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I traveled over 20,000 miles with this checked bag
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I traveled over 20,000 miles with this checked bag

If you buy new checked baggagethere is no shortage of options.

I live in Hawaii and travel by plane at least every two months. Durable checked baggage is therefore essential. I tested ultra-popular Baggage outside And Mono bagsand I’ve also traveled with my fair share of ready-made luggage from TJ Maxx.

Deal alert!

The whole Nex luggage site is currently 20 percent off. Save on checked luggage, chic weekend bags, shoulder bags and more when you shop today.

As a product tester, I’m always looking for the best solution. So, when a new luggage company offered to send me some rolling luggage to try it out for myself, I happily accepted. Since then, I have traveled 20,000 miles (including several cross-country flights and road trips) with the Nex 28 inch browserand I can’t help but be delighted about it.

Nex Hawaii Edition Waikiki Blue Navigator

PHOTO: Next

Colors: Light blue, gray, olive green, white | Size: 21 x 11 x 30 inches | Weight: 10 pounds | Shipping and Returns: Free Shipping, 14 Day Return Window with 10% Restocking Fee and Million Mile Exchange Policy

Notable Features

  • Silky, ergonomic handle
  • Large interior zipped pockets
  • Smooth gliding wheels
  • Unique colors
  • Easy cleaning of scuffs with Magic Eraser
Author Erin Johnson holds the Nex Navigator’s silky, ergonomic handle.

People / Erin Johnson


It may sound strange, but anyone who touches the handle of this bag comments on how GOOD you can feel it. It has a silky-smooth finish and my hand never cramps when rolling this suitcase over cobblestone sidewalks, gritty sand, or crowded airport terminals.

I fell in love with the Waikiki Blue color but was afraid it would get scuffed immediately. However, it doesn’t get damaged as easily as I thought, and a Magic Eraser removes any marks or residue in seconds. Plus, I can adapt so much stuff in this rolling suitcase, making it a great option for overpackers.

Large interior zipped pockets allow for more privacy.

People / Erin Johnson


What’s in my bag?

On my last trip from Honolulu to New York, I installed the following in my 28-inch Nex browser:

  • 3 pairs of shoes (including boots)
  • 1 long wool coat
  • 1 down jacket
  • 3 wedding guest dresses
  • 3 pairs of pants
  • 2 large sweaters
  • 1 combination
  • 1 sweatshirt
  • 3 pairs of pajamas
  • 1 Socks and Underwear Packing Cube
  • 1 hair product packaging cube
  • 1 toiletry bag

Besides providing a cool, luxurious bag that reminds me of the clear blue water of Waikiki (it’s part of the New Hawaii editionafter all), Nex offers some pretty impressive incentives that set it apart from its luggage competitors. THE Million Miles Program allows you to exchange your luggage even after traveling with it, and Following rewards offers you a chance to earn free travel credits every month.

Nex 28 inch Navigator in Waikiki Blue and Adventure Duffel in Lanikai Amber.

People / Erin Johnson


Is Nex Navigator checked baggage worth it?

Absolutely. The $185 Nex Navigator is worth it on value alone. THE Average Away Recording and the Monos Medium Check-In Luggage are both above $300, while the Next browser costs less than $200 – and it’s discounted even more right now during the brand’s promotion period. End of year sales event. So even if you only look at the price, this luxurious Nex bag is a bargain.

Prime: Generous exchange policy, “destination-inspired” colors and informative content cultural discussions the brand helps educate others about responsible travel and also allows this luggage brand to stand out.

Nex Navigator front exterior.

People / Erin Johnson


Why trust PEOPLE?

Erin Johnson is PEOPLE’s Associate Chief Commercial Officer. She tests hundreds of products every year, and when she really likes one, she can’t help but shout it from the rooftops. Since moving to Hawaii in 2024, Erin has been traveling more frequently. So she’s always looking for the best new travel products, whether it’s a comfortable travel pillow, wrinkle-free outfitor chic weekend bag.

Besides her own experience with the luggage (offered by the brand), Erin also spoke to the founders to learn more about why they created Nex and what’s on the horizon for the brand. Spoiler alert: Refurbished parts and a Japanese-inspired collection are on deck.

Nex Navigator in Waikiki Blue and Adventure Duffel in Lanikai Amber at the airport.

People / Erin Johnson


Other Nex Luggage I Like

A quality checked bag is imperative, but the following Nex products have also earned spots in my luggage rotation.