Updated on March 15th, 2023
With the recent rise in air travel, choosing the right luggage has become more important than ever. From size, sustainability, material and brand to style, there are a lot of choices out there when it comes to selecting the right piece of luggage.
However, among all, Tumi and Rimowa have another place in the market as they offer the best of the best products.
Whether you’re heading out for a quick business trip or embarking on an extended vacation, both of them are the top choices for your luggage needs.
Tumi has been a leader in the travel goods industry since 1975, offering high-quality bags, briefcases, wallets, and more. Meanwhile, Rimowa has been around since the late 1800s and is known for its stylish and functional range of suitcases, backpacks, duffels, and accessories.
But when it comes to deciding between Tumi vs. Rimowa, how do you know which brand is best suited for your needs? That’s what we’ll be exploring in this showdown.
In this detailed comparison blog between Tumi and Rimowa, we’ll look at each brand’s history, materials used, style options, and overall quality to help you decide which one is right for you. Tumi or Rimowa? Read on to find out!
Overview of Tumi and Rimowa
Both Tumi and Rimowa are considered top-quality luggage brands. Where Tumi focuses on craftsmanship, Rimowa provides a unique style that sets them apart from the competition.
Therefore, when comparing Tumi vs. Rimowa luggage, it’s essential to consider both the style and quality of their products. So, before moving on to the main comparison of both brand’s luggage, let’s take a quick look at the two companies first.
Tumi Luggage
Practicality and fashion have been at the core of Tumi’s designs since the company was founded in 1975. The Tumi brand is well known for its quality and stylish luggage, bags, and accessories. From rolling suitcases to backpacks to carry-ons, Tumi has something for everyone. All of it is crafted with the same eye for detail and functionality that the brand has become famous for.
Tumi’s signature Tegra-Lite® range is the pinnacle of lightweight yet supremely durable luggage. It’s made with a proprietary polypropylene composite material that offers superior strength while being light and easy to maneuver. The suitcases come in various shapes and sizes, as well as colors like heather gray, black, navy blue, and more.
Tumi also offers a variety of smartly designed bags, from duffels to crossbody bags. These bags are ideal for the modern traveler and feature lightweight construction and plenty of storage space.
History of Tumi
Charlie Clifford founded Tumi in 1975, spurring an era of practicality and fashion in the world of travel goods. After returning from a stint in the Peace Corps, he began crafting backpacks out of the military surplus canvas, drawing on durability and style.
In 1981, Tumi released its first wheeled suitcase featuring the patented Wheel-A-Way system, a breakthrough that revolutionized the industry. The company introduced the Tegra-Lite line in 1993 and launched its first eCommerce store in 1999.
Tumi’s most recent advancements have included the patented X-Brace 45® system for extra support, as well as collaborations with fashion designers such as Thom Browne.
Today, Tumi is a global leader in the travel goods industry, with stores worldwide and an ever-expanding range of luggage and accessories.
Features of Tumi luggage
When it comes to Rimowa vs Tumi, one thing that sets Tumi apart is its wide range of functional and stylish features. From the Wheel-A-Way system to the patented Snap Hook closure, Tumi bags are designed with convenience in mind.
Here’s a closer look at some unique features that make Tumi bags so popular.
The Wheel-A-Way System
Tumi’s signature wheeled luggage is built with its patented Wheel-A-Way system, which makes it easy to maneuver around tight spaces and narrow corners. The lightweight wheels are also designed to absorb shock, so your bag can keep up with the rigors of travel.
The Snap Hook Closure
Say goodbye to troublesome zippers with Tumi’s patented Snap Hook closure, which provides a secure and convenient way to close your luggage. The hooks are made from durable metal and lock securely in place for extra peace of mind.
Interior Organization
Tumi bags are designed with interior organization in mind, making it easy to keep track of your items on the go. So, whether you’re looking for specific pockets and compartments or a more organized layout, Tumi has something for everyone.
Unique Materials
Tumi bags are crafted from sturdy fabrics such as ballistic nylon, with additional features like scratch-resistant leather and water-repellent coatings that provide added protection against the elements. These materials can also be found on other Tumi products like Tumi backpacks.
Rimowa Luggage
Unlike Tumi, Rimowa has been around for more than a century. Rimowa, established in 1898, is a family-owned brand synonymous with quality and luxury luggage.
Under the ownership of parent company LVMH, Rimowa produces some of the most stylish and durable suitcases available today. Their signature grooved aluminum designs have been show cased by their ambassadors and in magazine editorials worldwide.
With Rimowa’s commitment to quality, travelers can trust that their luggage will last through travel turbulence.
History of Rimowa
Rimowa’s roots began in Cologne, Germany, with a mom-and-pop boutique. The company was founded by Paul Morszeck and his sons Richard and Konrad in 1898.
Initially, the family focused on producing hard-wearing wooden suitcases for travelers. Then, in the 1950s, Rimowa introduced the first aluminum suitcase, setting the standard for elegant and durable luggage.
Today, Rimowa is owned by the parent company LVMH and continues to produce some of the most stylish suitcases available.
With over 120 years of heritage and craftsmanship, Rimowa remains a leader in luxury travel goods.
Features of Rimowa luggage
While comparing both companies, Rimowa stands out for its signature grooved aluminum designs and innovative features.
Let’s look at what sets this leading luxury brand apart from the competition.
Grooved Aluminum Designs
Rimowa’s signature grooved aluminum suitcases are designed to absorb shock and protect your belongings from the bumps and bruises of travel. This iconic feature adds a sense of style and sophistication to Rimowa’s hard-shell suitcases.
TSA Approved Locks
With rimowa you can travel with peace of mind knowing your belonging are safe with its TSA approved lock feature. These locks are designed to allow airline security staff to open and inspect your luggage stuff without causing any damage.
Multiwheel System
Besides security, you don’t have to worry about maneuvering your Rimowa luggage through crowded airports or train stations with their Multiwheel System. That makes your suitcase move effortlessly in any direction, so you can get where you need to go quickly and smoothly.
Flex Divider
The Flex Divider is the perfect way to keep your packed items in perfect order during transit.It can be adapted to fit any size of belongings and ensures that your luggage is organized and secure during transport. You can also use the Flex Divider to create two separate compartments in your suitcase, making it easier to find items that you need quickly.
Lightweight Designs
Rimowa suitcases are designed with efficiency and convenience in mind: they are lightweight and durable, and offer plenty of storage space. The spacious interior allows you to pack all your necessary items without worrying about overcrowding your suitcase. The flexible options make it easy to customize your luggage and maximize the space. With Rimowa, you’ll never have to worry about running out of room for your belongings.
The Similarities Between Tumi and Rimowa
While comparing Rimowa luggage vs. Tumi, there are a few similarities that can’t be overlooked. Some of them are mentioned below.
Premium Materials
Both brands use high-quality materials in their luggage designs, such as aluminum or polycarbonate shells that are lightweight yet sturdy.
It ensures your luggage will stand against the stringency of travel and make sure your belongings are safe from bumps and scratches.
Functional Designs
Tumi and Rimowa both feature functional designs that make packing easy and efficient. They even offer specialized pockets and compartments to help you stay organized while on the go.
Innovative Features
Whether Tumi’s support for USB-C or Rimowa’s stage free telescope handle, each brand offers innovative features to enhance your travel experience.
Luxurious Aesthetics
At last, both Tumi and Rimowa are known for their luxurious aesthetics. They offer sleek and stylish designs that will make a statement wherever you go.
What to Consider When Choosing Between Tumi and Rimowa?
When deciding which brand is right for you, there are several factors to consider.
Here are some of the main points to consider when selecting between Tumi and Rimowa.
Style
One of the most important factors when purchasing luggage is how it looks. Tumi offers a range of classic and contemporary styles, while Rimowa suitcases are designed to be both stylish and functional.
The silver aluminum suitcases from Rimowa feature a more industrial look, but collaborations with Off-White, Moncler, and Supreme give them a luxurious and fashionista style.
Material
The type of material used in a piece of luggage is just as important as its style. They both offer aluminum and polycarbonate suitcases but Tumi is more famous for it’s ballistic nylon, which Rimowa doesn’t offer. While Rimowa is more famous for it’s aluminum designs for a sleek and timeless look.
Price
Another key factor in choosing your luggage is its price. Tumi offers bags that range in price from mid to high, while Rimowa’s pieces are more expensive than Tumi’s but offer a more luxurious experience.
Quality
Finally, you should consider the quality of the product. Both brands use top materials and craftsmanship to create their pieces, but Tumi’s luggage tends to be slightly more durable.
Till now, we’ve mentioned how to select the best luggage and what really Tumi and Rimowa are. Now, The only thing left to do is select the option that is best for you. Let’s look more closely at the prices, products, and quality of both brands.
Tumi vs Rimowa – Whose Products Are Best?
Selecting the best one from the showdown of Rimowa luggage vs Tumi is no less than a challenge. Both brands offer high-quality products that are designed to last and stand up to the rigors of travel, but they do have some differences you should consider before making your purchase.
Therefore, to get the knack for the Tumi and Rimowa debate, let’s compare some of the best products of both brands.
Tumi 19 DEGREE ALUMINUM Continental Carry-On VS Rimowa Classic Cabin Review
When you’re on the go, you want something stylish and hard-wearing that will last trip after trip. With the price tag of $1195, the Tumi 19 Degree Aluminum Continental Carry-On is a great choice. It is an innovative, modern suitcase featuring a hard shell aluminum exterior that is super light and incredibly durable.
Tumi 19 DEGREE ALUMINUM Continental Carry-On
The interior features elastic straps to keep your belongings organized, while the exterior includes a top, side, and bottom grab handle for easy carrying. It also includes a height-adjustable wheel handle and 360-degree spinner wheels for smooth movement. For an added layer of security, the 19 Degree Aluminum Continental Carry-On features a TSA-approved combination lock.
Rimowa Classic Cabin
For those seeking something more classic, The Rimowa Classic Cabin, priced at $1475, with a capacity of 36 liters, is the way to go. This vintage-inspired suitcase features high-end aluminum-magnesium alloy exterior for superior protection of your belongings. The exterior has been designed with streamlined curves that are both aesthetically pleasing and practical, helping it to fit into tight spaces.
The interior features adjustable straps to keep items secure, while the 360-degree spinner wheels ensure smooth travel. It also comes with a TSA-approved combination lock for added security, and it comes with a lifetime warranty.
A more extensive review on the Rimowa Classic Cabin can be found here.
| Tumi 19 Degree Aluminum Continental Carry-On | Rimowa Classic Cabin |
| Hardcore Aluminum shell with distinctive grooves | High-end aluminum-magnesium alloy shell |
| 4 dual-spinning wheels | Multiwheel® System |
| TSA-integrated combination locks with a push button to open | TSA-integrated combination locks |
| Retractable top and side carry handles | Telescopic handle |
| Weight: 11.8 Lbs/ 5.3 Kg | Weight: 9.5 Lbs/ 4.3 Kg |
| Capacity: 35L/ 9.24 Gal | Capacity: 36L / 9.5 Gal |
| Price: $1195 | Price: $1475 |
Tumi Tegra-Lite Extended Trip Expandable 4 Wheeled Packing Case VS Rimowa Essential Check-In L Review
Tumi lives up to its promise of exceptional quality and craftsmanship with its Tumi Tegra lite Extended Trip Expandable Packing Case. Priced at $1150, this model is an excellent choice for both business travelers and vacationers alike.
Tumi Tegra-Lite Extended Trip Expandable 4 Wheeled Packing Case
The Tumi Tegra-Lite Extended Trip Expandable Packing Case features a hard-side design that is both lightweight and durable. The case shell is composed of Tegris®, a proprietary material used in protective gear for NFL players, making it an ideal choice for frequent use.
The case also features a recessed combination lock that keeps your contents secure, and the impact-resistant corner guards provide extra protection against wear and tear.
The interior of the Tumi Tegra-Lite Extended Trip Expandable Packing Case is roomy and spacious, with several organizational compartments, including a removable wet/dry pouch and a large mesh pocket. The case expands up to two inches for additional packing space but still remains light and maneuverable with its four-wheel spinner system.
Rimowa Essential Check-In L
Compared to the Tumi Tegra-Lite Extended Trip Expandable Packing Case, the Rimowa Essential Check-In L is a more luxurious take on luggage. It features a hard-side design made from high-end polycarbonate and with an impact-resistant shell. This suitcase comes in several stylish colors and designs that suit any traveler’s needs.
The Rimowa Essential Check-In L also features a TSA-approved lock, Flex Divider for organizing packed items, and Multiwheel® System for stable and effortless steering. Its telescopic handle provides seamless stage-free adjustment for maximum comfort and smooth maneuverability.
This suitcase is more luxurious than the Tumi Tegra lite Extended Trip Expandable Packing Case with a price tag of $1125. So, Whether you’re traveling for business trips or holidays, you can trust this suitcase to keep your belongings safe and secure throughout your journey.
Neck-to-Neck Comparison Chart
| Tumi Tegra-Lite Extended Trip Expandable Packing Case | Rimowa Essential Check-In L |
|---|---|
| Tegris® proprietary material | Luxurious exterior made of Polycarbonate |
| Removable wet/dry pouch and a large mesh pocket | Telescopic Handle – Stage-Free Adjustment for Maximum |
| Four-wheel spinner system | Multiwheel® System – Stable and Effortless Steering |
| Recessed combination lock | TSA-Approved Locks |
| Impact-resistant corner guards | Flex Divider – Perfectly Organize Packed Items |
| Capacity: 118L / 31 Gal | Capacity: 85L / 23 Gal |
| Weight: 13.2 Lbs/ 5.9 Kg | Weight: 10.6 Lbs / 4.8 Kg |
| Price: $1150 | Price: $1125 |
Tumi MERGE Short Trip Expandable 4-Wheeled Packing Case VS Rimowa Essential Sleeve Cabin Review
When it comes to Tumi vs Rimowa, you can’t go wrong with Tumi MERGE Short Trip Expandable 4-Wheeled Packing Case. With a sleek and modern design, this expandable case is perfect for business trips.
Tumi MERGE Short Trip Expandable 4-Wheeled Packing Case
It’s TUMI-engineered construction ensures that it can withstand any adventure you may take it on. The exterior offers convenient features such as front-lid or split-case zip entry to the main compartment, zipper-to-zipper expansion, multiple front pockets, and retractable top and side carry handles.
Additionally, it is equipped with 4 dual spinner wheels and corner bumpers, and skid bars on the back for easy maneuverability. The MERGE case also comes with a luggage tag, so your suitcase will always stay safe during travels. With all these features and its competitive price of $895.00, the Tumi MERGE is an excellent choice.
Rimowa Essential Sleeve Cabin
On the other hand, RIMOWA Essential Sleeve Cabin is a great choice for those who travel frequently and want something light yet durable. Its polycarbonate construction offers superior strength and scratch resistance, making it perfect for frequent travelers.
Moreover, its ultra-lightweight design allows you to fit this case into most airplane overhead compartments. It also comes with a 16-inch laptop compartment so that you can carry your device securely and conveniently. The RIMOWA Essential Sleeve Cabin is perfect for business trips and short travels of up to 3 days, and it retails for $1025.00 – so it is more expensive than the Tumi MERGE case.
Neck-to-Neck Comparison Chart
| Tumi MERGE Short Trip Expandable 4-Wheeled Packing Case | Rimowa Essential Sleeve Cabin |
|---|---|
| TUMI-engineered construction | Polycarbonate construction |
| Zipper to zipper expansion | 16-inch laptop compartment |
| Sleek and modern design | Ultra-lightweight design |
| Front-lid or split-case zip entry to the main compartment | Fits in most airplane overhead compartments |
| Weight: 11.2 Lbs / 5.28 Kg | Weight: 8 Lbs/ 3.6 Kg |
| Capacity: 65L / 17.17 Gal | Capacity: 37L /9.8 Gal |
| Price: $895 | Price: $1025 |
Tumi 19 Degree Small Compact 4-Wheeled Brief VS Rimowa Original Compact
Tumi 19 Degree Small Compact 4-Wheeled Brief
Tumi 19 Degree Small Compact 4 Wheeled Brief is a modern marvel. Every detail of this Brief has been thoughtfully designed with both efficiency and style in mind. Created from recycled polycarbonate, it’s made to fit under the seat on most airlines—and still manages to look good!
Not only that, but it’s light as a feather and durable enough to handle any unexpected adventures. The bag’s exterior offers a zippered entry to the main compartment, with an integrated TSA lock and add-a-bag sleeve for quick access and extra convenience.
You’ll also find a luggage tag, retractable top carry handle, and a 5-stage telescoping handle for easy maneuvering. Additionally, four recessed dual spinner wheels make for smooth rolling.
Thanks to the antimicrobial treated shell and zippers, and grab handles, your Tumi 19 Degree Small Compact 4-Wheeled Brief will stay clean and fresh on the go. With a weight of 7.0 lbs and a measurement of 16.0 X 14.0 X 8.0 inches, this carry-on will fit all of your essentials with room to spare. And notably, you can get it only for $595, yet it’s an absolute steal!
Rimowa Original Compact
Compared to the Tumi 19 Degree Small Compact 4-Wheeled Brief, the RIMOWA Original Compact stands out for its durability and advanced features. Rimowa’s Original Compact is the perfect companion for business and leisure travelers.
This suitcase has been cleverly designed to be lightweight yet incredibly strong, so it can easily fit into overhead compartments while protecting your items from damage.
The interior is easy to organize with the adjustable straps and removable hanging organizer, while the four spinner wheels guarantee effortless maneuverability in any environment. The Rimowa Original Compact retails for $1400 and comes with a lifetime warranty to travel with peace of mind regarding repairs and replacements.
| Tumi 19 Degree Small Compact 4 | Rimowa Original Compact |
|---|---|
| Made from recycled polycarbonate | Made of lightweight yet durable Aluminum |
| Integrated TSA lock | TSA-approved locks |
| Retractable top carry handle | Flexible interior with removable accordion compartment |
| 4 recessed dual spinner wheels | Multiwheel® System for effortless rolling |
| Weight: 7.0 Lbs /3.17 Kg | Weight: 9.48 Lbs/ 4.3 Kg |
| Capacity: 20L /5.28 Gal | Capacity: 29 L/ 7.6 Gal |
| Price: $595 | Price: $1400 |
Tumi ALPHA Worldwide Trip Expandable 4-Wheeled Packing Case VS Rimowa Original Trunk Plus
The choice between the Tumi ALPHA Worldwide Trip Expandable 4-Wheeled Packing Case and the Rimowa Essential Trunk comes down to one simple question – what kind of traveler are you?
Tumi ALPHA Worldwide Trip Expandable 4-Wheeled Packing Case
The Tumi ALPHA Worldwide Trip Expandable 4-Wheeled Packing Case is the perfect companion for adventurers with a price range of $1,475. It’s made from lightweight yet durable polycarbonate and features an impact-absorbing X-Brace 45® Handle that protects the telescopic handle from any damage. The bag’s interior offers plenty of space to fit all your essentials, plus it can be expanded if you need even more room.
Additionally, it has an integrated TSA lock and add-a-bag sleeve for quick access and extra convenience. It also has an integrated luggage tag and retractable top carry handle for easy maneuvering. The four spinner wheels ensure smooth rolling in any environment.
Rimowa Original Trunk Plus
Comparatively, the Rimowa Original Trunk Plus is the perfect companion for luxury travelers. Made from high-end anodized aluminum, this extra-large suitcase has a distinctive shape inspired by classic trunks. It offers travelers long-lasting performance and optimum capacity for journeys of two weeks or more.
This case features four recessed dual spinner wheels that make for smooth rolling, plus a retractable top carry handle for easy maneuvering. It also has an integrated TSA lock and compression straps to help secure your items when traveling. Moreover, the Rimowa Original Trunk Plus is backed by a lifetime warranty, so you can rest assured knowing it’ll be with you on all of life’s adventures. And at $2,250, it’s definitely a worthwhile investment.
An owner review of the Rimowa Trunk can be found here.
| Tumi ALPHA Worldwide Trip Expandable 4-Wheeled Packing Case | Rimowa Original Trunk Plus |
|---|---|
| Made of lightweight yet durable polycarbonate | Made of high-end anodized aluminum |
| Multiwheel® System for effortless rolling | 4 recessed dual spinner wheels |
| Flexible interior with expandable option | Telescopic handle with seamless stage-free adjustment |
| Impact-absorbing X-Brace 45® Handle | Retractable top carry handle |
| Weight: 18.3 Lbs / 8.3 Kg | Weight: 14.1 Lbs / 6.3 Kg |
| Capacity: 138L / 36.4 Gal | Capacity: 105 L / 26.5 Gal |
| Price: $1475 | Price: $2250 |
Key Differences – Tumi vs Rimowa
Rimowa luggage vs Tumi: Quality
Regarding quality, Tumi and Rimowa are two of the most trusted names in luxury luggage. Both brands use premium materials such as leather, canvas, aluminum and polycarbonate to design their products, ensuring durability and strength.
Tumi is known for its Tegra-Lite suitcases that feature a unique polypropylene honeycomb construction that is both lightweight and extremely strong. The Tegra-Lite range offers a variety of features, including four 360° wheels for smooth maneuverability. It also has a spacious interior with various pockets and card slots for added convenience.
Rimowa is renowned for its aluminum luggage, which offers superior protection against scratches, dents, and other signs of wear and tear. Rimowa’s original and essential suitcases also come with an interior that is customizable to store your most precious belongings securely. The company also offers a variety of different sizes and designs for both carry-on and check-in luggage.
Tumi and Rimowa also offer various warranty options, ranging from 5 years to a lifetime, depending on the product. This added protection ensures that your luggage will last for many years of travel.
Tumi VS Rimowa: Dimensions
When comparing Tumi vs Rimowa in terms of dimensions, it’s essential to consider the size and weight of your luggage. Depending on your travel needs, you may need a larger or smaller suitcase.
Tumi offers a range of lightweight suitcases that are perfect for trips and vacations. Tumi Tegra Lite Extended Trip Expandable Packing Case dimensions measure just 31.0 X 21.0 X 12.0 inches, and its Alpha Worldwide trip case is slightly larger at 34 x 22 x 13 inches – both of which meet the size restrictions for most airlines.
Meanwhile, Rimowa suitcases are not only optimized for air travel, but they are also suitable for train, car or other travel. Its Rimowa Essential Check-In L measures 30.6 x 20.5 x 11.1 inches. Comparatively, its Original Trunk plus is gigantic with dimension of 31.5 x 14.8 x 17 inches. Both suitcases meet the size restrictions for most airlines, making them perfect for business trips and long holidays.
Overall, when it comes to dimensions and weight, both Tumi and Rimowa suitcases are suitable for air travel as well as other types of traveling. Both offer a range of sizes that meet the standard size restrictions for most airlines, ensuring their suitcases are perfect for all travel needs.
So whether it’s a weekend away or a month-long getaway, Tumi and Rimowa suitcases have the perfect dimensions to get you there.
Does Rimowa Make Lighter Luggage than Tumi?
Weight being a significant consideration when it comes to selecting a suitcase, Rimowa and Tumi both offer lightweight options for travelers.
Tumi’s lightest check in suitcase is Tegra lite Extended Trip Expandable Packing Case, which weighs 13.2 pounds (5.9 kg) with capacity of 118 L. This lightweight suitcase is ideal for short trips and vacations, making it easy to transport without sacrificing capacity. The Alpha Worldwide is slightly heavier at 18.3 pounds (8.3 kg), but it still offers plenty of space for all your travel essentials with a capacity of 138 L.
In comparison, Rimowa Essential Check-In L is slightly lighter than Tumi’s Lite Extended trip case weighing about 10.6 pounds (4.8 kg) . This suitcase offers 87 liters of capacity, making it ideal for long vacations. Rimowa’s Original Trunk Plus is also slightly lighter than Tumi’s Alpha at 14.1 pounds (6.39 kg) with a capacity of 100 L, making it ideal for longer trips and vacations.
You might think from these specifications that Rimowa is lighter; however, considering the weight-to-capacity ratio, Tumi offers better value. For example, Tumi’s Lite extended trip case weights 13.2 pounds (5.9 kg) of capacity and 118L of volume, while Rimowa Essential Check-In L weighs 10.6 pounds (4.8 kg) with 85L of volume; this means that Tumi offers more capacity with less weight.
Therefore, Tumi’s suitcases have the advantage in terms of weight because they use a patented Tegris polymer material that is both lightweight and highly durable. It makes their suitcases more resistant to any kind of wear and tear that comes from traveling. So when it comes to who makes the lighter luggage, Tumi is definitely the winner.
Rimowa has made great strides in recent years to make their suitcases more lightweight, but they still don’t quite match up with Tumi regarding weight. With this being said, both brands offer quality products that are designed to last and will serve you well when you’re out on the road.
Rimowa vs Tumi: Durability
Durability is an area where Rimowa and Tumi excel, making it hard to say one brand is more durable than the other definitively. Both companies use premium materials in their suitcases and offer a range of warranties on their products.
As the most durable material, aluminum has always been the preferred choice for Rimowa for its hard-side luggage. This is so because aluminum is significantly more resistant to cracks than any plastic or other composite. Besides that it has more robust look and feel and is more sustainable than the use of plastic.
Most of the time, it just bends instead of shattering. But starting in 2000, Rimowa also began offering some plastic hard-side bags for sale. These are still quite strong and can withstand many years of travel.
Tumi, on the other hand, is best known for its use of ballistic in their soft side suitcases. Ballistic nylon is a fabric made with thick yarn and tightly woven to create a durable yet lightweight material. It’s much more substantial than canvas or leather and provides superior abrasion resistance.
It’s also great at resisting water and dirt. The material has been used in the military for many years and is now the go-to fabric for most modern suitcases. As far as hard side luggage goes, Tumi employs polycarbonate, aluminum, and Tegris, a proprietary polypropylene material.
Altogether, regarding durability, both Tumi and Rimowa suitcases offer excellent protection against wear and tear while remaining lightweight. While Rimowa is best known for its use of aluminum, Tumi’s ballistic nylon is a reliable and long-lasting material that can stand the test of time.
Tumi vs Rimowa: Price & Value
For those looking for the best value, Tumi is often seen as the more affordable option when comparing Tumi vs Rimowa. The company’s Tegra-Lite range of luggage offers superior quality at a fraction of the cost.
For example, the Tegra-Lite Extended Trip Expandable 4-Wheeled Packing Case retails for $1150, while the Rimowa Essential Check-In L costs around $1125. Despite being more affordable, Tumi is no less reliable than Rimowa regarding quality and design.
The company offers a range of sizes and colors for its suitcases, along with features like adjustable shoulder straps and detachable key rings. The Tegra-Lite range also includes two internal mesh pockets to store your toiletries and other small items.
On the other hand, Rimowa offers a range of more luxurious options compared to Tumi, with features like leather detailing and waterproof material. However, this comes at a price – the brand’s suitcases can cost up to four times as much as Tumi’s, depending on the style and size.
Ultimately, when comparing Tumi vs Rimowa in terms of price and value, it really comes down to personal preference. If you’re looking for an affordable yet reliable suitcase that won’t break the bank, Tumi is a great option.
But if you’re looking for something with more features and luxury design, Rimowa is worth considering.
Tumi vs Rimowa: Customers Reviews
After compiling data on suitcases sold by Tumi and Rimowa on Amazon, it’s clear that both brands have nearly identical ratings. On average, Rimowa’s suitcases are rated at 4.30 stars out of 5, while Tumi’s are 4.29.
Although this may not seem like a great result for these brands, it doesn’t necessarily mean that their products are bad. Lower-priced suitcases usually get better reviews on Amazon because people have lower expectations of them. However, when comparing Tumi and Rimowa-specific models side by side, the quality differences become more apparent.
Overall, it’s safe to say that when it comes to customer reviews, Tumi and Rimowa are on par with each other. So, selecting one totally depends on personal preference.
Our Sweet Spot – Rimowa Suitcases
After all this comparison, I believe that both products are of high quality and durability. There is no doubt about it. But Rimowa is more exclusive and gives a superior buying experience than Tumi. This is reflected in the resale value of a Rimowa suitcase, the collaborations, ambassadors and the lifetime warranty Rimowa gives on all it’s suitcases.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the differences between Tumi and Rimowa suitcases?
Tumi is known for its Tegra-Lite range of suitcases, which offer a lightweight yet robust construction at an affordable price. At the same time, Rimowa offers an extensive range of aluminum and polycarbonate luggage that is scratch and dent-resistant while also being more luxurious.
Are Tumi suitcases durable?
Yes, Tumi suitcases are durable as they are made with high-quality materials and come with a 5-10 years warranty for added protection and peace of mind.
Does Rimowa offer warranties?
Yes, Rimowa provides a lifetime manufacturer’s guarantee for all suitcases purchased from July 25, 2022. This warranty covers all functional aspects of your Rimowa suitcase for the life of your suitcase, ensuring it will serve you to its fullest potential.
What is the best size of suitcase to buy?
The best size of suitcase depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a smaller, lightweight suitcase that is easy to transport, then a cabin-sized suitcase may be the best option.
But a check-in suitcase would be more suitable if you are traveling with lots of luggage or have bulky items. We recommend that you consider the type of items you will take with you and how often you travel when deciding on the size of a suitcase that is best for you.
Is Tumi better than Rimowa?
The answer to this question is subjective, as both Tumi and Rimowa offer excellent luggage options. However, Rimowa is more exclusive and Rimowa offers a lifetime warranty which is unmatched in the industry. What is also worth mentioning is that Tumi tries to compete with Rimowa by coming up with a similar grooved aluminum design as seen on the 19 Degree collection. Although Rimowa is the originator if this style the Tumi 19 Degree is a good alternative.
Therefore, when choosing between Tumi and Rimowa, we believe that Rimowa might be the better option for travelers looking for quality and convenience.
Does Tumi offer any extra features?
Yes, Tumi also offers a variety of features that provide an extra layer of protection for your belongings. For example, their cases are equipped with their patented X-Brace 45® handle system to ensure effortless maneuverability and protect contents from damage during transport. Tumi cases also feature expansion zippers, which allow you to increase the interior capacity on-demand to accommodate more items. Some suitcases also offer USB-C connection for charging mobile devices. In my opinion this can also be a downside since taking lithium batteries on board is still a controversy with airliners.
What is the best way to find the right suitcase?
The best way to find the right suitcase is to compare different brands and models. This article offers an in-depth comparison between Rimowa and Tumi, which can help you decide what type of suitcase is best for your needs. We looked at each company’s features, materials, prices, and more so that you can make an informed decision.
Additionally, you can also read customer reviews to get a better sense of how each suitcase performs in real-world situations. With this information, you can find the perfect suitcase for your next vacation or business trip!
Made in Germany - Model 2022
Made in Germany - Model 2022
Made in Germany - Model 2022
