Pack it Up

May 22, 2023

Fly With Wine VinGardeValise wine suitcase

No doubt, this is the safest way to fly with your special wines in tow. The tank-like outer shell Is extremely durable with smooth wheels, makes it easy to roll. Even with the case fully loaded, I navigated through the airport with agility! Unzip to discover both sides contain dense foam with various-sized bottle cut-outs, each snug enough to gently cradle a bottle of wine. This wine suitcase is particularly handy when flying Alaska Airlines with their Wine Flies Free program.flywithwine.com, $380

Yeti ROADIE® 60 wheeled cooler

Rugged and easy to transport, this cooler holds a lot of food and wine (or beer). With its tall design, wine can be stored vertically, even nestled on a layer of ice. Before adding ice, I can fit 15 bottles of Pinot Noir, all standing upright. The walls must be insulated with magic because the ice doesn’t melt for days. Sturdy latches, big wheels and a telescoping handle make this my go-to cooler. It includes a dry goods basket, and Yeti sells other practical accessories, including a divider, exterior two cup holder and a mountable bottle opener. yeti.com, $500

Tirrinia 4 bottle wine cooler tote

This insulated canvas tote is perfect for beach parties and picnics. It fits four bottles, each separated by a padded divider. Or carry two wine glasses with two bottles of wine. Remove the divider, add some ice packs and the tote doubles as a soft cooler. With a detachable, padded strap, reinforced where it fastens to the bag, it’s both practical and well-made. Tirrinia sells two, three and six bottle versions too. tirrinia.net, $40

WineSkin Basics reusable bottle transport bag

Traveling with just one bottle of wine? You might be familiar with this brand and their single-use bags. Now they offer a reusable version, great to protect your wine– and clothes. Made with a bubble packaging interior and thick-grade vinyl, the new “bag within a bag” design features a re-sealable Velcro closure. Consider WineSkins an inexpensive form of insurance in the event your wine bottle is broken by the luggage handlers. wineskin.net, $8