What is it?
Suitcases are one of those things: the one you inherited 15 years ago still technically does a job, but once you feel the smooth motion of a hard-shell cabin bag's wheels across an airport floor, you realise what you've been missing.
Even more so when it's a beautiful case from July, the Australian-founded baggage brand that became a cult favourite in its home country and the US before launching in the UK this summer. Matching up contemporary looks with slick functionality and a range of bold colourways, its flagship collections also find a nice niche between accessible and luxurious, with none breaking the bank.
July's headline-grabbing option is the Carry On light, which at the time of release was officially the lightest carry-on bag on the market. The classic Carry On, though, is the perfect option for travellers looking for a bag that can slip easily into an airport compartment after you've sauntered confidently through the gate, and is also rugged enough to hold its own if you check it in.
The Carry On suitcase on London's Millennium Bridge
Why do I need it?
Beyond the aforementioned benefits, the plus points of the July Carry On become more obvious with each use. Its price point proves you don't have to spend a fortune for beautiful build quality and great features, with the action of the wheels, collapsible handle and TSA lock all reassuringly butter-smooth, and its wheels don't eat in too much to the interior space – important for a carry-on when you're short-haul but want to max out the space you're playing with.
Finally, while this isn't technically a 'need', the execution of its stored battery is so good that it'll feel like one after you've tried it: approved for use on all major airlines, it pops out of a space underneath the collapsible handle with a satisfying bounce and slide, making sure you're powered up if you hit a few hours' delay at the airport. Sweet.
Should I buy it?
In short, yes, because brands that match the kind of functionality and style that July brings to the table with a price point under £250 (with free personalisation) in a huge range of colours are few and far between. Its Carry On Light and Carry On Essential play in the same space, while there are checked bags and trunks, too.
£245; july.com/uk
