Since it launched in London in 2012, Carl Friedrik has become best known for its beautiful and high-quality Italian leather bags and accessories. Chic polycarbonate shells, signature leather details and smart, unfussy designs have made the brand a winner with a stylish set of travellers – you might even have spotted discerning characters such as the Roy family in HBO’s Succession or the boys in The Gentleman using the brand’s cases as they go about their business.
Sophie Knight
But with so much choice comes the need for a steer on the best buys – and we’re the ones in the know. Carl Friedrik is the brand of choice for several Condé Nast Traveller editors, and we’re using our knowledge of how these pieces have performed on their travels across the world to help you. Here are the four Carl Friedrik luggage pieces we reach for over and over, whether it be for long weekends away, far-flung holidays or quick staycation overnighters.
Carl Friedrik Core Carry-on
A lot of suitcases come across our desk at Condé Nast Traveller, but few have such a presence. For those seeking a suitcase with real allure, this one is hard to beat. Leather trims, a streamlined body and ribbed finish work together to create something really lovely. All the Carl Friedrik hallmarks are in situ – a quality build, brushed interior lining and polycarbonate shell – but the brand’s original carry-on design has been given a couple of tweaks that some travellers may find useful.
Most notable is that the clasp design has been switched for a more classic zippered finish, which overpackers may find easier to close. It’s also the lightest carry-on in the range yet – although for this you do lose an external pocket. Look for the brand’s Carry-On X if this feature is non-negotiable. But for a quality, lightweight suitcase that looks the part, this is a great choice.
Carl Friedrik The Carry OnLouis Delbarre
Carl Friedrik The Carry OnLouis Delbarre
According to our editors: “I honestly think this is one of the most elegant cases on the market, with a build quality to match. This carry-on switches the brand’s usual clasp-style lock for a zip, which I prefer; it’s much easier to close when full than clasp cases I’ve used. The suitcase is easy to handle and the soft suede-like brushed finish inside is lovely – I’ve never seen anything like it in any other piece of luggage. I have the cream option, which is very stylish but prone to scuffs. Go for a darker colour if you want to fully preserve the chicness for as long as possible.” Charley Ward, commerce writer
Pros: Zipped design may suit some travellers more so than the clasp lock of former Carl Friedrik cases, smart design, cheaper than the brand’s original carry-on
Cons: No external pocket
Size: 37 x 55 x 23cm
Weight: 3.16kg
Carl Friedrik Carry-on X
We can see why Succession’s Roy family was swayed to choose Carl Friedrik – this case especially is a good option for business travellers. That goes all the more so when you’re not jetting off in a helicopter, as the front pocket is seriously handy for keeping your essentials ready to decant them into the security tray. Compression straps and a compression pad ensure you can squeeze as much in as possible – this carry-on should work for trips of up to five days. Hinotomo wheels, a polycarbonate shell and TSA-approved locks ensure it’ll withstand any bumps and scuffs and handles impressively smoothly. This case is zipper-free, instead secured with an aluminium lock frame, which you may or may not prefer.
Sophie Knight
Commerce editor Lauren Burvill with the Carl Friedrik Carry On Pro
According to our editors: “I travel regularly with the Carry-on X style, and love the way it looks and navigates. The organisational pockets are really well thought out and designed. What really sets the brand apart is the aluminium lock frame, which feels incredibly safe and secure – although can be a little tricky to lock in place if the case is really full. Nonetheless, this case has accompanied me on well over 20 trips now, and I’ve never had any issues.” Sophie Knight, visuals editor
