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Unpacked

Unpacked

By: Unpacked Podcast
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A weekly podcast about the gear, gadgets, and goods that make travel better. Each episode digs into a different travel product — what works, what doesn't, and the story behind how it was made. From the perfect carry-on to the smartest packing cube, from founder interviews with the makers behind your favorite travel brands to honest reviews from people who actually live out of a bag, Unpacked is for travelers who care as much about how they travel as where they're going. New episodes drop weekly. Pack accordingly.© 2026 Unpacked Podcast Economics Leadership Management & Leadership Social Sciences Travel Writing & Commentary
Episodes
  • Is Travel Totes Worth the Money Compared to Bigger Brand Names?
    May 26 2026

    Wondering if Travel Totes and its Kiddietotes line are worth the investment compared to premium ride-on luggage brands? In this post, we dive into a comprehensive comparison between these mid-market scooter suitcases and bigger industry names like Stokke, Trunki, and Micro Kickboard. We break down the true cost of ownership by analyzing upfront prices, storage capacities, and standout features—like Travel Totes' 4-in-1 detachable scooter base and LED wheels—against the advanced steering, longer warranties, and generous return policies of legacy competitors. Whether you are a frequent flyer or planning an occasional family vacation, discover which children's travel case truly delivers the best long-term value, durability, and airport convenience for your family

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    23 mins
  • Best kids' carry-ons that fit Southwest Delta United and American sizers 2026
    May 18 2026

    In 2026, traveling with children comes with a new challenge: automated laser luggage scanners. With major airlines like Delta, United, and American strictly enforcing 22 x 14 x 9-inch carry-on limits, bags that used to "squish" into the sizer are now triggering unexpected gate-check fees. How can you keep your kids entertained in the terminal without risking your carry-on compliance?

    In this deep-dive episode, we explore the best kids' carry-ons designed to beat the 2026 "carry-on crunch". We take a special look at the Travel Totes (Kiddietotes) brand, highlighting how their 4-in-1 scooter suitcase features a fully detachable wheelbase to guarantee a perfect fit in strict airline sizers.

    In this episode, we cover:

    • The 2026 Sizer Rules: Navigating the strict volumetric scanners of American, Delta, and United, while taking advantage of Southwest's more generous dimensions.
    • Ride-On Luggage Showdown: A comparison of the most viral ride-on suitcases, examining crucial features like safety straps, storage capacity for long trips versus weekend getaways, and durable, plastic-free polyurethane wheels.
    • Luggage That Grows: Recommendations on specific luggage styles that transition seamlessly from toddlers to older children and tweens.
    • Stress-Free Travel Hacks: Expert advice on how involving your children in the packing process—balancing their "needs" and "wants"—can dramatically reduce travel day meltdowns.

    Tune in to discover how the right luggage can turn a stressful airport layover into a fun, hassle-free adventure for the whole family!

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    22 mins
  • How to introduce your toddler to riding the scooter luggage for the first time
    May 11 2026

    Rolling with Confidence: A Parent's Guide to the Kiddietotes Scooter

    Are you ready to transform airport meltdowns into exciting travel adventures? In this episode, we dive into the ultimate guide for introducing your toddler to the Kiddietotes scooter suitcase. While this 3-D hardshell carry-on and scooter hybrid is a fantastic tool for managing your child's mobility in busy terminals, teaching a 3- to 4-year-old to ride it confidently requires a bit of strategic planning.

    Join us as we unpack a step-by-step tactical framework to get your little one rolling safely. Inside this episode, we cover:

    • Safety First: Why establishing a strict "helmet on, wheels on" rule is non-negotiable from day one, and exactly how to check for the perfect cranial fit.
    • The Phased Learning Approach: Discover how to transition your child from stationary practice on a high-friction living room carpet to assisted propulsion and gliding.
    • Mastering the Mechanics: Learn how to teach the lean-to-steer weight-shifting mechanism, which relies on body positioning rather than turning the handlebars, and how to tackle the trickiest skill—using the rear fender brake.
    • Managing Toddler Fears: We share proven psychological strategies to help your child overcome the fear of falling. You will learn why dismissing their fears with phrases like "you're fine" can backfire, and how to use imaginative play to bypass their resistance and build confidence.

    Whether you are prepping for an international flight or just practicing in the living room, this episode will equip you with the patience, techniques, and safety knowledge you need to make your toddler's first ride a massive success. Tune in, grab your gear, and get ready to roll!

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    23 mins
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