There’s lots of baggage on the market that’s, to be sincere, fairly subpar. I’ve seen lots of low-cost manufacturing, poor supplies, and outright dangerous design within the journey business.
Should you’re on a quest to discover a suitcase that doesn’t suck, you’ll have come throughout July, an Aussie journey model who asserts that they’re right here to repair the damaged baggage business. That’s a daring declare, so the query is that this: how do their merchandise measure up in real-world use?
I’ve traveled broadly the world over: from little cities in Europe to mountainside villages within the Himalayas to manufacturing hubs in Malaysia. Alongside the best way, I’ve discovered a factor or two about what separates good suitcases from the remainder of the mediocre pack. I’ve pitted July’s fashions towards a few of the greatest suitcases within the enterprise to see how they examine.
I’ll share with you what I discovered, how July suitcases carry out in real-world use, and break down the completely different fashions they provide. I’ll additionally provide you with just a few different manufacturers to take a look at.
July Baggage First Impressions
The very first thing that stands out to me with these suitcases is the clear minimalist aesthetic. I’m not a fan of ornate, frilly designs, and I really like the streamlined look of those circumstances.
The match and end can be spot-on at first inspection. The German polycarbonate shell feels easy and hard, the deal with is sturdy, and the aluminum nook bumpers add an additional sense of high quality and sturdiness.
The most important standout characteristic after I began these circumstances—particularly the July Carry-On—was the wheels. Just a few years again, I destroyed the wheels on two suitcases by dragging them throughout European cobblestone streets. Ever since then, I’ve been very cautious of suitcase wheel sturdiness. I are typically fairly skeptical of spinner wheels on the whole as a result of I’ve seen so many which can be cheaply made.
July’s wheels really feel very completely different from the standard low-cost plastic ones that you just discover on price range suitcases. They’re larger than normal suitcase wheels they usually really feel approach stronger. July claims that their silent wheels can deal with the cobblestones of Europe, and primarily based on my first impression, I are inclined to agree.
Who’s July?
July is an up-and-coming Australia-based journey model that was based in 2018 with the mission “democratise unbreakable and lifelong design.”
For a journey startup, 2018 was a fairly horrible time to start out, because the pandemic hit simply as they have been starting to achieve momentum. The truth that July survived the lockdown interval and continues to be going sturdy is fairly spectacular.
To offer you a little bit of an perception into who July is as a model, right here’s a fast snippet from their about web page:
As a class, the journey equipment business is damaged; it’s usually make it as low-cost as potential, utilizing a plethora of outlets and distributors to promote, and ignore all reference to the shopper. This ends in over-priced items bought with a brief product lifespan.
We’re right here to repair this.
That every one sounds fantastic, however many manufacturers use high-falutin language of their advertising and marketing information. These days, I discover myself fairly skeptical of claims that corporations make. There’s simply approach an excessive amount of bullshit on the market.
Once I began to dig into the main points on July, I used to be stunned to search out that their self-proclaimed mission to repair the bags business goes greater than surface-deep. They appear to be taking that dedication severely.
The primary place I see proof for that is of their design course of. July began the design of their merchandise by studying hundreds of suitcase evaluations to search out the commonest complaints. Then they got down to design a suitcase and enterprise mannequin to repair essentially the most issues they discovered.
That will sound like a fairly good (and perhaps even apparent) method, however I’ve labored as a product design engineer, and also you’d be stunned by what number of corporations construct merchandise with out precise perception into what folks really want and need.
July has additionally chosen to do a number of issues the tougher approach as a result of they wished to construct the perfect product they might. For instance, reasonably than utilizing normal wheels obtainable for baggage, they designed their very own wheels from the bottom up as a result of they couldn’t discover something that met their high quality expectations.
To sweeten the deal, July provides free transport, a 100-day free returns coverage (with paid return transport), and a powerful lifetime guarantee.
July Baggage Assessment
Most of July’s suitcase fashions, from the compact July Carry-On to the large Checked Plus, have the identical supplies, development, and general design. The principle distinction is within the measurement.
For the primary a part of this assessment, I’ll give attention to the frequent components and options throughout your entire vary. If you’d like information on a particular suitcase, scroll all the way down to the “July Baggage Assessment by Mannequin” part.
Supplies
Each July bag begins with a modern polycarbonate shell. Polycarbonate has turn into the gold normal materials for practical, high-end suitcases as a result of it’s light-weight and hard.
In July’s survey of suitcase evaluations and customary complaints, they discovered that the largest drawback areas for hardside suitcases have been the bends and corners. These areas are usually weakened in the course of the thermoforming manufacturing course of, they usually take extra stress and impacts throughout use. Because of this, cracked corners and edges are pretty frequent with hardside baggage, even when it’s made with polycarbonate.
To resolve this, July improved the curved design on their suitcase edges and added anodized aluminum bumpers to the corners. The nook bumpers are a giant improve over normal suitcases, and never one thing you usually see on this value vary.
Past the arduous shell, July circumstances are made with water- and stain-resistant lining cloth, powerful YKK zippers (the perfect within the enterprise), and even leather-based trim detailing.
The fabric decisions are very effectively thought-out and provides July baggage a premium really feel in addition to good sturdiness.
Aesthetic
The styling of July baggage is decidedly minimalist. Their signature suitcases are easy polycarbonate rectangles. The blocky rectangular profile is smoothed out with curved edges and damaged up by a single molded-in line across the heart.
I personally love the general look of those suitcases. It’s clear, streamlined, and understated. With a impartial colour, a July suitcase undoubtedly doesn’t stand out within the airport, however it appears skilled and refined.
Should you do need a bit extra aptitude, they arrive in an superior array of colours, so you will get one thing that fits your character.
Group
One factor I’ve beloved concerning the July suitcases is the considerate group options on the within. I naturally prefer to preserve issues organized and tidy, however that may be arduous after I’m dwelling out of a suitcase for weeks on finish. All the things appears to show right into a jumbled mess in some unspecified time in the future.
July suitcases have a zippered mesh divider on one aspect to maintain all the pieces separated and in place. On the opposite aspect, you’ve got July’s Y-strap compression system, which works significantly better than the strap compression you discover in most suitcases. You additionally get a hidden laundry bag fabricated from the identical materials because the stain-resistant lining to maintain soiled garments separate.
Total, the inside design may be very easy, however I’ve discovered that it really works fairly effectively. There aren’t any pointless frills to complicate issues and a great quantity of separation.
I do personally want there have been one or two extra pockets for maintaining small issues like electronics, books, and toiletries. It will be straightforward for July so as to add only a bit extra group to make these suitcases much more practical.
Sturdiness
Given the truth that July explicitly states their purpose is to construct “unbreakable” suitcases, my expectations have been fairly excessive for the sturdiness of their suitcases.
Airline baggage handlers don’t have a status for being light with baggage, and I’ve seen many suitcases come out of luggage declare with cracks or tears. The aluminum-reinforced nook bumpers give me lots of confidence that the July Checked suitcases will survive the tough abuse.
Carry-on baggage can also take a beating throughout journey. The July Carry-On bag has confirmed impressively sturdy. It holds up effectively to being dragged throughout cities and stuffed into packed overhead bins (and perhaps unintentionally dropped out of them).
One factor to concentrate on is that the nook bumpers are prone to present scuffing and put on over time. July makes use of a fundamental anodize coating for the aluminum. Whereas that’s pretty sturdy, with sufficient use you’ll most likely see scratches that undergo the anodized colour to indicate the naked aluminum beneath. It isn’t practical, however remember that these circumstances might begin to look beat up after a number of journeys.
Worth
Let’s face it: once you’re purchasing for a brand new suitcase, value goes to be one of many high issues (if it isn’t, do you need to commerce funds?). I all the time advocate investing a bit additional cash on gear that can final, however I additionally need to get the perfect bang for my buck. If one thing prices extra, I need to know why, and I would like it to be value the associated fee.
July provides suitcases with lots of premium options like polycarbonate shells, aluminum nook bumpers, and ball-bearing wheels. They do all this whereas maintaining their costs a lot decrease than luxurious manufacturers like RIMOWA, Briggs & Riley, and Tumi.
Should you’re on a good price range, you possibly can undoubtedly discover succesful and sturdy suitcases for considerably much less money, however in order for you that luxury-level development, aesthetic, and high quality, July suitcases have implausible worth for the cash.
July Baggage Options
Now that we’ve coated the fundamentals, let’s dive into the particular options provided in July suitcases. From ejectable battery banks to a wise compression system, the designers paid lots of consideration to the main points of every suitcase.
360-Diploma Spinner Wheels
When July couldn’t discover spinner wheels available on the market that match their top quality requirements, they determined to design their very own easy wheels from the bottom up. Their last design options double wheels which can be larger than normal suitcase wheels and use stainless-steel ball bearings for simple rolling and sturdiness.
These silent wheels are tremendous quiet and simple to maneuver, and they’re much stronger. I usually am an even bigger fan of two-wheeled suitcases, however these are a few of the solely spinner wheels I’d belief for frequent journey.
Y-Strap Compression System
July’s Y-strap compression system features a compression pad that you just place over your packed belongings and two Y-shaped compression straps that cinch down excessive to present you extra space.
The compression straps in July circumstances are approach higher than the standard flimsy straps you discover on most suitcases. I don’t discover these to be very useful, however July’s straps are thick, sturdy, and well-placed to essentially tighten down your load.
Bonus? The compression pad has a mesh pocket built-in that’s excellent for smaller gadgets.
Hidden Laundry Bag
All July suitcases include a hidden laundry bag that’s odor-resistant and compresses all the way down to preserve your soiled clothes separate from the remainder of your stuff.
I actually hate having all my stuff begin to odor like soiled garments just a few days into a visit, so I respect the built-in laundry bag.
Built-in TSA Lock
July suitcases additionally include an built-in TSA lock to present you some further safety and peace of thoughts whilst you journey. It’s constructed into the aspect of the suitcase and locks the primary zipper so thieves can’t get in.
Touring is worrying sufficient. I really like being able to guard my stuff with a bit of bit of additional safety. It undoubtedly isn’t foolproof—decided thieves might nonetheless rip by means of the zipper—however it undoubtedly provides some deterrence.
July Baggage Assessment by Mannequin
| July Carry-On | Carry-On Important | Carry-On Professional | Carry-On Gentle | Checked | Checked Plus | Carry-On Trunk | Checked Trunk | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exterior Dimensions | 21.5″ x 15″ x 8.5″ | 21.5″ x 15″ x 8.5″ | 21.5″ x 15″ x 8.5″ | 21.25″ x 14.25″ × 7.5″ | 26″ x 18.75″ x 11″ | 30.25″ x 19.75″ x 12.5″ | 21.5” H x 14.75” W x 8.75” D | 28.25” H x 16.5” W x 14.5” D |
| Weight | 7.4 lbs | 6.6 lbs | 7.9 lbs | 3.9 lbs | 8.3 lbs | 10.5 lbs | 8.4 lbs | 13.2 lbs |
| Capability | 42 L | 42 L | 42 L | 32 L | 80 L | 110 L | 42 L | 95 L |
Carry-On
The July Carry-On is the model’s flagship product. It’s a easy carry-on bag that options their upgraded development and minimalist design.
It is a fairly simple hardside carry-on suitcase, however with July’s upgraded development. It has exterior aluminum nook bumpers that enhance the sturdiness and add some visible curiosity to the design.
You additionally get an ejectable battery financial institution below the deal with. That is an superior characteristic for maintaining your cellphone totally charged whilst you journey.
All of July’s carry-ons are the proper measurement for worldwide journey, which means you possibly can take them on nearly any flight, anyplace on this planet. They match worldwide measurement restrictions whereas nonetheless offering ample packing room.
My largest grievance is that it doesn’t have an exterior pocket. Despite the fact that it’s a more recent pattern, I personally put exterior pockets proper subsequent to the must-have class for a carry-on, as a result of I would like to have the ability to simply entry issues like electronics, passports, and books with out having to hold a separate bag. Monos does an important job with their Carry-On Professional line.
It’s fairly normal for hardside suitcases to forgo exterior pockets (it’s simply extra sophisticated to construct), however I want the July Carry-On included one since their purpose is to “carry higher design to how we journey.” You may improve to the Carry-On Professional and get an exterior zippered sleeve, however I actually suppose exterior pockets must be a typical characteristic for higher-end suitcases.
Carry-On Important
The July Carry-On Important is the dialed-back model of the July Carry-On suitcase. It cuts out the ejectable battery financial institution and doesn’t have exterior aluminum bumpers (although the corners are nonetheless bolstered with aluminum on the within).
I actually desire the Carry-On Important over the July Carry-On. It’s considerably cheaper and nearly a full pound lighter. Whereas the built-in battery financial institution is a useful characteristic, I’d personally reasonably purchase a separate one (for much less cash). Plus, I’ve seen points the aluminum nook bumpers displaying scratches and scuffs greater than polycarbonate, so I’d reasonably not have these.
I believe this carry-on suitcase provides the perfect of July’s upgraded design with out pointless options that simply price extra.
Carry-On Professional
The July Carry-On Professional is certainly essentially the most practical carry-on in July’s lineup. It blends the design of the usual July Carry-On and the Important, with an ejectable battery financial institution however no exterior metallic bumpers.
The massive distinction is the addition of a removable laptop computer sleeve on the entrance of the case. This padded sleeve makes use of Fidlock magnetic clasps to simply snap on and off the entrance of the suitcase in seconds. It’s tremendous straightforward to make use of, and is ideal for detaching your laptop computer sleeve to hold with you whereas placing your suitcase within the overhead bin.
That is the perfect answer for carrying a laptop computer in a suitcase that I’ve ever seen, arms down. Should you journey so much for work and consistently have to carry a laptop computer on aircraft flights, I believe the July Carry-On Professional is an superior selection.
That mentioned, it isn’t fairly as versatile as different hardside carry-on baggage which have a hinged pocket as an alternative of a removable sleeve. It really works very well for a laptop computer, however isn’t fairly splendid for different gadgets.
Carry-On Gentle
The July Carry-On Gentle is essentially the most compact and minimalist July bag. Their purpose was to construct the lightest carry-on suitcase on this planet. They managed to make this little hardside suitcase that weighs solely 3.9 lbs—the lightest carry-on suitcase I’ve come throughout.
There have been some sacrifices made to get that weight. The outer shell, supplies, deal with, and wheels are all a bit lighter and fewer sturdy. The most important draw back is that the general capability is barely 32 L (in comparison with 42 L in the usual carry-on.
Whereas the July Carry-On Gentle is fairly cool for its sheer minimalism, I personally suppose it feels only a bit too flimsy, and the decreased measurement is a giant downer. It’s superior in order for you absolutely the lightest bag, however I don’t suppose there’s a lot good about it aside from that.
The July Carry-On Important is far more sturdy and spacious, and it’s solely a tad costlier.
Checked
The July Checked suitcase has all the identical options and development because the July Carry-On, however in a bigger measurement for checked baggage. You get the identical polycarbonate shell, hidden laundry bag, built-in TSA lock, inside group, and minimalist design.
You don’t get the ejectable battery financial institution, however that’s not likely one thing you want in a checked bag anyway.
With 80L of storage, this large suitcase has loads of room for longer journeys.
One good characteristic is that any July carry-on suitcase will nest completely inside this large bag (which in flip suits inside the large Checked Plus).
Checked Plus
The July Checked Plus is… you guessed it: an even bigger model of the Checked. Should you’re packing for a household or touring for an prolonged time period, this monumental 110 L case has room for all the pieces you want.
Carry-On Trunk
July’s line of trunk baggage is designed to supply the superior sturdiness and basic model of trunk-style circumstances with all the trendy supplies and upgrades of July’s normal baggage.
The July Carry-On Trunk is similar measurement because the basic Carry-On, and it has the identical deal with, wheels, hidden laundry bag, ejectable battery, and group. The principle distinction is that as an alternative of the traditional zipper opening, it has hinges and durable locking clasps. This makes this suitcase sturdier and safer than a typical suitcase.
You additionally get a distinct aesthetic with a glazed polycarbonate end that offers a surprising shiny look. The issue is that over time scuffs and scratches begin to damage the enchantment.
To be sincere, I don’t suppose there’s a lot motive to purchase the Carry-On Trunk. It’s far more costly than the traditional Carry-On, it’s a full pound heavier, and the shiny end is much less resilient.
Except you actually simply need one thing completely different, I’d stick to the Carry-On or Carry-On Important.
Checked Trunk
Whereas the Carry-On Trunk appears completely pointless, the July Checked Trunk has so much going for it, and for particular use circumstances it could be the perfect factor on the market.
It is a large, heavy, bomb-proof polycarbonate field on wheels. It is vitally safe with the locking clasps, and it has tons of area.
The Checked Trunk is narrower and deeper than July’s checked suitcases, so I see it being a good selection if you need to carry cumbersome odd-shaped gadgets (anybody taking a tuba on their subsequent journey?). It additionally provides tons of safety for carrying extra fragile stuff.
July Baggage Equipment
Getting outfitted for journey requires greater than only a suitcase. Thankfully, July additionally provides a spread of superior equipment to get you totally equipped in your journey. Listed here are just a few of my favorites:
Tech Package
Holding monitor of small digital gadgets like cables, headphones, and chargers is usually a problem. When touring I’m all the time confused that I’ll lose my cellphone charger or headphones on the aircraft or within the airport.
This little zippered case provides you a devoted place for these small, easy-to-lose gadgets. With room for earbuds, chargers, cables, a USB battery financial institution, and a pen/stylus, you received’t have to fret about shedding something.
Packing Cells
I hate packing a suitcase. It doesn’t matter what I do, it all the time looks as if it simply turns into a jumbled mess in the primary compartment. I’ve discovered that packing cubes can work wonders for organizing a chaotic mess in a suitcase.
These zippered packing cubes are available an array of sizes to suit completely different gadgets. In addition they have a clear mesh entrance panel so it’s straightforward to see what’s inside. Plus, they’re 100% washable and stain-resistant, so it’s straightforward to maintain them clear.
Baggage Covers
If you wish to preserve your suitcase wanting nearly as good because the day you purchased it, a great set of baggage covers can go a good distance towards defending it from scratches and scuffs in your travels.
These on-brand baggage covers are designed particularly to suit each measurement of July suitcase and shield it on all sides. In addition they are available an enormous vary of enjoyable colours and patterns so you will get one thing that can stand out at baggage declare.
July Baggage Alternate options
July vs Monos
Monos is a Canada-based journey model that has so much in frequent with July. Each intention to supply luxury-level suitcases at extra approachable costs. Each construct minimal (however practical) polycarbonate suitcases. Each hit nearly equivalent value factors.
Should you’re on the lookout for a hardside carry-on with an exterior pocket, I believe the Monos Carry-On Professional is a better option than the July Carry-On Professional for most individuals. It has an actual zippered pocket reasonably than the removable sleeve of the July Carry-On Professional. It’s simply extra versatile all-around (although not fairly as handy in order for you the best possible laptop computer carry system).
Aside from that, I believe it principally comes down to private desire and magnificence. The options, performance, and value of those two manufacturers may be very related, however there are some aesthetic variations. Be taught extra by studying our full July vs. Monos baggage comparability.
July vs Away
Away is without doubt one of the most recognizable and disruptive startup baggage manufacturers, largely due to their superior social media advertising and marketing. In addition they construct modern polycarbonate suitcases.
In my expertise, July provides higher efficiency and extra worth in your cash than Away. I’ve seen Away suitcase arduous shells crack, whereas July’s are a lot stronger with the bolstered corners. July suitcases are additionally cheaper and sometimes lighter weight.
For extra info, learn our July vs Away comparability or our full Away Baggage assessment.
July vs Béis
Béis is one other small-ish model that’s common amongst vacationers on the lookout for fashionable hardside baggage. The most important benefit is that Béis suitcases are considerably cheaper than July. Should you’re on the lookout for a stable high-quality polycarbonate suitcase that offers you the perfect bang in your buck, Béis is a good model to have a look at.
That mentioned, July suitcases nonetheless have the sting in general high quality and sturdiness. Should you journey continuously and need a suitcase that can final for years to return, July often is the higher wager.
July Baggage FAQs
What’s so good about July baggage?
July provides an important steadiness of high-end supplies and high quality at a lower cost than luxurious manufacturers.
Is July baggage made in China?
July suitcases are assembled in China, however the polycarbonate shells are made in Germany.
What baggage is similar to July?
Monos is a Canadian journey model that provides sturdy polycarbonate circumstances similar to July.
Does July baggage scuff?
July baggage is vulnerable to scuffs and scratches, particularly on the anodized nook bumpers.
What are the disadvantages of hardside baggage?
Hardside baggage may be tougher to pack, usually has no exterior pockets, and might crack with affect.
There’s lots of baggage on the market that’s, to be sincere, fairly subpar. I’ve seen lots of low-cost manufacturing, poor supplies, and outright dangerous design within the journey business.
Should you’re on a quest to discover a suitcase that doesn’t suck, you’ll have come throughout July, an Aussie journey model who asserts that they’re right here to repair the damaged baggage business. That’s a daring declare, so the query is that this: how do their merchandise measure up in real-world use?
I’ve traveled broadly the world over: from little cities in Europe to mountainside villages within the Himalayas to manufacturing hubs in Malaysia. Alongside the best way, I’ve discovered a factor or two about what separates good suitcases from the remainder of the mediocre pack. I’ve pitted July’s fashions towards a few of the greatest suitcases within the enterprise to see how they examine.
I’ll share with you what I discovered, how July suitcases carry out in real-world use, and break down the completely different fashions they provide. I’ll additionally provide you with just a few different manufacturers to take a look at.
July Baggage First Impressions
The very first thing that stands out to me with these suitcases is the clear minimalist aesthetic. I’m not a fan of ornate, frilly designs, and I really like the streamlined look of those circumstances.
The match and end can be spot-on at first inspection. The German polycarbonate shell feels easy and hard, the deal with is sturdy, and the aluminum nook bumpers add an additional sense of high quality and sturdiness.
The most important standout characteristic after I began these circumstances—particularly the July Carry-On—was the wheels. Just a few years again, I destroyed the wheels on two suitcases by dragging them throughout European cobblestone streets. Ever since then, I’ve been very cautious of suitcase wheel sturdiness. I are typically fairly skeptical of spinner wheels on the whole as a result of I’ve seen so many which can be cheaply made.
July’s wheels really feel very completely different from the standard low-cost plastic ones that you just discover on price range suitcases. They’re larger than normal suitcase wheels they usually really feel approach stronger. July claims that their silent wheels can deal with the cobblestones of Europe, and primarily based on my first impression, I are inclined to agree.
Who’s July?
July is an up-and-coming Australia-based journey model that was based in 2018 with the mission “democratise unbreakable and lifelong design.”
For a journey startup, 2018 was a fairly horrible time to start out, because the pandemic hit simply as they have been starting to achieve momentum. The truth that July survived the lockdown interval and continues to be going sturdy is fairly spectacular.
To offer you a little bit of an perception into who July is as a model, right here’s a fast snippet from their about web page:
As a class, the journey equipment business is damaged; it’s usually make it as low-cost as potential, utilizing a plethora of outlets and distributors to promote, and ignore all reference to the shopper. This ends in over-priced items bought with a brief product lifespan.
We’re right here to repair this.
That every one sounds fantastic, however many manufacturers use high-falutin language of their advertising and marketing information. These days, I discover myself fairly skeptical of claims that corporations make. There’s simply approach an excessive amount of bullshit on the market.
Once I began to dig into the main points on July, I used to be stunned to search out that their self-proclaimed mission to repair the bags business goes greater than surface-deep. They appear to be taking that dedication severely.
The primary place I see proof for that is of their design course of. July began the design of their merchandise by studying hundreds of suitcase evaluations to search out the commonest complaints. Then they got down to design a suitcase and enterprise mannequin to repair essentially the most issues they discovered.
That will sound like a fairly good (and perhaps even apparent) method, however I’ve labored as a product design engineer, and also you’d be stunned by what number of corporations construct merchandise with out precise perception into what folks really want and need.
July has additionally chosen to do a number of issues the tougher approach as a result of they wished to construct the perfect product they might. For instance, reasonably than utilizing normal wheels obtainable for baggage, they designed their very own wheels from the bottom up as a result of they couldn’t discover something that met their high quality expectations.
To sweeten the deal, July provides free transport, a 100-day free returns coverage (with paid return transport), and a powerful lifetime guarantee.
July Baggage Assessment
Most of July’s suitcase fashions, from the compact July Carry-On to the large Checked Plus, have the identical supplies, development, and general design. The principle distinction is within the measurement.
For the primary a part of this assessment, I’ll give attention to the frequent components and options throughout your entire vary. If you’d like information on a particular suitcase, scroll all the way down to the “July Baggage Assessment by Mannequin” part.
Supplies
Each July bag begins with a modern polycarbonate shell. Polycarbonate has turn into the gold normal materials for practical, high-end suitcases as a result of it’s light-weight and hard.
In July’s survey of suitcase evaluations and customary complaints, they discovered that the largest drawback areas for hardside suitcases have been the bends and corners. These areas are usually weakened in the course of the thermoforming manufacturing course of, they usually take extra stress and impacts throughout use. Because of this, cracked corners and edges are pretty frequent with hardside baggage, even when it’s made with polycarbonate.
To resolve this, July improved the curved design on their suitcase edges and added anodized aluminum bumpers to the corners. The nook bumpers are a giant improve over normal suitcases, and never one thing you usually see on this value vary.
Past the arduous shell, July circumstances are made with water- and stain-resistant lining cloth, powerful YKK zippers (the perfect within the enterprise), and even leather-based trim detailing.
The fabric decisions are very effectively thought-out and provides July baggage a premium really feel in addition to good sturdiness.
Aesthetic
The styling of July baggage is decidedly minimalist. Their signature suitcases are easy polycarbonate rectangles. The blocky rectangular profile is smoothed out with curved edges and damaged up by a single molded-in line across the heart.
I personally love the general look of those suitcases. It’s clear, streamlined, and understated. With a impartial colour, a July suitcase undoubtedly doesn’t stand out within the airport, however it appears skilled and refined.
Should you do need a bit extra aptitude, they arrive in an superior array of colours, so you will get one thing that fits your character.
Group
One factor I’ve beloved concerning the July suitcases is the considerate group options on the within. I naturally prefer to preserve issues organized and tidy, however that may be arduous after I’m dwelling out of a suitcase for weeks on finish. All the things appears to show right into a jumbled mess in some unspecified time in the future.
July suitcases have a zippered mesh divider on one aspect to maintain all the pieces separated and in place. On the opposite aspect, you’ve got July’s Y-strap compression system, which works significantly better than the strap compression you discover in most suitcases. You additionally get a hidden laundry bag fabricated from the identical materials because the stain-resistant lining to maintain soiled garments separate.
Total, the inside design may be very easy, however I’ve discovered that it really works fairly effectively. There aren’t any pointless frills to complicate issues and a great quantity of separation.
I do personally want there have been one or two extra pockets for maintaining small issues like electronics, books, and toiletries. It will be straightforward for July so as to add only a bit extra group to make these suitcases much more practical.
Sturdiness
Given the truth that July explicitly states their purpose is to construct “unbreakable” suitcases, my expectations have been fairly excessive for the sturdiness of their suitcases.
Airline baggage handlers don’t have a status for being light with baggage, and I’ve seen many suitcases come out of luggage declare with cracks or tears. The aluminum-reinforced nook bumpers give me lots of confidence that the July Checked suitcases will survive the tough abuse.
Carry-on baggage can also take a beating throughout journey. The July Carry-On bag has confirmed impressively sturdy. It holds up effectively to being dragged throughout cities and stuffed into packed overhead bins (and perhaps unintentionally dropped out of them).
One factor to concentrate on is that the nook bumpers are prone to present scuffing and put on over time. July makes use of a fundamental anodize coating for the aluminum. Whereas that’s pretty sturdy, with sufficient use you’ll most likely see scratches that undergo the anodized colour to indicate the naked aluminum beneath. It isn’t practical, however remember that these circumstances might begin to look beat up after a number of journeys.
Worth
Let’s face it: once you’re purchasing for a brand new suitcase, value goes to be one of many high issues (if it isn’t, do you need to commerce funds?). I all the time advocate investing a bit additional cash on gear that can final, however I additionally need to get the perfect bang for my buck. If one thing prices extra, I need to know why, and I would like it to be value the associated fee.
July provides suitcases with lots of premium options like polycarbonate shells, aluminum nook bumpers, and ball-bearing wheels. They do all this whereas maintaining their costs a lot decrease than luxurious manufacturers like RIMOWA, Briggs & Riley, and Tumi.
Should you’re on a good price range, you possibly can undoubtedly discover succesful and sturdy suitcases for considerably much less money, however in order for you that luxury-level development, aesthetic, and high quality, July suitcases have implausible worth for the cash.
July Baggage Options
Now that we’ve coated the fundamentals, let’s dive into the particular options provided in July suitcases. From ejectable battery banks to a wise compression system, the designers paid lots of consideration to the main points of every suitcase.
360-Diploma Spinner Wheels
When July couldn’t discover spinner wheels available on the market that match their top quality requirements, they determined to design their very own easy wheels from the bottom up. Their last design options double wheels which can be larger than normal suitcase wheels and use stainless-steel ball bearings for simple rolling and sturdiness.
These silent wheels are tremendous quiet and simple to maneuver, and they’re much stronger. I usually am an even bigger fan of two-wheeled suitcases, however these are a few of the solely spinner wheels I’d belief for frequent journey.
Y-Strap Compression System
July’s Y-strap compression system features a compression pad that you just place over your packed belongings and two Y-shaped compression straps that cinch down excessive to present you extra space.
The compression straps in July circumstances are approach higher than the standard flimsy straps you discover on most suitcases. I don’t discover these to be very useful, however July’s straps are thick, sturdy, and well-placed to essentially tighten down your load.
Bonus? The compression pad has a mesh pocket built-in that’s excellent for smaller gadgets.
Hidden Laundry Bag
All July suitcases include a hidden laundry bag that’s odor-resistant and compresses all the way down to preserve your soiled clothes separate from the remainder of your stuff.
I actually hate having all my stuff begin to odor like soiled garments just a few days into a visit, so I respect the built-in laundry bag.
Built-in TSA Lock
July suitcases additionally include an built-in TSA lock to present you some further safety and peace of thoughts whilst you journey. It’s constructed into the aspect of the suitcase and locks the primary zipper so thieves can’t get in.
Touring is worrying sufficient. I really like being able to guard my stuff with a bit of bit of additional safety. It undoubtedly isn’t foolproof—decided thieves might nonetheless rip by means of the zipper—however it undoubtedly provides some deterrence.
July Baggage Assessment by Mannequin
| July Carry-On | Carry-On Important | Carry-On Professional | Carry-On Gentle | Checked | Checked Plus | Carry-On Trunk | Checked Trunk | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exterior Dimensions | 21.5″ x 15″ x 8.5″ | 21.5″ x 15″ x 8.5″ | 21.5″ x 15″ x 8.5″ | 21.25″ x 14.25″ × 7.5″ | 26″ x 18.75″ x 11″ | 30.25″ x 19.75″ x 12.5″ | 21.5” H x 14.75” W x 8.75” D | 28.25” H x 16.5” W x 14.5” D |
| Weight | 7.4 lbs | 6.6 lbs | 7.9 lbs | 3.9 lbs | 8.3 lbs | 10.5 lbs | 8.4 lbs | 13.2 lbs |
| Capability | 42 L | 42 L | 42 L | 32 L | 80 L | 110 L | 42 L | 95 L |
Carry-On
The July Carry-On is the model’s flagship product. It’s a easy carry-on bag that options their upgraded development and minimalist design.
It is a fairly simple hardside carry-on suitcase, however with July’s upgraded development. It has exterior aluminum nook bumpers that enhance the sturdiness and add some visible curiosity to the design.
You additionally get an ejectable battery financial institution below the deal with. That is an superior characteristic for maintaining your cellphone totally charged whilst you journey.
All of July’s carry-ons are the proper measurement for worldwide journey, which means you possibly can take them on nearly any flight, anyplace on this planet. They match worldwide measurement restrictions whereas nonetheless offering ample packing room.
My largest grievance is that it doesn’t have an exterior pocket. Despite the fact that it’s a more recent pattern, I personally put exterior pockets proper subsequent to the must-have class for a carry-on, as a result of I would like to have the ability to simply entry issues like electronics, passports, and books with out having to hold a separate bag. Monos does an important job with their Carry-On Professional line.
It’s fairly normal for hardside suitcases to forgo exterior pockets (it’s simply extra sophisticated to construct), however I want the July Carry-On included one since their purpose is to “carry higher design to how we journey.” You may improve to the Carry-On Professional and get an exterior zippered sleeve, however I actually suppose exterior pockets must be a typical characteristic for higher-end suitcases.
Carry-On Important
The July Carry-On Important is the dialed-back model of the July Carry-On suitcase. It cuts out the ejectable battery financial institution and doesn’t have exterior aluminum bumpers (although the corners are nonetheless bolstered with aluminum on the within).
I actually desire the Carry-On Important over the July Carry-On. It’s considerably cheaper and nearly a full pound lighter. Whereas the built-in battery financial institution is a useful characteristic, I’d personally reasonably purchase a separate one (for much less cash). Plus, I’ve seen points the aluminum nook bumpers displaying scratches and scuffs greater than polycarbonate, so I’d reasonably not have these.
I believe this carry-on suitcase provides the perfect of July’s upgraded design with out pointless options that simply price extra.
Carry-On Professional
The July Carry-On Professional is certainly essentially the most practical carry-on in July’s lineup. It blends the design of the usual July Carry-On and the Important, with an ejectable battery financial institution however no exterior metallic bumpers.
The massive distinction is the addition of a removable laptop computer sleeve on the entrance of the case. This padded sleeve makes use of Fidlock magnetic clasps to simply snap on and off the entrance of the suitcase in seconds. It’s tremendous straightforward to make use of, and is ideal for detaching your laptop computer sleeve to hold with you whereas placing your suitcase within the overhead bin.
That is the perfect answer for carrying a laptop computer in a suitcase that I’ve ever seen, arms down. Should you journey so much for work and consistently have to carry a laptop computer on aircraft flights, I believe the July Carry-On Professional is an superior selection.
That mentioned, it isn’t fairly as versatile as different hardside carry-on baggage which have a hinged pocket as an alternative of a removable sleeve. It really works very well for a laptop computer, however isn’t fairly splendid for different gadgets.
Carry-On Gentle
The July Carry-On Gentle is essentially the most compact and minimalist July bag. Their purpose was to construct the lightest carry-on suitcase on this planet. They managed to make this little hardside suitcase that weighs solely 3.9 lbs—the lightest carry-on suitcase I’ve come throughout.
There have been some sacrifices made to get that weight. The outer shell, supplies, deal with, and wheels are all a bit lighter and fewer sturdy. The most important draw back is that the general capability is barely 32 L (in comparison with 42 L in the usual carry-on.
Whereas the July Carry-On Gentle is fairly cool for its sheer minimalism, I personally suppose it feels only a bit too flimsy, and the decreased measurement is a giant downer. It’s superior in order for you absolutely the lightest bag, however I don’t suppose there’s a lot good about it aside from that.
The July Carry-On Important is far more sturdy and spacious, and it’s solely a tad costlier.
Checked
The July Checked suitcase has all the identical options and development because the July Carry-On, however in a bigger measurement for checked baggage. You get the identical polycarbonate shell, hidden laundry bag, built-in TSA lock, inside group, and minimalist design.
You don’t get the ejectable battery financial institution, however that’s not likely one thing you want in a checked bag anyway.
With 80L of storage, this large suitcase has loads of room for longer journeys.
One good characteristic is that any July carry-on suitcase will nest completely inside this large bag (which in flip suits inside the large Checked Plus).
Checked Plus
The July Checked Plus is… you guessed it: an even bigger model of the Checked. Should you’re packing for a household or touring for an prolonged time period, this monumental 110 L case has room for all the pieces you want.
Carry-On Trunk
July’s line of trunk baggage is designed to supply the superior sturdiness and basic model of trunk-style circumstances with all the trendy supplies and upgrades of July’s normal baggage.
The July Carry-On Trunk is similar measurement because the basic Carry-On, and it has the identical deal with, wheels, hidden laundry bag, ejectable battery, and group. The principle distinction is that as an alternative of the traditional zipper opening, it has hinges and durable locking clasps. This makes this suitcase sturdier and safer than a typical suitcase.
You additionally get a distinct aesthetic with a glazed polycarbonate end that offers a surprising shiny look. The issue is that over time scuffs and scratches begin to damage the enchantment.
To be sincere, I don’t suppose there’s a lot motive to purchase the Carry-On Trunk. It’s far more costly than the traditional Carry-On, it’s a full pound heavier, and the shiny end is much less resilient.
Except you actually simply need one thing completely different, I’d stick to the Carry-On or Carry-On Important.
Checked Trunk
Whereas the Carry-On Trunk appears completely pointless, the July Checked Trunk has so much going for it, and for particular use circumstances it could be the perfect factor on the market.
It is a large, heavy, bomb-proof polycarbonate field on wheels. It is vitally safe with the locking clasps, and it has tons of area.
The Checked Trunk is narrower and deeper than July’s checked suitcases, so I see it being a good selection if you need to carry cumbersome odd-shaped gadgets (anybody taking a tuba on their subsequent journey?). It additionally provides tons of safety for carrying extra fragile stuff.
July Baggage Equipment
Getting outfitted for journey requires greater than only a suitcase. Thankfully, July additionally provides a spread of superior equipment to get you totally equipped in your journey. Listed here are just a few of my favorites:
Tech Package
Holding monitor of small digital gadgets like cables, headphones, and chargers is usually a problem. When touring I’m all the time confused that I’ll lose my cellphone charger or headphones on the aircraft or within the airport.
This little zippered case provides you a devoted place for these small, easy-to-lose gadgets. With room for earbuds, chargers, cables, a USB battery financial institution, and a pen/stylus, you received’t have to fret about shedding something.
Packing Cells
I hate packing a suitcase. It doesn’t matter what I do, it all the time looks as if it simply turns into a jumbled mess in the primary compartment. I’ve discovered that packing cubes can work wonders for organizing a chaotic mess in a suitcase.
These zippered packing cubes are available an array of sizes to suit completely different gadgets. In addition they have a clear mesh entrance panel so it’s straightforward to see what’s inside. Plus, they’re 100% washable and stain-resistant, so it’s straightforward to maintain them clear.
Baggage Covers
If you wish to preserve your suitcase wanting nearly as good because the day you purchased it, a great set of baggage covers can go a good distance towards defending it from scratches and scuffs in your travels.
These on-brand baggage covers are designed particularly to suit each measurement of July suitcase and shield it on all sides. In addition they are available an enormous vary of enjoyable colours and patterns so you will get one thing that can stand out at baggage declare.
July Baggage Alternate options
July vs Monos
Monos is a Canada-based journey model that has so much in frequent with July. Each intention to supply luxury-level suitcases at extra approachable costs. Each construct minimal (however practical) polycarbonate suitcases. Each hit nearly equivalent value factors.
Should you’re on the lookout for a hardside carry-on with an exterior pocket, I believe the Monos Carry-On Professional is a better option than the July Carry-On Professional for most individuals. It has an actual zippered pocket reasonably than the removable sleeve of the July Carry-On Professional. It’s simply extra versatile all-around (although not fairly as handy in order for you the best possible laptop computer carry system).
Aside from that, I believe it principally comes down to private desire and magnificence. The options, performance, and value of those two manufacturers may be very related, however there are some aesthetic variations. Be taught extra by studying our full July vs. Monos baggage comparability.
July vs Away
Away is without doubt one of the most recognizable and disruptive startup baggage manufacturers, largely due to their superior social media advertising and marketing. In addition they construct modern polycarbonate suitcases.
In my expertise, July provides higher efficiency and extra worth in your cash than Away. I’ve seen Away suitcase arduous shells crack, whereas July’s are a lot stronger with the bolstered corners. July suitcases are additionally cheaper and sometimes lighter weight.
For extra info, learn our July vs Away comparability or our full Away Baggage assessment.
July vs Béis
Béis is one other small-ish model that’s common amongst vacationers on the lookout for fashionable hardside baggage. The most important benefit is that Béis suitcases are considerably cheaper than July. Should you’re on the lookout for a stable high-quality polycarbonate suitcase that offers you the perfect bang in your buck, Béis is a good model to have a look at.
That mentioned, July suitcases nonetheless have the sting in general high quality and sturdiness. Should you journey continuously and need a suitcase that can final for years to return, July often is the higher wager.
July Baggage FAQs
What’s so good about July baggage?
July provides an important steadiness of high-end supplies and high quality at a lower cost than luxurious manufacturers.
Is July baggage made in China?
July suitcases are assembled in China, however the polycarbonate shells are made in Germany.
What baggage is similar to July?
Monos is a Canadian journey model that provides sturdy polycarbonate circumstances similar to July.
Does July baggage scuff?
July baggage is vulnerable to scuffs and scratches, particularly on the anodized nook bumpers.
What are the disadvantages of hardside baggage?
Hardside baggage may be tougher to pack, usually has no exterior pockets, and might crack with affect.
