Necessity is the mother of invention. The modern era of pilot luggage can be traced back to a simple but revolutionary idea: putting wheels on a suitcase. Over 30 years ago, a Northwest Airlines pilot named Bob Plath grew tired of lugging heavy bags and invented the first upright rolling suitcase – the Rollaboard®. This innovation not only transformed travel for passengers but also fundamentally changed life for pilots and flight crews. Fast forward to today, and pilots traverse airport terminals with ease, thanks in large part to Plath’s wheeled creation and the company he founded, Travelpro. What began as a clever solution crafted by a pilot, for pilots, has evolved into a full line of flight crew–optimized luggage.
Table of Contents
- History of Travelpro and the Rollaboard Invention
- Why Pilots and Flight Crews Choose Travelpro
- Travelpro FlightCrew5 Collection – Product Overviews
- Comparison Table of Travelpro Crew Bags
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
History of Travelpro and the Rollaboard Invention
Travelpro’s story starts with Bob Plath, a veteran 747 captain who spent countless hours crisscrossing the globe with traditional luggage. Finding no suitable solution on the market for the rigors of constant travel, Plath decided to create one himself. In 1987, he turned his suitcase upright, attached two wheels and a retractable handle, and dubbed it the Rollaboard®. This simple yet profound innovation made it vastly easier to transport luggage through airports and terminals.
Plath’s fellow crew members quickly took note of the convenience. What he initially invented to make life easier for flight crews soon caught on with passengers as well. Sensing a broader opportunity, Plath founded Travelpro® in 1989 to bring his new luggage design to the world. He first marketed his product directly to other airline crew members, where it quickly became an industry standard.
Travelpro’s early success was built on its intimate understanding of airline professionals’ needs. The company’s ethos has always been “pilot designed and flight crew tested,” and that tradition continues today. Over three decades later, Travelpro remains a leader in rugged, functional, and pilot-optimized luggage. Bob Plath’s innovation changed the travel experience forever, and his legacy endures every time a flight crew member rolls through a terminal with a Rollaboard.
Why Pilots and Flight Crews Choose Travelpro
Pilots and flight attendants overwhelmingly choose Travelpro for several key reasons:
Exceptional Durability
Travelpro crew bags are built to withstand the extreme rigors of constant use. Constructed from high-density ballistic nylon with water- and stain-resistant DuraGuard® coating, these bags feature reinforced frames, industrial-strength zippers, crash-guard wheel housings, and robust corner protection. Every component is engineered to survive years of daily abuse on airport floors, jetways, and baggage compartments.
Flight Crew-Centric Features
Travelpro designs bags around the real-world needs of airline crew. Features like three-stage telescoping handles with anti-crush technology, removable wheels, laptop and tablet compartments, modular stacking straps, and insulated meal coolers all originated from direct feedback by pilots and flight attendants. Every bag is organized for maximum efficiency on the go — minimizing time spent digging for essentials during busy duty days.
Ergonomics and Comfort
Recognizing that pilots and crew often spend hours towing luggage through terminals, Travelpro focuses on ergonomics. Molded handle grips reduce hand fatigue. The positioning and weight distribution of wheels optimize balance and ease of movement. Even seemingly minor details, like telescoping handle extension stops at multiple heights, contribute to a noticeably more comfortable experience across long layovers and duty periods.
Modular Systems and Expandability
Many Travelpro FlightCrew5 bags are designed to work together as modular systems. Totes, coolers, and rollaboards can be securely attached via J-Hooks or Add-A-Bag straps, allowing a single hand to maneuver multiple bags. Expandable compartments give flexibility for varying trip lengths, allowing crew to adjust packing volume without changing bags.
Longevity and Warranty Protection
Travelpro backs its crew products with strong warranties. Most FlightCrew5 products come with a 3-year commercial-use warranty covering defects. In practice, many Travelpro crew bags far outlive their warranty periods — pilots frequently report getting 5 to 10 years (or more) of daily heavy use out of a single Travelpro.
In short, Travelpro has earned the loyalty of aviation professionals because it continually delivers rugged, pilot-optimized solutions that make the demanding airline lifestyle easier, safer, and more comfortable.
Travelpro FlightCrew5 Collection – Product Overviews
The FlightCrew5 collection is designed specifically for airline crew members. Built with feedback from pilots and flight attendants, these bags feature DuraGuard® coated ballistic nylon, robust wheels, ergonomic handles, and modular designs ideal for aviation lifestyles. Below are detailed reviews of every item available at PilotMall.com.
Travelpro FlightCrew5 City Tote
The Travelpro City Tote is a lightweight, everyday personal carry for pilots and flight attendants. Features include a padded laptop compartment, quick-access front organizer pockets, and a back strap to attach securely to a Rollaboard handle. Built from durable ballistic nylon with water-resistant DuraGuard® coating.
Pros: Lightweight, professional styling, fits under seats, excellent organization for tech gear.
Cons: No shoulder strap included; limited capacity compared to larger totes.
Travelpro FlightCrew5 Flight Tote
The Flight Tote is essentially a mobile office for flight crews. It offers two large compartments: one with a padded laptop sleeve, and another for clothes or gear. Front panel includes multiple organizer pockets for accessories. Comes with a removable, padded shoulder strap for comfort during long walks through terminals.
Pros: Versatile two-compartment design, durable, padded laptop protection, shoulder strap included.
Cons: Can become heavy when fully packed; bulkier under smaller regional aircraft seats.
Travelpro FlightCrew5 Deluxe Tote
Perfect for pilots needing a simple but highly durable tote, the Deluxe Tote features one large main compartment, multiple interior mesh pockets, and exterior organizer panels. Built rugged with Travelpro’s standard ballistic nylon and oversized zipper pulls for ease of access even when wearing gloves.
Pros: Lightweight, very durable, versatile storage for small gear and essentials.
Cons: No dedicated laptop sleeve; best for day-to-day odds and ends rather than electronics.
Travelpro FlightCrew5 Small Crew Cooler
Designed to hold meals for day trips, the Small Crew Cooler fits neatly atop a Rollaboard. It features an insulated main compartment with a removable liner for easy cleaning, a zippered dry storage compartment, and side mesh pockets for utensils or napkins. The perfect companion for pilots who prefer to bring their own food aboard.
Pros: Compact, durable, easy to clean, attaches easily to rolling luggage.
Cons: Limited capacity for longer trips; best suited for 1-2 meals maximum.
Travelpro FlightCrew5 Large Crew Cooler
When you need more capacity, the Large Crew Cooler delivers. It features a double-size insulated compartment, drainage grommets, a dry storage top pocket, and reinforced carry handles. Great for multi-day trips where access to healthy meals may be limited.
Pros: Holds multiple meals for multi-day trips, durable and water-resistant, excellent internal organization.
Cons: Bulky when fully loaded; adds considerable weight to rollaboards if not balanced properly.
Travelpro FlightCrew5 Horizontal Rolling Overnighter
This wheeled overnight bag is oriented horizontally for stability and efficient storage under crew seats or in cockpits. It features a padded laptop sleeve, garment strap inside the main compartment, and multiple front organizer pockets. Built tough with sealed bearing wheels and an anti-crush handle system.
Pros: Fits perfectly under airline seats, glides easily with durable inline skate wheels, extremely stable rolling profile.
Cons: Limited expansion capacity; heavier than non-wheeled totes.
Travelpro FlightCrew5 Multi-Purpose Tote
The Multi-Purpose Tote is a versatile bag capable of carrying everything from laptops and EFBs to gym clothes and overnight essentials. It includes a large central compartment, a padded laptop pocket, and multiple mesh pockets for small gear. Rugged exterior with DuraGuard® coating ensures reliability.
Pros: Spacious and well-organized, excellent for mixed-purpose use, rugged materials.
Cons: Can get heavy if overpacked; lacks wheels for longer terminal treks.
Travelpro FlightCrew5 Vertical Rolling Overnighter
The Vertical Rolling Overnighter offers an upright design ideal for navigating narrow aisles and tight spaces. Features removable inline skate wheels, a padded laptop compartment, hold-down straps inside, and corner guards for durability. Handle extends to multiple heights for ergonomic rolling.
Pros: Excellent maneuverability in aircraft aisles, removable wheels, compact for 1-2 day trips.
Cons: Limited packing space compared to larger rollaboards; heavier due to rugged build.
Travelpro FlightCrew5 18" Expandable Rollaboard
This ultra-compact Rollaboard fits into the strictest overhead bins while offering expandable storage. Features include rugged two-wheel design, front quick-access laptop compartment, and expansion zippers for extra packing space when needed.
Pros: Ideal for regional jets and commuter flights, lightweight and compact, expandable when needed.
Cons: Small size limits capacity for longer trips; heavier than expected for its size.
Travelpro FlightCrew5 22" Rollaboard
The classic choice for airline crews, this 22" Rollaboard offers a full-size carry-on with rugged construction. Includes two large front pockets, interior hold-down straps, ballistic nylon shell, heavy-duty inline skate wheels, and J-Hook strap attachment system.
Pros: Extremely durable, fits most overhead bins, crew-trusted workhorse.
Cons: No expansion; heavier than consumer luggage.
Travelpro FlightCrew5 22" Expandable Rollaboard
Building on the standard 22" design, the Expandable Rollaboard adds an expansion zipper for increased flexibility. Perfect for those trips where extra packing space might be needed for return flights or extended rotations.
Pros: Same durability as standard 22", flexible expansion option, reinforced back pocket.
Cons: Slightly heavier; expanded size may exceed some airline limits if fully stuffed.
Travelpro FlightCrew5 24" Expandable Rollaboard
Designed for longer trips, the 24" Expandable Rollaboard offers massive storage capacity while maintaining FlightCrew durability standards. Features include a suiter section, expansion zipper, heavy-duty corner guards, and rugged frame construction.
Pros: Huge packing space, expandable, reinforced for heavy loads.
Cons: Must be checked on most flights; heavy when packed.
Travelpro FlightCrew5 J-Hook
The J-Hook is a durable, adjustable strap and hook system that allows you to hang an extra bag, tote, or cooler securely from your Rollaboard. A must-have accessory for pilots carrying multiple pieces through terminals.
Pros: Expands carrying capacity, adjustable, quick to attach/detach.
Cons: Requires compatible mounting point on your bag; some lighter bags may sway.
Travelpro FlightCrew5 Attachment Strap
Designed as a replacement or alternative to the J-Hook, the Attachment Strap secures additional bags to your Rollaboard using a durable nylon strap with a quick-release buckle. Compatible with many Travelpro models.
Pros: Easy to use, universal fit, lightweight.
Cons: Not as fast as a J-Hook for attaching/detaching; buckle can wear with extreme heavy use.
Travelpro FlightCrew5 21" Expandable Spinner
The FlightCrew5 21" Spinner offers full four-wheel mobility using MagnaTrac® self-aligning wheels, allowing effortless rolling in all directions. Features expandable main compartment, contoured grip handle, and rugged crew-grade construction.
Pros: Extremely easy to maneuver, self-aligning wheels prevent drift, expandable.
Cons: Spinner wheels less durable than two-wheel designs; slightly reduced packing space compared to two-wheel Rollaboards.
Travelpro Seven3 Carry-On Rollaboard
Specifically designed for Boeing 737 flight deck storage spaces, the Seven3 Carry-On features no side pockets, a slimmer profile, and a rugged polypropylene frame. Also includes internal organization bags for shoes and laundry.
Pros: Perfect fit for 737 cockpits, luxurious internal organization, genuine leather trim.
Cons: Premium price; lacks external side pockets which some travelers prefer.
Travelpro Pilot Carry-On Expandable Rollaboard
Top-tier carry-on built from recycled materials, screw-reinforced frame, and luxurious leather accents. Offers a 2" expansion, removable shoe bags, laundry bag, and an integrated magnetic Add-A-Bag strap. Designed specifically for high-mileage airline crew travelers.
Pros: Premium durability, sustainable design, magnetic strap convenience, elegant yet rugged.
Cons: High price point; slightly heavier than basic FlightCrew5 models.
Travelpro FlightCrew5 Slim Expandable Rollaboard
The Slim Expandable Rollaboard offers the same rugged two-wheel design in a narrower profile, ideal for smaller aircraft cabins and tighter storage areas. Features an expansion zipper for extra capacity when needed.
Pros: Ultra-slim profile fits in narrow spaces, expandable, lightweight yet rugged.
Cons: Reduced packing volume compared to standard Rollaboards; no integrated J-Hook clip due to slim design.
Travelpro Platinum Elite 21" Expandable Carry-On Spinner
Blending luxury with performance, the Platinum Elite Spinner offers a stylish 360° mobile solution for frequent travelers. Includes an expansion zipper, deluxe tie-down system, integrated USB port, and a high-end finish.
Pros: Stylish design, smooth MagnaTrac spinner wheels, integrated USB port, deluxe internal organization.
Cons: Less rugged for daily crew use compared to FlightCrew models; premium price.
Comparison Table of Travelpro Crew Bags
| Bag | Dimensions | Weight | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| City Tote | 14″ × 15″ × 6.5″ | 1.6 lbs | Padded laptop sleeve, front organizer pockets, Quick Loop for stacking. | Everyday carry, fits under airline seats. |
| Flight Tote | 11.5″ × 15″ × 10″ | 3.0 lbs | Two compartments, padded laptop area, shoulder strap. | Short overnight trips, mobile office bag. |
| Deluxe Tote | 10″ × 14″ × 9″ | 1.8 lbs | Simple large compartment, rugged build, organizer pockets. | Extra storage, headset, or gear bag. |
| Small Crew Cooler | 8.5″ × 9.5″ × 7″ | 1.2 lbs | Insulated food compartment, removable liner. | Day trips, personal meal storage. |
| Large Crew Cooler | 10.5″ × 14″ × 9″ | 2.3 lbs | Double capacity cooler, dry storage section. | Multi-day trips requiring meal storage. |
| Horizontal Rolling Overnighter | 16″ × 15″ × 10.5″ | 7.4 lbs | Horizontal orientation, padded tech pockets, stable rolling. | Overnights, cockpit-friendly rolling bag. |
| Multi-Purpose Tote | 15″ × 11.5″ × 10″ | 3.0 lbs | Large main space, padded laptop section, organizer front panel. | All-purpose second bag for gear and clothes. |
| Vertical Rolling Overnighter | 17″ × 14″ × 8.5″ | 8.0 lbs | Upright design, removable wheels, fits aisles easily. | Short trips, regional jet pilots. |
| 18" Expandable Rollaboard | 18″ × 14″ × 9″ (expandable) | 9.1 lbs | Smallest Rollaboard, fits tiny overhead bins. | Regional flying, light packers. |
| 22" Rollaboard | 22″ × 14″ × 9″ | 9.6 lbs | Classic crew carry-on, ultra-durable, J-Hook included. | 3–4 day trips, trusted by most pilots. |
| 22" Expandable Rollaboard | 22″ × 14″ × 9″ (+2" expansion) | 9.9 lbs | Flexible capacity, reinforced back panel. | Variable length trips needing flexibility. |
| 24" Expandable Rollaboard | 24″ × 16″ × 9.5″ | 10.8 lbs | Huge storage, best for long-haul trips. | Extended pairings or commutes needing a checked bag. |
| 21" Expandable Spinner | 21″ × 14″ × 9″ (expandable) | 8.9 lbs | Spinner wheels, MagnaTrac self-aligning, ultra maneuverable. | Flight attendants or pilots wanting spinner mobility. |
| Seven3 Carry-On | 21.5″ × 14″ × 9″ | 9.9 lbs | No side pockets, fits Boeing 737 cockpits perfectly. | 737 pilots needing tight space storage. |
| Pilot Carry-On Expandable Rollaboard | 22″ × 14″ × 9″ (+ expansion) | 10.8 lbs | Luxury pilot bag, magnetic Add-A-Bag strap, screw frame construction. | Frequent travelers seeking rugged luxury. |
| Slim Expandable Rollaboard | 21″ × 14.5″ × 8″ (+ expansion) | 8.0 lbs | Ultra-thin profile for regional jets, expandable. | Aircraft with tight aisle or storage restrictions. |
| Platinum Elite 21" Spinner | 21″ × 14″ × 9″ (+ expansion) | 7.8 lbs | Deluxe carry-on, USB port, stylish finishes. | Business and leisure travelers who prioritize style and maneuverability. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What warranty does Travelpro provide for FlightCrew5 bags?
All Travelpro FlightCrew5 bags include a 3-Year Commercial Use Warranty covering defects under normal airline use. Some premium models offer lifetime warranties for consumer travel.
How should I clean and maintain my Travelpro crew bag?
Use a 50/50 mix of isopropyl alcohol and water with a soft cloth. Avoid soap, bleach, or soaking the bag to preserve the Duraguard® coating.
Rollaboard vs. Spinner – which is better for airline crews?
Rollaboards maximize interior space and ruggedness. Spinners offer easier upright rolling but have smaller, more exposed wheels. Pilots often prefer Rollaboards; flight attendants may favor Spinners for cabin mobility.
Can I attach a cooler or second bag to these suitcases?
Yes! Most FlightCrew5 Rollaboards include a J-Hook attachment or Add-A-Bag strap to securely stack a tote or cooler on top of your rolling bag.
Will these crew bags fit in cockpit storage?
Most carry-on sized bags (18" to 22") fit in standard overhead bins. The Seven3 Carry-On is specially designed to fit Boeing 737 flight deck compartments. Always confirm dimensions for specific aircraft types.
How long can I expect a Travelpro crew bag to last?
With proper care, most Travelpro FlightCrew bags last 5–10+ years under daily airline crew use, thanks to their commercial-grade build quality.
What's the difference between FlightCrew5 bags and Travelpro's Platinum Elite retail luggage?
FlightCrew5 bags are built for daily rugged professional use, focusing on durability and modular repairs. Platinum Elite targets consumer travelers, offering lighter weights, premium finishes, and more luxury features.
