Hot holiday gifts: stick this luggage under the tree

Wondering what to buy for the traveler in your life this holiday season? Here are a few luggage gift ideas that will make their next trip a little easier. I’ve negotiated some attractive discounts on some of the recommended items, so you’ll spend even less on a terrific holiday present.

» The Scanner Bag from Gadget Duck is a combination luggage tag with a quick-fold pouch inside to hold your “pocket stuff” when you go through a security checkpoint. I’ve tested this product, and I think it’s really useful. I’ve managed to negotiate a discount for readers of this blog. Buy either of the two leather-trimmed Scanner Bags, and you’ll get 25 percent off. Or buy one or more Scanner Bag, and get 10 percent off the Knee Defender. Here’s how to buy one.

» I’ve been following the folks at Skooba Design for years, and their products are first-rate. Take the Skooba Shuttle, a lightweight, stylish laptop backpack. It’s loaded with terrific features, including a protection system with air-filled cells which act as tiny shock absorbers without adding significant weight. The laptop section is in the back of the main compartment, allowing plenty of additional open space for books and papers. I’ve negotiated a 20 percent discount for readers of this blog, plus free shipping (UPS Ground/48 States) on all Skooba Design orders of $50 or more. Just enter coupon code enter ELLIOTT20 at checkout. (Some restrictions apply.)

» I really like the idea behind the Personal Utility Pouch, or PUP. It’s a wearable organizer for travel, work or play that promises to solve the age-old problem of what to do with all your stuff. I’ve had a chance to kick the tires on the PUP, and found it to be very helpful. The PUP offers four open pouches and two zippered compartments, and can easily accommodate airline tickets, electronic items like iPods, and PDAs. The fastest way to order one is by phone — (877) 288-9658. At the prompt, dial 3147. Be sure to mention this site for a 10 percent discount, plus free shipping.

» Confession time: I take my sample HelenRae Carry-on Bag — billed as luggage for “today’s business woman” — with me on my overnight trips. I don’t care if it’s for women. It’s great. There are removable shelves that keep items exactly where you want it, a plastic-lined toiletries pocket that’s accessible from outside the bag, and a front laptop pouch. Plus, the thing glides along the airport floor like a hovercraft. Here’s more information on this remarkable carry-on bag.

I’ll be updating this post with more tips and advice, plus coupon codes for discounts. Happy shopping!

Christopher Elliott is the author of Scammed: How to Save Your Money and Find Better Service in a World of Schemes, Swindles, and Shady Deals. Critics have called it “eye-opening” and “inspiring” — it’ll “grab your attention and won’t let go.” Order your copy now on Amazon, Barnes & Noble or iTunes.

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