US Traveler Rio Two Piece Expandable Luggage Set Review

Before our trip to Europe recently, I researched carry-on luggage carefully because of the new restrictions on size and weight allowed. The new restrictions include the carry-on, limited to 9 inches thick, 14 inches wide, and 22 inches tall, including wheels. One personal item (purse, laptop computer, backpack) is also allowed, but must be no larger than 9 inches thick, 17 inches tall, and 10 inches wide. Many of the current bags do not meet this (new) standard.

The US Traveler Rio Two Piece Expandable Luggage Set meets these size requirements for both pieces. We bought two sets of this luggage and discovered that the carry ons fit perfectly in both the smaller overhead bins of the Airbus A 320 (the bags go in sideways) and the Airbus A 340 (the bags go straight in lengthwise).

The bags feature the usual zipper pockets, sturdy frame (the carry on), tough fabric, and comfortable handles. The small, personal item bag features both a carry handle and a shoulder strap.

Pros:
Carry On
   + Sturdy wheels, roll easily
   + Handle locks into several positions, depending on the angle you want to pull the carry on
   + Two outside zippered pockets
   + Sturdy handles
   + Expansion zipper (but may violate size limits if used)

Personal Item Bag
   + Shoulder strap adjustable for length
   + Shoulder strap has shoulder pad
   + External zippered pocket
   + Carry handles that velcro zip together
   + Capacious--room for lots of stuff

Cons:
Carry On
   + No separate cosmetics pouch inside

Personal Item Bag
   + Shoulder strap is not removable

In Brief
Recommended. All four items (we bought two sets) served us well and after a couple of weeks' travel, are still in pristine condition. The current price of about $40 makes these sets a real value.