I've always used boxes in the past, usually tackle box types or craft boxes. My last kit was the kind where the handle's on the side and you lay it down to open it, so when you pick it up, things shift around and out of their compartments and it makes noise. The one before that was a tackle box, and with the handle on the lid I was always scared that when I picked it up the lock would break and everything would come crashing down.
So, I've been using a messenger bag, but it's really not quite right for me either. I'm in the market for something new right now, and have been looking at the rolling suitcase-like kind of craft cases, like these:
- newbielink:http://www.ritzcamera.com/product/EP4508808.htm?utm_medium=productsearch&utm_source=google [nonactive]
- newbielink:http://www.overstock.com/Crafts-Sewing/Crop-In-Style-NaNavigator-Rolling-Tote/2917643/product.html?rcmndsrc=2 [nonactive]
or these box/messenger bag hybrid totes:
- newbielink:http://www.overstock.com/Crafts-Sewing/ArtBin-Solutions-Black-Grey-Red-Mega-Tote/4329399/product.html [nonactive]
- newbielink:http://www.save-on-crafts.com/cropinstyljr.html [nonactive]
Only problem is I would really want to try them out before I buy them, but don't know where to find them other than online (and I've been looking!)
To the OP: It really is whatever works best for you, on top of whatever resources the theatre you're working for already provides. Some places will have giant, stocked SM roadboxes, making it kind of redundant to have your own kit at all. Others... not so much. I'd say just do some research and pick whatever you like best; if you decide after you've used it for a while to try something else, that's okay too!
Moderator edit: Cleaned up link formatting and added lists. -kmc307