Rimowa Check-In L Complete Review (Read First Before Purchasing!)

Updated on December 11th, 2022

Rimowa Check-In L (or Rimowa Original Check-In L), initially called Rimowa Topas, is a luxury luggage whose brand has been spotted in the hands of super-famous celebrities like Kim K, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Martha Stewart—folks who travel frequently.

When it was still known as Rimowa Topas, it had six check-in models in its collection, but since its change to “Original,” we now have only four check-in models, namely Check-In M, Check-In L, Trunk, and Trunk Plus.

The naming convention is much better and more self-explanatory than it was before. Now, we know it’s a check-in luggage, and we know it’s a large check-in model that can serve as an excellent carry-on bag for any season, whether Christmas, Thanksgiving, or Hanukkah.

Perhaps you’re searching for a peculiar bag that will stand out from the hundreds of baggage travel backpacks in the baggage claim area.

Perhaps you’re searching for a large suitcase that is built to last.

Whichever your peculiar need, in this Rimowa Check-In L review, we will provide answers to questions you may have about the brand, including features, cost, uses, and if it will be a good luggage investment option for you.

Let’s get started!

About Rimowa luggage

Rimowa luggage is a luxury luggage brand manufactured by Rimowa. The company was founded in 1898 by Paul Morszeck and Heinrich Görtz in Germany and offers a variety of products, including suitcases, backpacks, and laptop bags.

Some interesting facts about Rimowa Luggage include:

• The company is headquartered in Cologne, where it has been manufacturing its products for the last 124 years.
• They presently employ between 1,000-5,000 people with factories in the Czech Republic and Canada. 
• In 2016, Rimowa joined LVMH, becoming the group’s first German Maison.

Rimowa luggage is widely known for its parallel aluminum grooves, which have become characteristic of the brand. One of its most iconic suitcases is the Rimowa Original Check-In L, equipped with everything you need for a happy, easy trip.

Generally, Rimowa luggage comes in many shapes and sizes, materials and colors, which vary per collection, but most come in a cabin (carry-on) and check-in options. 

The Rimowa Original is available in Check-In M, Check-In L, Trunk, and Trunk plus.

Furthermore, the brand recently added a lifetime guarantee to cover all functional features except wear and tear. They also provide in-store and in-hotel repairs at participating international locations. 

Main features of the Rimowa Check-In L

The Rimowa Check-In L is a highly durable luxury suitcase built with longevity in mind.

Below I discuss some of its main features: 

Dimensions

The Rimowa Check-In L is made in Germany. For US-based customers, it will probably be made in Canada. It has the following dimensions:

• Size: 31.2 x 20.1 x 10.7 inches (79 x 51 x 27.5 cm)
• Weight: 13,7 Lbs (6.21 kg)
• Volume: 21,7 Gal (82.1 liters).

Exterior and interior design

The Rimowa Check-In L is a beautiful suitcase made from high-end anodised aluminum engineered with longevity. The luggage is available in three colors (Silver, Titanium, and Black). So you have more than one color option to choose when you’re ready to buy.

The Check-In L also comes with a new type of groove, as seen in the image on the left. This is the same type of groove used on the Rimowa Original Cabin. 

This means the shell from the Original model is made from one piece, but on the Classic, it’s not. This model has its mould, which can be seen at the edges. The groove stops half an inch before the edge, giving the suitcase a much cleaner look. 

Currently, the Original Trunk models and the Original Compact don’t have the new groove. It’s strange that not all models currently have the same design. I hope they will shortly.

If you take a good look at the picture below, you will notice the Rimowa plate. This is a feature I was curious about, and I had mentioned that the plate was too loud and shiny concerning the Classic Cabin I reviewed earlier. The plate on the Classic is chromed, which gives it a shiny look. 

On the Rimowa Original Check-In L, the plate is still too large, to my personal preference. However, I like that the plate is more discreet since it’s not chromed but has a matte finish.

Still, I noticed an imperfection on the exterior, probably a legacy of the failed Electronic Tag. As you can see in the picture below, there is an interruption in the groove.

You will also notice that it’s the exact same spot where the Electronic Tag used to go. 

I don’t see any reason why the grooves have to be interrupted if no Electronic Tag is included. I hope they will resolve this as soon as possible.

Other elements worthy of note include the TSA-approved locks, Flex Divider, Multiwheel® System and Telescopic Handle.

TSA-approved locks

The TSA-approved locks have stayed the same for a few years, which is good. The only thing confusing is that it shows an obvious keyhole for the master key that customs can open during airline baggage checks without causing any damage.

If you are unfamiliar with the TSA locks, you might think you will find a key in the suitcase. It would be helpful if Rimowa made people more aware of the TSA lock and informed them that the luggage doesn’t come with a key.

Multiwheel® System

Although the wheels have stayed the same in the last couple of years, this high-end multiwheel system (there are four wheels) ensures stable and effortless steering thanks to ball-bearing mounted wheels with cushioned axles.

What I like about the Original line is that the check-in luggage has larger wheels than the cabin-size luggage. The check-in luggage from the Classic line doesn’t have larger wheels but has the same wheels as the cabin-size luggage. 

The larger wheels on the check-ins from the Original line make the suitcase roll more efficiently and flexibly. The only slight difference with the previous model is that the logo has changed in the middle of the wheel.

Telescopic Handle

The handles have stayed the same for years. They are made from plastic and have a snap-back functionality, ensuring the handles remain in place while moving around with them. 

The handle is engineered to provide seamless stage-free adjustment for maximum comfort and smooth maneuverability.

Finally, with the exterior, the branding is much slicker and more luxurious than in the previous models which came in a plastic bag.

The new branding can be noticed on the label attached to the suitcase. The manual, warranty booklet, and sticker got a makeover and look much more fashionable now.

So far, I have been discussing the exterior of the Rimowa Check-In L. Now, I will give a few insights into its Interiors.

The key elements I will emphasize here are the colors and the Flex-Divide.

Colors

The interior of the Rimowa Check-In L has changed color. The previous version had a blue interior. All Original models, including the black (Stealth) and Titanium, have a black/dark blue interior. 

Flex-Divider System

The interior still has two height-adjustable Flex-Dividers, which keep your clothes in place during transit. The Flex-Divider holds a compartment for smaller items like socks and underwear.

Materials

The Rimowa Check-In L model is made from high-end anodised aluminum, which is a highly durable material. This means that the suitcase will not get dented or scratched easily, which can be an issue with some types of luggage.

As aforementioned, the Rimowa Check-In model is available in three colors; and each is made using the same premium materials.

Have a quick view of the materials used on the Rimowa Check-In L

• Outside: Aluminum
• Inside: Polyester
• Handles: Plastic
• Wheels: Hard plastic
• Dividers: Polyester

Storage capacity of the Rimowa Check-In L

Depending on the trips you frequently take, the Rimowa Check-In L is built to have a storage capacity for up to 10 days of travel or longer trips. Hence, if you are the type that takes trips longer than seven days, the Rimowa Check-In L will serve you well in carrying your travel essentials.

How much does the Rimowa Check-In L cost? 

To purchase one Rimowa Check-In L collection costs $1,750.

Best uses for the Rimowa Check-In L

The first and most obvious is as a traveling bag. The Rimowa Check-In L is used for carrying your luggage while traveling. 

Secondly, it can be used as a storage bag at home. Let’s assume you have some unused clothing at home that is taking up extra space in your wardrobe.  

In such situations, you can efficiently use the Rimowa Check-In L to hold these unnecessary items. It increases your wardrobe space while keeping your room tidy and clean.

Is it a good investment?

The Rimowa Check-In L is definitely worth it. The brand is engineered in Germany, just like many other high-quality made-in-Germany products. So you can be sure of the quality of the materials used in making it. Moreover, Rimowa ensures that every luggage piece is individually tested to ensure quality control.

Users of this Check-In luggage love the brand, and I believe you will also love it. The Rimowa Check-In L is a gorgeous piece of luggage, perfect for holiday travels in all seasons. 

Flying can be stressful, so a product that makes it easier is worth it. Here is a quick view of some of the features that make it a fantastic investment.

• Rimowa Check-In L height adjustable Flex-Dividers help keep your belongings safe and organized
• TSA-approved locks for easy opening during security checks
• Multiwheel® System to push or pull your bag through the airport or on bumpier terrain, like a cobblestone street
• A hard, durable outer shell
• Splash-proof to protect your belongings from rain or spillage
• Telescoping handle for easy maneuvering in unison with the wheels
• Approved by TÜV RHEINLAND

Although some users may have reservations about the brand, and the luggage may take a few scratches over time, the body of these suitcases is unmatched. In addition, an exciting offer provided by the brand is its free return policy and its lifetime guarantee on suitcases. Just make sure that you register the luggage online at rimowa.com.

With that said, if you are the type that loves high-tech design, travels often, and can afford to spend on luxury goods, then Rimowa Check-In L is definitely for you.

Takeaway: Rimowa Check-In L can be your long-term travel companion

I have given a detailed review in this piece to help you decide if investing in the Rimowa Check-In L is an excellent option for you. 

I talked about its main features in detail, including its dimensions, the materials used in making it and its storage capacity. 

Although it has a high price tag, the Rimowa Original Check-In L is built to be your long-term travel companion. It is sturdy, lightweight, and easy to carry, and its four-wheel design makes it easy to maneuver. 

As I mentioned earlier, if you are the type that loves high-tech design, travels often, and can afford to spend on luxury goods, then Rimowa Check-In L is a fantastic brand for you.

If you want to invest in the Rimowa Check-In L, visit Rimowa website to experience a unique luxury shopping experience.