Having someone accidentally walk off with your suitcase is a nightmare for any traveler. But given that so many luggage brands adhere to the same generic patterns and colors, it’s understandable why another traveler might confuse your bag for one of theirs. 

The best way to avoid this problem is by traveling with a bag that’s unmistakably unique in its appearance. For that, I’d recommend ROAM — the world’s first fully customizable premium suitcase brand, according to the company. I used ROAM to design a one-of-a-kind bag that not only looks stylish but also has vibrant, colorful features so I never lose sight of it at baggage claim.

Why ROAM?

Until now, fliers have resorted to unreliable DIY solutions in an attempt to make their luggage stand out. This includes tying a colorful ribbon onto the handle, wrapping a bright scarf around the suitcase, or covering the luggage in stickers. But all of these methods are flawed in various ways. A ribbon or scarf can get caught on something and come undone, and a TSA agent may have to remove your accouterment to inspect inside. Also, using stickers can damage the bag

Instead of going the DIY route, you can avoid these potential problems by purchasing a suitcase that’s designed to stand out. With ROAM, nothing will fall off or come untied. You’re buying customized luggage and peace of mind.

What Is ROAM?

With TSA-approved locks, lightweight polycarbonate shells, and smooth-glide wheels, ROAM-brand suitcases are well-equipped for any airport adventure. As an added bonus, each bag is hand-assembled in the state of Georgia, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship and reducing unnecessary supply chain emissions. But what truly makes ROAM luggage so special is the customizability. With millions of potential color combinations to choose from, the odds of another traveler mistaking your unique bag for theirs are slim to none.

You read that right — millions of possible combinations. Between the style of bag and all the colors to select from, ROAM allows you to create a dream suitcase from scratch, and they’ll design it to your exact specifications. Picture a red, blue, and yellow bag designed to include the colors of your family crest, or a green and white suitcase that pays homage to your old college colors. Whatever combo you want, ROAM can likely produce it.

The more unique you make your own design, the less you have to worry about a stranger inadvertently wandering off with your suitcase. If you do see someone grab it, then you’ll immediately realize there’s been a mistake and can confidently approach them to ask for it back. 

Also, if you’re anything like me, you’re bound to feel a little loopy after a long flight, and you may even unwittingly reach for the wrong bag yourself. Whatever the case might be, a customized ROAM suitcase can help cut down on those instances of mistaken identity.

A Plethora of Customizable Options

At ROAM, you can choose between check-in or carry-on, as well as an expandable option that adds as much as 34% more space. But the real fun comes with picking colors for the shell, zipper, and trim. This is where your personality can really shine.

First select the color for the front and back — you can even switch it up and do two different colors to make your suitcase truly distinctive. Next, choose from one of 12 colors for the zipper, wheels, binding, and handles. And for a final touch, every suitcase comes with a complimentary monogram. Just imagine a suitcase with a red and black shell, orange zipper, and pink trim; you can bet there won’t be another one like it on the same baggage carousel.

My Customization Experience

By sheer coincidence, I found out about ROAM at a time when I was in desperate need of new luggage. However, I’m a bit of a nervous flier, and I couldn’t shake the worry that a generic suitcase would end up getting misplaced at baggage claim. ROAM seemed like the perfect remedy to this concern, and so I got to work customizing my dream suitcase.

After selecting the “Check-In” style, I pressed the “Customize” button and got to work. I decided to keep the shell simple, while going for a bolder, colorful trim to give it a pop. After selecting “slate gloss” for the front and back shells, I went with a bright sky blue for the zipper — a stark contrast from the silver and black zippers you always see. Next, I selected an eye-catching orange for the wheels, binding, and handles, creating, what I would consider, a playful contrast. Also, I’m always orange when playing my favorite board game, Settlers of Catan, so this choice was a bit of an homage to that. The resulting design was unlike anything I’d seen when luggage shopping before. 

Is It Worth It? (Spoiler: Yes)

While accidentally swiping the wrong bag is a rare occurrence, it does happen from time to time. In those cases, a lost suitcase can completely derail a long-awaited vacation, and replacing its contents can be a costly and time-consuming process. But while we’ve been talking a lot about the security benefits of a ROAM suitcase, there’s another thing worth noting — these bags are just plain cool.

You’d be hard-pressed to find someone who’s proud about the same old black, blue, or gray suitcase that everyone owns. But you’re far more likely to fall in love with a ROAM bag, as they truly reflect your personality and are worth bragging about.

Buying a ROAM suitcase is almost like buying an insurance policy — plus you get some really cool luggage to boot. If you want to try out ROAM for yourself, click below to customize your own bag.

There’s a fine line between being a minimalist adventurer and being just plain unprepared. A few thoughtfully chosen portable gadgets can seriously upgrade your experience, whether you’re road-tripping in a van or heading out for a day hike. The best part? Plenty of portable gear comes in handy at home, too. Mini cooler? Ideal for van trips, even better for ice-cold beach beers. Fun-sized espresso machine? Essential for campsite caffeine, and a no-brainer for lazy park picnics. Instead of splashing out on a flashy kit that’ll just gather dust, invest in clever devices that’ll genuinely improve your adventures, whether you’re a day-tripper, an into-the-wild camper, or somewhere in between.

_{Prices are accurate as of August 23, 2025. Subject to change.}

PlayHot Portable Handheld Turbo Fan

When you need quick relief from the sweaty summer heat, this simple fan is the solution. Portable fans have come a long way since those plasticky, weak windmill affairs of the past. This high-tech gadget is like the Bluetooth speaker to your transistor radio. The battery lasts for 12 hours on the gentle setting, while the supercharged high setting gives you a three-hour blast, great for stuffy amusement park queues or sweltering garden parties. It even folds into a desk fan, so you can set it up in the home office, too.

WACACO Minipresso Portable Espresso Machine

Need a caffeine kick before you’re fit for human interaction? I get it. That’s why I don’t go anywhere without the WACACO Minipresso Portable Espresso Machine. This small but mighty machine brews a rich, crema-topped espresso that puts hotel sachets to shame and keeps gas station sludge off the table. You just need your favorite ground beans and freshly boiled water (cue the camping stove or portable kettle), and you’ve got barista-level coffee wherever you are. It’s even got a built-in cup, keeping the process blissfully mess-free.

JBL Flip 5 Bluetooth Speaker

Lounging in the upper echelons of Bluetooth speakers, the JBL Flip 5 has all you need to give your life that romanticized movie soundtrack we all yearn for. Simply connect your device, choose a tune to match the moment, and let the top-quality sound immerse you in the music. Waterproof, 12 hours of playtime, and small enough to stash in your backpack, the JBL Flip 5 is the ultimate plus one to any adventure.

Alpicool C9PT Portable Car Freezer

For a day out and about, a regular cooler is likely all you need, but for long road trips and multi-day adventures, you don’t need to deal with tepid soda or ice refills. With the Alpicool C9PT riding shotgun, your on-the-road drinks stay ice-cold and refreshing, no actual ice needed. It fits eight 18-ounce water bottles or 12 cans, and you can even keep a Popsicle or two on hand, because the temperature can be set from 4 degrees to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Max mode chills contents quickly, while eco mode keeps the energy draw low without sacrificing coolness. It runs on 12V power, meaning it plugs straight into your car’s power outlet — a win for road trippers, van lifers, and backseat snackers alike.

OHOVIV Portable Power Bank

These days, power banks are as intrinsic to everyday life as your phone and wallet. This one is a beast, delivering over 10 full charges for your iPhone 15, taking just 30 minutes to charge to 55%. It’s a fabulous multitasker, able to juice up six devices at once thanks to the multiple ports and built-in cables. Complete with top-tier safety features, including temperature control technology to reduce the risk of overheating, plus a stylish LED display, it offers reliability, efficiency, and sleek aesthetics in one package.

Char-Broil Portable Propane Gas Grill

Leave that disposable BBQ at the checkout, and make a smarter (and more eco-friendly) investment with the Char-Broil Portable Propane Gas Grill. This fiery little number runs on a one-pound liquid propane tank (not included) and heats up fast, so you can have sizzling grilled delights ready to munch before the first stomach rumble. An on-the-go essential for beach days, campsite cookouts, and park-life picnics, you’ll never have to suffer half-cooked hot dogs again. Dreading the post-banquet cleanup? This grill’s ideal for the lazy BBQ extraordinaire who has no time for scrubbing. Just pop out the porcelain-coated grate and give it a speedy wipe down, so it’s ready for next time. With space for eight burgers, six steaks, or 12 bratwursts, nobody’s going hungry, either.

Featured Image Credit: AscentXmedia/ iStock