Tumi : What the Heck is Tumi?

So anyone that knows me by now, knows that I am a long time traveler, long and short haul trips and that I like my luxuries when on the road. I consider myself a somewhat expert on accessories for the traveler and I just have to tell you about my Tumi encounters.

I recently discovered a nice sized Tumi Store at Shanghai International Airport and with six hour in between flights, decided to explore and investigate what was on offer.

After a good few hours and the purchase of two products, I walked out with a smile upon my face!

Tumi has awesome products with after sales customer service like no other! I don't think you'll be disappointed!

Photo Credit: Bill Armstrong

A US Company!

Recognized as one of the world's top brands of travel, business and lifestyle accessories, founded in 1975, South Plainfield, New Jersey, Tumi opened their first store in Santa Monica, CA. and are still going from strength to strength.

Tumi now has over 183 stores of which are located in most International cities, and In 2004, was taken over by Doughty Hanson & Co, of London for a staggering $276 Million.

The name Tumi originates from a sacrificial ceremonial knife which is used by some Inca's in Peruvian Coastal Regions. Hanging a Tumi on the wall is said to brings good luck!

Renowned for their high quality leather and black ballistic nylon aesthetic material on luggage, briefcases, wallets, and accessories, in addition to looking good, Tumi products are pretty indestructible and can carry a hefty weight.

One point of interest to mention, Tumi has a licensing agreement with Ducati, the high end Italian motorcycle manufacturers! and has launched Ducati branded name products!

Image credit: andresr / 123RF Stock Photo

For the Serious Traveler!

When you purchase your Tumi bag(s) check it has the metal plate secured inside with your unique 20-digit registration number (see enclosed picture). As soon as you are home or have an internet connection register your purchase on line at Tumi Tracer!, fill in your contact details, along with unique digit registration number and submit, you will then have your product(s) registered in Tumi's central data base!.

In the event of loss or theft, (report immediately) should your bag be recovered, Tumi contacts you and advise how you can have it returned. As these will be considered desirable/high end items, why not take a photo of your products as an additional preventative measure!

Up and until Five (5) Years purchase from an authorized dealer, customers are covered by Tumi's limited Warranty (Original Owners Only). All is explained below, this has got to be some of the best after sales customer service I have come across!

In all cases, you should consult the Tumi Consumer Service Manual that shall be provided when purchasing a Tumi product!

• Your First Year of Ownership

  If product is damaged during the first year, including wear and tear, damage by the airlines or any other transit method, repair expenses shall be covered of which includes shipping costs to and from repair locations. If Tumi determines that your product is beyond repair, they will replace it free of charge. In the event that your product is no longer available, it shall be replaced with an equal valued product. So in short, as long as you do not damage your product through abuse, your covered!

• Two - Five Years of Ownership

  Owning your product between 2 - 5 years, and for a nominal processing fee, Tumi shall repair your product that is defective in material/workmanship. Wear and tear is not covered during this period unless it is the result of defective material/workmanship. During this period, if damaged by any carrier, you should hold them responsible!

• Tumi is dedicated in keeping their customers happy with products and service. You can reach a customer service representative 24/7 at 800-781-TUMI (8864) or at www.tumi.com/repair.

  Remember to hold on to your receipt as proof of purchase and warranty requirements, I recommend you scan a copy and save electronically as in time original receipts fade.