When it comes to high-end luggage, Tumi is often one of the first brands that come to mind. But with prices that can sometimes exceed $1,000 per bag, you might be wondering: is Tumi worth the price?
After all, there are so many other luggage brands out there that seem to offer similar products at a fraction of the cost.
But not to worry. We have the answer for you.
In this blog post, we’ll break down what you get for your money when you purchase a Tumi bag. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect, including its drawbacks, so you can make an informed decision about whether or not a Tumi bag is right for you.
Ladies and gentlemen, shall we?
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Yes, Tumi bags are worth the price even though they are more expensive than your average backpack or suitcase. But when you consider the quality of the materials, the craftsmanship that goes into each bag, and the functionality of the design, the price starts to make more sense. Plus, the brand is environmentally responsible, which is something we can all feel good about supporting. And because Tumi offers a 5- year lifetime warranty on all of their products, you know that your investment will last for years to come.
It also helps that they’re just really good-looking bags. If you can afford it, I think Tumi is definitely worth the investment.
Here’s what you need to know about Tumi bags:
When it comes to bags, quality is important. You want a bag that’s going to last, and that can stand up to daily wear and tear.
One of the main things that set Tumi apart from other luggage brands is the quality of the materials they use to make their products.
Tumi uses its patented FXT ballistic nylon for its softside suitcases and bags.
But what’s special about this fabric, you may ask?
Well, the nylon is coated with a protective layer and woven in a different pattern than regular ballistic nylon, which makes it even more resistant to wear and tear.
And for their hardside, the company uses Tegris fabric.
Tumi is the first and only brand to use Tegris in luggage manufacturing – they’ve even purchased a license for it. Tegris Thermoplastic Composite is a material made from improved polypropylene which is stronger, more resistant to impact, and lightweight.
It is also used by the U.S. military in protective armor and by other companies for very durable items like helmets, football gear, and outdoor furniture, which shows the material is very sturdy.
They also use leather and aluminum in some of their backpacks.
Overall, Tumi bags are also built to last, with reinforced seams and hardware that can take a beating.
Related: Is Rimowa Better Than Tumi?
Tumi bags are loaded with unique and innovative features that make them stand out from the competition.
For example, all Tumi bags come with the Tumi Tracer technology – a complimentary program that helps you recover your lost or stolen bag.
Other notable features include TSA locks, sturdy spinner wheels, USB ports, an Add-a-Bag hook, RFID-blocking ID Lock material for protection against identity theft, and a water-resistant exterior that ensures the content inside your bag is protected.
Also, many of their bags and suitcases have multiple compartments and pockets to help you stay organized while traveling. From suit hangers and expandable zippers to smart packing features like organizers and laptop pockets, Tumi has thought of everything to make travel easier.
3. Tumi has built a reputation for its premium, high-quality & reliable bags
Tumi is known for its innovation and incredibly durable bags.
This brand alone has 125+ patents to its name, from its patented materials to a two-stage expansion system that offers up to 2.5 extra inches of packing space.
With Tumi, you can be sure your bag will last for years (and maybe even decades) to come.
This is thanks in part to their use of top-of-the-line materials as well as 30 unique tests that each bag undergoes before it ever reaches store shelves.
Plus, Tumi offers a 5- year warranty on all of their products. So if anything ever goes wrong with your bag, you can send it back to Tumi and they’ll fix it for free.
In other words, Tumi stands behind the quality of their bags and they want their customers to be happy with their purchase.
4. Tumi is a high-end, luxury luggage brand
Of course, one of the biggest factors in deciding whether or not to splurge on a Tumi bag is the brand itself.
Tumi is a high-end, luxury luggage brand that matches high social and economic status. If you’re looking for a bag that will make a statement and turn heads every time you travel, then Tumi is worth considering.
Related: Best Backpack Brands You Can Trust
5. Tumi bags are classy and functional for any type of travel
Tumi offerings are stylish and sophisticated, so you can travel in style whether you’re going across town or around the world.
It also helps that these bags are designed to complement any outfit or style, whether you’re on business or leisure travel.
They’re perfect for people who appreciate understated style and want a bag that will last for years. Their products are popular among business travelers and other discerning customers for their classic style and durability.
And because it is a luxury brand, Tumi bags will help you make a great impression wherever you go.
No matter what kind of traveler you are or what your needs are, the odds are good that Tumi has a bag that’s perfect for you.
They offer everything from laptop backpacks to suitcases, business bags, and more, all of which are available in different materials, colors, and sizes.
You can even streamline your search based on the size of your laptop, price range, and even the features you want in a bag!
Whether you’re a business traveler or just hitting the road for some fun, Tumi has the perfect bag for you.
7. Tumi cares about the environment through the use of recycled materials
Not only does Tumi care about providing their customers with high-quality products, but they also care about being environmentally responsible.
Through the use of recycled materials and its global repair programs, Tumi help reduces its carbon footprint while still maintaining its standards for quality.
So not only will you be getting a high-quality bag, but you’ll also be doing your part to help preserve our planet.
Drawbacks of Tumi bags
There is no denying that Tumi bags are luxurious, sophisticated, and stylish.
But are they worth the price tag?
In this section, we will take an in-depth look at their drawbacks.
1. Tumi bags are not cheap
Let’s face it, Tumi bags are not cheap.
A quick search on their website reveals that their cheapest carry-on bag will set you back $475.
For many people, that is a lot of money to spend on a suitcase. And if you need more than one bag for your travels, the cost can quickly add up.
So, if you’re on a budget, you may want to look elsewhere.
2. Tumi bags do not come with a lifetime warranty
Tumi used to offer a lifetime warranty for all their products. But not anymore.
Since 2005, the brand now offers a five-year warranty.
For the first year, depending on the item you have, you will be able to receive full coverage. Nevertheless, from the second year until the fifth year, Tumi no longer covers damages done by airlines and baggage handlers or damages made while in transit.
3. Some Tumi suitcases are heavy
Some Tumi suitcases are heavy even when empty.
This can be an issue if you’re trying to avoid overweight baggage fees at the airport.
For example, the Tumi Continental Carry-On weighs 11.8 lbs, while the International Carry-On comes in at 11.3 lbs, which is very heavy when compared to popular carry-on luggage like Travelpro Maxlite 5 carry-on (5.4 lbs), Samsonite Omni PC Carry-on (7.05 lbs), and the Monos Carry-on Luggage (7.01 lb).
A heavy carry-on suitcase can also make maneuvering through airports and other crowded places quite difficult.
4. Some users think recent Tumi products have declined in quality
The recent decline in the quality of Tumi products has been highly debated on various forums.
On Forums like Tripadvisor, Rolexforums.com, and Flyertalk.com, some people think recent Tumi products are not what they used to be in terms of quality and durability, especially since it’s now owned by Samsonite.
They complain that Tumi is failing to honor warranties and bending over backward for their customers like they used to.
And in discussions about Tumi on sites like Reddit, Quora, and Flyertalk, it’s very common to see people recommending Briggs and Riley, Rimowa, and even Travelpro over Tumi because they have a better warranty, better features, and may even be cheaper.
However, other people are not so harsh.
Some only complain about the reduced warranty but maintain that the quality remains excellent.
All in all, I think this is something to keep in mind if you are considering purchasing a Tumi bag.
Best Alternatives to Tumi Bags
When it comes to luggage, Tumi is one of the most well-known and respected brands in the business.
But that doesn’t mean it’s the only option out there.
Many other high-quality luggage brands offer comparable products at a fraction of the price. So if you’re in the market for a new piece of luggage and you’re looking for a Tumi alternative, here are six brands to consider.
Briggs & Riley
If you’re looking for an alternative to Tumi that’s just as stylish and well-made, Briggs & Riley is a top recommendation.
This luggage brand is known for its sophisticated designs and durable construction.
Customers on different travel forums believe that Briggs and Riley is better than Tumi because their bags are much more durable, and offer better value for money.
And while Briggs & Riley products are certainly on the pricier side, they’re still significantly less expensive than Tumi equivalents, because they are priced 10-20% below Tumi.
Unlike Tumi, this company offers a lifetime guarantee on all of its products, so you can rest assured knowing that your investment is protected.
Rimowa
Rimowa is another high-end luggage brand with a loyal following.
Like Tumi, Rimowa’s bags are sleek and stylish. But what sets Rimowa apart is its focus on durability.
This German brand is known for its high-end materials and impeccable craftsmanship.
And while there have been reports that Tumi quality has declined, Rimowa has consistently maintained its quality over the years, which makes their bags much more durable.
Also, Rimowa uses high-quality materials like anodized aluminum and polycarbonate, in all of its products, which makes them incredibly resistant to dents and scratches.
Another edge that Rimowa has over Tumi is its lifetime warranty.
Until recently, Rimowa used to offer a 5 years warranty like Tumi, but that has seen been changed to a lifetime warranty, starting from July 25, 2022.
So, if you tend to be hard on your luggage, Rimowa is a safe bet.
Related: Is Rimowa Better Than Tumi?
Hartmann
Hartmann has been making high-quality luggage since 1877, so it’s no wonder that the brand has such a strong reputation.
What sets Hartmann apart from other brands is its focus on quality and attention to detail. The company uses only the finest materials and construction techniques to ensure that its products will stand up to years of use.
Hartmann offers a wide range of products, from duffle bags to rolling suitcases, and backs its products with a 10-year warranty.
And while Hartmann products aren’t cheap, they are typically much more durable than Tumi bags and have been recommended for frequent flyers by Good House Keeping and Upgraded Points.
So if you’re looking for an established brand with a long history of quality, Hartmann is worth checking out.
Globe-Trotter
Globe-Trotter is another highly rated alternative to Tumi luggage.
For 125 years, the British heritage luggage company has been creating exquisitely crafted suitcases that are handmade in England using only the finest materials.
Their bags are incredibly durable, and I dare say, much more durable than Tumi’s offerings.
Plus, the classic and timeless design means that your Globe-Trotter luggage will never go out of style and will always be in fashion. Queen Elizabeth, Winston Churchill, and even the James Bond film franchise are all fans of the British heritage luggage company’s impeccable craftsmanship.
In fact, Globe-Trotter suitcases have been known to last for generations.
So, if you’re looking for high-quality luggage that will last you for years to come, then Globe-Trotter is definitely the brand for you.
Travelpro
Travelpro is another great option for people who are looking for quality without breaking the bank.
The company offers a wide range of stylish and functional bags—including carry-on-friendly options—at very competitive prices.
Travelpro also has an impressive array of features, such as expansion panels and built-in garment bags, that make packing a breeze.
Travelpro also backs some of its products with a lifetime warranty, which is another advantage over Tumi.
Samsonite
Samsonite is one of the most well-known luggage brands in the world—and for good reason.
The company offers an impressive variety of products at very reasonable prices.
For example, Samsonite’s Bartlett Carry-On and Alliance SE Carry-On spinner luggage starts at just $99.
And while Samsonite products may not be quite as luxurious as those from Rimowa or Tumi, they’re more than adequate for most travelers’ needs.
FAQs
Why is Tumi so expensive?
Tumi is known for its high-quality luggage, and the company makes its bags go through 30 different tests and development to make sure they are as durable and functional as possible.
Tumi also uses top-of-the-line materials like FXT ballistic nylon, Tegris, premium leather, etc., which helps explain why they tend to be more expensive than other brands.
In fact, many people who have purchased Tumi luggage in the past have claimed they’re still using it today, even 5 or 20 years later, Yes, there may be some wear and tear, but the bag is still functional.
With Tumi, you get what you pay for.
Where is Tumi made?
Tumi bags are made in Asia and other parts of the world. Tumi outsources all of its manufacturing operations and works with manufacturers in China, Vietnam, and Thailand, and outside of Asia, in the Dominican Republic.
In these locations, Tumi employs some of the best craftsmen in the business to make sure every piece of Tumi luggage meets their high standards.
What makes Tumi bags so expensive?
In terms of materials, Tumi only uses the best of the best.
Their ballistic nylon and Tegris materials are known for being durable enough to handle whatever you throw at it, while still being light enough that it won’t weigh you down during your travels.
In addition to high-quality materials, Tumi’s products are also designed with a focus on function and usability. Many of their products have multiple compartments and pockets to help you stay organized while traveling.
Is Tumi a good brand?
So, now that we’ve taken a closer look at what makes Tumi bags so special, is the brand worth it? If you’re someone who frequently travels for work or pleasure and is looking for a bag that will last you for years (or even decades), then we believe that a Tumi bag is definitely worth the price.
The durability and functionality of their products are simply unmatched.
However, if you’re someone who only travels occasionally or is looking for a more budget-friendly option, other excellent options on the market may be more suited to your needs.
Is Tumi a luxury brand?
Yes, Tumi is a luxury and lifestyle brand. It is known for its high-quality, durable travel gear for the on-the-go professional, and its products often come with a high price tag.
Luxury brands are typically defined by their high price tags, their exclusive distribution channels, and their focus on quality and craftsmanship. Tumi meets all of these criteria, making it a true luxury brand.
Closing Thoughts
So, is Tumi worth it?
I would say yes! If you can afford it, I think investing in a Tumi bag is a smart move. Not only are they great-looking bags that will last for years, but they’re also packed with tons of features that will make your travels much easier.
However, if you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, there are other options available that may be better suited to your needs.
Thank you for reading! We hope this article was helpful in your decision-making process.
We’d love to hear from you!
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