Strandbags

It’s not very often you walk into a chain retail store these days where the staff are so knowledgeable AND super friendly.
I’d recently decided to grow up and get myself some good luggage, and as much as I love online shopping, if I was going to drop a grand on a couple of suitcases I wanted to see them in person first and ask a zillion questions, so off to Strandbags I went.
Located in the thick of things on the corner of Bourke St Mall & Swanston, ground level has handbags /​small backpacks etc, and the basement level is where the travel magic happens.
Stocked within an inch of the spaces life, here is where you find enough luggage porn to suit the pickiest of picky travellers, including brands like Samsonite, American Tourister & plenty of cheaper luggage sets for those that don’t want to shell out big bucks. You’ll also find accessories like travel pillows, power adapters etc
I visited a few times to ask questions before making a decision on my purchase, and every visit the staff were friendly and helpful, but not pushy.
Fun Fact: never pay full price for Samsonite or American Tourister, keep an eye out for 40% off sales

I had decided that my old backpack was too old, too uncomfortable and that I wanted a new one for my travels. I also didn’t necessarily want to be identified as a backpacker — sometimes it isn’t the impression that you want to give. I had seen some backpacks that converted into suitcases. So I went to Strandbags in the Bourke St. Mall to see if I could get something like that. With two floors of bags, handbags, wallets, suitcases and backpacks there was plenty to choose from. It wasn’t difficult finding what I was looking for, as there were some on display in the shop window.