One Suitcase
The one suitcase we think you should own is the Rimowa Original Check-In L.
Published on 20 Jan 2025
A suitcase is more than just a travel essential—it’s your trusted companion for both business and leisure. The right suitcase keeps your belongings organised, secure, and easy to access, making packing and navigating airports or train stations far less stressful. Combining practicality with durability, a well-designed suitcase ensures your items stay protected while keeping up with the pace of modern travel.
The one suitcase we think you should own is the RIMOWA Original Check-In L.
The RIMOWA Original Check-In L is a premium suitcase designed to balance durability and style. Constructed from high-quality anodised aluminium, its distinctive grooves and clean lines make it instantly recognisable. Available in silver, black, titanium, and emerald green, this suitcase is built to handle both business and leisure travel, particularly for extended trips. The black finish, in particular, offers a versatile, understated look that complements any travel setting.
The suitcase features a stage-free telescopic handle for customisable height adjustments, the RIMOWA Multiwheel System for effortless mobility, and TSA-approved locks for added security. Inside, the Flex Divider system provides an efficient way to organise and compress your belongings, simplifying the packing process. Each RIMOWA Original Check-In L includes a leather luggage tag and a set of stickers, adding a personal touch.
RIMOWA offers a lifetime guarantee for all suitcases purchased from July 25, 2022, covering functional aspects of the suitcase for its lifespan. This guarantee excludes cosmetic wear and tear, misuse, or abuse. For suitcases purchased before this date, RIMOWA provides a five-year guarantee. With over 100 specialised service centres worldwide, RIMOWA ensures that support is accessible wherever your travels take you.
The RIMOWA Original Check-In L is manufactured in Germany in RIMOWA’s own facilities, ensuring rigorous quality control and attention to detail. With dimensions of 79 x 51 x 27.5 cm and a capacity of 86 litres, it offers ample space for longer journeys. It weighs in at 6.2 kilograms.
For those requiring more storage, the RIMOWA Original Trunk Plus or Trunk XL are alternative options. While RIMOWA’s polycarbonate models are available, the aluminium range is especially suited for travellers prioritising durability and longevity.
RIMOWA’s roots trace back to 1898 when founder Paul Morszeck opened his first workshop in Cologne, Germany, near the iconic Cathedral. Initially a saddlery, the company expanded to create custom suitcases for traveling professionals, made from leather-coated plywood and cardboard.
In the 1920s, RIMOWA began crafting aluminium suitcases, a material inspired by early aviation. Paul’s son, Richard Morszeck, recognised aluminium’s potential for lightweight, durable travel cases, an innovation that set the brand apart. In 1950, the introduction of the now-iconic grooves on aluminium shells established a design element synonymous with RIMOWA, cementing its status as a leader in luggage design.
Overall, we believe that the Original Check-In L delivers a functional, elegant travel solution designed to meet the demands of modern travellers.
Also Consider
If RIMOWA were no longer an option and their suitcases were unavailable—even on the second-hand market—we would suggest the Large Travel Case by Zero Halliburton. Known for its sleek design and robust construction, this suitcase offers a comparable level of durability and functionality.
Globe-Trotter suitcases are another alternative. While their craftsmanship and classic aesthetic appeal to many, they lack the rugged durability and practicality of aluminium RIMOWA suitcases. Additionally, their support network is not as extensive, which may be a drawback for frequent travellers.
Tumi suitcases, while a common sight in airports worldwide, fall short in key areas compared to RIMOWA. Their materials and construction lack the same premium feel and long-term reliability, which are hallmarks of the RIMOWA brand.