N※N

Show Travel and Leisure Publications

I Tested Lo and Sons Travel Bags to See If They're Worth the Price

In-Depth Review: Putting Lo & Sons Travel Bags to the Test for Everyday Adventures and Beyond

As avid travelers and everyday commuters, we've long been on the hunt for luggage and bags that strike the perfect balance between style, functionality, and durability. Enter Lo & Sons, a family-owned brand that's been making waves in the travel gear world since its founding in 2010. Inspired by the needs of modern professionals and wanderlust enthusiasts, the company—started by Helen Lo and her sons—focuses on creating versatile bags that cater to women but appeal to all genders. Their designs emphasize thoughtful features like hidden compartments, sustainable materials, and ergonomic comfort, all while maintaining a sleek, professional aesthetic. Recently, our team put several of their popular travel bags through rigorous testing, from weekend getaways to daily office hauls and even international trips. What follows is our comprehensive breakdown of the experience, highlighting standout models, key features, real-world performance, and whether these bags live up to the hype.

We started our testing with the iconic O.G. 2, Lo & Sons' flagship overnight bag that's often hailed as a game-changer for short trips. Priced around $300, this bag comes in a variety of colors and materials, including water-resistant nylon and luxurious leather options. Measuring about 16.5 x 11.5 x 6.75 inches, it's designed to fit under most airplane seats, making it an ideal carry-on companion. During our tests, we packed it for a three-day business trip to Chicago, stuffing it with two outfits, toiletries, a laptop, and even a pair of shoes. The bag's clever organization shone through: it features a dedicated shoe compartment at the bottom, which kept dirty soles separate from clean clothes—a small but genius detail that prevented any unwanted odors or messes. The padded laptop sleeve accommodated a 15-inch MacBook Pro securely, and multiple zippered pockets made it easy to access essentials like passports and chargers mid-flight.

What impressed us most was the O.G. 2's versatility. Beyond travel, we used it as a gym bag for yoga sessions and as a work tote for commuting via subway. The adjustable shoulder strap and backpack conversion option added to its adaptability, though we noted that when fully loaded, it could feel a bit heavy on the shoulders for extended wear. Durability-wise, after several uses including exposure to rain and rough handling at airports, the nylon version showed minimal wear, with reinforced stitching holding up admirably. However, the leather variant, while more premium, required occasional conditioning to maintain its luster. Overall, the O.G. 2 earned high marks for its blend of fashion and function, scoring a 9/10 in our evaluation. It's particularly recommended for frequent flyers who prioritize organization without sacrificing style.

Next up was the Catalina Deluxe, a weekender duffel that's become a bestseller for its spacious yet compact design. Available in canvas or recycled polyester, this bag retails for about $150–$200 depending on the material. We tested the large size, which boasts dimensions of 19 x 15.5 x 9 inches and a 40-liter capacity—plenty of room for a week's worth of clothes if you're a light packer. Our trial involved a road trip along the California coast, where we loaded it with beach gear, snacks, and electronics. The standout feature here is the bottom compartment, which expands to hold shoes or dirty laundry, keeping the main section pristine. We appreciated the eco-friendly aspects, as the recycled polyester version is made from post-consumer plastic bottles, aligning with Lo & Sons' commitment to sustainability.

In practice, the Catalina Deluxe proved incredibly user-friendly. The wide-mouth opening allowed for easy packing and unpacking, and the reinforced handles made it comfortable to carry even when overpacked. During a rainy drive, the water-resistant exterior kept contents dry, though we wished for more internal pockets for smaller items like keys or wallets. Compared to competitors like Away or Béis, the Catalina offers better value for money, with a softer, more pliable feel that doesn't scream "luggage" but rather blends into casual outings. We did encounter a minor issue with the zipper snagging on bulkier items, but it was easily resolved. For families or couples sharing a bag, this one's a winner, earning an 8.5/10 for its practicality and eco-conscious design.

No review of Lo & Sons would be complete without mentioning their backpack lineup, particularly the Rowledge. This convertible backpack-tote hybrid, priced at around $400, is tailored for urban professionals. We put it through its paces during a week of city commuting in New York, alternating between backpack mode for crowded trains and tote mode for meetings. At 16 x 11.5 x 5 inches, it's TSA-friendly for carry-ons and fits a 13-inch laptop in its dedicated sleeve. The leather accents give it a polished look, while the nylon body ensures lightness—under 3 pounds empty.

Testing revealed the Rowledge's strengths in organization: it has RFID-blocking pockets for secure storage of cards and passports, plus a trolley sleeve that slides over suitcase handles for seamless airport navigation. We loaded it with a notebook, water bottle, snacks, and work files, and it handled the weight distribution well, thanks to padded straps that prevented shoulder strain. On a short flight to Boston, it doubled as a personal item, with quick-access side pockets proving invaluable for in-flight essentials. However, the backpack straps could feel a tad short for taller users, and the price point might deter budget-conscious buyers. Still, its multifunctionality makes it ideal for hybrid work lifestyles, scoring a solid 9/10.

We also explored the Pearl crossbody bag, a smaller option for day trips or as a travel accessory. At about $200, this compact piece (10 x 7 x 3 inches) is perfect for essentials like a phone, wallet, and sunglasses. During a sightseeing day in Paris, it kept us hands-free while navigating crowds, with adjustable straps allowing for crossbody or shoulder carry. The anti-theft features, including slash-resistant fabric and lockable zippers, added peace of mind in tourist-heavy areas. While not as spacious as the larger bags, its lightweight design (under a pound) and stylish colors make it a great complement to the O.G. 2 or Catalina.

Throughout our testing, Lo & Sons bags consistently impressed with their attention to detail. Materials like YKK zippers and high-denier fabrics ensure longevity, and the brand's warranty (one year for manufacturing defects) provides reassurance. Sustainability is a core value—many bags use recycled materials, and the company partners with organizations like 1% for the Planet. That said, some models lean pricier, and color options could be more diverse. In comparisons, Lo & Sons holds its own against brands like Tumi or Calpak, offering a more feminine, approachable vibe without compromising on quality.

In conclusion, if you're in the market for travel bags that merge elegance with efficiency, Lo & Sons deserves a spot on your shortlist. The O.G. 2 and Catalina Deluxe excel for weekends away, while the Rowledge and Pearl shine in daily use. Our tests confirm these aren't just pretty accessories—they're reliable companions built for the rigors of real life. Whether you're jet-setting or just juggling errands, investing in one could transform how you pack and go. For those prioritizing ethical production and innovative design, Lo & Sons is a brand worth exploring further.

Read the Full Good Housekeeping Article at:
[ https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/articles/tested-lo-sons-travel-bags-182800110.html ]