Rimowa is known for its elegant suitcases, bags and travel accessories, but why is Rimowa luggage so expensive? And is it actually worth the investment?.
Generally Rimowa suitcases are expensive because they are made with solid materials like aluminum and polycarbonate, along with high-quality craftsmanship and durable construction designed to last for many years. If you are a frequent traveler, Rimowa can worth the investment thanks to its durability, warranty, and chic designs. However, if you only travel often, a more affordable luggage brand may offer better value.
In this detailed guide, I will look at the main factors behind Rimowa high prices, including the materials, build quality, and warranty.
So let’s find out if Rimowa luggage is really worth it and why Rimowa prices tend to increase over time.
Let’s dive in.
TL;DR
Rimowa is a luxury luggage brand known for its durable, high-quality aluminum and polycarbonate bags.
Rimowa is expensive due to brand value, strong demand, and top notch materials, with bags like the Hybrid Cabin starting around $850.
Rimowa bags are lightweight, functional, stylish, and built to last, making them worth it for frequent travelers who value durability and luxury.
Rimowa Topas Stealth Aluminium Carry on / Courtesy of Amazon
Rimowa, the German brand, has some of the best value travel products that range from suitcases, handbags, and backpacks to accessories.
If you are interested in luxury luggage you might be wondering if Rimowa worth it and if it is a luxury brand. The answer is yes, Rimowa is a luxury brand, and it is growing drastically.
It is expanding and continues to do so.
What Is The History Of Rimowa Luggage?
Rimowa was founded in 1898 by Paul Morszeck and Heinrich Gortz in Cologne, Germany, initially as Gortz and Morszeck making wooden luggage; Richard Morszeck joined in 1931.
The name RIMOWA comes from Ri Mo + warenzeichen for trademark.
Their iconic grooved aluminum design debuted in 1937 for lightweight air travel durability, with factories in Germany (aluminum), Czech Republic, Canada (expanded 2013), Europe, and Brazil.
For full quality control CEO Alexandre Arnault confirmed in 2018 no aluminum outsourcing to Asia after copycat issues.
Why Is Rimowa So Expensive? (The Top Reasons)
Before I dive into whether Rimowa is worth buying or not, I first want to mention some of the main reasons why Rimowa bags are so expensive.
Brand Value
High demand
Quality and durability
1. Brand Value
As we always initiate our reviews, the general impression of a product in the market plays a significant role in the product’s price and value.
Big brands tend to always price high.
Rimowa is a big brand, and it has significant voice in the luggage industry.
To have a Rimowa bag, a wallet, or a handbag is about owning a piece of luxury that comes with respect.
It’s about investing in a personal piece of luxury.
It’s about the experience, the status, and the luxury that comes with it.
Any brand that is as recognizable as Rimowa gets to set exorbitant prices.
Because they are a status symbol, brands like Rimowa are instantly able to charge more simply because of who they are and because of the people who use their bags.
As long as people are willing to pay those prices, the prices will continue to increase.
Also, with celebrities endorsing their products like Rihanna Rimowa can increase its brand trust and familiarity among travelers, which are important variables in the purchase decision-making process.
2. High Demand
I’m sure you already know the law of supply and demand.
If the supply of a product or service is more than the demand, the prices will fall, and if demand exceeds supply, the price will rise which is the case for Rimowa.
Just as discussed with other brands like Samsonite or Hammitt, demand has always had a significant role in their high costs.
Luxury brands release limited, unique, and high-quality products that serve their buyers better and result in high demand.
Though brands like Rimowa invest in brand loyalty, which means with each new product they release, there is already a customer base that wants to test or buy the product.
Just as I mentioned about Samsonite, you can notice that over time Samsonite prices will increase drastically.
3. Quality and durability
Rimowa takes quality and durability very seriously.
In addition, the brand builds trust because they consistently provide high-quality products and experiences.
They primarily use aluminum and polycarbonate as the main materials for their products.
As stated by Rimowa:
From vintage wood to classic aluminum to high-tech polycarbonate: at Rimowa, we’ve always looked for ways to make travel better. We’ve seen a lot of change across three centuries, but our philosophy has always stayed the same: expert travelers need expert travel solutions.
In 1937, the very first aluminum bag was created by Rimowa. Later, titanium luggage was released by the brand.
The material used in Rimowa bags is very expensive.
What makes titanium unique is that it is stronger than steel, lighter in weight, and abundant, making this metal not only strong but extremely useful too.
Aluminum magnesium alloys for strength, plus titanium options that are stronger, lighter than steel. Innovative features include zipper less designs, 360° double spinner wheels (Multi wheel), TSA approved locks, stage free telescopic handles, flex dividers, rubber seals for waterproofing splash proofing, and organized interiors
Is Rimowa Worth It?
Rimowa bags are a popular choice for anyone looking to buy a durable bag made from durable titanium or aluminum.
In addition to being lightweight and easy to maneuver, these bags have also become a bit of a status symbol, especially given their cost.
So if you want a solid and durable lightweight bag that will last for a long time and includes some luxury, then yes, Rimowa is the right choice. Rimowa is worth it.
Purchase price
While many travelers claim the Hybrid Cabin is the best choice for passengers who travel a lot and who like to travel with carry-on only.
The Rimowa Hybrid Cabin is the most popular suitcase; it starts at $850, followed by the Original Cabin with a price of $1,150, and the Classic Cabin that starts at $1,900.
But why Rimowa set these expensive and whopping prices?
Here is a simple example of how brands or manufacturers set their costs, including Rimowa.
You can notice that almost 93.5 % (in this example) of the price goes to manufacturing the product. However, in some cases, the profit can go to over 50 percent.
What’s So Special About Rimowa?
The special thing about Rimowa is that it combines luxury with functionality. Almost all Rimowa products are luxuriously designed and built to last.
Rimowa builds aluminum luggage that is known for its durability, being hard to damage, and lightweight.
They also have a wide range of travel accessories.
The special part is also that if you are asking where to buy Rimowa bags or other accessories, most of their products are available on Amazon and on their official website.
Final Thoughts: So Is Rimowa Worth Buying?
Rimowa bags may seem quite expensive for some people, but for travelers who tested and frequently use their products, they are worth every penny compared with other brands.
If you are a frequent traveler and you can afford the price, then it is really a good choice.
Also, experiencing that luxury feeling may completely give a new meaning to your travel journey.
I hope this helps.
Happy travels.
FAQs About Why Is Rimowa Luggage So Expensive?
Is Rimowa luggage worth the price?
If you’re a frequent traveler and looking for luggage that’s both tough and high-quality, Rimowa might be a great investment. But if you only travel occasionally, a more affordable brand may be a better choice.
Does Rimowa luggage dent easily?
Yes, aluminum Rimowa suitcases can get dents and scratches over time. But these usually do not affect the suitcase’s durability or performance.
Does Rimowa have a lifetime warranty?
Yes, Rimowa provides a lifetime service warranty that helps with any functional problems, such as broken wheels, handles, or locks.
Where is Rimowa luggage made?
Rimowa luggage is mainly produced in Germany and the Czech Republic, with additional manufacturing in other locations under strict quality control.
Why does Rimowa luggage have grooves?
The grooves give the aluminum shell a boost in strength, all while keeping the suitcase light. Plus, they became the brand’s iconic look.
Is Rimowa owned by LVMH?
Yes. Rimowa has been owned by the luxury group LVMH since 2016.
Is Rimowa good for frequent travelers?
Yes. Rimowa suitcases are designed to handle frequent travel thanks to their durable materials and smooth multi-wheel system.
Alysa is an experienced writer, editor and a digital nomad. She is an over-packer, Alysa has explored over 25 countries, enjoys warm destinations and she firmly believes that traveling should be hassle-free, fun and enjoyable.
