I tried a hard shell Costco brand that was much cheaper than the Globetrotter. It has many of the same features, or so it would seem. The locking mechanisms are similar, the design of the zipper appear similar, and the overall function appears to be similar as far as the wheels and such, even though you can't customize.
The first time I used the Costco version was the last. It was damaged beyond use after one trip. The construction of the Roam Globetrotter is by far superior. I don't buy luggage often. I don't want to buy luggage often. So finding something that will last is important to me. I also want it to be stylish and for it to make a statement. I want it to stand out but in a classy manner, not boisterous. You can find boisterous everywhere.
I travel 160,000 miles a year. That's not to boast. You don't even know me, and probably never will. I say it to reinforce that I need a set of luggage that can handle that kind of travel in style. Roam has done that for me. I don't usually write endorsements, or even reviews. But this luggage has forced me to let you know it's different. It's better.
On another note, one of the pieces of luggage didn't meet my personal needs. Nothing wrong with it, concept, quality or otherwise. It was just too small for me. It was the overnight carry on. I informed Roam that I wanted to return this piece of luggage for that reason, and they immediately sent a return label for me to get full credit. No restocking fees, even though it was made…
