A new Chicago-based startup is combining tech, philanthropy and luggage with a new carry-on suitcase designed to make traveling a little more convenient.
The company, Fernweh Smart Luggage, offers the Remote Carry-On, a suitcase that features an OLED display, a smart lock, GPS tracking, a built-in scale, a fold-out workstation and two USB charging ports. Additionally, it’s sleek and lightweight—it’s only 7.2 pounds.
Fernweh Smart Luggage was founded by Dujon Smith, a 25-year-old Evanston native who works as an innovation consultant at Accenture in Chicago’s Merchandise Mart. He created the concept for the Remote Carry-On after an epiphany at an El Pollo Loco in Los Angeles back in 2015.
“I’ve been really interested in travel, technology and education, and I feel like my purpose in life is to inspire people to travel,” Smith said. “I vividly remember sitting in that El Pollo Loco having a half chicken, and being like, ‘I’m going to launch this luggage line.’”
Smith launched a Kickstarter campaign on Aug. 10 for the Remote Carry-On and is hoping to raise $125,000 by Sept. 10. As of Friday afternoon, Smith had raised about $28,200. Early bird pricing begins at $299, but if the Kickstarter is successful, the suitcase will retail for $599, Smith said.
On a full charge, the suitcase's battery can last for up to two weeks, and it can recharge a smartphone three and a half times. The battery is removable in case Transportation Security Administration agents require it be taken out during security screenings. And of course, it meets aircraft carry-on size requirements.
With every suitcase purchased, Fernweh will donate 20 percent of the profits to scholarships that allow students to travel overseas. Smith said this is a mission he’s passionate about because without the help of scholarships and grants, he wouldn’t have had the opportunity to travel like he did. In the last eight years, he’s been to 44 countries across six different continents.
“I wouldn’t be the man I am today if I hadn’t gotten these opportunities,” Smith said. “I want to provide that same opportunity, especially to underprivileged youths, like [those] in Chicago, some who have not been outside of their block.”
Though smart luggage from other brands is already on the market, Smith says he’s confident that his design and mission will compete with companies like Bluesmart or Space Case 1.
“There’s still room in the market,” Smith said. “It’s not too saturated yet. Connected luggage is still growing.”
