ON THE RUNWAY WITH HIGH SIERRA’S COVE ISLAND COLLECTION

By PamelaAnn Campbell

 

Like shoes, you can never have enough luggage, and fit is just as important as size, if you ask me.

Thanks to High Sierra Sport Company (HSSC), going away in style will never be the same for classy passengers or outdoor lovers on weekend getaways, annual vacations or business trips. The HSSC product range includes 17 distinct collections, from suitcases on wheels and duffels to backpacks with daypacks.

My travel assignments are rarely alike - I could be heading into the Sahara by camel, whale watching in Baja California , sailing around the Greek Islands or joining a 4-wheel drive safari in Western Australia , and I’ve discovered the perfect luggage for my versatile travels.

The Cove Island Collection has 10 different styles of duffels, uprights, some with wheels, as well as a combination backpack/day pack, 3-in-1 computer case and a 2-in-1 computer bag (rucksack.)

The 26” Wheeled Upright is the suitcase of my dreams. Why? It’s has the capacity of two suitcases and is a great time and space saver. It’s a great idea for packing silks and other delicates on one side and heavier items such as sweaters and jackets on the other. Like an open book the two separate compartments reveal a zipped-in-and-out garment bag and pocket for that “crush-free look” when you unpack. One compartment is fitted with a surround zipper panel plus straps, while the back has two mesh triangles to keep everything intact.

A nice bonus is the two-inch expandable front compartment, always handy on the return trip home. For hands-free users, pockets hold airline tickets, magazines, newspapers and there is even room on the front to slip in last-minute items like slippers or toiletries.

Another great feature is the molded front foot that balances the bag (no tipping over.)

As for those wheels…..can you image they are styled like inline skates?

A proven favorite for those “on-the-go” trips is the 22” Wheeled Backpack with Removable DayPack. The day pack is compact enough to carry cameras, flashcards, extra batteries and film (with room for pen, notebook and micro-cassette recorder if you must keep track of those scenes on a trip.) A key fob, cell phone pouch and headphone slot are out of sight beneath a security flap with an airline ticket pocket. The roomy backpack easily fits those “I can’t live without” items (cosmetics, toiletries, sunglasses, costume jewelry, etc.), a few outfits and maybe any last-minute buys from the airport and duty-free stores. This convertible carry-on is as good as it gets in my travel world.

On trips with a computer in tow the 2-in-1 Computer Bag/Rucksack is a sturdy dual-purpose bag and at 18”x14”x8” it is user- friendly whether on business or leisure travel. Designed to fit a 17” laptop, the padded, top-loading section is doubly secure with a zipper and buckle closure. This mini-office and organizer- in-one keeps the traveler informed and entertained (carry a cell phone, listen to CDs, etc.) There is also space for a water bottle and maybe snacks in two side pockets. For added comfort, the shoulder straps are padded and adjustable, but it also has a grab handle.

Packing light for overnight or weekend getaways? Fit it all in the 18-inch Travel Duffel with a roomy main compartment and extra side pockets. It can also double as a camera bag if you need to double up on trips. There is also a 24-inch size available.

TRAVEL GUIDE

Note : All Cove Island bags are made with 1680D Ballistic Nylon and accentuated with antique brass finish logo plates and zipper sliders. Non-corrosive quick release buckles are also added for more security.

For retailers in the USA or Canada contact the Sierra Sport Company at 1-800-323-9590 or visit www.highsierrasport.com

Prices for luggage mentioned in the article:

26” Wheeled Upright
26”x18”x10½”
MSR Price: US$300

22” Wheeled Backpack with Removable Day Pack
22”x14”x9” – Backpack

17”x11 ½”x5.25” – Day Pack

MSR Price: US$250

Rucksack with Computer Compartment
18”x14”x8”

MSR Price: US$135

18-inch Travel Duffel
18”x10”x9
MSR Price US$120

24” Travel Duffel
24”x12”x12”
MSR Price US$170