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REVIEW
All images courtesy of Carl Friedrik.
When I first laid eyes on Carl Friedrik’s The Large Check-in luggage, I was immediately drawn to its sleek, minimalist design. The sand/chocolate color combination exudes a quiet sophistication, and the vegetable-tanned leather detailing adds just the right touch of luxury.
The Brand Behind the Luggage
Carl Friedrik, a brand founded by Swedish brothers Niklas and Mattis Oppermann, is renowned for its commitment to craftsmanship and quality. The brand’s ethos centres on creating timeless, functional products using premium materials and traditional techniques. Known for their leather goods and travel accessories, Carl Friedrik blends Scandinavian minimalism with practical design, making their products not just stylish but also built to endure the demands of modern travel.
First Impressions: The Art of Design and Durability
The Large Check-in is built with a German-engineered Makrolon® polycarbonate shell, a material known for its strength and lightweight properties. At 5 kg (11 lbs), it’s remarkably light for a suitcase of its size, which is a blessing for those of us who tend to overpack. The brushed fabric lining on the inside feels undeniably premium, a small but significant detail that makes packing a little more enjoyable.
The dimensions — 51 cm wide, 76 cm high, and 28 cm deep — translate to a spacious 90.9 liters of volume, which is more than enough for a week-long trip. The suitcase’s dual-zip TSA-approved combination locks provide peace of mind, especially for frequent travellers who pass through multiple airports and hotels. The locks are easy to set up and use, which is a relief for those of us who are not exactly tech-savvy. The Large Check-in is also available in sleek Black or classic Navy for those who prefer a different colour palette.
The Real Test: Travelling with The Large Check-in
I took The Large Check-in on a trip to Dubai and the Maldives, destinations that promised a mix of luxury and adventure. This journey would put any piece of luggage to the test. The suitcase’s 360° Hinomoto silent spinner wheels were an absolute godsend. Whether I was navigating the sleek floors of Dubai International Airport or wheeling across sandy pathways at a Maldives resort, the wheels rolled smoothly and silently. This feature, combined with the any-stop trolley system, made maneuvering the suitcase a breeze. The trolley handle adjusts effortlessly to your preferred height, a small but thoughtful detail that makes a significant difference during long travel days.
One of the standout features is the suitcase’s interior layout. The two large zipped compartments and two narrow zipped pockets are perfect for those who, like me, appreciate organisation. The compartments kept my belongings neatly separated, preventing the chaotic jumble that often results from living out of a suitcase. The premium brushed lining is soft to the touch and surprisingly easy to clean, which came in handy after a sunscreen spill.
The Balance Between Capacity and Weight
One of the most significant advantages of The Large Check-in is its lightweight construction. At just 5 kg, it provides ample room for packing without pushing you over airline weight limits. This is crucial for anyone who’s faced the dreaded overweight baggage fees. The suitcase’s capacity is impressive, and I found myself comfortably packing for two weeks with room to spare.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Price?
Carl Friedrik’s The Large Check-in luggage is undeniably a premium product, and it delivers on its promise of style, durability, and functionality. The seamless blend of design and practicality makes it a joy to travel with, and the thoughtful features like the 360° spinner wheels and any-stop trolley system add real value to the experience.
At £425, it’s a significant investment. If you’re a frequent traveller who values both aesthetics and performance, this suitcase is worth every penny. It’s not just about looking good while you travel – although it certainly does that – it’s about enhancing the entire experience, from the moment you zip it open to when you unpack it at your destination.
After two weeks of putting it through its paces, I’m convinced it’s not just a suitcase – it’s a travel companion built to last.
Price: £425
Website: carlfriedrik.com/int | Instagram: @carlfriedrik
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