Beis has been on my radar since it launched in 2018. I waited months to get my hands on the brand’s diaper pack (9/10, WIRED Recommended) when my son was born, and I was so nervous about packing my hospital bag that I splurged on two different makeup bags from the company. Meanwhile, a mommy friend of mine is swearing by both the Ultimate Diaper Backpack ($188) and the accompanying fanny pack, and I think about copying her almost daily.
But the brand is better known for its suitcases than its diaper bags, which I love: The beaded, hard-shell, wheeled suitcase, called the Carry-On ($199), is a favorite among Instagrammers and the well-dressed airport folks I admire.
Initially, I ignored the carry-on in favor of one of the rest of Beis’ extensive bag lineup (if someone, anyone, would just buy me a backpack tote, it would definitely improve my life with a toddler). It was similar to the old Calpak suitcase I already had. Why upgrade? What could be much better than my existing suitcase? I used to fly almost monthly, and I didn’t see any reason to throw away my favorite suitcase just because I was flying less.
But I’d put my old suitcase through too much abuse and it was time to try something different as I prepared to fly across the country. After ordering my Beis Carry On, I was shocked at how much stuff I was missing.
Organize
On the outside, the Carry On looks much like other premium polycarbonate hardshell suitcases, reminiscent of the Away Carry On (9/10, WIRED Recommended) and Calpak’s previous hardshell designs. What’s most easily identifiable is the more intricate line patterns and the wider array of fun pastel colors and chic neutral shades.
Instead of a baby blue suitcase, I opted for a blue-toned slate that’s a bit more grown-up but just as easy to spot at baggage claim.
Inside, there are some nice extras: there’s a zippered compartment on one side and two further zippered pockets, which is pretty standard, but inside one of these pockets there are two drawstring bags, the larger of which is labelled Dirt Bag, and can be used to hold dirty clothes or shoes that you don’t want to come into contact with other items.
The smaller one simply says “Not Beisic” and is free to use. While Beis recommends putting small valuables in it, this bag could easily hold your favorite flat sandals, or even a pair of house slippers if you want to be really comfy wherever you go.
Photo: Nena Farrell
