Briefcase For Stamp Shows- Any Suggestions?

I'm looking for an attache case or brief case to take to stamp shows. I've been using a duffel bag for some time and would like to get something different. The following attache bag is currently on ebay:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/1-Kluge-BL...361674667027

I wonder however if this will be big enough. 12 x 16? Ideas?

I use a compact airline under seat rolling bag. No strain on the back and it holds laptop, notebook, printouts of want lists, tongs, magnifier, compact LED Ott Lite, a couple of Vario sheets and a Scott catalog. Cell phone, checkbook, pens and miscellany fit in the front pocket. That's my show kit. I wheel it up to the dealer table and park it under the table. Search under seat rolling bag on the internet. And be aware that most of them do not actually fit under some aircraft seats.

I used a quality backpack, holds everything I need and is easy to carry while keeping my hands free.
Don

For the past 35-40 years, I have used this Rubbermaid file carrier. It is indestructible, holds quite a bit, is easy to tote, and most importantly, stamps and covers do not ever get bent or crushed.

Stamp1962...

Understand your request pertains to attaché or briefcase. However, for the last several years I have (successfully) used a pair of "clothe" wheeled cases with telescoping handle. Zippered to and pockets.

Believe my daughter purchased these via a scrapbook website/outlet.

The ones I have can hold three binders/albums, are durable, and have a nbr of pockets great for carrying various philatelic items(e.g., tongs, perf gauge, loop, etc.)

For me three selling points: durable, lightweight, wheeled.

I used a similar type (if not the same) when working for the USPS (Headquarters Facility Division). The main pocket is expandable & the many side pockets are great for pens, pencils, small tools (glass, scale, perf guide, tongs). I can fit a priority envelope into the main pocket & use that for protecting purchases of glasslines, FDC etc.. I was able to carry multi-pocket file folders for meetings or job site reviews. It is light and collapsible for packing when empty. For the price shown it looks like a good buy with plenty of accommodation. I now use a small lap-top case with similar pockets and expandability.

When I started going to shows on my own (when I started driving) I got me a fancy briefcase, complete with tumbler locks, that I could take to shows with me. I really thought I was a big wheeler dealer with that. But, it was so much of a hassle to find a flat place to open it up, especially if your are shoulder to shoulder with other collectors, browsing at a table I soon ditched it and found a larger laptop bag. Since I don't carry catalogs or anything it suits me well. Mostly what I take are a few lists, maybe a reference book if I am looking for something specific, some empty glassines, a small plastic box, tongs, notepad & pencil, loupe and that's about it. My "lists" are now electronic and I can just use my phone for that. Now, I can just tuck it between my legs when I am sitting at at table, and easily access anything in it.

Nowadays I wouldn't even consider carrying a fancy breifcase however. Nothing says "Hey, look at me! I might be carrying something expensive!", like a fancy briefcase.

'
Whatever case/pack/bag you choose, I would include a few large non-recyclable (and seemingly non-avoidable) bubble-wrap envelopes - reduce, reuse, re-purpose, recycle - as well as a couple of heavy-duty free-to-good-shopper-style plastic bags ... for the over-flow.

Cheers,

/s/ ikeyPikey

I use an old Lands' End briefcase of similar size to the one you pictured, Stamps1962. I include an old cardboard-stock accordion folder where all my purchases go. The only big difference is that my old briefcase doesn't have all the outside pockets that yours has.

Unless you're planning to buy out somebody's entire show stock, what you picture should be sufficient. Myself, I don't carry any catalogues, Scott or otherwise, with me as I make up my want list before leaving home. I take a few extra glassine envelopes, with card stock already inside for firmness, stamp tongs, and maybe a perf gauge. Can't recall ever taking a magnifying glass.

Bookbndrbob, wow!, that tote is 35 years old? I can say I never say one like that. I would use that at home, for some documents.

As far as the shows or auctions, I use a computer carry case almost exact same as the O.P. showed on ebay. Great for everything, Just put a double sided cardboard stiffner inside for protection against folds. Take a couple of envelopes to mail back home as well as a few glassines and plastic bags for protection against moisture.

Edit: It will fit a few smaller albums, or stockbooks, but not the bulky material. For that I take my full size truck.

No1philatelist, the age of the carrier occurred to me as I was writing (I am older than I like to think). It also dawned on me that Rubbermaid most likely does not make these things any more...and even if they do, they would undoubtedly be of lesser quality.

Bob, I am a bit off topic but - We are all older than we like to believe but it is a fact we have to live with. Do not like the alternative of becoming a piece of history, not unlike what we save and collect, postal "history."

And yes, probably not made as well as the good ole days made in the U.S.A. Rubbermaid was once known as The Wooster Rubber Company, from Wooster Ohio and will turn 100 May 19th, 2020.

I've always used what was earlier called a fancy briefcase. Mine holds a Scott Classics catalogue with room to spare for a compact digital camera, magnifying glasses and various other accessories many of which fit into various internal pockets or compartments. Inside the lid there's an accordion-like expanding set of pockets that I slide 8x10" envelopes into for safely holding all my purchases. Most important to me, however, are the hard walls of the case that protect what's inside. I'd be too nervous keeping my 'stuff' in a soft bag...

I do not go to many shows but I would take a fabric bag with straps that go over the shoulder. I never brought anything valuable to a show except a camera and did not purchase much so no real need for a lot of protection.

If I wanted to take something it would be a computer style case since I do carry it with me when traveling.

Good point, Al, about the over-the-shoulder strap(s). I didn't mention that my old briefcase has such a strap. Steve