Kids Luggage Worth Packing- Trunki

Kids luggage involves kids with the flight process- and now makes even those long airport walks…fun!

The Trunki is a ride on suitcase for kids age 3-6. This little rolling carry-on is a multi-function product.

When I originally reviewed the Trunki on a trip to Europe, I was delighted with the little suitcase. The Trunki:

carried my son’s carry-on belongings in transit (less for me to carry!)
was fun for him to ride on and pull
allowed me to pull him when he was tired
was noticeably light when slung over my shoulder
hung on the stroller when we didn’t use it
fit well under the airplane seat when turned on its side
provided hotel and cruise ship entertainment

When traveling, we don’t pack many toys. This suitcase is multi-functional and is great fun for little ones to play with on holiday. On our cruise ship, the Trunki became a source of entertainment. The long carpeted hallways were a great “road” for the Trunki to travel on -providing endless entertainment for a preschooler.

And for my tired little boy arriving in the Milan, Italy airport with jet lag, the Trunki provided some smiles and fun. Here is my original video review:

As we all know, little legs get tired when walking through the airport. The Trunki doubles as “in airport transportation” for kids.

I was pleasantly surprised at the durability of the Trunki. Although it is lightweight plastic, it has lasted well over the past 3 years.

The Trunki is a popular item when traveling. My son received lots of smiles from passing adults and envious looks from other kids who wanted one for themselves!

A few tips for using the Trunki:

Do not allow children to ride the Trunki in the airplane aisle. I originally video taped my son leaving the plane because the flight attendants wanted to see the Trunki in action (note we were the last ones on the plane). However, kids should not view the airplane aisle as a place to run, walk, or play.
The wheels do not allow quick turns. In airports and cruise ship inside hallways, this is not an issue. However, keep this in mind to avoid tipping over your little one when pulling him/her around corners!
Use common sense and parental supervision when using the Trunki. Do not allow use near steps, escalators, or ledges.
Do not allow use in crowded areas. Sling the Trunki over a shoulder or the stroller for these situations. I allowed my son to use the Trunki only in wide open areas so he did not get lost in the crowd or run into other people.
Stay close and monitor speed. The Trunki rides smooth and fast – sometimes too fast on non-carpeted surfaces! Adult supervision is definitely required to keep little ones on track.

Save Trunki for travel and use at the destination. Kids are more likely to get excited about something if it is not available on a daily basis.
Remove what is needed in flight before placing the Trunki under the airplane seat. It is not convenient to open during flight. I place my son’s belongings in a canvas or cloth bag inside the Trunki and pulled out the bag when we boarded the plane. Then I stored his jacket or other items we didn’t need in flight inside the Trunki under the seat. I transport the CARES harness, the ear popper, a blanket, small pillow (to be replaced by our new Zoobie Pet… more later!), and a bag of entertainment (books, toys, etc.) and of course, the video iPod for use in flight.

We will meet the Trunki inventor in Bristol, England this fall. The Trunki is a huge hit in Europe and is now seen in US airports.

A few changes since I originally reviewed the Trunki:

There is a new US distributor (Melissa and Doug).
There is now a Saddlebag accessory product.
The Trunki is now available in many colors and characters.
Sadly, my 6 1/2 year old son can no longer fit on the Trunki. Thanks Trunki- it was a great ride!

You can purchase the Trunki and saddlebag through Amazon.

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