Luggage Made in the USA

When it comes to luggage, we’re all looking for different things, and it often comes down to size, weight, reliability, and price. If you’re looking for luggage or travel gear that is made in the U.S., you might need to do some additional homework. The truth is, some brands that were making luggage in the U.S. five or ten years ago may not be following the same practices today.

We discovered some brands that make the majority of their luggage in the U.S.—or source certain parts outside the U.S. to create their products. Many of the items made in this country are often handcrafted, usually with genuine leather or other specialty items, and the prices reflect those features.

Korchmar

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Korchmar is a family-owned company with manufacturing properties in the U.S. and the Dominican Republic. The brand has products made only in America, which vary from travel trays to briefcases to backpacks. You can also find duffel bags, such as the FLYNN Medium Duffel, which is 20” x 11” x 10” and costs $316. The trim is made from full grain U.S. cowhide, and the bag itself is made with 18-ounce waxed cotton twill.

LOMS Luggage

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LOMS Luggage is also a family-run luggage brand, and the suitcases are made at the manufacturing site in Southern California. While the majority of pieces are made in the U.S., some parts are internationally sourced. At present, LOMS Luggage sells a similar suitcase in four sizes. Prices range from $695 for a carry-on spinner to $895 for the extra large spinner. The suitcases are created using virgin polycarbonate that is made in the U.S. and has a reinforced carbon fiber band that makes it easier to close when it’s full. All bags come with a five-year warranty that covers damage to the handles, zippers, wheels, and locks, and even includes damages incurred by airlines.

Jack Georges
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While not all products are made in America, Jack Georges has a “Made in the USA” collection that is crafted at its factory in New Jersey. The items are made with untouched full-grain leather—the skin of Louisiana Alligators. Products made in the U.S. include wallets, luggage tags, purses, cross-body bags, and a variety of briefcases. One of the more substantial options is the Belmont Deluxe Briefcase, which has two zippered pockets and two compartments. The dimensions are 16 1/2″ x 11″ x 5″ and the bag costs $388.

Rawlings

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If the name Rawlings sounds familiar, it’s because the company makes sporting equipment such as baseballs and baseball gloves. Not all of its items are made in the U.S., but in the American Handcrafted collection you’ll find money clips, wallets, and duffel bags. The American Handcrafted Global Carry-On Duffel Bag is 18.5” in length and costs about $600. This leather bag was inspired by a doctor’s bag and features one main compartment with a striped interior and inside pocket. The duffel’s hardware is solid brass, and the shoulder strap is detachable.

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By Stephanie Ervin for PeterGreenberg.com