Yes, I do! Probably an unpopular opinion, but my philosophy is simple: bags are meant to be used—filled with your things and carried. I don’t baby mine or reserve them for special occasions. Whether it’s a luxury bag or a decades-old boat tote, I bring whichever makes the most sense for the trip. I’ve traveled with my Hermès Kelly, my Dior Book Tote, and other luxury bags without a single issue (knock on wood). My only rule of thumb: the more expensive the bag, the closer it stays to me—always under the seat in front of me, never in the overhead bin, or checked in.

I travel light—rarely checking a bag—so my go-to setup is my giant MZ Wallace tote as my personal item, plus a smaller bag inside for my passport and travel documents.

The Rydir Band makes this setup effortless. The Rydir Band is always on at the door of my hotel (or home), with an extra in my bag just in case I need more coverage. It secures my bag to my carry-on so I’m not juggling straps or risking anything toppling over while boarding. Once I arrive, it doubles as a protective cover, keeping my bag clean and discreet—whether I’m in a hotel room, a rental, or a friend’s guest room.

For me, the best travel bag is the one that works for my trip. But having the right accessory—like the Rydir Band—means my bags stay safe, my hand free from juggling, and my travel days run a whole lot smoother. Let me know what you think!