Written by Becky Flint, AAA Travel Store Manager

 

Before switching to Briggs & Riley, I wasn’t sold on using a 4-wheel spinner as my primary suitcase. I know this is unconventional, but I was perfectly happy with my 2-wheeled case.

Briggs & Riley 22” Carry-on Expandable Spinner

AAA Member Price $489.00
Colors: Ocean, Hunter, and Black

I must admit – after using the Briggs & Riley ZDX 4-wheel 22” spinner I’ve changed my mind. For one, the spinner takes up way less room in the airports, on buses, and in this way it’s more convenient than a 2-wheel suitcase. The four wheels reduce the load on your wrist and shoulders which takes the stress off your body (we all need less stress when traveling!) Another valid reason: my second piece of carry-on (usually a backpack) no longer touches the ground. That has always bothered me, especially in airports – not known as particularly clean places.

Even when heavily loaded, the Briggs & Riley ZDX 22″ glides with minimal effort, even on carpeted surfaces. Compared to other spinners that have smaller wheels, the Briggs & Riley comes with shock absorbing wheels that glide effortlessly.

The aircraft-grade aluminum telescoping handle offers many height settings. I can lengthen or shorten the handle in response to the situation – e.g. rolling down an airplane aisle, carrying a smaller or bigger accessory bag, or pulling the bag alone with nothing attached.

For these reasons, and more I recommend a 4-wheel spinner over the 2-wheel roller.

Your Personal Bag

Your second piece of carry-on i.e. your personal bag, can be a backpack or a tote bag. Briggs & Riley’s ZDX series makes both to choose from. Both the Cargo Backpack and the Cabin Bag will fit under the seat. Both have the slip-through back panel which allows you to slip over your luggage handle with ease.

Briggs & Riley ZDX Cargo Backpack

AAA Member Price $259.00
Colors: Black

The ZDX Cargo Backpack is your stylish carry-on travel backpack with a place for everything. Enjoy smooth vertical packing in the wide main compartment, grab your essentials whenever you need them with the side zip pockets, and stay productive and protected on the go with the laptop compartment for a computer up to 15”. Because comfort is always a priority, you’ll love the game-changing ergonomics of its padded straps and aerated mesh back padding. 

Briggs & Riley ZDX Cabin Bag

AAA Member Price $229.00
Colors: Ocean, Hunter and Black

The ZDX Cabin Bag makes it simple to travel light without sacrificing space and performance. This compact and stylish carry-on luggage fits under the seat of most airlines yet still delivers plenty of packing space for your weekend must-haves in its generous main compartment. If you’re taking your tech on the go, a separate tech pocket fits up to a 15″ laptop or 13″ tablet to keep you connected and protected.

Quick Tips For Flights

Carry-on is the way I like to travel, below are some quick tips to pack right for the flight.

  1. Verify your airline carry-on and luggage restrictions
  2. Pack everything valuable in your personal bag – including medications, electronics, etc. – stowed at your feet
  3. Pack essential articles of clothes in your under-seat bag – just in case the overhead compartments are too full.
  4. Travel with snacks and a refillable water bottle
  5. Always leave room for your sense of humor

Briggs & Riley ZDX Sale

Visit your local AAA Travel Store April 28 – May 30, 2025 and save 20% off Briggs & Riley’s ZDX collection.

*Sale runs through May 30, 2025, or while sale products last. Offer can be ended at any time. Subject to availability. Other terms may apply.