Frequent travelers and jet-setters looking to invest in quality luggage now have a new destination. Caravel, a newly opened multi-brand travelware store, aims to be a one-stop shop for all types of travelers.
Caravel takes its name from the swift ships used for exploration between the 15th and 17th centuries, embodying a spirit of adventure. Merrill Sua of Jake Bros Inc. said the store was designed as a space where travelers can discover essentials and unique finds for themselves or others.
“Inspired by the Portuguese ships that explored new lands, we wanted Caravel to be a place of discovery—whether for travel gear, personal needs, or gifts,” Sua said.
Located on the fourth level of The Podium in Ortigas Center, Caravel offers a premium selection of luggage, travel bags, and accessories from internationally recognized brands. It currently carries six exclusive brands: Bric’s, Porsche Design, Thule, Echolac, Travelpro, and GoTravel Accessories, catering to a variety of traveler needs.
Caravel exclusively showcases brands distributed by Jake Bros Inc. in the Philippines, some for nearly 40 years. Echolac has been with them for four decades, Thule for almost 15 years, Bric’s since 2019, and Travelpro for about five years.
“We’ve long planned this store to bring our brands together and elevate the shopping experience,” Sua said.
Beyond retail, Caravel offers in-store luggage repair and customization for select accessories.
“We needed a spacious store because luggage is big, and customers want to test their options. Thanks to The Podium, we made it happen,” Sua added.
Caravel’s Ortigas flagship store is not its only location. The brand also expanded with a branch at the second level of GH Mall in Greenhills Shopping Center, which opened late last year.
Owned by Jake Bros Inc., Caravel builds on the company’s reputation as a trusted distributor of global bags and luggage brands since 1987. The company aims to provide a refined and elevated shopping experience.
“We are always looking for new spaces, but it has to be the right space and the right location. Location is always important,” Sua emphasized.
Caravel plans to expand its offerings, with more brands expected to join in the coming months and years.
“It’s important for us to have brands with a unique identity, something that can’t be easily copied. In a world where new brands emerge quickly, authenticity and originality matter, along with after-sales support. Customers need to feel supported by the brand even after they purchase,” Sua said.
When asked for advice on choosing quality luggage, Sua suggested that young travelers do their research.
“The answer is in their hands. Everyone has a mobile phone now, so take the time to research—what materials you prefer, what designs suit you, and what pain points you’ve encountered with past luggage. Think about where you’re traveling, how long, and even the size of your hotel room. For example, in smaller hotel rooms, a front-opening trunk might be more practical.”
As for the future, Caravel is open to launching its own luggage brand, though Sua said it must align with the right imagery, messaging, and partners. “For now, we focus on carrying the best global brands available, ensuring we provide customers with high-quality choices.”
With its premium offerings, commitment to quality, and customer-focused services, Caravel positions itself as a top destination for travelers seeking durable, stylish, and reliable travel gear.
