Headed out of town for the holiday? Tired of that ratty old bag you’ve been toting around for years?
This “Freewheeler” from Patagonia might be a very functional, (and environmentally conscious,) option.
Patagonia says they recycle used soda bottles, unusable second quality fabrics and worn out garments into polyester fibers, which they then use to produce bags and many of their clothes. This bag is manufactured using 100 percent recycled polyester with a polyurethane coating and a durable water repellent finish; and the base is constructed of molded foam and recycled polyester. 
The main compartment holds a week’s worth of clothes, and there’s a fully-lined lower compartment that separates your potentially messy boots and gear from your clothing.
There are impact-resistant skidplates and batten supports that keep the bag standing upright when you choose, and collapse when you want to store it. A two-position retractable handle and 80 mm wheels make it easy to pull the bag through the airport or to your train; and an interior mesh toiletry pocket and light-colored interior lining help keep things organized and easier to find.
Patagonia’s website says, “Think of this wheeled bag as an escape waiting to happen.”
I like the way they think.
The Freewheeler is available in Banana Blue or Black for $399. Patagonia, 87 Post Road East, Westport. (203) 226-8778, www.patagonia.com
…just kidding, Dear…