1. Introduction: Protecting Your BERNINA Investment
A bumped car ride or a rushed walk into class is all it takes to crack a touch screen, bend spool pins, or knock a bobbin winder out of alignment. That’s why transport isn’t an afterthought—it’s insurance. BERNINA’s purpose-built travel bags and trolleys add padded protection, smart storage, and easy maneuverability so your machine arrives ready to sew. In this guide, you’ll find the best places to buy, how to match bags to your machine, and practical sizing tips to get a secure, problem-free fit.
Table of Contents
2. BERNINA Travel Bag Product Range and Buying Guide
Choosing the right BERNINA luggage is about balancing protection, capacity, and portability. From wheeled trolleys to module suitcases and accessory cases, the lineup covers everything you need to move your full setup with confidence.
2.1 Trolley Systems: L, XL, and XXL Options
BERNINA’s trolley systems are designed for series-specific fits and smooth transport:
- L Trolley (fits many 2, 3, 4, and 5 Series): A representative model measures 20" × 10.4" × 18.5" and includes internal/external storage compartments and inserts with hook-and-loop fasteners to stabilize smaller machines. Across the range you’ll find padded interiors, reinforced wheels, and telescopic handles for easy rolling.
- XL Trolley (7 and 8 Series): Built for larger bodies and accessory volume, with lightweight but sturdy construction and ample pocketing.
- XXL Trolley (9 Series): Maximum capacity and protection for the largest models.
For the B 990, BERNINA showcases a dedicated trolley set in the new silver finish with 360° spinner wheels, a telescoping handle, and abundant storage. The front panel opens so you can slide the machine out (no heavy lifting), with foam panels, mesh zipper pockets, and specific spots for the Slide-on Table and Freehand System.
What to look for:
- Protection: Dense foam, fitted inserts, and secure closures keep the machine stable.
- Access: Flip-down/front-opening panels make loading easier if lifting is hard.
- Organization: Side pockets for foot control/power cord, mesh pockets for cables, and clear vinyl pockets for small tools.
2.2 Machine-Specific Cases and Accessory Solutions
Round out your travel kit with purpose-built cases:
- Embroidery module solutions:
- Large Embroidery Module Trolley: $309.00 (with sale listings as low as $225.99 at 26% off)
- X-Large Embroidery Module Suitcase: $359.00
- On the 990 module bag, you’ll find spinner wheels, a strap to secure it to the sewing trolley, a foam-lined interior with a securing strap, and a slip pocket for BERNINA embroidery hoops (including the Giant Hoop), secured with Velcro.
- Overlocker/Serger trolleys:
- Overlocker Trolley: $539.00 (sale examples at $395.99, 26% off), designed for L 8 Series protection and mobility.
- Accessory storage:
- Accessory Soft Suitcase: $199.00
- Accessory Travel Case: $239.00 (sale examples at $148.99, 37% off)
- The 990 Accessory Case features custom-cut compartments for presser feet, stitch plates, bobbins, and even a Walking Foot location; inserts are removable so you can configure your carry exactly how you work.
Promotions to watch:
- Top Notch Sew & Vac has offered a 45% discount on BERNINA accessory suitcase bags, taking the price from $239.00 to $129.99.
2.3 Where to Buy: Retailers and Online Options
- Authorized dealers: With 2,000+ stores worldwide, BERNINA’s dealer network can confirm fit, demonstrate packing, and support service/software questions.
- Online retailers: Top Notch Sew & Vac, Top Stitch Sewing, BERNINA of Naperville, and the official BERNINA USA store actively stock the trolley and case range.
- Shipping perks: BERNINA of Naperville offers free shipping on orders of $150+—a threshold most cases exceed.
- Bundle deals: Look for value sets like the BERNINA 990 XXL Sewing Machine Trolley and Accessory Case Bundle (listed at $1,000.00 on sale from $1,488.00 at 32% off on Top Notch).
Tip: Compare regular vs. sale pricing across retailers. Many models (L/XL trolleys, module suitcases, accessory cases) frequently appear with meaningful discounts.
3. Machine Compatibility and Sizing Guide
The right case isn’t just about dimensions—it’s about series, generation, and what you pack alongside your machine. Use this framework to lock in a reliable fit.
3.1 Series-Specific Compatibility Framework
Start with BERNINA’s series-based mapping, then check model exceptions:
- Trolley pairing by series (guide):
- L Trolley: 2, 3, 4, and 5 Series
- XL Trolley: 7 and 8 Series
- XXL Trolley: 9 Series
- Carrying bag envelope:
- Standard Carrying Bag internal space is built around a 15" × 10" base and up to 12" height—ideal for compact/mid-size models.
- Notable exceptions and notes:
- Newer 5 Series models (e.g., 590, 570) do not fit the standard carrying bag due to dimensional changes.
- Certain carrying bags specifically support B Series models (e.g., 125, 125S, 135, 135S, 145, 145S, 210).
- The B 990, with expanded throat space and a large screen, benefits from specialized, larger-capacity solutions (e.g., XXL or the dedicated 990 trolley set).
When in doubt, confirm with an authorized dealer—especially for generations that changed footprints or machines near size boundaries.
3.2 Measuring Your Machine for Perfect Fit
A quick measurement routine helps you pick the correct case the first time:
- Measure the base footprint:
- Length and width of the machine’s base (front-to-back and side-to-side). - Check overall height:
- Measure total height including any permanent attachments that affect clearance. - Account for travel essentials:
- Note the volume needed for your accessory box/tray, foot control, power cord, Slide-on Table, and (if applicable) embroidery module and hoops. Many trolleys include dedicated pockets for these. - Use the carrying-bag benchmark:
- The standard carrying bag accommodates a 15" × 10" base and up to 12" height. If your measurements exceed this, move up to a trolley in the appropriate series size (L/XL/XXL). - Verify before you buy:
- Cross-reference your model with retailer compatibility charts and confirm with a dealer for newer or edge-case machines.
Bottom line: Match your series to the right trolley size, verify exceptions (like newer 5 Series), and measure with your typical travel load in mind for a dialed-in, protective fit.
