The best tips, useful equipment recommendations and practical tools

This is your resource list to ensure you're fully prepared for your adventure! We use all the gear and tools on this list ourselves and find them so useful that we can wholeheartedly recommend them to you.

We're often asked which camera we use for photography, which suitcase or backpack we have, or where we always find the cheapest flights and hotels. You'll find the answers on this page. Check back often, as we update this list regularly. We hope we can provide you with the best information. Enjoy browsing!

What is the best suitcase?

Choosing the perfect suitcase for frequent or infrequent flyers isn't easy. We've taken the following into account when selecting our luggage:

  • The base weight should be as low as possible so that you can pack more things that are important to you on your trip.
  • The suitcase should be quite sturdy so that it can withstand the stresses of traveling.
  • A sturdy telescopic handle for significantly improved handling.
  • Four larger wheels that rotate in all directions make your life easier.
  • A permanently installed TSA lockso that your things arrive safely at their destination.
Lufthansa Check-In Counter
Lufthansa Check-In Counter

Hard shell or soft luggage?

Hard-shell or soft-shell luggage? Those who prefer a more flexible option swear by suitcases made of so-called soft-case materials like polyester or nylon. The zippered pockets, which are often sewn on, can be used to store documents or anything else you need to have handy. However, such soft-shell suitcases are often crushed by other luggage and are prone to tearing. We therefore highly recommend hard-shell suitcases and trolleys made of particularly lightweight and durable polycarbonate. We chose hard-shell suitcases from the German manufacturer Titan because of their best value for money.

Our suitcases

TITAN Backstage Shark Skin Platinum (size L, capacity 95l)

The TITAN Backstage Shark Skin Platinum was our first suitcase and has been with us since 2011. This trolley has everything that defines first-class luggage: a robust polycarbonate shell, a luxurious interior, and a striking silver finish that really turns heads and is difficult to mistake on the baggage carousel.

We use the suitcase for trips of 10 to 14 days (depending on the season). The four ball-bearing, 360° smooth-running wheels perform particularly well, even after several kilometers on a variety of surfaces. It's practical that you can pack the suitcase from both sides, which are separated by the integrated zippered dividers. Furthermore, the contents are secured with continuously adjustable packing straps. This means that everything doesn't fall out when you open the suitcase. For trips to the USA, a TSA lock is absolutely essential for us. TITAN Backstage This is integrated and firmly connected to the case.

Shopping: Amazon or suitcase-direct

TITAN Backstage Shark Skin Black (Size M, Capacity 60l)

To match our first travel suitcase, we got the smaller brother TITAN Backstage Shark Skin Black in size M. Except for the smaller capacity of 60 l (dimensions 40 x 64 x 26 cm), it has exactly the same features as our larger version, making it a perfect second piece of luggage.

We like to use the suitcase for short trips or as a second piece of luggage for stays longer than two weeks. After a few flights, we find that the surface of the TITAN Backstage Shark Skin Black is much more resistant than the silver one. On the platinum-colored outer skin of the TITAN Backstage Shark Skin Platinum the black marks from the baggage belts are more noticeable.

Shopping: Amazon or suitcase-direct

What is the best camera equipment for traveling?

Mantona Rhodolit photo backpack

For a long time, we traveled around the world with a camera bag. But when you're on the go all day, your shoulders start to hurt quite a bit by the evening. So we looked for a comfortable and sufficiently large camera backpack that also offered space for our tripod. We chose the Mantona Rhodolit (Link to Amazon).

Mantona Rhodolit photo backpack
Mantona Rhodolit photo backpack

The Mantona Rhodolit photo backpack It's made of nylon and is extremely sturdy yet lightweight. It offers plenty of space for our camera equipment. The size of the individual compartments can be customized using the freely adjustable Velcro dividers. Large compartments on both sides of the backpack, secured with buckles and zippers, provide access to the camera. The innovative carrying system allows the backpack to be converted into a single-strap system. This allows you to easily swing the backpack forward and grab your camera from the left or right when needed.

Shopping: Link to Amazon