The Pro's Know

Expert Advice for Life After 60

Smart Suitcases That Follow You: Are Magnetic Luggage Worth It?

Smart Suitcases That Follow You: No More Pulling or Carrying

Traveling can be exhausting enough without the added strain of dragging heavy luggage through airports, hotels, and city streets. For many people over 60, the physical effort of managing suitcases can make travel feel more like a workout than a vacation.

Enter smart suitcases with magnetic following technology — luggage that literally follows you around instead of requiring you to pull or carry it. It sounds like science fiction, but these innovative travel companions are becoming more accessible and practical.

Let's explore how they work, their benefits, and whether they're worth the investment for your next trip.

How Do Magnetic Following Suitcases Work?

These smart suitcases use a combination of technologies to "follow" their owner:

  • Magnetic sensors that detect your position and movement
  • GPS tracking to maintain proximity to your smartphone
  • Motorized wheels that automatically adjust speed and direction
  • Bluetooth connectivity to pair with your phone or a wearable device
  • Obstacle detection to avoid bumping into people or objects

The suitcase essentially becomes your travel companion, maintaining a set distance behind you as you walk through airports, hotels, or city streets.

Key Benefits for Older Travelers

Reduced Physical Strain

  • No more pulling heavy luggage through long airport corridors
  • Eliminates the need to lift suitcases into overhead bins or car trunks
  • Reduces back, shoulder, and arm strain during travel

Improved Mobility

  • Frees up your hands for other tasks (carrying coffee, checking your phone, holding railings)
  • Makes navigating crowded spaces easier
  • Allows you to focus on your surroundings rather than managing luggage

Enhanced Safety

  • Built-in GPS tracking helps locate your luggage if separated
  • Some models include anti-theft features and alarms
  • Reduces the risk of falls or injuries from carrying heavy bags

Convenience Features

  • Many models include built-in scales, USB charging ports, and TSA-approved locks
  • Automatic braking when you stop moving
  • Smart notifications if the suitcase gets too far away

Popular Smart Suitcase Models

Travelmate Robotics

  • Price: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Features: Follows within 3-6 feet, obstacle detection, smartphone app control
  • Best for: Frequent travelers who want premium features

COWAROBOT R1

  • Price: $800 - $1,200
  • Features: 20kg capacity, follows up to 6 feet away, built-in scale
  • Best for: International travelers with heavier luggage needs

ForwardX CX-1

  • Price: $600 - $900
  • Features: 20kg capacity, follows within 3 feet, anti-theft alarm
  • Best for: Budget-conscious travelers who want core following features

Modobag

  • Price: $1,500 - $2,000
  • Features: Can carry a passenger (up to 260 lbs), 8 mph speed, 8-mile range
  • Best for: Those who want the most advanced features and are willing to pay premium prices

Important Considerations Before Buying

Battery Life Most smart suitcases offer 4-8 hours of following time on a single charge. Consider your typical travel duration and whether you'll have access to charging during your trip.

Weight and Size Restrictions

  • Smart suitcases tend to be heavier than traditional luggage due to the technology
  • Check airline weight limits, as the extra technology adds pounds
  • Some models may not fit standard overhead bins

Learning Curve

  • There's a learning period to get comfortable with the following behavior
  • Practice in open spaces before using in crowded airports
  • Some people find the following motion initially unsettling

Cost vs. Benefit

  • Smart suitcases cost significantly more than traditional luggage
  • Consider how often you travel and whether the convenience justifies the expense
  • Factor in potential maintenance and repair costs

Real-World Usage Scenarios

Airport Travel

  • Follows you through security lines and to your gate
  • Automatically stops when you pause at checkpoints
  • Helps navigate long airport corridors without fatigue

Hotel Stays

  • Follows you from lobby to room
  • Useful for moving between hotel floors or buildings
  • Can carry additional items like shopping bags

City Exploration

  • Follows you through crowded streets and public transportation
  • Useful for day trips where you need to carry essentials
  • Helps maintain mobility while sightseeing

Potential Drawbacks and Limitations

Technology Dependence

  • Requires smartphone or wearable device to function
  • Battery failure means you're back to traditional luggage handling
  • Software updates and connectivity issues can occur

Social Considerations

  • May attract attention and questions from other travelers
  • Some people feel self-conscious about using "fancy" luggage
  • Can be seen as unnecessary by travel companions

Environmental Factors

  • Performance may vary in extreme weather conditions
  • Some models struggle on uneven surfaces or stairs
  • Limited functionality in very crowded spaces

FAQs About Smart Following Suitcases

Do they work on all surfaces? Most work well on smooth, flat surfaces like airport floors and sidewalks. Performance may vary on carpet, gravel, or uneven terrain.

What happens if the battery dies? The suitcase becomes a regular rolling suitcase that you can pull manually. Most models have a backup handle.

Are they allowed on all airlines? Yes, but check the specific airline's policies. Some may require the battery to be removable or have specific size restrictions.

Can they follow multiple people? Most models are designed to follow one person (the one carrying the paired device). Some newer models can switch between users.

What if someone steals the suitcase? Many models include GPS tracking, alarms, and smartphone notifications if the suitcase moves away from you unexpectedly.

Alternatives to Consider

If a full smart suitcase feels like too much investment, consider these alternatives:

Smart Luggage Tags

  • GPS tracking for traditional luggage
  • Much more affordable ($50-200)
  • Provides peace of mind without the complexity

Lightweight Traditional Luggage

  • High-quality, lightweight materials
  • Ergonomic handles and wheels
  • Often more affordable than smart options

Luggage Delivery Services

  • Ship luggage ahead to your destination
  • Eliminates the need to manage bags during travel
  • Costs vary but can be reasonable for longer trips

Bottom Line: Convenience vs. Cost

Smart following suitcases represent a significant advancement in travel convenience, especially for those who find traditional luggage management physically challenging. The technology is impressive and genuinely useful in many travel scenarios.

However, the high cost and learning curve mean they're not for everyone. Consider your travel frequency, budget, and comfort with new technology before making the investment.

For frequent travelers who value convenience and can afford the premium price, these smart suitcases can transform the travel experience from a physical chore into a more enjoyable journey.

If you're interested but unsure, consider starting with a smart luggage tag or renting a smart suitcase for a single trip to test the experience before committing to a purchase.