Calpak Review

About Calpak

Seeking a friend for the end of the world? Or maybe you just need a little something extra for the next trip out of town. Calpak offers the perfect travel companion in the form of their collections of luggage, bags, apparel, and travel accessories. After all, what else is needed when it comes to travel than a dependable case?

This brand has been in the business for over three decades. Their years of steady employment have garnered the attention of over 228k followers on Instagram as well as places in travel discussions from Expert World Travel, Business Insider, Vogue, and many more. It’s safe to say that people know and like this company quite a bit.

However, we’re all about breaking through the popular conceptions to find the truth. That means taking a good look at products, prices, competitors, customer ratings, and more. This Calpak review will ultimately determine whether this brand is the one to buy for that next big trip.

Overview of Calpak

Beginning with small-time family roots in 1989, this brand was born from the ideas of Edward and Judy Kwon. Originally starting out as handbags and wallets, the two slowly ventured into duffels and soft shell casing before moving into the hard-shell cases seen today.

Their children, Jennifer and Roy, joined the brand and, with some twists on the traditional logo and set up, the two moved the brand into a modern style. Through collaborations and some new patterns and designs, the simplicity of the brand remained while offering new and fun takes on what luggage could be.

In 2021, the brand made their debut in the world of apparel. This includes attire and wellness products such as masks, sanitizers, sweats, and leisurewear. Who doesn’t look for leisure when it comes to travel times?

Despite the change in generation, this brand still stands strong against their competitors due to a number of stable qualities. Need proof? Check out this highlights list for all this brand has to offer:

Highlights

• Offers simple and effective collections of simple and sturdy travel bags
• Family-owned and operated
• Lightweight cases
• Compression cases with expandable options
• Affordable prices
• Over 30 years in business
• Financing options available through Zip (previously Quadpay)

There’s so much to say when it comes to this brand, but to really get into the details we need to start with the general. In this case, that means the popular products that have kept this brand in the business. We’ll be putting full focus on luggage and travel aspects, but check out the apparel section for some fun attire to add to any trip.

Calpak Luggage Review

Keep calm and carry-on (couldn’t help it with this one – forgive us for our puns) with Calpak Luggage. These highlighted products are pulled from some of the top collections from this brand. We don’t want to spoil too much, but they’re best-sellers for a reason.

Calpak Ambeur Carry-On Luggage Review

One of the originals and customer favorites, the Calpak Ambeur Carry-On Luggage keeps its place near the top for a reason.

This flashy case (hello rose gold!) is one of the lightest this brand offers. The reduced weight in the case itself means travelers can pack all the more to take with them. Especially when the expandable 2 inches are added into the mix.

Hard-side to keep all contents protected from the worst, the inside is all about soft storage. Featuring multiple pockets, straps, and a TSA-approved lock to secure it all in place, it’s relatively simple to see why customers keep coming back to this one. Plus, for those who really love it, this product is also available in 2-piece and 3-piece sets.

Select one of four colors for this $195 case, now on sale for $147.

Calpak Hue Carry-On Luggage with Hardshell Pocket Review

Leave behind the extra backpacks that carry technology and keep it all contained in the Calpak Hue Carry-On Luggage with Hardshell Pocket.

The title really says it all with this one, but there’s a reason why we wanted this one featured in our Calpak review. The thing is, this carry-on case (it does come in larger sizes for those who fall in love with the look) is all about accessibility. 

That means a large pocket in the front for slipping in the laptop, a magazine or two, and a few other fun things to pass the time during the flight.

The laptop pocket is front and center, easily accessed at any time, but more importantly, it’s protected. Utilizing a hard shell that mimics the rest of the casing, no pressure is placed on any items stored inside this pocket, keeping any tablets or tech perfectly safe from harm.

Featuring TSA-approved locks for the larger segment of the case, this whole piece was designed to protect all internal elements. Security truly is key when it comes to this case.

Grab one of five colors on sale for $169, original price $225.

Calpak Trnk Carry-On Luggage Review

Calling all vintage lovers – have we got the case for you. The Calpak Trnk Carry-On Luggage is just what the doctor (or the traveler) ordered.

As an imitation of the classic style of travel trunks, the Calpak Trnk lightens the load to make the whole process smoother than traditional lugging. Maintaining the old belt look, this case updates things with their corner protectors (no more bumper car bags banging up the contents), smooth wheels, and a TSA-approved lock for safe and secure items.

In addition to all of that, this bag also offers one more twist on the traditional travel trunk – an extension. This case extends up to 2 inches for those final, hard-to-fit items. Everything has its place in this carry-on, including vintage style.

Travel in fashion for $195, or act fast and get it on sale for $147.

Calpak Jen Atkin Carry-On Luggage Review

Let the carry-on match the sparkling personality of every traveler with the Calpak Jen Atkin Carry-On Luggage.

This bag is all about the bling. It does come in three colors, but we’re saying go gold. Shiny and stunning, this one will easily stand out from the others getting jammed on the plane or train (or automobile). 

Even better, this luggage comes with stickers to really customize. Have fun and get wild to decorate this piece and make it your own.

The other really cool feature about this bag? Its zipper-less access. That’s right, the zipper is completely tucked away to remove any fear of it splitting resulting in the suitcase spilling all the delicates and valuables. It’s a nightmare we’ve all had. We can admit it.

Lock things up tight with this Jen Atkin collab on sale for $214, regularly priced at $285.  

Calpak Backpack Review

We’ll be honest here, the Calpak Backpack collection is a big part of our love for the brand, especially when it comes to their popular Kaya products. Sleek in appearance, bigger on the inside, there’s little we don’t love when it comes to these bags.

Calpak Kaya Laptop Backpack Review

We have to be honest, the Calpak Kaya Laptop Backpack isn’t even solely a travel thing. But we’ll get into that in a bit.

The first word that comes to mind with this bag? Style. It’s simple in appearance, but its smooth faux leather really does something. Grab one of 11 colors (or more than one, we won’t judge) and hit the airport keeping all necessities close by.

As stated earlier, this isn’t simply a travel bag that gets tossed in the closet while at home. This is a sleek backpack with pockets to spare. One zipped pocket fits a 15-inch laptop without issue and completely separates it from the rest of the multi-pocketed space to keep the technology safe and secure. 

Head to work, school, presentations, friends’ houses, wherever is needed with ease. This bag will hold the essentials and fit the part of any style you’re going for.

Add this versatile, $118 product to the cart for the sale price of $89.

Calpak Kaya Backpack Review

Who says travel bags have to be those totes that eternally fall off our arms and shoulders as we walk? Keep it simple with the Calpak Kaya Backpack.

Small, yet stylish, this backpack is all about the essentials. Fitting perfectly over the luggage handle of any larger piece, this bag can also be strapped to the back for easy hands-free travel. Available in three colors, this faux leather bag suits any traveler vibe you’re going for to look great and still get the job done.

The best part about a bag this size? It doesn’t just suit travel. The perfect replacement to leave the purse at home, this bag also works for picnics, hikes, or even heading out to the mall. Add easy protection with 2, 3, or 5-year warranties at checkout.

Add this to the closet for $72, regular price $95.

Calpak Packing Cubes Review

We couldn’t have a Calpak review without including one of our favorite products offered by the brand. That’s right, we’re talking about the bestselling Calpak Packing Cubes.

This 5 cube set comes in 12 color/pattern options, allowing customers to match their luggage, or go wild with the choice to differentiate their cubes from those of their partners. That’s right, everyone in the house will be wanting their own set. 

Coming at you live in four different sizes, these cubes keep things organized on trips to allow easy access to whatever is needed at the time. No more digging through bags. Yes, please!

Featuring a durable mesh that adjusts to really pack these spaces full as well as a water-resistant pouch, these cubes are all about reducing the stress that accompanies the standard game of packing Tetris we all face. 

We can’t all wait around for that one friend who’s great at fitting everything in to help before each trip. Save everyone some time and get things squared away (get it – they’re cubes! Sorry, we couldn’t help it).

These helpful packing cubes are usually available for $62, but you can get them on sale now for $47.

Who Is Calpak For? 

Wanderers, travelers, explorers, and more – this brand is the one to check out. While it’s easy to be wooed by the fancy new features of modern and young companies, there’s something to be said about the quality of Calpak cases that’s helped them survive and thrive for so many decades.

This brand is all about taking trips. Whether international or one town away, for anyone who needs some ready storage for travel, Calpak is looking out. Keeping things light, straightforward, and accessible for a smooth trip to any location, this brand knows where the priorities lay and exactly how to reach them.

Comparison: Calpak vs July

Let’s just put it out there – Calpak is far from the only luggage brand on the market. While it’s easy enough to praise them and ignore the rest, that wouldn’t be a fair and complete article on the best luggage to buy. 

There are far too many brands to start listing out, but we’ll do a quick comparison to July, a brand newer to the US market after two years in business from their Australian home.

So, what are the quick key points to note about this brand?

• Australian made with headquarters still located down under
• They’re all about customization
• Though made in Australia, they use German polycarbonate and rounded edges for hard shell strength
• They boast the lightest carry-on case in the luggage game
• They offer removable charging devices in luggage

So, what’s the real deal here? Why go for one brand over the other? For those who are all about personalizing their purchases, July is a solid choice. 

Offering up to 12 languages for monograms and custom lettering, it’s easy to see why this one is a good option for those looking to stand out amongst the crowd.

When it comes to the variety of style and durable designs, Calpak steps up to bat. Affordable and capable of withstanding the worst knocks during the airport shuffle, their bags knows how to keep items secure and organized. 

For those looking to pay big money for their name featured on their case? July is the place to go. Those who are searching for accessible costs and sturdy sides can turn to Calpak. Either way, customers won’t be disappointed.

Calpak Reviews: What Do Customers Think?

Ready to soar through some customer surveys? We can’t exactly recommend this brand without checking with the masses to see if our image of the company matches up with reality. We may be writing a Calpak review, but we’re also writing an honest one.

Safe to say, we’re happy to hear that the majority of customers are thrilled with their purchases. Calpak’s own site has 4.8/5 stars based on over 4,840 ratings by verified customers. The majority love the simplicity this brand offers, focusing on functionality before all else.

“First, it is so light! I can’t believe the functionality! It holds everything and exceeds my expectations. Tons of organized storage including a shoe sleeve. I love all the compartments for organization. The trolley sleeve fit perfectly on my suitcase handle so I could easily roll through the airport. This is by far my favorite bag!”

This company’s focus has always been an affordable alternative to the big-name luggage brands. They’ve been after simple styles that are proven to work, focusing on keeping things light, smooth, and easy for constant travel.

Organization is key to what this brand stands for. Making the packing process easier, the number of pockets is another element customers rave about, like this 5-star Calpak review stated: 

“I love this bag! The material feels buttery and I love the matte black color. Not only does this bag have pockets, but it has different sized pockets that make it easy to decide how to organize. Would recommend!”

This site isn’t alone in raking in the good reviews. Calpak products featured on Nordstrom have a similar turnout. The general consensus? Customers love the clean-cut appearance, the endless pockets, and the light and smooth materials that keep the wheels turning without struggle.

A recent addition to their line, the 5-Piece Packing Cube Set, has been holding its own with 4.5/5 stars based on 85 ratings. These cubes fit perfectly in the packing space of Calpak luggage, keeping things sorted and easy to grab when needed.

“Yes! These saved me so much space when packing my suitcase. I like that they come in different sizes for various suitcase sizes. I highly recommend it. They saved me so much room and kept everything very organized, which I struggle with when traveling.”

It’s not just new products that are raking in the great reviews. Check out some other well-rated Calpak items on Nordstrom’s website:

• Astyll 22-Inch Rolling Spinner Suitcase: 4.4/5 stars based on over 65 ratings
• Silk Travel Neck Pillow & Eye Mask Set: 4.7/5 stars based on over 35 ratings
• Luka Soft Side Duffle Bag: 4.9/5 stars based on 15 ratings

Break it down to the basics and it’s easy to understand why customers love the brand and the products they produce. Even Business Insider can’t get enough of the brand, citing their cases as “expandable, affordable, easy to maneuver around the airport, and super lightweight. What can I say — sometimes simpler really is better.”

While many luggage companies today are working to include more elements to stand out, the real star of the show is always steady simplicity that functions exactly as we want.

Is Calpak Worth It?

While we’ll admit to being swayed by the fancy features of new cases, no one can argue that a stunning and simple case tends to win when it comes to lasting power. All of the bells and whistles of the new luggage aside, our Calpak review team is recommending this brand as one to buy.

Place some trust in the steady, accountable, and affordable family-owned business that has known the market for over 30 years. Clearly, they’re doing something right to have been in the game this long.

Calpak Promotions & Discounts 

We’re always on the hunt for good deals. Unfortunately, at the time of writing this Calpak review, there are no big promotions running, but here are some standard discounts from the brand:

• VIT Rewards (free to register, earn points for every purchase)
• Referral Program
• Sales Section

Where to Buy Calpak

As with many other luggage companies, we’ve determined that the brand does exist outside of calpaktravel.com with other third-party or partner sites. The biggest two names to check out when it comes to this company’s stock would be Nordstrom and Amazon.

FAQ

Who owns Calpak?

Calpak is a family-owned and operated business. Currently run by Jennifer Kwon, the business was founded by Edward and Judy Kwon over 30 years ago.

Does Calpak ship internationally?

No, they do not. Currently, Calpak only ships within the US.

What is Calpak’s Shipping Policy?

Sliding into the shipping portion of this Calpak review, we have to note right away that shipping for this brand is currently only within the contiguous US states.

This brand tries to keep things fast, cheap, and organized for customers to reduce any stress (especially around the holidays). This means Ground Shipping goes for a flat rate of $8 on all orders with free shipping for purchases over $75. That essentially means any order of Calpak luggage comes with free shipping.

Alongside Ground Shipping, this brand also offers a 2-Day option with prices dependent on the weight of the item(s) being purchased. This is really just about how big something is to ship rather than how heavy it is. If it’s taking up more truck space, it’ll cost more for that fast shipping.

All orders are accompanied by a tracking number. This info is sent as soon as the order ships out, but it can take a day or two for information to accurately be updated regarding where the item currently is.  

Once the item ships, that’s it. No more costs or concerns. Just follow the tracker and get ready for a new suitcase (or other items) to store for the next big trip.

What is Calpak’s Return Policy?

We’re sorry it ever has to come to this, but sometimes products just aren’t quite what we picture in our minds. Therefore, our Calpak review made it a priority to include all relevant return info, starting with the policy time limit.

This brand is a bit out of the ordinary when it comes to return dates. Typically returns must occur within 30 days of ordering the product, however, any items ordered from November 19 to the end of the calendar year have until January 31^st to be sent back for a full refund.

All returns begin with the Returns page online. This page allows new selections for any exchanges, or simply offers a walkthrough of the return process to get that money back. 

Any returns require the attached email and order number to proceed, so make sure that information is kept nearby. Be sure to include the following, as well:

• The item must be in new condition
• It cannot be a final sale product
• It must be returned in the original packaging

So, keep things clean, give it a quick test run, and decide quickly whether it’s worth keeping. Wear and tear aren’t accepted no matter how much customers argue.

There is a short list of items by the brand of products that aren’t eligible for returns. Select items are:

• Gift Cards
• Sample or flash sale items
• Silk Travel Set
• Non-Medical Double Layered Face Masks
• Hand Sanitizers
• Linen and Room Sprays
• And any other items marked as final sale.

We have to be honest, most of those make hygienic sense. With that being said, if you’re not sure if something falls under eligible for money back, send their customer service team a quick message and they’ll help organize things (we’ve provided their contact info in the next section).

All return shipping does come at a cost (even if the label is provided during the Return portal process). Different sized items require different fees. Currently, prices are listed at:

• Luggage: $15
• Bags & Accessories: $8
• Apparel: $5

Got all that? It feels like a lot of information was thrown out into the web there. Should anything be confusing, just contact good old customer service for clarity on any matter.

How to Contact Calpak

 This Calpak review found that customer service hours are Monday to Friday from 9:30 am- 4:30 pm PST. The easiest ways to get in touch are as follows:

• Email: [email protected]
• Fill out their Contact Form online
• Use the Messenger Service on their website

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