A company making Bluetooth-enabled suitcases wants to solve your biggest travel problems
Having luggage that is both durable and functional can take your trip from stressful to seamless.
While travel bags can often be hefty and easily lost, a new company called Raden is aiming to change this by introducing a line of design-focused and app-connected suitcase.
"I used to work at Aldo and travel on a regular basis, and it was shocking to me to see how such a massive industry had somehow managed to stay untouched by modern technology," founder and CEO Josh Udashkin told us regarding his motivation behind the bags.
The app also gives information on TSA wait times, flight status, traffic alerts, and weather conditions.
The bags are integrated with a 7,800 mAH battery, which means that travelers can even track their luggage if it does happen to get lost.
The design incorporates Makrolon polycarbonate, allowing the luggage to weigh only 7.5 pounds (for the 22-inch) and 11.2 pounds (for the 28-inch) when empty.
They're also completely washable.
The project took roughly two years to launch. In June 2015, Raden closed a $3.5 million seed round led by First Round Capital and Lerer Hippeau Ventures. Rachel Zoe, Kal Vepuri, Silas Chou, and Pritzker Group also contributed to the funding round.
The suitcases are now available for purchase on Raden's website, and they cost $295 for the 22-inch, $395 for the 28-inch, and $595 for a set including both.