Delsey Review
As an avid traveler and blogger, I’m always on the hunt for luggage that is durable, stylish, and functional enough to meet my needs on the road. With frequent trips often involving multiple modes of transportation, I need something that can withstand the wear and tear of airports, trains, cars, and everything in between.
During my early trips to Europe, I had the chance to road test one of Delsey’s newest luggage collections – the Titanium. Known for their use of lightweight and sturdy polycarbonate materials, I was curious to see if Delsey’s new line of suitcases could stand up to my hectic travel lifestyle. Over the course of three weeks criss-crossing across three countries, I put my Delsey carry-on and medium checked suitcase through some rigorous testing.
In this luggage review, I’ll provide a detailed assessment of the design, durability, maneuverability and special features of the Delsey series based on my real-world experience traveling with them in tow. Read on for the full scoop!
Quick History of the Delsey Brand
Founded in 1946 by Émile Delahaye and the Seynhaeve brothers, the French brand DELSEY initially started as a manufacturer of leather cases for cameras. The name DELSEY is a combination of the founders’ names: Delahaye and Seynhaeve.
In the post-World War II era, DELSEY shifted its focus from camera cases to luggage production. The brand gained recognition and popularity for its innovative and durable luggage designs. In 1970, DELSEY introduced its first hard-shell suitcase, utilizing a groundbreaking material known as ABS plastic. This introduction marked a significant milestone for the brand in the luggage industry, as it showcased a durable and lightweight alternative to traditional luggage materials.
DELSEY continued to prioritize innovation and quality in its products. It expanded its product line to include a wide range of luggage options, from suitcases and travel bags to backpacks and accessories, incorporating advanced features like expandable compartments, TSA-approved locks, and ergonomic designs.
Delsey Product Lines
Delsey is a well-known brand that offers various lines of luggage, each with features, materials, and designs to cater to different travel needs and preferences. Here are some of the prominent Delsey luggage lines:
- Helium Aero: Known for its lightweight and durable construction, this line often features hard-shell designs made from polycarbonate. It’s known for its sleek appearance, spinner wheels, and expandable compartments.
- Chatelet: Inspired by the elegance of the Chatelet area in Paris, this line emphasizes luxury and sophistication. It often features rich, faux-leather accents, soft-shell exteriors, and unique interior organization systems.
- Shadow 4.0: This line typically includes hardside luggage with a scratch-resistant, textured finish. It’s recognized for its expandability, spinner wheels, and interior compartments for organized packing.
- Titanium: Delsey’s Titanium line often showcases sleek, metallic finishes with hard-shell exteriors. It’s known for its durability, spacious compartments, and TSA-accepted locks.
- Cruise Lite Hardside: Offering a balance between durability and lightweight design, this line usually features hardside luggage with spinner wheels, ergonomic handles, and interior organization.
- Hyperglide: Known for its smooth-rolling wheels and lightweight construction, the Hyperglide line typically includes soft-sided luggage designed for ease of maneuverability.
- Comète: This line often includes carry-on and checked luggage with expandable capacity, durable exteriors, and multiple compartments for efficient packing and organization.
My Experience With Delsey
As a frequent international traveler who is rough on luggage, I have struggled for years to find a durable and lightweight suitcase that can withstand all that comes with globetrotting. Top brands would inevitably let me down, either cracking under the pressure of baggage handlers or just not being able to contain everything I needed on multi-week trips abroad.
After hearing rave reviews from fellow travel bloggers, I decided to give Delsey’s line of luggage a try. I put the 21″ carry-on and 29″ medium checked suitcase through three weeks of nonstop trains, planes, buses, and stuffed-to-the-brim packing across Europe – and they passed with flying colors!
Built with Delsey’s nearly indestructible polycarbonate shell, my Delsey suitcases withstood even the most callous airport baggage handlers without a single scratch. The cases showed no wear at all despite being loaded to full capacity and bounced around through a half dozen cities.
The ergonomic handle was a dream for my short arms, moving seamlessly through its stops and gliding comfortably over cobblestone streets that typically jar standard luggage handles. The four wheels rotated a full 360 degrees without catching or sticking once.
While incredibly resilient, the bags stayed lightweight thanks to the polycarbonate material. The durable YKK zippers, TSA-approved locks, and thoughtfully-designed interior storage compartments kept all my belongings secure and easily accessible on the go.
Frequent international jet-setters who have had it with flimsy luggage – do yourselves a favor and invest in Delsey’s luggage line. This reasonably priced yet premium luggage can definitely take what even the most chaotic global adventure throws at it!
Where to Buy Delsey Luggage in USA
Delsey luggage is available for purchase at various retailers across the USA. Here are some places where you can typically find Delsey luggage:
Delsey’s official US website offers exclusive collections or deals.
Major department stores like Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, Marshall’s, and Kohl’s often carry a selection of Delsey luggage in their luggage or travel accessories sections.
Websites like Amazon, Walmart, and Target usually have a wide variety of Delsey luggage available for purchase online.
Stores specializing in luggage and travel gear, such as Luggage Factory, eBags, and Travelpro Outlet Stores, frequently stock a range of Delsey products.
Is Delsey Cheaper in France?
Yes, Delsey, being a French brand, is generally cheaper to buy in France. There might be certain advantages or opportunities for cost savings when purchased in France compared to other countries, too.
Whether Delsey is cheaper in France compared to other regions depends on factors including currency exchange rates, taxes, import/export duties, and promotional offers at the time of purchase.
Plus, tourists visiting France from outside the European Union (EU) might be eligible for a Value-Added Tax (VAT) refund on purchases made in France upon meeting certain conditions and completing the necessary paperwork. This could contribute to savings on the overall cost.
