The real question to ask is… “Which suitcase is right for you?”
One answer does not fit all due to numerous independent variables. The key is choosing the right travel luggage for your personal needs and considering key factors such as luggage type, price, durability, function, style, etc. Ask yourself some key questions. For those traveling by air, a good place to start is with this main question: “Do I plan to check my luggage or bring a carry-on, or both?”
Checked bags vs. Carry-on? What’s the difference?
Checked baggage refers to those bags that we “check” at the airport. This means that they get placed in the plane’s cargo hold and are not accessible to people until they are unloaded off the plane by airport staff.
Carry-on refers to bags that you bring on the plane that generally get stowed in the airplane’s overhead compartment. These bags must be under a certain size to qualify for carry-on status. Note that there are also some restrictions for what you can bring in carry-on regarding liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes. Do check airline regulations.
What luggage is best?
It’s a matter of personal preference, but there’s a newer trend in packing light and choosing lightweight suitcases as opposed to ones which are heavy. When purchasing new luggage, consider spinner luggage. This is luggage with four spinning wheels that navigates easily through airports. Also consider the overall price and getting the best value for your money.
Two categories
Luggage mainly comes in two main exterior styles – hard and soft. Do read reviews from reliable sources like Consumer Reports or Good Housekeeping. Both test luggage and rate it based on performance. This information is especially valuable when making comparisons.
To decide what’s right for you, check out Good Housekeeping’s article on The Best Luggage Brands to Buy in 2024. Add external source https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/travel-products/g26898407/best-luggage-brands/
Additional tips: A unique component that people tend to favor is luggage with compression capacity. Bags with this feature expand to let folks pack and compress once they are filled.
A luggage-related headache!
Packing for a trip can be a headache, especially when overpacking occurs and you discover you can’t close your luggage! The simple answer is bringing the right size luggage for your needs. Also don’t fall victim to overpacking by bringing way more than you need. This is especially important when flying as it may result in some or all the following:
- Lost time at airport’s luggage check and baggage claim
- Added monetary costs related to overweight luggage
- Increased potential for lost or damaged luggage
Even when not flying…
- Handling oversized and heavy baggage is challenging
- Luggage disorganization can occur
- Wrinkled clothing equals sloppy dressing
- Luggage leaks, rips, and tears are more likely to occur
Many packing experts express that: Choosing the right bag is key.
Tips to choosing the right bag include:
- Size: Consider these questions: How long am I traveling? What do I need to pack? What size luggage can I handle? What are TSA requirements for carry-on?
- Type: What type of bag is most practical for me? Is soft or hard luggage my preference? Do I prefer standard wheeled luggage or other options such as a backpack and duffle?
- Features: Do I want luggage that locks? Do I want a retractable handle? Do I want an expandable suitcase? Is it water resistant? Do I like the color and style?
- Weight & Interior space: How heavy is the luggage itself? How much packing space is inside? Are there dividers or pouched compartments that can ease the packing process?
- Durability & quality: What brands are highly rated? What material is best? How durable are the features to include material, zippers, wheels, handles, etc. Is it scuff and dent resistant?
- Operation: Is the luggage quiet and smooth? Do the handles and wheels operate easily? Is the suitcase easy to maneuver on carpet or uneven surfaces?
Packing know-how
Headed on a trip soon? Learn to pack like a champ! Read on for tips to pack effectively and efficiently to avoid problems associated with overpacking!
