Actually, no irony or humor was intended with that description. There’s certainly not anything wrong with that bag at all – I rather like it, and have traveled with it – but it’s simply not a bag I want to bring to Europe.

My reasoning, as is often the case with our decisions about emotions, values, and brands, isn’t perfectly linear or perhaps even logical. But I do know that it has something to do with image, style, and meaning. And when I say image, I speak of self image as much as the eBags image.

I think Till got it right:

Utility, performance, value are certainly the main criteria but snob appeal or brand image is something we can’t easily dismiss.

A quick trip to Des Moines or Denver? I’m perfectly ok with the TLS Mini. Checking into a hotel in Rome on a special trip with my wife? No.

That having been said, it’s also not uncommon to hear an occasional allusion to our desire to make a better impression on our betters, the doormen and counter agents of the world.

But still, the occasional expression of desire for something “upmarket” is usually a sly counterpoint for the mostest and bestest in performance, not brand awareness.

I’m grateful, of course, that it’s not the other way around!

(Don’t ask how many of us have come to the collective conclusion that both the OPEC and the RedOxx AirBoss are “bargains.”)

And Kevin is right that the Valoroso will totally trounce the ebags. Mind you, the Valoroso duffel was originally $275, so the comparison is not entirely fair. But the fact that Kevin, who knows his bags and has a closet full, decides to spend money on a roller when he already had a TLS sitting there for free, means something, I’d say.

Utility, performance, value are certainly the main criteria but snob appeal or brand image is something we can’t easily dismiss. I’d buy a Hyundai for example because I know about cars and have driven Hyundais critically and repeatedly. They are a flaming super value and really nice. But most Americans wouldn’t consider one based on brand image and their insufficient knowledge of cars.

Perhaps “downmarket” is a bit harsh.

I reviewed the 21″ TLS Mini a few months ago and like it quite a bit. You can see my review here: http://is.gd/645qk

I repeat: I like the bag. As you suggest, it’s loaded with features and is quite functional. These things don’t change the fact that each brand has an image and an audience. I like the TLS Mini, but sorry, I don’t want it rolling behind me as I exit Termini station in Rome, or walk through Heathrow. That’s my choice.

Finally, let me point out that the TLS Mini sells for ~$170. I paid $69.99 (landed) for the Andiamo Valoroso 20″ wheeled duffel. The Andiamo is better looking, boasts a larger capacity, and is built like a brick house. In terms of utility, performance and value, it’s tough to trump a bag of this quality at that price.

Moreover, I received the TLS for FREE. I’d rather travel with the Andiamo. That’s my choice.

If you’re happy with your TLS, fantastic. Enjoy it, and travel safe!