It does appear that I am in that "handluggage warrior" niche. (I love that term!)
Then choose your weapon carefully, light enough to carry, strong enough to protect. Also practice your fighting technique, I find blunt punting and slashing movements to be the best in the midst of battle getting to the front of the mob when the flight is called. Remember, you carry the honour of the tribe each time you go into battle...
One would prefer to fly with the GV, but you just can't get the staff these days.
SHJ