We fly 2 -3 times a year for diving. Regs and computers go carry on in the largest soft pack I could find. BCD's, fins, mask,, wetsuit, etc all go in a plastic sided suitcase large enough for 2 sets. It weighs 47# dry. Sometimes we will have to move a wetsuit or heavier dive light to carry on for the trip back if we exceed the 50# limit.
The first suitcase did not survive the first trip but American replaced it with a similar lockable one that has held up for a couple of years. It looks like hell, has no Dive markings on it, and no brand name or "bling" that would appeal to a thief. It has both coasters and wheels so it can be used as a dolly or rolled straight up. I think we paid about $70 for it. It looks just like a regular fabric suitcase, but is made out of a hard plastic and is very light empty.
Clothing goes in a similar but slightly smaller suitcase. In a perfect world, we could get down to 1 suitcase for gear and 2 carryons....but still not there yet. As long as it is light, strong, secure, rollable, meets standard airline luggage restrictions, and looks like it is more likely to contain skidmarked underwear than dive equipment, I'll use it. We have been happy with the suitcases. I have a large rolling dive duffle as well, but it would be "oversized" for checked luggage and cost more to fly with so it stays home.
Good luck, safe travels.
Jay
