RIMOWA Original Trunk Plus: The Ultimate Review

HK$19,200

The RIMOWA Original Trunk Plus in black aluminum is not just luggage — it's a mobile wardrobe. Designed for extended travel, relocations, and serious shoppers, this is the largest model in the Original series and makes no apologies for its size. If you've ever found yourself sitting on a suitcase to close it, the Trunk Plus is your liberation in aluminum form.

First Impressions & Design

Unboxing the Trunk Plus is almost comical — it arrives in an enormous dust bag that could double as a tent, and the case itself dominates any room it enters. At 80 x 52 x 31 cm, this is a statement piece that says "I'm going somewhere, and I'm taking everything I need." The black anodized aluminum finish gives the massive case a surprisingly sleek appearance — it's imposing but not obnoxious, the dark color visually compressing what might otherwise look like a small armored vehicle.

The Trunk series is distinguished from the Check-In series by its deeper body profile and lid design. The Trunk Plus features a deep main compartment with a shallower lid — a 70/30 split rather than the 50/50 clamshell of the Check-In. This design choice makes the Trunk Plus more stable when open, as the deeper base sits solidly on the ground while the lid opens upward. The signature grooves traverse every surface, and the black finish creates dramatic shadow lines that make the corrugation pattern look particularly architectural. Five leather handles — top, side, bottom, and two on the lid edge — make the 6.5 kg empty weight manageable for two-handed lifts at baggage carousels.

Build Quality & Materials

The Trunk Plus pushes RIMOWA's aluminum construction to its limits. The larger panels require additional internal bracing to prevent flex, and the frame is noticeably thicker than on smaller Original models. The hinges connecting the lid to the base are industrial-grade — wider, reinforced, and designed to support the weight of a fully packed lid without sagging. This is critical because the Trunk Plus can hold up to 32 kg of contents, and every component must withstand that load through baggage handling.

The black anodization is executed with the same depth and uniformity as the smaller black models. The matte surface has a slight texture that resists fingerprints and minor abrasions remarkably well. The rivets securing the frame are larger and more numerous than on smaller models, and the leather handles feature double-stitched reinforcement at every attachment point. Everything about the Trunk Plus feels scaled up — not just in size, but in engineering robustness.

Features & Functionality

Two heavy-duty TSA combination locks are integrated into the frame, positioned to secure the lid at both upper corners. The Multiwheel system on the Trunk Plus uses the largest wheels in the Original lineup — oversized double-casters with extra-wide rubber tires designed to distribute the case's considerable weight. They roll with surprising ease for a case this size, and the telescopic handle is reinforced with a thicker shaft and wider grip to provide the leverage needed to maneuver a fully loaded Trunk Plus.

Inside, the deep main compartment features a flex-divider system with adjustable compression straps that can be tightened to secure bulky loads. The lid side includes a full-length zippered mesh compartment ideal for shoes, laundry, or accessories. The base of the main compartment is flat and rigid, so contents don't sink into soft spots. Multiple tie-down points allow for creative packing configurations — RIMOWA clearly understands that Trunk Plus users aren't just packing a week's worth of clothes; they're often transporting everything from formal wear to sports equipment.

Size, Weight & Capacity

With a staggering 110 liters of internal volume, the Trunk Plus can accommodate essentially everything one person needs for a month-long trip — or two people's clothing for two weeks. At 6.5 kg empty, it's heavy, but this is par for the course with large aluminum luggage. Fully packed to airline weight limits (typically 32 kg), the case weighs nearly 39 kg total — something to consider if you'll be lifting it into car trunks or up stairs. The dimensions exceed most airline standard checked luggage limits, so oversize baggage fees may apply on some carriers.

Performance in Real-World Use

We tested the Trunk Plus on a three-week trip involving five flights. Despite its size, the Multiwheel system made airport navigation surprisingly manageable — the oversized wheels handled expansion joints, elevator thresholds, and carpeted corridors without faltering. However, narrow airplane aisles are a definite no-go; this case is a strict gate-check or baggage-drop item. The black finish held up well to baggage handling, with visible wear concentrated on the reinforced corners. The TSA locks survived multiple inspections without any issues.

The 70/30 split opening proved more practical than expected — the deep base meant items stayed put when the lid was open, and packing the large cavity was intuitive. The multiple handles made heaving the case onto luggage carts much easier than single-handle designs. Weight is the real consideration: if you're going to max out the capacity, make sure you can physically handle a 39 kg case.

Who Is This For?

The Trunk Plus is for the long-haul traveler, the relocating professional, and the family packer. It's ideal for expats making extended trips home, fashion professionals traveling with substantial wardrobes, and anyone who refuses to compromise on what they bring. If your travel style involves extended stays, multiple climates, or the need to carry everything from gym gear to formal attire, the Trunk Plus earns its keep. It's overkill for weekend trips and impractical for travelers who can't manage heavy luggage.