9.8
/10
BEST FOR LIFETIME WARRANTY
9.8
/10
BEST FOR LIFETIME WARRANTY
Last Updated:
Jun 30, 2025
Best 'Buy It For Life' Option – Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential
The Bag with the Unbeatable Lifetime Warranty
Tired of luggage breaking down? The Briggs & Riley Baseline is renowned for its durability and, more importantly, its "Simple As That®" lifetime warranty that covers \*everything\*. We investigate if this "buy it for life" bag lives up to its legendary reputation.
🛡️
Durability
10
Built with rugged ballistic nylon and high-quality components to withstand years of travel.
✨
Warranty
10
Unconditional lifetime guarantee covers all functional damage, even airline mishandling.
📦
Capacity
10
CX™ system expands significantly for packing, then compresses back to carry-on size.
✈️
Handling
9
Outsider® handle provides flat packing; smooth wheels handle various terrains well.
Perfect For
✈️
Frequent Flyers
♾️
Buy It For Life
💰
Investment Piece
💼
Business Travel
📦
Max Capacity
Quality & Comfort
Users consistently praise the solid feel and smooth handling of the Baseline. The exterior-mounted Outsider® handle system is noted for its stability and comfortable grip, with no wobble reported even after years of use. "I sent it in for repair once a few years ago, and it's still going. Looks great, no issues, sturdy," shared one owner. The wheels, whether the two-wheel roller or the spinner version, are frequently highlighted for their durability and smooth glide over different surfaces, including cobblestones that challenge lesser bags. While heavy, the bag feels balanced and easy to maneuver according to traveler feedback.
Durability
Durability is arguably the Baseline's defining characteristic, second only to its warranty. Constructed from heavy-duty ballistic nylon, it resists abrasions, tears, and stains effectively. "The bag withstood several beatings and falls (even the wheels)... the outer fabric felt very durable," noted one tester. Components like the self-repairing YKK zippers, reinforced corners, and robust handle system are chosen for longevity. Users frequently report their Baseline bags lasting well over a decade of frequent travel, highlighting the exceptional build quality designed for sustained use.
Packability
Packability is significantly enhanced by two key innovations. The Outsider® handle design removes the handle bars from inside the main compartment, creating a completely flat packing surface that users confirm helps minimize clothing wrinkles. More importantly, the patented CX™ compression-expansion system is a game-changer for capacity. Users rave about its ability to expand the bag by up to 25%, allowing them to pack significantly more, then easily compress it back down to carry-on legal size. "The compression without expansion works very well," stated a forum member, confirming its effectiveness in maximizing usable space.
Functionality
Functionally, the Baseline is packed with smart, practical features honed over years of traveler feedback. The CX™ system provides unparalleled packing flexibility. The Outsider® handle maximizes internal space and reduces wrinkles. Smooth, durable wheels ensure easy transport. Thoughtful pockets, including a SpeedThru™ pocket for security checkpoints, add convenience. The SmartLink™ strap allows easy transport of a second bag. While not flashy, every feature serves a purpose and functions reliably according to extensive user reports.
Value
Yes, the Briggs & Riley Baseline is expensive, with prices typically ranging from $600 to $700. However, users overwhelmingly consider it an excellent long-term value. The justification hinges on the Simple As That® unconditional lifetime warranty. Knowing the company will repair or replace the bag regardless of the cause of damage provides unparalleled peace of mind and eliminates the need to buy new luggage every few years. "It's expensive, but you'll never buy luggage again," is a common sentiment. For frequent travelers, the durability and warranty combine to make the high initial cost a worthwhile investment.
Had mine for 7 years... When the zipper finally broke, they repaired it free, no questions asked. It's expensive, but you'll never buy luggage again.
FlyerTalk Member
Did You Know?
Briggs & Riley's patented CX compression-expansion system allows the bag to expand by up to 25% for packing, then compress back down to standard carry-on dimensions, essentially giving travelers extra packing space without technically exceeding airline requirements.
Quick Verdict
✕
Performance Scores
Handling
9
Capacity
10
Warranty
10
Durability
10
Durability
10
Warranty
10
Capacity
10
Handling
9
The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal
The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal
Performance Analysis
Pros and Cons
Pros
✓
Unmatched Simple As That® lifetime warranty
✓
Innovative CX™ compression-expansion system
✓
Durable ballistic nylon construction
✓
100% waterproof knit (no coating)
Cons
x
Very high price point (~$700)
x
Heavy weight (9.9 lbs verified)
x
Conservative/business aesthetics
x
Warranty repairs can take time
Final Verdict
9.8
Exceptional
The last carry-on you might ever need to buy.
The Briggs & Riley Baseline series represents a long-term investment in travel gear, renowned for its exceptional durability, innovative features, and, most importantly, its unparalleled "Simple As That®" unconditional lifetime warranty. Frequent travelers consistently praise its rugged ballistic nylon construction and the genuinely useful CX™ compression-expansion system that maximizes packing space.
While undeniably expensive and heavy, with a conservative aesthetic, the Baseline delivers outstanding performance and peace of mind. The exterior handle creates a flat packing surface, and the build quality ensures years, often decades, of reliable use. For those who view luggage as a tool and value lifetime protection, the Baseline is arguably the smartest choice available.
SHOP NOW
Compare Alternatives
B&R Baseline Carry-On
Simple As That® Lifetime Warranty
CX™ Compression-Expansion
Outsider® Handle
SHOP NOW
We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you.
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Buy It For Life Pick
B&R Baseline Carry-On
The Bag with the Unbeatable Lifetime Warranty
9.8
SCORE
The last carry-on you might ever need to buy.
Last Updated:
Jun 30, 2025
Tired of luggage breaking down? The Briggs & Riley Baseline is renowned for its durability and, more importantly, its "Simple As That®" lifetime warranty that covers \*everything\*. We investigate if this "buy it for life" bag lives up to its legendary reputation.
✓
Strengths
Unmatched Simple As That® lifetime warranty
Innovative CX™ compression-expansion system
Durable ballistic nylon construction
Outside handle maximizes flat packing space
X
Consider
Very high price point (~$700)
Heavy weight (9.9 lbs verified)
Conservative/business aesthetics
Warranty repairs can take time
View Current Price
Compare
🛡️
Durability
10
✨
Warranty
10
📦
Capacity
10
✈️
Handling
9
🌧️
Weather
9.2
Performance
✈️
Frequent Flyers
♾️
Buy It For Life
💰
Investment Piece
💼
Business Travel
📦
Max Capacity
Perfect For
Quality & Comfort
Users consistently praise the solid feel and smooth handling of the Baseline. The exterior-mounted Outsider® handle system is noted for its stability and comfortable grip, with no wobble reported even after years of use. "I sent it in for repair once a few years ago, and it's still going. Looks great, no issues, sturdy," shared one owner. The wheels, whether the two-wheel roller or the spinner version, are frequently highlighted for their durability and smooth glide over different surfaces, including cobblestones that challenge lesser bags. While heavy, the bag feels balanced and easy to maneuver according to traveler feedback.
Durability
Durability is arguably the Baseline's defining characteristic, second only to its warranty. Constructed from heavy-duty ballistic nylon, it resists abrasions, tears, and stains effectively. "The bag withstood several beatings and falls (even the wheels)... the outer fabric felt very durable," noted one tester. Components like the self-repairing YKK zippers, reinforced corners, and robust handle system are chosen for longevity. Users frequently report their Baseline bags lasting well over a decade of frequent travel, highlighting the exceptional build quality designed for sustained use.
Packability
Packability is significantly enhanced by two key innovations. The Outsider® handle design removes the handle bars from inside the main compartment, creating a completely flat packing surface that users confirm helps minimize clothing wrinkles. More importantly, the patented CX™ compression-expansion system is a game-changer for capacity. Users rave about its ability to expand the bag by up to 25%, allowing them to pack significantly more, then easily compress it back down to carry-on legal size. "The compression without expansion works very well," stated a forum member, confirming its effectiveness in maximizing usable space.
Functionality
Functionally, the Baseline is packed with smart, practical features honed over years of traveler feedback. The CX™ system provides unparalleled packing flexibility. The Outsider® handle maximizes internal space and reduces wrinkles. Smooth, durable wheels ensure easy transport. Thoughtful pockets, including a SpeedThru™ pocket for security checkpoints, add convenience. The SmartLink™ strap allows easy transport of a second bag. While not flashy, every feature serves a purpose and functions reliably according to extensive user reports.
Value
Yes, the Briggs & Riley Baseline is expensive, with prices typically ranging from $600 to $700. However, users overwhelmingly consider it an excellent long-term value. The justification hinges on the Simple As That® unconditional lifetime warranty. Knowing the company will repair or replace the bag regardless of the cause of damage provides unparalleled peace of mind and eliminates the need to buy new luggage every few years. "It's expensive, but you'll never buy luggage again," is a common sentiment. For frequent travelers, the durability and warranty combine to make the high initial cost a worthwhile investment.
Had mine for 7 years... When the zipper finally broke, they repaired it free, no questions asked. It's expensive, but you'll never buy luggage again.
FlyerTalk Member
You Might Also Like
Exceptional
The last carry-on you might ever need to buy.
8.8
The Briggs & Riley Baseline series represents a long-term investment in travel gear, renowned for its exceptional durability, innovative features, and, most importantly, its unparalleled "Simple As That®" unconditional lifetime warranty. Frequent travelers consistently praise its rugged ballistic nylon construction and the genuinely useful CX™ compression-expansion system that maximizes packing space.
While undeniably expensive and heavy, with a conservative aesthetic, the Baseline delivers outstanding performance and peace of mind. The exterior handle creates a flat packing surface, and the build quality ensures years, often decades, of reliable use. For those who view luggage as a tool and value lifetime protection, the Baseline is arguably the smartest choice available.
SHOP NOW
B&R Baseline Carry-On
$149
✓
Simple As That® Lifetime Warranty
✓
CX™ Compression-Expansion
✓
Outsider® Handle
SHOP NOW
We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you.
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited