatched durability and practical design.

The brand is renowned for its high-quality luggage that withstands the rigors of frequent travel, thanks to its sturdy construction and state-of-the-art materials. Pilot-approved features like a lightweight frame, smooth rolling wheels, and lockable zippers make navigation through bustling airports a breeze.

Briggs & Riley’s innovative CX technology, which provides expandable packing space, is another major draw for pilots, allowing them to carry their essentials without worrying about space constraints. What’s more, the brand’s ‘Simple as that’ lifetime guarantee, which covers all damage, including airline damage, gives pilots peace of mind, knowing their investment is well-protected.

TravelPro Suitcases

TravelPro is equally cherished by pilots and flight attendants alike. Its popularity is evident in the fact that it is the go-to luggage brand for most major US airlines such as Delta and American Airlines. A huge contributing factor to this preference is the durability that TravelPro suitcases offer.

They are designed to withstand the tough handling and constant traveling inherent in an airline professional’s life.

This high durability, complemented by a reasonable price point, makes TravelPro a trusted choice in the aviation sector. From compact carry-ons to spacious checked luggage, the brand offers a range of options designed to meet the unique needs of airline professionals, making their journeys comfortable and hassle-free.

Luggage Works

Despite its more industrial aesthetic, Luggage Works is a true favorite among pilots for several key reasons. The brand’s commitment to durability and functionality makes it stand out. Their suitcases are built to last with robust materials, ensuring they can endure the heavy-duty usage common in the aviation industry.

Furthermore, Luggage Works offers specific features tailored to pilots’ needs, such as reinforced compartments for electronics and ample storage space for personal items and flight essentials.

The luggage’s sturdy, rolling design allows for seamless movement, a significant advantage in the bustling environment of an airport. While the main drawback is that the design may be simple and straightforward, pilots appreciate this practical, no-nonsense approach.

After all, when you’re constantly on the move, the reliability and functionality of your luggage become far more critical than fleeting fashion trends.

Tumi, the premium luggage brand, has a dedicated fan base among United Airlines Flight Attendants, and for good reason. Synonymous with luxury, style, and first-class quality, Tumi crafts luggage that is as durable as it is sophisticated.

Beyond the brand’s stylish aesthetic, Tumi suitcases are recognized for their thoughtful design and innovative features. They offer a myriad of compartments for organized packing and practical handling, a dream for any flight attendant who needs to pack essentials efficiently.

Tumi’s patented, ultra-durable FXT Ballistic Nylon ensures that the bags can withstand the rigors of frequent travel. Furthermore, their excellent customer service, including a comprehensive warranty and a global recovery system for lost or stolen bags, provides an additional level of security for flight attendants.

These exceptional qualities have earned Tumi the endorsement of United Flight Attendants, who value the perfect balance of style, function, and durability in their luggage.

Another brand that is highly acclaimed in the aviation industry is Samsonite. This brand has been endorsed by several Middle Eastern airlines for its quality, durability, and innovative design. Renowned for its exceptional strength and lightness, Samsonite luggage is crafted with travelers’ convenience in mind.

Their suitcases are equipped with smooth-rolling wheels, ergonomic handles, and spacious interiors – features that are highly appreciated by flight attendants who are always on the go.

Moreover, Samsonite’s commitment to sustainability, with eco-friendly collections made from recycled materials, has gained them additional recognition. These features, coupled with the brand’s outstanding reputation for customer service and product warranty, make Samsonite a favored choice among crew members of Middle Eastern based airlines.

Whether for business or personal travel, Samsonite delivers on its promise of reliability – a testament to its long-standing reputation in the luggage industry.

Delsey, a French luggage brand, has also garnered significant attention from Middle Eastern-based flight crews.

What sets Delsey apart is its sturdy construction and superior durability, which makes it ideal for international flights that demand the utmost resilience. The brand’s suitcases undergo rigorous tests to ensure they can withstand the harsh conditions of frequent travel.

Key features such as shock-resistant material, secure locking systems, and spacious yet lightweight design are highly appealing to flight crews who require reliable and practical luggage solutions. Moreover, Delsey’s commitment to quality is reflected in their excellent warranty and customer service.

With its reputation for delivering long-lasting and robust luggage, Delsey continues to earn the trust and endorsement of pilots and flight attendants based in the Middle East.

SwissGear By Wenger

SwissGear by Wenger, another favorite among flight crews, is greatly valued for its affordability without compromising on quality.

This Swiss brand cleverly incorporates durability, functionality, and style, all while maintaining a price point that’s accessible to a wide range of budgets. The brand’s luggage combines robust construction with practical designs, ensuring durability even under rigorous travel conditions.

Key features include multi-directional spinner wheels for smooth maneuverability, expandable design for extra packing space, and a TSA-friendly lock system for added security.

Furthermore, SwissGear’s customer service and warranty, much like the aforementioned brands, are commendable and appreciated by many.

Hence, SwissGear by Wenger has emerged as a preferred choice for those seeking budget-friendly, yet reliable luggage solutions.

Let's Wrap It Up!

In conclusion, both Briggs & Riley and TravelPro stand out as top choices for flight crews based on their durability, functionality, security, and excellent customer service. Briggs & Riley offers high-end, robust luggage solutions accompanied by an impressive lifetime warranty, while  SwissGear  provides similar quality at a more accessible price point. 

These brands successfully combine practicality and style, thereby earning the trust and endorsement of pilots and flight attendants worldwide. Whether you’re looking for premium or budget-friendly luggage, all seven brands are trustworthy and dependable.

Hi there! I’m Jezee, a flight attendant who finds joy in exploring the skies and hitting the road to beautiful destinations. When I’m not flying or driving, I’m passionate about creating and offering motivational support to those who need it. Let’s make every journey, both literal and metaphorical, a memorable one!

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The Pilot Who Explores

Travel the world like an Airline Pilot.

The Airline Pilot’s Complete Packing Guide You Should See

As an airline pilot living out of a suitcase, it’s an absolute necessity to pack well – whether it’s for work, pleasure, or both. Over the years, you learn to optimize what you take, while learning some tricks along the way.

I’ve traveled on hundreds of work/business trips, ranging from 2-day to 19-day trips. I’ve gone on expeditions and solo trips that lasted several months without coming back to home base. Still, I manage to live exclusively out of a carry-on suitcase .

So what’s the secret? Well, I’m about to tell you!

What’s the secret to packing? Here’s how to avoid paying for overweight baggage fees but still have enough for weeks on end

Over years of traveling, I’ve learned one thing: you need to equip yourself with the best accessories to maximize utility and minimize weight and room. Simply put, you need to pack smarter, not harder .

There’s so much ingenuity and innovation going into making travel easier. Many products are being designed to take up less room in your suitcase, weigh less, while being more useful. It’s becoming much easier to minimize what you pack.

Another factor – taking things on trips you don’t end up using. Sometimes you do have to bring stuff just “in case”, but other times you end up carrying a bunch of dead weight around for no good reason.

That’s where this guide comes in. As a pilot who does this for work, I hope I can help you best learn what you need to pack – and what you don’t.

Packing the essentials: the best products you can use to pack less – but take more

Here are the best products you can use to maximize what you pack – without paying oversize fees or checking in a bag.

Whether these products reduce the space you use, the weight of your bag, or simply improve your quality of life while traveling, they all have a place – and that’s in your suitcase.

1) A good carry-on suitcase to avoid check-in fees and reduce wait times

Well, the first thing you might need is a carry-on suitcase . And the first step to maximizing what you can pack starts with having a good one.

Almost all pilots I know rely on just a carry-on for all of their travels, even when leaving for weeks at a time. Checking in a suitcase and waiting for it on arrival just eats up so much extra time – and for the inconvenience, you often get to pay a fee. No thanks!

So here are my 5 top suitcases recommendations . You’ll see why the extra inch or two really does matter.

2) A travel-sized backpack you can rely on

Another great tool I use is a backpack . Having a solid one that meets the size limits of carry-on size for low cost carriers, such as Frontier or Spirit (and European airlines) is a fantastic way to get out of some ridiculous bag fees while packing more.

3) A J-Hook – the best secret for traveling comfortably

So you have your suitcase and your backpack. Let me tell you a secret to rolling in comfort . It’s called the J-Hook .

The first time you latch your backpack onto your suitcase, you’ll gasp at how easy it is to pull your luggage. Suddenly, there’s no weight pulling down on the handle, and no bag to hold up against the handle of your suitcase.

Next time you’re at an airport, look at pilots and flight attendants dragging their bags. They almost always will have one of these J-Hooks. They’re just so convenient, I’m surprised they’re not more common with the traveling public!

4) Packing cubes to help organize everything

Such usefulness… such effectiveness… such hygiene. Packing cubes are a great way to keep things apart in your suitcase.

But they’re especially great at compressing each individual item (shoes, jackets) so you can squeeze more in. It really makes a world of difference for packing more in less space.

5) SD Cards: The Best Kind of Memory

If you have any sort of camera, laptop, GoPro, Android phone, or any modern device really, it’s best to be packing extra memory.

Right now, SD cards are as cheap as they’ve ever been. You never know when you’ll need one. Trust me, they tend to be much more expensive on the road.

I made this mistake on my trip to Bolivia last year, and spent hours looking for one. I won’t make that mistake again.

6) A Compressible Winter Jacket

Over the last couple years, clothes companies have really come far in diversifying the products they offer. In particular, Eddie Bauer has a line of jackets that literally fold into their own pockets .

No longer do you have to encumber yourself with huge jackets that take up half your suitcase. Packing made ridiculously easy.

7) Re-Usable, No-Smell Shirts

Having a reversible shirt basically lets you pack half the shirts you normally would. The materials used, such as cinnamon fabric or merino wool, are excellent at reducing odors, saving you vital room so you can pack more.

Plus, not having any tags scratching your neck is nice too.

8) Special Packable Shoes: the sole of your bag

Lightweight, versatile shoes are a HUGE factor in packing light. If you can reduce the number of pairs of shoes you bring by one, it could be the difference between excess baggage fees or getting away fee-free.

If you can’t, try to find shoes that are compactable and lightweight. Typically, shoes are the heaviest items we bring in our suitcases.

Just remember that the next time you’re thinking of packing that extra pair of shoes. And remember, flip flops are in style!

9) Water Resistant Shoe Bags

Over the years, I’ve learned that the type of shoe bag you use is extremely important.

You don’t want to pack your shoes in a plastic bag with no air intake, because then your shoes stink. If you pack them directly into your bag, then your bag stinks. Maybe I just have smelly feet?

Anyways, there are plenty of great, breathable options that solve these issues.

10) Compression Socks – vital for long trips

Compression socks are a fantastic way to keep the blood flowing on those long flights.

Plus, they remove stress and reduce the chance of getting varicose veins and excess fluid retention. Compression socks help relieve pain and discomfort related to plantar fasciitis. Over long flights, this leads to reduced fatigue, soreness, cramping and prevents injuries at the same time.

11) Tide Pods: The Essence of Minimalist Packing

Tide pods are possibly the biggest aspect of packing less is dividing your trip into even groups of days. For example, you could pack for a 10 day trip with 5-6 days of clothes, or a 4 month trip with one week of clothes.

Tide pods give you the flexibility to do laundry on your own. Most hotels and airbnbs I’ve been to have washing machines. Usually, the tough part is drying! But I’m sure you can manage. Just don’t eat the tide pods, please.

12) Noise Canceling Headphones

The best purchase I ever made was noise-cancelling Sony headphones . I started out with the WH1000XM2’s for a couple years, and upgraded to the XM3s about a year ago. I’ve never looked back.

The XM4s are supposed to pack a 20% improvement in noise cancellation. Not sure how that’s possible – flights are already dead silent with the XM3s. All I’ll say is, technology is amazing, and these make great gifts .

13) A passport wallet to keep your passport in usable shape

When I first started traveling extensively, I never really thought about keeping my passport in good shape. It spent 90% of the time in my pocket.

It didn’t take long until my passport was literally worn so badly you couldn’t see which country it belonged to on the front. When I got a new passport, the FIRST thing I did was buy an RFID-resistant passport holder .

14) A Solid Travel Adapter & Converter

It’s not really a shocker, but packing a high-quality power adapter/converter is super important. It’s not something you want to break down in the middle of a long trip. Trust me….

If you are only going to Europe and really want to minimize on the space your adapter takes in your bag, here’s a great option .

15) A Powerful Power Bank

Packing a power bank will keep you out of tough spots. Whether you’re on a super long trip, on an extended hike or camping trip, or you forgot your charger, these will have you covered.

Plus, they don’t charge much for them. Only $25-35 for a good one. Electrifying!

16) Tablet/Phone Cases with a stand

We’ve all done it. You know. Lean your phone against your cup on the seatback table, and watch it fall two seconds later.

Lots of airlines are ripping out perfectly good seatback entertainment in search of better economics. Use that money saved on your flight ticket to buy a new, better phone case with a kickstand .

17) Melatonin: Don’t Fight the Jet Lag Unequipped

Melatonin : the supplement that helps you sleep when you’re jet lagged. It’s a tool that, when used correctly, can let you get used to a new time zone near l y instantly .

18) Lifestraw: A great way to avoid traveler’s sickness

Having a life straw is literally life saving. Not only for you, but for the school child that gets water for an ENTIRE year with every purchase.

You can basically drink water from anywhere with a life straw. It’s amazing. It’s great in developing countries or wherever/whenever (Shakira?) it’s hard to find fresh, clean water.

Plus, it could save you quite a few runs to the grocery store for water bottles. It takes almost no room and is super easy to pack.

19) Clear Liquids Pouch

This will make your life easier going through TSA, assuming you don’t have TSA Pre Check or CLEAR.

Plus, they help to keep your packing organized.

20) Travel-Sized Toiletry Bottles

While there are pre-customized convenience kits with everything you need like this one , my recommendation for something that’s more environmentally friendly would be these re-fillable travel-sized bottles.

Packing these over one-use bottles enormously reduces your plastic usage. If not for yourself, do it for mother nature.

These travel-size containers are the key to not having to check in your bag. I personally use mine for my toothpaste and sunscreen.

21) A wallet that can carry bigger currencies

I used to have a slim wallet. I loved it. Until I started traveling more internationally. Unfortunately, not all money is the same size as US Dollars.

In Europe, Euros vary with amount – for example, a one euro bill is much smaller than a fifty Euro bill. Anything bigger than a 20 Euro bill sticks out of normal American wallets. That is a great way to seduce pick-pockets.

22) A Dirty Clothes Bag

Inevitably, you’ll want to separate your dirty clothes from you clean ones.

Here’s my pro tip, and it doesn’t involve buying anything. There are usually 2 of these available in any hotel closet. They’re usually cheap, plasticky, and rip after some time, so it’s up to you.

Packing sturdier dirty clothes bags is probably a much better option .

23) Pens – because you always end up needing one when traveling

As a pilot, these pens have always been my favorite. Not sure what it is about them….

Anyways, you’ll have tons of forms to fill out. Don’t forget to take pens. These are great .

Other Optional but Helpful Travel Gear

A laptop bag that’s actually easy to open.

We see it all too often. That person, struggling to unzip their bag, find their laptop, and take it out.

Don’t be that person. Just get a better, more travel-friendly laptop bag.

An International Sim Card or the best international data roaming plan

These days, staying connected while traveling is more of a necessity than just a desire.

Check out the best international sim cards and how they stack against American carriers .

A Small, Portable, and Packable Tripod

Going solo? If you’re headed on a solo trip and you don’t want to constantly hassle other people, or you want to take more time to perfect that shot, a Tripod will do the trick.

They’re light, and small – two great things when packing.

A Debit Card with No ATM Fees

ATM card fees can be a major expense if your bank is not available where you travel.

Fees are even higher if you travel internationally. Luckily, banks like Charles Schwab have debit cards with no ATM fees.

Hiking Equipment

If you want nothing but the best for your hike, you’re probably much better off packing your own equipment rather than renting whatever is available.

Chewing Gum

Gum is important to bring, especially if you’re susceptible to pressure changes in the airplane or if you’re congested.

BTW, don’t fly congested. Or with any symptoms. We thank you.

Travel Cooler Bags: Fitness on the Road

If you want to stay fit on the road, cooler bags are essential. Learn more about staying as fit as possible while traveling.

In the article, you’ll also learn about some portable workout equipment that packs nicely in any suitcase.

If You Have a Drone, Protect It With a Case!

Lekufee makes great carrying cases to protect your drone. Protect that investment!

First Aid Kit

For those that like to be prepared, a first aid kit really doesn’t take much room. And it’s pretty inexpensive !

If you packed less, taking a sewing kit can definitely extend the life of much-needed clothing.

There are travel-size kits that don’t take up much room, but you may still have to check in your bag because of the scissors.

Pack That VPN (Virtual Private Network)

This is especially important if you’re traveling to China – otherwise, you won’t have access to social media. Apps are available with subscriptions, sometimes costly.

Packing Extra Knowledge

I hope this guide helps when you’re packing for that next trip!

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6 July 2021   |  Updated on February 07, 2024

Flight bags come in many different sizes and prices. Depending on the type of pilot you are, another aviator bag will be a better fit for you.

Some pilots need a more stylish bag to match their personality. Others want something that will fit the most items possible and cost as little as they can find. No matter what type of pilot you are, we are sure you’ll find something you like below.

In this guide, we will help you pick the best flight bags and discuss what you need to look for!

The Best Flight Bags for Student Pilots in 2024

Every type of pilot is different and has different needs. For student pilots, we found a few interesting aviator bags at an affordable price , something that’s important if you’re just starting out in aviation and have to pay for all your flight training.

Another important aspect for student pilot flight bags is that they need room for books and paper, because you will often carry books with you as a student pilot.

We’ve included a full buying guide at the bottom of this article .

1. Flight Outfitters Lift Mini Flight Bag

Our top pick for private pilots.

This slim bag is just right for new pilots, flight instructors, or any airplane where space is at a premium (we’re looking at you, Cessna 152).

Based on the best-selling Lift bag (featured later below), the Lift Mini features a smaller design that will keep your most important gear organized and protected, including an iPad, headset, flashlight, and charging cables.

2. Jeppesen – Student Pilot Bag

$41.99 $46.88    

Jeppesen’s Student Pilot Bag is the most affordable flight bag on his list, and therefore perfect for student pilots on a budget.

While compact, Jeppesen’s sturdy Student Pilot Bag provides plenty of storage space for all your aviation essentials. In addition to the double-zippered main compartment, the bag features 7 exterior storage pockets for easy organization and quick access to all your must-have tools. Three of the outside pockets are ideal for pens, flashlights, a fuel tester, and similar size items, while additional compartments are well suited for aeronautical charts, a calculator/E6B, a plotter, and more. It also features an interior key clip for easy storage and peace of mind.

3. ASA Pilot Flight Bag

The bag you want for your everyday flying: big enough to hold everything you need but compact enough to carry and store easily. It’s made of fully padded nylon for extreme durability.

The ASA Pilot Bag is the simple, no-frills bag of choice for everyday flying because it’s big enough to hold a pilots essentials yet compact enough to carry, transport, and store easily. This bag is a favorite among both fixed-wing and rotorcraft flight instructors who often recommend it to their students for solo and cross-country flights.

4. Gleim Padded Flight Bag

With an attractive and durable design, the Gleim Padded Pilot Bag makes an excellent carry-on for all of your flights.

This flight bag was created for easy, in-flight organization and quick access to your flight equipment. It contains an exterior, padded headset compartment, front, rear, and side pockets, a cell phone pocket, pen slots, and a place to keep your IFR goggles. It also has large dividers inside for easier organization.

The Best Flight Bags for Private Pilots in 2024

For private pilots , price is still a deciding factor, but practicality, built quality and the number of compartments are just as important. Especially when you start flying with passengers, additional storage for your passengers’ headsets can become very convenient.

1. Flight Outfitters Lift Pro Travel Bag

$99.95 $119.94    

Though this bag is small, it features both external and internal pockets and plenty of open room to pack a powerful storage punch. Durable nylon and reinforced braided steel handles make the bag long-lasting, while the adjustable shoulder strap will keep you traveling in comfort.

The Lift Travel Bag has a water bottle/backup radio pocket, Fuel tester pocket, 2 external chart pockets and more internal compartments for batteries and other gear.

Read our own review of the Flight Outfitters Lift bag.

2. Flight Outfitters Lift XL Flight Bag

$129.95 $165.00    

The Lift XL Pro is ideal for professional pilots who prefer an understated, all-black look. As a larger version of the top-rated Lift Pro Bag (discussed above), the Lift XL Pro adds more room for storage (including two headsets) and more organization options, all while retaining the signature design features that make Flight Outfitters bags so useful in the cockpit.

3. MyGoFlight – Flight Bag PLC Sport

$219.00 $228.99    

The PLC Sport Flight Bag is a smaller version of the Flight Bag PLC Pro. Just enough room to carry one headset, an iPad/EFB, a handheld radio, and other gear. It has a modern style and sleek exterior, but it is loaded with pockets to give you the style, storage and functionality like never before.

The PLC Sport can stand up on its own, making it easy to load and access gear. It is also equipped with a laptop pocket that fits laptops up to 13 inch.

4. MyGoFlight – Flight Bag PLC Pro

$299.00    

The PLC Pro is MyGoFlight’s best-selling flight bag. It has a modern style and sleek exterior, but it is loaded with pockets to give you the style, storage and functionality like never before. Just like the MyGoFlight Flight Bag PLC Sport, the PLC Pro can stand up on its own, making it easy to access and store your stuff. This model can also fit laptops up to 16″, compared to the 13″ limit on the cheaper model.

5. ASA Flight Bag +

$76.00 $79.96    

With a clean, sophisticated and professional look, the ASA AirClassics Flight Bags have been designed and engineered to be supremely functional. They’re able to stand up to the toughest treatment possible and still look great at the end of the day.

The large, single-pull, divided and zippered main compartment, along with the headset pockets on both ends, are fitted with large, sturdy zippers for easy handling.

The ASA Flight Bag is large enough to fit everything a pilot needs and more without being too bulky to manage. Made with durable, water-repellent 600D polyester, this bag has sturdy comfort grip connectable handles, a non-slip detachable carry strap, heavy-duty zippers, and reinforcing straps that go around the bag for extra strength.

You can count on ASA s AirClassics Flight Bags to bring many years of utility and pride.

The Best Flight Bags for Professional Pilots in 2024

When you’re a commercial pilot , the price of the bag becomes less important than the overall quality, durability and ease of use. The flight bags below are all an excellent choice for commercial pilots!

1. Alpine Swiss Rolling 17″ Laptop Briefcase on Wheels

Our top pick for commercial pilots.

Carry all you need to carry for work or travel with ease with this large rolling briefcase with telescopic handles and plenty of room. And it is lightweight! Made from the best possible materials and providing a great value. This briefcase is roomy, well designed and sturdy.

2. Jeppesen – Black Captain Pilot Flight Bag

$118.99 $125.95    

From binders to headsets and other gear, the Jeppesen Captain Pilot Flight Bag is fully-padded and holds it all. The Jeppesen Captain Pilot Flight Bag is durable being made from polymer with a water-resistant PVC coating on one side.

3. Lightspeed Aviation – The Gann, Leather Flight Bag

One of our personal favorites: The Lightspeed Gann Leather Flight Bag. Since we started writing pilot gear guides on Hangar.Flights, this flight bag has been one of the most popular flight bags our visitors have purchased.

And it’s not hard to see why: this stylish, superior quality carpenter-style flight bag was made for the cockpit and is a great companion to the pilot who has everything – and likes to take it along. The Gann features purpose-built pockets for headsets, iPads, and transceivers, and rugged, but wing-friendly, textured PVC bottoms.

It is handmade from full-grain, oiled South American cowhide in espresso brown with contrasting black leather pocket flaps. Uncoated for authentic look and wear, they will become more supple with age and use, while taking on a rich patina. Each hide has its own distinctive grain and markings, making each bag as unique as the pilot who owns it.

The Best Pilot Backpacks in 2024

Some pilots might prefer a backpack-type of flight bag, as it could be more convenient in some cases. Below are a few great backpack options for pilots!

1. Flight Outfitters Waypoint Backpack

Our top pick for pilot backpacks.

$129.95    

The Waypoint Backpack from Flight Outfitters does all that and more, whether you’re at the airport, the campsite, or the office—and you won’t look like you’re headed to math class. This thoughtfully-designed backpack has room for all your aviation gear but is flexible enough to work as an overnight bag or an everyday laptop case.

Just like Flight Outfitter’s other bags, this flight backpack is made out of very durable material, with orange and reflective details which make finding your gear easy, even at night.

2. Rothco Vintage Canvas Flight Bag

If you’re more into backpacks, the Rothco Vintage Canvas Flight Bag is a great and stylish option.

This canvas backpack features a washed 14oz canvas material for that vintage look and feel, a large zippered main compartment, inner zippered pocket, small hook and loop side pocket and a front pocket with contrasting lettering reminiscent of a flight bag and metal clasp closure with a gold pull tag.

The Best Leather Flight Bags for Pilots in 2024

If you want the highest quality and overall best appeal, a leather flight bag is the way to go .

1. Lightspeed Aviation – The Gann, Leather Flight Bag

Our top pick for leather flight bags.

Although we already included The Gann flight bag above, it would be a shame to not mention it again when talking about the best leather flight bags. Again, we highly recommend this quality flight bag if you’re looking for a decent leather bag that will last many years.

2. Lightspeed Aviation – The Markham, Leather Flight Bag

$249.00    

Just like the previously-mentioned The Gann flight bag, Lightspeed’s The Markham Leather Flight Bag is handmade from full-grain, oiled South American cowhide in espresso brown with contrasting black leather pocket flaps. It again offers pockets for headsets, iPads, and transceivers, and rugged, but wing-friendly, textured PVC bottoms.

The Markham is a slightly less expensive option compared to The Gann flight bag.

3. Samsonite Columbian Leather Flapover Case

$159.09 $194.99    

Samsonite, who doesn’t know the brand trusted for its high-quality travel bags and suitcases. The Samsonite Columbian Leather Flapover Case is made from luxurious Colombian leather and features a medium-sized shape with a padded laptop pocket and three interior pockets to hold all your required pilot gear. The bag also includes a rear compartment to hold files and documents, plus an organizer with slip pockets, pen sleeves, and card slots.

Things to Consider When Buying a Flight bag

Whether you’re a student pilot taking your first lessons, a private pilot going for a $100 hamburger on a Sunday or a full-time professional pilot, you need a proper flight bag or aviator bag to carry all your precious gear , such as your aviation headset , handheld radio , portable GPS , etc.. Not only is a flight bag a must-have for every pilot, it also defines your style as a pilot and is, therefore, a great style accessory if you value that. Every flight bag is different and fits other needs. But how do you decide what kind of bag you need? To help you answer this question, we will first cover some important things to consider with flight bags.

The first difference between flight bags lays in the type of bag . Some flight bags can be carried as backpacks, others require a strap around your shoulder or just a simple handle to carry by hand.

Size & Weight

When it comes to flight bags, size does matter . Depending on your own unique needs, you will have to go with a different size of flight bag. This mostly depends on the stuff you are carrying with you on your flights. Is your flight bag paperless? Great, then a smaller flight bag will do the job. But if you need to carry multiple headsets and books or other documents, you will have to make sure there’s plenty of space for those and go with a larger model.

Another aspect that will influence the desired size of your flight bag is the space you have in the airplane. Tucking a big bag away in the small space behind your seat might not be ideal and could cause damage to the flight bag and aircraft. You have to make sure that your flight bag is big enough to fit all your gear but small enough to not make it a hassle on board.

Compartments

A flight bag is only as practical as the n umber of compartments it has to store your gear like headsets, radios, books, charts and logbooks. Keeping your stuff organized before, during and after your flights is important, and could one day even save your life during an emergency.

Finding that one pen during turbulence, untangling your headset wires and finding the right chart can be a struggle. Modern flight bags can prevent this by helping you organize all your stuff and make it easy for you to find the things you need, whether it’s on the ground or 30,000 feet in the air.

Flight bags are made of different materials. The material has a big impact on how protective the bag is , but also on the price.

Traditional hard case bags provide the most protection for your stuff. These bags are usually wheeled trolleys and often used by commercial pilots who have the needed storage space in the airplane.

A second popular material is standard nylon or polyester . Flight bags made out of these materials are often less expensive but still provide very decent protection. In the list below, you will find that we often use denier as a measure of the fineness of a fabric. As a rule of thumb, the higher the denier, the stronger the fabric . It is best to select a minimum of 600-1800 denier polyester toward the least expensive end and 500-100 Denier Cordura or 1800 to 2500 Ballistic Nylon at the more expensive end ( source ).

The last category of flight bag materials is leather flight bags . These are usually the more expensive ones that are slightly heavier but provide great protection, are durable and look very stylish. You can find our selection of leather flight bags at the end of this guide.

Just like headsets, flight bags come at different prices , depending on the size, material and brand. Your budget will play a major role in deciding which flight bag to go with.

As we close our flight log on the search for the perfect pilot flight bag of 2024, remember that the right bag isn’t just about carrying your gear; it’s about complementing your journey in the skies. Whether you’re a student pilot charting your first course, a private pilot exploring new horizons, or a professional pilot navigating the demands of commercial aviation, there’s a flight bag out there that’s your perfect co-pilot.

Our flight bag recommendations

Don’t forget to gear up with essential aviation headsets , handheld radios , and portable GPS to ensure you’re always prepared for what lies ahead.

Fly safe, stay organized, and let your flight bag be a testament to your passion for aviation!

About the author

Senne Vandenputte

As a 28-year-old digital entrepreneur, glider pilot, private pilot and tow plane pilot, Senne is passionate about aviation. He started gliding at age 14 and flew his first solo in a glider at 15. After getting his PPL about 10 years later, he mostly spends his weekends towing gliders into the air. When not flying, he runs his marketing & web design business , fun projects like Hangar.Flights, scuba diving, traveling and enjoying the outdoors.

More articles by Senne

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• Flight Bags
• Flight / Chart Cases / Rolling Cases
• Travelpro FlightCrew

Travelpro FlightCrew5 22" Expandable Pilot Rollaboard

• 34 Customer Reviews
• 6 Questions Answered

• List Price: $288.00  
• Item #11041
• PN: 3623-01

Once again, Travelpro is changing the way pilots and flight attendants travel. Back in 1987, a 747 pilot changed travel forever by putting wheels on the first vertical rolling carry-on bag. The Original Rollaboard® gave birth to Travelpro, now renowned for innovation, durability and customer satisfaction. Today they continue at the forefront of engineering excellence with our latest 16-piece collection just for pilots and flight attendants, FlightCrew5. Once again, they have developed luggage with one goal in mind: to make the demanding lifestyle of airline professionals easier.

TravelPro FlightCrew5 22" Expandable Pilot Rollaboard Features:

2" expansion on main body maximizing space and packing flexibility

Two handy zippered side pockets store sunglasses, electronic cables and more

Two large front pockets to provide immediate access to a wallet, passport, IPod, keys, airline tickets, airline ID’s, sweaters, serving garments and manuals

Front pocket zipped section perfect for quick access to a laptop

Reinforced, gusseted back pocket for long term durability

Self-adjusting hold down interior straps

High-impact, sealed ball-bearing inline wheels ensure flawless performance and can be easily replaced with a standard screwdriver if necessary.

Protective crash-guard wheel housings and rubber skid guard provide extra durability on high-wear points.

Protective bumper feet built onto handle bezel and wheel housings

Rugged extension handle system with stops at 38”, 40” and 42.5” to ensure a comfortable roll for users of different heights

Recessed push button is designed to reduce accidental handle activation

Extension handle with innovative “anti-crush” technology prevents tubes from denting

Low profile tip and side carry handles with neoprene grip

Ergonomic zipper system features extra-large, high-strength zipper pulls and self-repairing nylon coil zippers to ensure effortless and secure opening and closing.

Fully lined interior nylon with H2O Guard water repellent coating

1682D ballistic nylon fabric with water-, stain-, and abrasion-resistant DuraGuard coating.

Durable polypropylene honeycomb framing system provides exceptional durability and keeps luggage lightweight.

Interlocking zippers for added security

Strong #10 zipper system on main compartments

Patented removable in-line skate wheels with waterproof sealed bearings

Ruggedized protection on every corner and impact surface area

Attachment J-hook and Attachment Strap included with each Rollaboard.

3-Year Commercial Use Warranty

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches. 10.7 pounds (dimensions do not include wheels or handle - add approximately one inch)

Lowest Price Guaranteed!

If you find a better price elsewhere on this product we will Match that price and beat it by 10% of the difference. See Details.

Buy with Confidence!

Purchase today and you can return it in the original condition through Tuesday, June 18, 2024 ! See our return policy.

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Flight Bags > Flight / Chart Cases / Rolling Cases Travelpro FlightCrew

Travelpro FlightCrew5 22" Expandable Pilot Rollaboard Overview:

34 customer reviews.

• Average Customer Review:
• Write a Review

Select a row below to filter reviews by star rating.

Reliable, high quality flight crew luggage

• By Ollie from Oklahoma City OK USA on Monday, February 12, 2024
• Pros: Quality and construction
• Review: Good quality, not overly heavy, versatile options. This is my third or fourth Travelpro flight crew luggage. Great products!

Lightweight and well-designed

• By James from Arlington VA USA on Thursday, February 01, 2024
• Pros: Weight, design, multiposition handle
• Review: Bought this to replace a roller that was wearing out. This is lighter and seems well-made; the replaceable wheels should extend its useful life.

Solid, But With Some Reservations.

• By TC NJ Pilot from Florida on Saturday, January 27, 2024
• Pros: Build quality, extra pouches, J-hook.
• Review: It's a well built bag and rolls very smoothly. The extra pockets give opportunity to throw winter gear etc in spaces where you aren't crowding out regular items... Speaking from a flight crew viewpoint but applies elsewhere. I am replacing a Travelpro Max Lite 5 that is approximately 2 pounds lighter (you can see it in the build) but actually has some advantages over its replacement. For some reason on the inside flap of the open bag the mesh doesn't unzip on the sides, making it difficult to use this space for work shirts as it once did on the Max Lite version. Also, this bag has a very straight stand angle, making it a little forward tipsy with a bag over the handle arms or even using the included J-hook. The Max Lite seems a little more advanced in this department as it has a significant lean which keeps everything stable with a bag on top.
• By Michael from Boca Raton FL USA on Wednesday, January 24, 2024
• Pros: See above
• Review: There is a reason why aviation professionals choose TravelPro. Great quality, looks good, fits a ton of stuff inside.

Exceptional Bag

• By NetJets Pilot from S Florida on Tuesday, May 16, 2023
• Pros: Lightweight, easy to handle yet durable
• Review: Both durable and light. Handles everywhere you need them; top, side, and bottom. Easy to handle unlike Luggage-works. Great pocket set up - I put a soda and water bottle in side pockets. I’m on my second one, lasts about 5+ years with extreme use (NetJets Pilot; 8 day tours). Eventually the handle got sticky and I broke a wheel axle dropping it 6 feet from a Challenger Jet baggage compartment. Zippers never gave out. Love the add a bag hook. I will not use anything else!

Falling apart in less than a year. Glad they have a 3 year warranty.

• By AFlyer from WA USA on Wednesday, January 25, 2023
• Pros: Roomy
• Review: I have had this for less than a year and the stitching is coming apart, there is fraying of the material and just recently the plastic protector on the rear under side ripped off. Side note: This is also a heavy bag compared to others which adds up over time. Glad they have a 3 year warranty.

Great bag, great deal and worth waiting for

• By Mr. Bonanza from San Diego on Sunday, October 30, 2022
• Pros: Quality throughout. Nothing can touch it for the price.
• Review: I have an original Travelpro Rollaboard Suiter 22 over twenty years old and only just this year developed a tear underneath. This old bag has gone everywhere for two decades and still meets the current carry-on requirement and fits overhead straight on the way the airlines prefer bags to be oriented. I have never owned a better bag than this Travelpro.
• Cons: Slightly expensive
• Was this review helpful to you? Yes No 0 Other people found this review helpful.
• Cons: None significant
• Cons: Bag can be tipsy when using with other bags as it is very upright, ergonomics on the inside of the bag could be better.
• Was this review helpful to you? Yes No 1 Other people found this review helpful.
• Cons: A tad bit pricey
• Was this review helpful to you? Yes No 6 Other people found this review helpful.
• Cons: Falling apart in under a year.
• Was this review helpful to you? Yes No 11 Other people found this review helpful.
• Cons: Can't think of anything
• Was this review helpful to you? Yes No 4 Other people found this review helpful.

6 QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Previously asked questions.

Q: What size laptop fits in this luggage?

A: Any size laptop will fit in the main compartment of the 22" Expandable Pilot Rollaboard, and a laptop measuring 15" or less will in the front pocket of the rollaboard. 

Q: I see the previous question and the answer isn’t ckear. Can u just highlight/summarize the differences please? That’s an awful lot of words to comb through

A: There are a few differences with the protective attributes. The  22" Expandable Pilot Rollaboard has additional protection coating around the wheels, more reinforcement on the inside, as well as two zippered side pockets; just to name a few. 

Q: What are the differences between the 3623-01 and the 3632-01 besides the $25?

A: Please see the features of each bag below:

3623-01 22" Expandable Pilot Rollaboard

3632-01 22" Expandable

High-density 1682d ballistic nylon fabric with water, stain and abrasion-resistant Duraguard coating

New reinforced, gusseted back pocket

High-impact, sealed ball-bearing inline skate wheels ensure the smoothest of rolls and long-lasting durability

Superior screw construction

Protective crash-guard wheel housings, corner guards, side feet and rubber skid guards

Rugged extension handle system with stops at 38", 40" and 42.5" to ensure a comfortable roll for users of different heights

Add-a-bag strap with aluminum J-hook provides carrying options for additional totes and coolers. (included with most rollaboards)

Padded laptop pocket and separate tablet sleeve on most models

2"expansion on main body maximizing space and packing flexibility

Q: Will this fit in a standard overhead compartment?

A: Each airline, and each aircraft type within an airline, has different size requirements.   We have a list of bag requirements for some airlines here but you should always check with the airline to get current guidelines.  This bag is 22 x 14 x 9 inches. (dimensions do not include wheels or handle - add approximately one inch)

Q: How heavy is the expandable 22" pilot rollabord?

A: Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches. 10.7 pounds (dimensions do not include wheels or handle - add approximately one inch)

Q: What is the difference between the 3623-01 and the 3632-01? Please let me know asap. Thank you!

A: The 3623-01 is the "Expandable Pilot Rollaboard" and the 3632-01 is the "Expandable Rollaboard".  The 3623-01 Pilot adds two handy zippered side pockets store sunglasses, electronic cables, etc., durable polypropylene abrasion guards, and protective crash-guard wheel housings, corner guards and rubber skid guard.  Because of these extra benefits, and only a $10 price difference, we only offer the 3623-01 "Expandable Pilot Rollaboard".

Customers who bought this also considered:

If you find a better price elsewhere on this product we will match that price and beat it by 10% of the difference.

Purchase today and you can return it in the original condition through Tuesday, June 18, 2024 !  See our return policy.

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10 Best Flight Bag for Pilots in 2023

Every pilot needs a good flight bag. Something that can hold all of your gear, and that you can keep handy during your flights. And if that’s what you are looking for, you’ly found the right review!

At A Glance: Our Top Picks for Pilot Flight Bags

• Popular Choice Flight Outfitters Lift Flight Bag Jump To Review
• Most Functional Flight Bag BrightLine Bags Flex B7 Flight - Echo Jump To Review
• Best Mid-Range Flight Bag Flight Outfitters Bush Pilot Folio Bag Jump To Review
• Best Luxe Flight Bag Lightspeed Aviation - The Gann, Leather Flight Bag Jump To Review
• Best Budget Flight Bag Flight Gear HP Crosswind Bag For Pilots Jump To Review

I will tell you about the ten best flight bags for pilots. Bags that are suitable for various types of pilots.

Some of the bags featured here are great for students looking for something that can store all your books.

Other bags are perfect for veterans and have a designated spot for all your gear – from your aviator glasses to your fuel testers.

Top Product Overview

Best flight bags for pilots, flight outfitters lift flight bag.

The Lift Flight bag by Flight Outfitters is an excellent option because it  comes in several different sizes . This makes it easy to get a bag that’s just right for you. I adore the smallest of the three bags – it’s great for those quick VFR flights when you simply don’t need too much equipment.

The smallest bag can still fit a tablet, a headset, a radio, spare batteries, a fuel tester, a flashlight, your documents, and some other stuff.

It’s a compact bag designed to hold only your necessities, so it’s definitely not an option if you’re looking for something that can hold clothes and toiletries as well. But if you want to keep things simple, this is an excellent bag for you. You can see its dimensions and weight in the product info box below.

What about  the bigger bags ? They can fit all of the items mentioned above, plus a lot of other stuff. The Lift XL and XL Pro also feature padded laptop sleeves, luggage straps, removable dividers, and more spacious external compartments. They’re the better option for those flights when you need all the gear you can carry, but that is also their downfall.

The  XL and XL Pro bags are a lot bigger than the standard Lift bag. The smaller Lift is some 10” wide and the larger two are about 18” wide – that’s a huge difference. If you need the extra capacity, then by all means go for one of the bigger bags. But if you like keeping things simple, go with the standard Lift – it’s one of the best compact flight bags money can buy.

• Size variety
• Premium build
• Great for organization
• Smallest bag won’t fit a laptop
• D-ring sometimes malfunction

Product Information

• Overall Dimensions: 12″ x 10.5″ x 9”
• Weight: 2 lbs
• Materials: Not specified

Flyboys Large Crew Bag

Looking for a roomy flight bag ? Then consider getting the Flyboys Large Crew Bag – it is bigger than standard flight bags, and it can hold a lot of stuff. This bag is made from 1680D ballistic nylon, with a PVC armor base and thick padding throughout . The exterior of the bag is  water and abrasion-resistant , so you know your things inside will stay protected at all times.

There are  rubber feet at each corner of the bag, which elevates it a little bit. This is very useful for those times when you have to put the bag down on the ground, as it keeps the bottom of the bag clean and dry.

The Flyboys Crew bag is one of the best options for the budding student pilot . It’s a spacious bag, with  thick padding and plenty of compartments for all your must-have items. The thing that makes this bag excellent for student pilots is the  removable internal dividers . They allow you to divide the interior into three compartments max, making it super easy to organize all your books.

Of course, you can use those dividers however you like, which makes this bag suitable for different types of pilots. The main compartment of this flight bag is very spacious  and can fit quite a lot of items.

Actually, it’s big enough to fit a helmet and other items – that should give you a good idea of how big the bag is. And it makes this bag a good option for pilots that like to carry a change of clothes and some toiletries in their flight bag.

The external compartments will still let you organize all of your other necessities. There are  five external compartments total, one of which is the perfect size for your company-issued iPad. And there’s also a  retention sleeve for flashlights,  but that’s inside the main compartment of the bag. You also get  two external slip pockets , which are just the right size for your photo ID and certificates.

• Very spacious
• Durable exterior
• Removable internal dividers
• Shoulder strap
• Not a lot of internal pockets
• Overall Dimensions: 22" x 15" x 12"
• Weight: 2.9 lbs (shipping weight!)
• Materials: 1680D ballistic nylon

BrightLine Bags Flex B7 Flight - Echo

If you want a bag that will let people know you’re a pilot from miles away, the B7 Flight-Echo is what you are looking for. It’s one of those bulky square bags that only pilots carry, but there’s a good reason for that.

The B7 Flight-Echo is  the   ultimate customizable bag . It doesn’t have plenty of compartments – it is actually made up of different compartments. They are all removable, and you can attach as many of them as you like. This is a really great option because it lets you turn it into the perfect flight bag for you.  Y ou can make it as small or as large as you need on any given day. 

This bag is designed to fit up to two full headsets, up to two iPads, a full suitcase of charts, a water bottle, and all the smaller items you could possibly need.  With an abundance of small pockets and compartments, it’s going to be one of your go-to bags for IFR flights.

But it is  deceptively bulky. The bag can actually fit much less stuff than you’d think, which is a real letdown.  You won’t be able to fit a change of clothes inside the B7 Flight-Echo , and it’s a good option only if you’re okay with also carrying a suitcase.

The bag is great for storing smaller flying gear and keeping everything organized and handy, but it’s not the best option if you want a roomy main compartment.

One thing I absolutely love about this bag is the  external water bottle pocket . It’s a unique feature that you won’t find on many other flight bags and a very convenient one at that. The pocket keeps a small water bottle handy, but it still keeps it away from your electronics and papers.

• Customizable
• Very sturdy
• Holds less items than you think
• Overall Dimensions: 14” x 13” x 10.5”
• Weight: 6.5 lbs

Flight Outfitters Bush Pilot Folio Bag

Nowhere does it stay that you have to give up on being stylish just because you have to carry a flight bag. In fact, I think the Bush Pilot Folio bag is proof of that – with  brown leather accents on camel brown exterior , it looks like a very sophisticated bag.

And it is still incredibly functional.  Flight Outfitters is a brand created by aviation enthusiasts, who know what a good flight bag should look like.  This particular bag is an excellent option for pilots who like to keep it simple – it’s rather small, but it has just enough space for all your must-haves.

The  exterior of the bag features a dedicated iPad pocket, as well as compartments for your fuel tester, flashlight, and radio . There is  five external pockets total,  which should be plenty of room to fit all the items you need handy during flights.

The interior of the bag is quite spacious . It features a padded laptop sleeve with an organizer section and a zip pocket , as well as a roomy main compartment that can easily fit a change of clothes.

And in case you normally bring a carry-on suitcase on flights, you will find the shoulder strap on the back of this flight bag incredibly useful. It lets you mount the bag on top of a suitcase, making it much easier to move around with multiple bags.

The Bush Pilot Folio bag is  made from canvas , which is a high-quality material. It is used in premium garments, due to the high manufacturing cost.

But it is one of the best materials you can ask for – the canvas has decent water resistance without any extra coating, and it is also incredibly durable and abrasion-resistant.

• Lots of pockets
• High-quality material
• No rubber feet on the bottom
• Won’t fit laptops larger than 15.6”
• Dimensions: 18" x 11" x 6"
• Weight: 3.6 lbs (shipping weight!)
• Materials: Canvas

ASA AirClassics Flight Bag

Looking for an affordable flight bag? Then get the ASA AirClassics bags – with a price tag well under $100, this is one of the cheapest flight bags I managed to find. And I don’t mean cheap in a bad way – it’s still a very good bag, but with an affordable price tag .

This makes it a  great option for new pilots and student pilots , who can’t afford to spend hundreds and hundreds of dollars on a premium flight bag (yet). It’s a good short-term alternative; I’m afraid an affordable long-term alternative is something that still doesn’t exist.

Flight bags are items that go through  a lot of wear and tear , so it’s completely normal that they eventually start to fall apart. With a really good (and really expensive) bag, you can easily get more than five years of use.

But with the more affordable ones, you’ll be lucky if you use them for a couple of years. Which is fine – by then, you should be able to afford one of the premium flight bags.

The AirClassics bag is  made from 600D polyester, which is a tough and durable material,  but not as sturdy as nylon or canvas. It has a very spacious main compartment, which can easily fit several books, making it a great option for students. And there are multiple other  external compartments that can hold your headset, radio, iPad, and all the other necessities.

However, just because a compartment is designed to hold a headset, it doesn’t mean you can actually fit one. The  external compartments of this bag are surprisingly small, and bigger headsets won’t fit inside them . You could keep it in the main compartment, but that kind of defeats the purpose of the handy external pockets.

Overall, this is definitely not the best out of the ten flight bags you will see here. But it is  a good first flight bag  – it will help you realize what it is exactly that you are looking for in a flight bag. And you don’t have to spend a lot of money to learn that!

• Very affordable
• Spacious main compartment
• Adjustable dividers
• External compartments are very small
• Not remarkably durable
• Overall Dimensions: 18" x 11" x 11”
• Weight: 3.65 lbs
• Materials: 600D Polyester

Aerocoast Pro Crew I EFB Flight Case

The Pro Crew bag by Aerocoast is another popular option. It’s one of the more affordable bags  featured here, with a price point under $150. It’s not exactly a cheap bag, but it’s certainly not as expensive as the fancy leather options.

And it’s still a really good flight bag. The Pro Crew features  an interlocking ergonomic grab handle , which is a unique feature. It also comes with  a padded shoulder strap , so that you’re comfortable no matter how you decide to carry the bag.

It has  a big main compartment with multiple internal pockets, including a padded laptop compartment  that can fit a 15” device. And there are even more external pockets – my favorite is the  upper accessories compartment,  which is perfect for smaller items you want to have easily accessible.

The  two front compartments  are also very spacious; one features an organizer panel, and the other is just the right size for a tablet.

And there are also  two smaller side compartments, as well as a large slip pocket and a luggage strap in the back.  If you’re looking for a bag that will let you stay organized and keep all of your items easily accessible, this is definitely one of the best options.

But it is far from perfect. The downside of this flight bag is that there’s no information on its exact materials. I can tell you that it has a  water-resistant exterior,  which is most likely made from nylon or polyester.

In addition to that, the bag doesn’t exactly have dedicated spots for transceivers, headsets, fuel testers, or flashlights. And that is because the Pro Crew bag tries to be a good bag for all cabin crew and not just pilots.

• Water-resistant exterior
• Padded laptop sleeve
• Lots of internal and external pockets
• Exact materials are unknown
• A little bulky
• Overall Dimensions: 17” x 11” x 9.5”
• Weight: 4.8 lbs (shipping weight!)
• Materials: Water-resistant material

Lightspeed Aviation - The Gann, Leather Flight Bag

Sometimes, you just want to look cool . You can afford to spend a couple of hundred bucks on a flight bag, and you want something fancy and stylish. Best case scenario, something that gives off Tom Cruise in Top Gun vibes. If that’s the case, the Gann flight bag is easily one of the best options for you.

With a  genuine leather (cowhide) exterior, this flight bag is not only stylish but also really high quality. The durability of cowhide is amazing, and you get  a limited warranty for the first year.  However, keep in mind that leather is sensitive, and if you really want the bag to last, you will have to take good care of the bag.

I recommend applying leather treatment products every couple of months, especially on the parts of the bag that get the most wear and tear, which are usually the straps. The bottom of the bag can also get damaged really fast, which is why I love that the Gann doesn’t have a leather bottom. Instead, the bag features rugged PVC material on the bottom, for enhanced durability and abrasion resistance.

And it’s not just a cool-looking flight bag. The Gann is  very functional, with a spacious main compartment and enough pockets for everything you would want to carry . That includes  dedicated compartments for your headset, iPad, transceiver, etc.

There are  only two exterior pockets  though, so you won’t be able to have everything super handy. But, with the padded dividers inside the main compartment, it won’t be a problem to organize your gear and keep it easily accessible.

This flight bag also features  a luggage strap in the back , making it a great option for pilots that want a bag they can mount on top of their carry-on suitcase.

• Stylish and very durable
• Multiple internal dividers and pockets
• Rugged PVC bottom
• Only two exterior pockets
• No laptop compartment
• Overall Dimensions: 16" x 6" x 13.5”
• Weight: 3.7 lbs (shipping weight!)
• Materials: Full-grain, oiled South American cowhide

Flight Gear HP Captain's Bag

Here’s another affordable option for student pilots . The HP Captain’s Bag is under $100, making it one of the least expensive flight bags featured in this review. And it’s actually a great option for student pilots, with its  spacious main compartment that will easily fit all of your books.

But, the bag is smaller on the inside than on the outside. It features  two very large side pockets , which make it look a lot bigger than it actually is. The main compartment is by no means small – it measures 12” x 8” x 12” and it has  four pockets inside , which is more than enough for books or even a change of clothes and some toiletries. But it does look bigger from the outside.

It’s  made from durable ripstop nylon, as are all Flight Gear bags.  It should be able to handle a lot of wear and tear; in case the bag gets damaged, you can always make use of the  three-year warranty . In addition to that, it’s also worth noting that nylon has pretty  good water resistance , and will keep the contents of the bag dry in light rain.

This flight bag features  a lot of exterior pockets , which is why I absolutely love it. There are two slip pockets designed to keep a flashlight and a fuel tester handy, in addition to the  two padded headset pockets .

There are also two slip pockets that can fit charts in the back, as well as small slip pockets in the front (designed for a smartphone).

And that’s not even half of it. The bag features a zippered front compartment with a key clip, an organizer panel, and a zippered pocket . The  iPad compartment is inside the main compartment, but it’s accessible from the outside – there’s a zipper at the top of the bag, which lets you take the iPad out, without actually opening the bag . Talk about ease of access!

• Very affordable - great for student pilots
• Good for organization
• Gear is easily accessible
• It’s smaller than it looks
• Overall Dimensions: 18” x 10” x 13”
• Weight: No information
• Materials: Ripstop nylon

Flight Gear HP Crosswind Bag For Pilots

If you’re a broke student pilot, this is the bag for you . It’s the cheapest good flight bag I could find – the HP Crosswind bag is just under $50, making it an excellent option for pilots on an extremely tight budget .

And it’s still a good bag. Its exterior is made from ripstop nylon , which is both durable and water-resistant. It will hold up well even with daily wear and tear, and you even get a three-year warranty . Which is pretty insane for a bag that doesn’t even cost $50.

The  main compartment of the bag is very roomy, with more than enough storage space for all your books and a kneeboard. There’s a  padded iPad pocket inside , which will keep the device safe and easily accessible.

And  you can add more pockets inside the main compartment with Flight Gear’s Gear Mods.  These are small removable compartments that you attach inside the bag. They’re compatible with all flight bags from this brand – if you decide to stick with Flight Gear when it’s time to upgrade the bag, you would be able to make use of the Gear Mods.

The bag features  several exterior compartments , which help you have the important stuff easily accessible. There are external slip pockets for sunglasses, fuel testers, and water bottles, as well as a large zippered pocket for a headset.

The HP Crosswind bag is certainly not as elaborate or functional as some of the other flight bags you saw earlier. But that’s fine – this is made for student pilots, who are not carrying all the items professional pilots carry. And it’s definitely  the best flight bag in its price range.

• Extremely affordable
• Three-year warranty
• Perfect for student pilots
• Not a lot of external pockets
• Not a great option for professionals
• Overall Dimensions: 16” x 8.5” x 10”
• Weight: 1.51 lbs (shipping weight!)

Lightspeed Aviation Markham Flight Bag

Last, but certainly not the least, is the Markham bag by Lightspeed Aviation . The brand is a favorite among many pilots and cabin crew members, because of the excellent quality of its items. Which normally come at a high price tag, due to the premium materials.

And that’s true of the Markham bag – it’s not exactly cheap, but its price point is justified. The  exterior of this flight bag is made from cowhide leather,  which gives it that l uxurious feel . It’s an  incredibly stylish bag,  great for those pilots who are looking to add a bit of luxe to their routine.

This is not just a pretty bag; with a spacious main compartment, an external quick-access iPad pocket, and side pockets for both a water bottle and a transceiver,  the Markham is an incredibly functional alternative.

The bag has several other external pockets , but none of them are big enough to fit a headset. That item is supposed to go inside the main compartment, which is rather roomy. But there are no dividers inside it – you can buy an additional padded insert if you want to have extra organizational capabilities. Otherwise, you won’t actually be able to organize anything inside the main compartment.

Which is fine if you want to use it for a change of clothes and headset, but not fine if you’re looking to use it for books and other gear. If it’s the latter, I would recommend that you also get the padded insert – it’s inexpensive at some $25, and it will really help you make the most of this awesome flight bag.

• Stylish and luxe exterior
• Multiple external pockets
• Very durable
• Internal dividers are sold separately
• Overall Dimensions: 20” × 14” × 6”
• Weight: 3.3 lbs
• Materials: Genuine cowhide leather

What To Look For

How many compartments do you need.

This is one of the more important things you need to consider when buying a flight bag.  Multiple compartments are great  – they help you stay organized, which makes reaching for things during your flight quick and simple.  But they also take away from the overall capacity of the bag.

The flight bags featured here all have enough storage space and compartments for all the standard things pilots usually carry – headset, high visibility vest, iPad, flashlight, etc. But think about the non-standard items you always have in your bag – a jumper, books, chocolate? Do you put spare clothes in the flight bag, or do you bring a suitcase on your flights?

Finding a bag tailored to your needs is the only way to ensure you’re buying luggage that you can actually use. So,  look for a bag that seems just right for you, something that has enough room for the items that you normally carry in a flight bag. 

Size of the Bag

A flight bag is an item that’s going to be right next to you in the cockpit, so the size of the bag is obviously important.  Buy a bag that’s too big and you won’t be able to keep it next to your chair. Get a bag that’s too small, and you won’t be able to fit everything inside it.  So, look for a bag that’s just the right size.

I’ve featured flight bags of many different sizes here, and you can see the dimensions of each one in the product infoboxes. The   recommended size for an average flight bag is just under 18” x 14” x 12”, and I’ve shown you lots of options that are in that size range.  Those bags will fit into most cockpits, and you will be able to keep them on the chair next to you.

But  I’ve also featured larger and smaller bags , so it should be easy enough to find a flight bag that’s the right size for you.  Just make sure to check its exact dimensions to avoid any surprises.

Durability and Quality

A flight bag is something that you are going to use very often. So,  you need to look for a bag that is made from premium materials . The best flight bags are usually made from either canvas or heavy-duty nylon, with some decent polyester options.

Leather bags are also really popular , but I’ve decided to not feature many of them. And that’s because they are really expensive but not as durable as canvas or nylon bags . Yes, leather is an expensive and premium material, but it doesn’t always do well when faced with daily wear and tear. The shoulder straps are the ones to go first, with leather crumbling at the spots where it touches your jacket.

But  the more durable the bag, the higher its cost . Really good pilot flight bags can set you back several hundred dollars, and even the more affordable options are usually more than $100.  I did try to find some affordable options – bags that student pilots could easily afford – but I decided not to include many of them.

Cheaper flight bags are generally not as good as the pricier ones, and they hardly qualify as the best pilot flight bags you could buy.

So, if you were hoping to get a decent flight bag for very little money, I’m going to have to disappoint you. But, you could check out other types of carry-on luggage – under-seat bags and totes usually roomy enough to fit all of your flight gear, and they are not too expensive.

What About Other Types Of Bags?

A decade ago, you would have definitely needed a giant bag to carry all the different documents and charts. But, since everything is on iPads these days, you pretty much just need a bag that can store it safely. Many pilots opt to carry backpacks, totes, or garment bags, instead of a traditional flight bag.

If you’re not so keen on getting a flight bag, definitely look for some other luggage types . I can recommend some amazing carry-on backpacks and tote bags , that are excellent alternatives to bulky flight bags. Any bag can work, as long as it has enough space and compartments for all of your necessities .

Best Pilot Flight Bags: Our Top Choices

Not sure which bag is just right for you? That’s okay – go with one of my top four options, and you won’t be disappointed. The three bags are aimed at pilots with different budgets, so there’s an option for everyone!

For student pilots on a tight budget, I highly recommend the HP Crosswind bag .  The bag is seriously cheap, but it still comes with a  three-year warranty  – absolutely amazing. And it has everything a student pilot might need, including a durable exterior, enough space for your books, several external pockets, and a compartment for all your other gear.

If you can afford to get a mid-range bag, go with a Flight Outfitter Bush Folio bag .  It is  made from canvas with leather accents  – two really premium materials. The bag is not just incredibly durable, but also highly  functional , with plenty of internal and external pockets for all your necessary gear.

This includes dedicated pockets for an iPad, a fuel tester, a flashlight, a laptop, and a transceiver, as well as plenty of space for a headset and other gear.

• Timeless style, Made from canvas with leather accents.
• Dedicated tablet pocket is accessible from the front without opening the bag (Fits iPads up to iPad Pro 10.5").

For those of you that are looking for something premium and luxe, I have two great options. One is the Gann bag from Lightspeed Aviation – a stylish and luxurious bag.  It’s great if you want  a really premium bag that will last you for years, and that has more than enough space to fit all of your must-have gear.

• A large zippered carpenter-style opening spreads wide to reveal a spacious, lined main compartment and an internal, zippered iPad pocket.
• A large transceiver pocket with cut-out flap allows antenna-on storage.

But  if you’re more about organization and functionality than about style, go with the Brightline B7 Echo Flight bag . It’s  highly customizable, making it an excellent long-term option . You can add and remove compartments however you see fit, and really  customize the bag for each flight.  But it’s nowhere near as stylish or cool-looking as the Gann bag, so choose wisely!

• The B7 FLIGHT is the FLEX version of our award-winning original Pilot Flight Bag updated with End Caps to allow even more flexibility.
• Holds 13" Laptop

These four bags are really the best of the best. But the other six are really good as well – they’re all rated very highly by lots of happy pilots, so any one of them is a safe bet. Head over to Amazon to see their prices and color options!

And if you’re still not sure you found a good bag for you, check out our related posts. Maybe you would be happier with a backpack or an under-seat tote? We have plenty of other options!

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Product Reviews & Travel Gear Tips

The best travel advice & product reviews.

What Luggage do Pilots Use?

No one flies more than flight attendants and pilots. These busy professionals need strong luggage that can daily travel. A lightweight bag that is easy to handle is also important for the long walks through the airport. This means that flight crew members spend a lot of time finding the right size, perfect material, and most durable bags that will suit their needs. It makes sense, that if you want to know what the best luggage to buy, you ask a pilot or flight attendant.

Flight crew members will tell you that it is extremely important to have a solid set of carry-on luggage. Many flight attendants consider a two carry-on set to be the bare minimum when traveling. The larger bag carries important items that you do not need readily available and goes into the overhead bin. The second bag is much smaller and carries more important items that you may need to access during a flight. It goes under the seat in front of you.

What Pilots and Flight Attendants Look For When Shopping for Luggage

There are two factors that pilots consider must-haves when shopping for luggage:

• Durability – A virtually indestructible piece of luggage that has a metal frame or hard shell.
• Warranty – A piece of luggage with a long or lifetime warranty so it can be replaced or repaired if it does break.

Pilots and flight crew members use their luggage daily, so it makes sense for them to buy a durable bag that is backed up by a solid warranty.

Other considerations pilots and flight crew members will look at when purchasing luggage:

• Weight – pilots usually want their luggage to be lightweight, so it is easy to carry or wheel around the airport every day.
• Maneuverability – If it is on wheels, the bag needs to be easy to maneuver around a busy airport.
• Size – A compact bag is important for pilots so that they can fit it into the cockpit with ease. Flight attendants also have limited space for their items, so the size of the bag is extremely important.
• Appearance – Flight crew members and pilots need bags that look professional while still providing maximum durability.

With that in mind, let’s look at the list of popular brands of luggage that are most sought after by pilots and flight crew members.

Luggage Brands Most Recommended by Pilots and Flight Attendants

Travelpro is well-known in the airline industry for making bags with high quality wheels and durable handles. Travelpro offers a wide variety of luggage including backpacks, carry-ons, and wheeled briefcases. Travelpro does not offer their entire catalogue to consumers, most of their top-rated bags are reserved exclusively for flight crew members.

Briggs & Riley

Briggs & Riley is best known for their lifetime warranty. The high-quality suitcases from Briggs & Riley are extremely popular among flight crew members as well as frequent travelers. The quality of Briggs & Riley bags come with a higher price tag but more than make up for it with an outstanding warranty.

Rimowa bags are never short on style. Every bag they make is stylish and professional. Rimowa is known for making high-end, quality bags. Unfortunately, that quality comes with a high price tag that might be out of budget for the occasional traveler.

Samsonite is a well-known brand that has been making quality luggage for over 100 years. Having been in the travel equipment space for so long, it comes as no surprise that they have gained mass popularity among pilots and flight crews. Samsonite offers a wide variety of bags and suitcases that can fit within any budget.

When they say “StrongBags” they really mean it. StrongBags is known for making some of the toughest bags on the market. They offer a lifetime limited warranty and use only the highest quality materials to construct each bag. While being ultra-durable, StrongBags usually pack on a little extra weight to the base weight of the bag.

LuggageWorks

For the ultimate in strength and durability, LuggageWorks is the way to go. Most of their bags are built like tanks with solid metal frames and steel handles.

Delsey is a luggage brand with world-wide recognition and fame. They have been making bags for over 7 decades and have been consistently rated by consumers as one of the best travel luggage brands.

Tumi is a luxury brand that offers several travel bags and suitcases. One of their premier features is a tracking technology that helps customers reunite with their lost or stolen bags.

Most Popular Suitcases Among Pilots and Flight Attendants

With so many brands available to choose from, there are even more models available on the market. There are lot of things to consider when looking for a piece of luggage. We are breaking down the most popular bags among flight crews into different categories so you can make the decision that is right for you.

Best Overall

Briggs & Riley Baseline

The Briggs & Riley Baseline is a collection of bags that truly goes above and beyond. The lifetime warranty combined with the small details packed into the Baseline collection make it one of the best models available on the market. The Briggs & Riley Baseline has a zipperless expansion that is unique to luggage. The outside handle means that the inside of the bag is flat for packing. Even the zippers and wheels were designed to be easily replaceable. For a quality-made investment, the Briggs & Riley Baseline will not disappoint. 

Best Budget Pick

TravelPro Maxlite 5

The TravelPro Maxlite 5 series of bags is designed to be budget friendly while still providing superior durability and strength. The Maxlite 5 is everything that the leisure traveler could need and then some. The toughness of these bags is put to the test with several thousand hours of durability testing including drop tests, zipper tests, and extreme weather tests.

Most Recommended

TravelPro FlightCrew 5

The TravelPro FlightCrew5 collection comes highly recommended by pilots and flight attendants. The 22” Pilot Rollaboard was designed by a 747 captain, but it is not commonly available to consumers. TravelPro is a well-known brand that supplies bags to over 90 different airlines. If you cannot get your hands on a FlightCrew 5, the Platinum Elite collection is a good alternative.

Best Carry-on

Samsonite Spinner Underseater with USB Port

Our pick for the best carry-on goes to the Samsonite Spinner Underseater with USB Port. The 4-way spinner wheels and compact size make this bag a breeze to wheel through the airport. The integrated USB charging port is a great feature, allowing busy professionals the ability to charge while waiting for a flight or while in the air. The exterior pockets and back sleeve give it some convenient features not often found on other carry-on bags.

Most Durable

LuggageWorks Stealth Series

LuggageWorks offers a wide variety of luggage styles in their stealth series. These bags are built like tanks. They feature solid aluminum frames, stainless steel handles, and solid rubber wheels. The stealth series is the best choice for shoppers looking for an ultra-durable bag even if that durability comes with a couple extra pounds in weight.  

Best Two-Piece Set

StrongBags Vortex 21 + Ultimate Flight Crew Duffle

For the best of both worlds, StrongBags makes a carry-on and duffle combo that is ideal for travelers on the go. This bag was designed to be a breeze to wheel through the airport. It comes with a lifetime warranty on the bag frame, waterproof material, exterior back pockets, and a convenient front hook for carrying the duffle bag. Being able to wheel around two bags at once is a lifesaver for busy travelers.

How to Find the Perfect Luggage

Finding the perfect travel bag is all about personal preference. Some travelers prefer a hard-side case while others like the flexibility of a soft-shell bag. It may take a lot of searching before you find the case that has all the features that you are looking for, but with so many options available you can be certain that the ideal case does exist. Hopefully, you now have a decent idea of what pilots look for when buying luggage so you can buy the same durable pieces that they do.

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TRAVELPRO DEBUTS ITS NEW FLIGHTCREW™ 5 LUGGAGE COLLECTION FOR TRAVEL PROFESSIONALS

Travelpro Travel Expert Editor

Collections ,

Travelpro News

EXCLUSIVELY FOR PILOTS AND FLIGHT ATTENDANTS, THIS COLLECTION INCORPORATES GROUNDBREAKING TECHNOLOGIES AND FEATURES

Travelpro, the leader in luggage known internationally for being pilot designed and flight crew tested, is proud to introduce its bold new FlightCrew™ 5 collection. Sure to satisfy the most discerning travel industry professionals, this luggage stands out from the crowd for its uncommon durability, creativity and functionality. Proud of its reputation for innovation, Travelpro is always listening to flight crews for ways to improve its luggage while setting the industry’s highest quality standards.

In keeping with its demand for exacting performance, Travelpro conducted rigorous testing on all features of this 17-piece collection to ensure a smooth ride and unmatched reliability. The testing of the main mechanical parts: the extension handle up and down cycle test, the zipper reliability test of open and close cycles and the wheel high mileage test on rough terrain were all conducted to meet the highest standards. The Travelpro® FlightCrew 5 collection was also examined for its endurance by the 70 lb drop test in below 0°F tempe ratures, fabric tensile strength test, fabric surface abrasion resistance test and water repellency test, all adding to its appeal to the durability needs of the professional traveler. In addition, protective bumper feet, ballistic nylon fabric with DuraGuard® coating, superior screw construction which allows the luggage to be easily repaired, sealed ball-bearing inline skate wheels that are removable, protective crash-guard components and a new reinforced, gusseted back pocket translates into long-term sturdiness for those who count on their luggage to go the extra mile.

“Travelpro could not be more excited to offer this amazing new FlightCrew 5 luggage collection to pilots and flight attendants worldwide,” said Scott Applebee, Vice President of Marketing for the Travelpro family of brands. “Our goal is to craft superior luggage that makes the demanding lifestyle of airline professionals easier, which is why our long history of providing luggage to the airline industry makes Travelpro the ‘go to’ brand for flight professionals. This is the reason why over 90 airlines choose Travelpro.”

Innovation is front and center with features such as a recessed push button, designed to reduce accidental handle activation, “Anti-Crush” handle technology which prevents denting when the back of the bag is impacted and handle stops at 38″, 40″ and 42.5″ to guarantee a comfortable roll for users of different heights. The Spinner model in the line features patented MagnaTrac™ wheels which are a revolution in spinner technology. These magnetic wheels align in any direction to always roll straight, eliminating the ‘drift’ inherent in spinner luggage. The patented Contour grip with cushioned touch points offers even more comfort and greater control.

High mileage travelers such as pilots and flight attendants will be amazed at the versatility and choices available in this collection. The full tote selection offers totes that protect computers and tablets with padded sleeves and a vertical rolling overnighter which easily rolls down an airplane aisle, with improved armor on the bottom for extra durability. Must-have ancillary pieces include food coolers in large and small sizes for added convenience and a garment sleeve available as a separate item, which has a padded roll bar to keep clothes from wrinkling.

This distinctive collection consists of the following pieces: Crew Cooler, Large Crew Cooler, City Tote, Flight Tote, Deluxe Tote, Multi-Purpose Tote, Suiter Sleeve, Horizontal Rolling Overnighter, Vertical Rolling Overnighter, Expandable Rollaboard®, Slim Rollaboard, Expandable Pilot Rollaboard, several other Rollaboard sizes, and the Expandable Rollaboard Spinner. The Add-ABag Strap with an aluminum J-Hook is included with Rollaboard models and provides efficient carrying options for additional totes and coolers.

The FlightCrew 5 collection gives travel pros total confidence and is supported by a 3-year Commercial Use warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

ABOUT TRAVELPRO

For over 25 years, Travelpro International has prided itself on design innovation and durability in crafting the highest quality luggage for travellers worldwide. Since transforming the ease of modern day travel with The Original Rollaboard® wheeled luggage, Travelpro® has been the brand of choice for flight crews and frequent travelers on every continent. The company is dedicated to building a lifelong relationship with our customers by consistently meeting and exceeding their expectations.

Among many other honors received, in 2015, the Travelpro® Platinum Magna™ 2 22″ Expandable Rollaboard® Suiter was named the best carry-on bag on the market from The Wirecutter, a cutting-edge source known for promoting the ‘best gadgets and gear for people in the know’ which tested 31 bags over the last three years. The Travelpro® Crew™ 10 22″ Expandable Rollaboard® Suiter received the 2nd place award.

You can also   like us on Facebook   and   follow us on Twitter at @Travelprointl .

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The Best Luggage For Travel, According To Flight Attendants

Shopping Writer for HuffPost

Navigating airport terminals, crowded gates and narrow plane aisles is arguably the most stressful aspect of air travel — an experience made even worse when you’re dragging around cumbersome luggage . It’s a scenario any harried traveler can relate to.

The only people who seem to be immune to clumsy baggage woes are flight attendants . Strolling along in their neat uniforms, these frequent-flyers seem to have mastered the art of streamlined travel and know just what to look for when it comes baggage that is functional, easy to maneuver and perpetually organized.

Lucky for us, a few flight attendants shared their secrets and divulged some of their favorite brands and luggage options for everything from carry-ons, checked bags and personal travel, as well as some other suitcase-related tips and tricks.

Read on to find hard-shell suitcases that glide like butter, a multi-compartment carry-on that holds more than you think, a sleek laptop tote that’s a must-have for business travel and the one piece of baggage you need when traveling with a kiddo .

HuffPost may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently selected by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

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Southwest Airlines 'looking into' video of woman lying inside overhead bin before takeoff

Passengers on a Southwestern Airlines flight were in for a surprise when they spotted a woman lying inside an overhead luggage compartment while boarding.

Video recorded by Monique Guzman shows a woman lying next to a suitcase, as a flight attendant is heard welcoming passengers on board the aircraft.

Southwest Airlines, in an email to USA TODAY, said the airline is looking into the incident and did not share further information. Storyful reported that the woman was seen on a flight from Albuquerque to Phoenix on May 6.

Guzman told Storyful that she "saw a head pop out of the overhead" as she got on the plane and that other passengers were unfazed by her presence and were “just casually walking past her.”

A flight attendant found her before takeoff, said Guzman. However, it is not immediately clear if she was removed from the overhead bin and how long she was there.

Earlier, in 2019, a Southwest flight attendant had crawled into a plane's overhead bin as passengers boarded a flight from Nashville to Atlanta. The airline, at the time, had said that the attendant was having a moment of fun and expressing her sense of humor.

Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X @saman_shafiq7.