Brief Background on Calpak
Calpak has been creating luggage and travel accessories since 1989 when founders Edward and Judy Kwon started the business selling handbags and wallets. Their children Jennifer and Roy eventually took over, giving the brand a modern facelift while retaining its focus on functional, affordable travel gear. After over 30 years, Calpak offers a wide array yet still simple product lineup – predominantly hardside and softside luggage like carry-ons, checked bags, and sets across various colors. They‘ve also expanded into backpacks, packing cubes, pillows, apparel and more. Calpak touts lightweight-but-durable luggage made from polycarbonate or other hard plastics. With prices ranging $100-$300 per piece, their products cater towards budget-conscious travelers who value usability over flashy features.
Depth Analysis of Calpak‘s Most Popular Collections
Ambeur Carry-On Spinner
The $147 Ambeur carry-on is arguably Calpak‘s signature luggage piece. This expandable hardside spinner comes in four rich colors like bronze, rose gold, and silver. At a scant 6.7 pounds, it‘s one of Calpak‘s lightest models thanks to high-grade polycarbonate. The glossy hard shell prevents dings while inline skate wheels roll smoothly in any direction. Inside, straps and zippered pockets keep items organized. An integrated TSA-approved lock boosts security.
Customers praise the Ambeur‘s stylish-yet-subtle look, maneuverable wheels, and shocking lightness for a hardside. Downsides include lack of a USB port or battery and a thin handle prone to wobbling. Also, the shallow front pocket and skimpy organizational pockets inside could be more robust to maximize packing capacity. But overall, the Ambeur hits the sweet spot of form, function and affordability.
Hue Carry-On Spinner with Hard Shell Media Pocket
Geared towards tech-focused travelers, the $169 Hue carry-on has a handy front pocket with protective hard shell to secure laptops, tablets and other gadgets. This padded compartment keeps devices safe from wheel bumps and scrapes. The bag also fits standard carry on size limits while including expansion zippers should you need extra packing space.
Apart from the media section, the Hue shares similarities with other Calpak hardsides with classic colors, smooth spinner wheels and TSA lock. Consumers adore the laptop sleeve and smart touches like a wet/dry storage cube for separating clean and dirty items. In contrast, a few buyers report cracked corners or broken handles after limited use. While covered by Calpak‘s warranty, an unusually high number of quality complaints is concerning.
Trunk Carry-On Spinner
Nostalgic travelers craving vintage vibes should check out Calpak‘s $147 Trunk carry-on. Inspired by old-fashioned steamer trunks, this suitcase oozes throwback charm. Faux leather trim and brass-tone buckles and accents recreate the classic look. Despite appearances, the Trunk doesn‘t skimp on modern amenities. The polycarbonate body withstands abrasions while supremely quiet wheels ensure a serene, shake-free roll. As a bonus, it expands 2 inches courtesy of a wraparound zipper for additional gear.
Happy world trotters praise the Trunk‘s head-turning style and quiet, easy-glide wheels that don‘t disturb light sleepers. Less favorable reviews cite flimsiness in the pull handle and zippers that jam occasionally. Moreover, traditional trunks open from the top, yet this spinner version awkwardly accesses from one end. While not a perfect doppelganger, the Trunk still brings vintage panache to the conveyor belt.
Other Notable Calpak Offerings
Beyond their well-rated luggage, Calpak earns customer praise for backpacks, packing organizers and other travel add-ons:
Backpacks
Frequent fliers should check out Calpak‘s backpack lineup like the smart Kaya laptop backpack. With dedicated padded storage for laptops and tablets, the Kaya simplifies work trips or digital nomad life. Priced at $89, it cost less than similar bags from trendier brands without sacrificing quality.
Packing Cubes
Calpak‘s $47 set of 5 packing cubes streamlines packing and organization inside crowded suitcases. Four sizes accommodate various items while breathable mesh makes contents visible. Durable build quality withstands repeated use and abuse.
Travel Pillows/Eye Masks
Their wildly popular $19 silk pillow and mask set promotes restful sleep en route. Mulberry silk construction regulates temperature and feels gentle on skin. An elastic strap prevents the mask from shifting mid-slumber.
How Does Calpak Compare to Competing Brands?
Calpak faces stiff competition from brands like July and Monos targeting similar value-focused travelers.
Aussie brand July spurs envy with their colorful custom hardside luggage letting you add monograms in 10 languages. Their polycarbonate Candy or Jetsetter models earn raves for Swiss quality and feathery weights starting around $255.
Meanwhile, smart luggage upstart Monos checks all the boxes with design-savvy aluminum cases featuring built-in batteries, Bluetooth tracking and app-based locks. Prices hover from $245-$405 for these cutting-edge models.
Compared to these hot newcomers, Calpak‘s styling lags as conservative and boring to some shoppers. They also lack the flashy tech functionality or extensive personalization of rivals. However, Calpak compensates with better prices for similar essential features. Their polycarbonate or ABS shells withstand real-world trips despite lacking flashy materials like aluminum. Simple, functional pieces like the Ambeur outclass nearly identically priced Monos or July models on core luggage duties while costing significantly less.
In summary, Calpak gives savvy jet-setters excellent value without breaking the bank. While less glitzy than trendy competitors, their quality construction and intelligent feature sets outclass comparable budget-friendly brands.
What Do Customers Really Think About Calpak?
Scouring Calpak‘s website and third-party seller reviews uncovers mostly positive feedback. Among nearly 5,000 reviews on Calpak‘s own site, they earn an impressive 4.8 overall rating. The same holds true on Nordstrom where the Astyll carry-on garners 4.4 stars across 65+ evaluations.
Happy travelers praise the durability of Calpak polycarbonate and ABS shells that emerge unscathed from airplane cargo holds despite budget prices. Owners love cramming astounding amounts of clothing and gear into their intelligently designed interiors. Brand devotees also applaud Calpak‘s style selections that hit the sweet spot between boring basics and flashy fashion statements.
That said, some product lines earn lower satisfaction scores. Of their well-reviewed backpacks, the Kaya laptop backpack averages just 3.5 stars on Amazon due to flimsier zippers prone to breaking after limited use. There are also complaints of subpar handle strength across larger checked models. However, it‘s worth noting many grievances stem from airline mishandling rather than inherent product defects.
On the whole, an impressive 80%+ of Calpak owners consider themselves satisfied and likely to buy again or recommend to others. For budget-friendly luggage that goes the distance, Calpak remains a smart choice.
Where Can I Buy Calpak and Any Available Discounts?
Calpak sells directly through their website Calpaktravel.com with free shipping on orders above $75. Otherwise, expect a reasonable $8 flat fee for ground shipping to the continental US. They also offer 2-day rushed delivery for an additional cost if you need luggage ASAP.
Popular third-party sellers like Nordstrom and Amazon carry selected Calpak models. However, direct sales often feature lower prices with far greater product selection. The Calpak site also lets shoppers utilize 6-month payment plans thanks to their Quadpay financing partnership.
Those seeking deals on Calpak luggage should check their online sales section with constantly updated discounts up to 25% off or more. Subscribe to emails and check social channels to snag temporary price cuts on bestsellers like the Ambeur during peak seasons.
VIP Reward members earn points towards free products with sign-up quick and free on their website. Refer friends to also score $20 credits for each new customer referred after they make a qualifying purchase.
Calpak Shipping, Return and Customer Service FAQs
What is Calpak‘s shipping policy?
Calpak provides free ground shipping on all orders above $75 to the lower 48 states. Otherwise, a reasonable $8 flat fee covers ground delivery with 2-day air available for an extra fee calculated at checkout.
What‘s the return policy and what are common exclusions?
Typically customers get 30 days for returns. However, items bought between November 19 – December 31 have until January 31 of the new year thanks to extended holiday policies.
Exclusions like final sale merchandise, gift cards, monograms, etc remain ineligible for returns regardless of purchase date. Apparel, bags and neck pillows incur a modest return shipping fee while luggage has a pricier $15 charge.
How do I contact Calpak customer service regarding orders, defects or questions?
Contact options include:
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Email: [email protected]
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Web form: Complete their online contact form
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Chat: Monday-Friday 9:30am – 4:30pm PST
No matter your question, Calpak‘s US-based team aims to respond within 24 business hours across all communication platforms.
The Last Word: Is Calpak Worth the Money?
Frequent travelers agree: Calpak absolutely delivers worthwhile luggage without emptying your wallet. Their polycarbonate and ABS shells withstand years of trips despite budget pricing well under $300 for entire sets. Packed with usability focused on pure portability, pieces like the Ambeur carry-on epitomize value. While less flashy than competitors chasing the high-tech market, Calpak outclasses nearly all brands on core protection, longevity and overall quality per dollar. For shoppers seeking functional, affordable luggage built to last, Calpak remains a tried and true choice.
