I’ve often caught myself thinking my teenage daughter lived in a world of impractical dreams. This particular instance unfolded at Orlando International Airport, en route to Disney World, when she casually mentioned her desire for a rideable suitcase. My initial reaction was dismissive laughter, followed by a firm declaration that walking was perfectly sufficient. I confidently asserted its impossibility.
My skepticism stemmed from several immediate concerns. A rideable suitcase wouldn’t support my six-foot-three, 215-pound frame, I reasoned. Storage space would be severely compromised, defeating the purpose of luggage altogether. And, frankly, the idea felt utterly ridiculous – who would willingly be seen riding such a contraption?
Undeterred, my daughter presented video evidence, showcasing these motorized suitcases in action. I remained unconvinced, and the topic became a playful running joke throughout our Disney World adventure. Each weary step was met with a gentle reminder: “See, if we had rideable luggage…”
The joke lingered even upon our return to LaGuardia, surfacing at baggage claim. Then, preparing for the Consumer Electronics Show, a curious thought struck me. I decided to investigate these rideable suitcases, planning to test them firsthand. To my surprise, my daughter was right.
At CES, I found myself mounting several of these motorized, battery-powered bags, designed to fit within airplane cabin size restrictions. The most impressive was the Jitlife JS07i, a fourth-generation model and a finalist for a Best of CES award. It effortlessly supported my weight, exceeding my initial doubts.
These suitcases, despite their compact size, boast a surprising capacity. They can carry up to 250 pounds, reach speeds of around eight miles per hour, and travel approximately six miles on a single charge. The 28-liter capacity is smaller than a typical checked bag, but remarkably spacious for a device that can transport a person.
It turns out rideable luggage isn’t a futuristic fantasy; it’s already gaining traction, particularly in Asia, especially China. While I still maintain a certain level of self-consciousness about being seen riding one, I recognize its potential benefits.
For individuals with accessibility needs, for parents navigating airports with young children, or simply for those prioritizing convenience over appearances, rideable luggage offers a compelling solution. And, admittedly, testing it out was the most enjoyable experience I had at CES. I’ll happily concede the “I told you so” to my daughter.
