Starting a journey means picking the right luggage that fits your travel needs. This guide will help you find the perfect luggage that meets your needs and shows your style. Whether you want a tough carry-on or a big checked bag, we’ve got you covered. This guide will help you make a smart choice for your travels.
Key Takeaways
- Suitcase weight is a critical factor, with full-size models ranging from 3.1kg to 5.9kg when empty.
- Airline weight and size restrictions for carry-on luggage must be considered when selecting a lightweight cabin case.
- Hard-shell suitcases, like the American Tourister Airconic Spinner, can weigh as little as 3.2kg, providing a viable lightweight option.
- Cabin bags with expandable features, such as the Away The Carry On Flex, offer extra packing space when needed.
- Luggage with smart features, such as location tracking and digital locks, can enhance convenience and security for travelers.
Importance of a Reliable Suitcase
Your luggage should be more than just a place for your stuff. It should be a reliable friend that makes your trip better. A reliable suitcase is key for a worry-free and fun trip. It must be durable enough to withstand the rigors of travel, work well for your packing needs, and be budget-friendly.
A good travel-friendly bag is great for any trip, no matter where you’re going or how you’re getting there. It should be strong to keep your things safe and handle the bumps of travel without breaking. You don’t want your suitcase to break on you, leaving you with damaged or lost items.
| Feature | Importance |
|---|---|
| Durability | Luggage should be able to withstand the rigors of travel, including being dropped, thrown, and exposed to the elements. |
| Functionality | Suitcases should be designed to meet the specific needs of travelers, with features like ample storage, easy maneuverability, and organized compartments. |
| Budget | Travelers should be able to find a reliable suitcase that fits their luggage budget without compromising on quality or features. |
Buying a durable and travel-friendly bag means your stuff is safe and your trip is smooth and fun. A reliable suitcase is a must-have for travelers.
Factors to Consider When Luggage Shopping
When looking for a new suitcase, think about how you’ll travel. Consider airplanes, trains, cars, and buses. Think about the size and weight you need based on your trips. Also, think about how much you’ll pack.
Look at different luggage types like hardshell or soft-sided. Think about the materials and features you need. Compartments, handles, and wheels make packing easier. These details help you find the right suitcase for your needs.
Transportation Modes and Travel Duration
The way you travel affects the luggage you should choose. For flying, remember the size limits for carry-ons. If you’re taking trains, buses, or taxis, choose a lighter suitcase. For road trips or longer vacations, you might need a bigger bag.
Luggage Types and Materials
Hardshell luggage is strong but heavy. Soft-sided bags are flexible and lighter. Think about what you need: protection or easy carry.
| Luggage Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Hardshell | – Durable protection – Sleek appearance |
– Heavier weight – Less flexible |
| Soft-sided | – Lightweight – Flexible packing |
– Less protection – Can get dirty/scuffed |
Think about your travel plans and what you need to pack. This way, you can pick the best luggage for your life and trips.
Zippers: Quality Matters
The zipper is key in suitcases. It keeps your stuff safe while you’re on the move. So, picking a good zipper is crucial when you’re looking for the right luggage.
Chain Zippers vs. Coil Zippers
Chain zippers have interlocking metal teeth and are stronger and more secure than coil zippers. They’re less likely to break or get stuck. This makes them a top choice for quality suitcases.
Coil zippers, on the other hand, use parallel polyester coils. They can be more prone to damage and might not protect your items as well.
Look for suitcases with YKK zippers if you can. YKK is a top name in zippers for their quality and durability. They’re the leading zipper maker in the world, known for their great performance and long life.
“Zippers are one of the most common failure points in luggage, so choosing a suitcase with quality suitcase zippers is crucial for ensuring your belongings stay safe and secure during your travels.”
Low-cost luggage often has poor zippers, which can break easily and cost you more to fix or replace. Spending on a suitcase with zipper quality that can handle travel well is smart. It saves you time, money, and trouble later on.
Handles: Comfort and Convenience
When picking out suitcase handles, think about how they make you feel. Choose suitcase handles that adjust in length for a perfect fit. This way, you won’t have to strain your neck or back.
Handles with a soft grip are a must for comfort. They make carrying your bags over long distances easier. You won’t feel the weight as much.
Retractable handles are smart because they can be tucked away. This keeps them safe from damage while you’re on the move. Two-post handles on wheeled luggage let you carry extra bags or totes easily. This keeps everything tidy and within reach.
Telescoping handles are great for convenience. They extend and retract easily. This means you can adjust the handle to fit your height perfectly. It also helps reduce strain on your arm and shoulder when you’re moving through crowded places.
| Handle Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Adjustable Length | Allows for a personalized fit |
| Soft Grip | Provides comfort during extended carrying |
| Retractable | Reduces the risk of handle damage during travel |
| Telescoping | Enables easy adjustments for a customized experience |
When you’re looking for a new suitcase, try out the handles first. Make sure they’re comfortable and convenient. This will make your travels smoother and less stressful.
Compartments: Organized Packing
Choosing the right suitcase can change how you pack. The number and size of pockets inside and out matter a lot. Modern suitcases have special pockets for laptops and other electronics. These pockets protect your valuables and make them easy to find on your trip.
There are also zippered pouches and compartments for better packing. They help keep things like toiletries and chargers separate. For those who care about style, some suitcases have special “suiter” compartments. These let you pack a suit without needing a separate bag.
- Dedicated, padded laptop pockets for safe transport of electronics
- Zippered pouches and compartments for organizing smaller items
- Specialized “suiter” compartments for wrinkle-free suit packing
Think about the suitcase’s compartments to make packing easier. This way, your things will stay organized during your trip. Being well-organized can reduce stress and make your trip more efficient.
“A well-organized suitcase can make all the difference in your travel experience. Thoughtful compartments and pockets allow you to keep your belongings tidy and easily accessible.”
Weight: Lightweight is Best
Choosing a lighter suitcase is a smart move. Experts say non-wheeled bags should weigh 2 to 4 pounds. Wheeled ones should be under 7.5 pounds. This makes carrying your stuff easier, especially with your packed items.
Before you go, check your airline’s carry-on weight limits and checked bag weight limits. This way, you won’t face surprise fees.
Over 600 pieces of lightweight luggage were tested to find the top choices. A carry-on from the review weighed 5.95 pounds and was 21.7 × 14.2 × 7.9 inches big. The most durable one was 6.7 pounds and 21 x 14 x 9.5 inches, with a 38-liter capacity.
The best expandable carry-on was 6.4 pounds and 23 x 15 x 10 inches big.
Travelpro® luggage is super tough and comes with a warranty. They use advanced materials like stain-resistant polyester and ballistic nylon for softside bags. Hard shell suitcases are made with scratch-resistant polycarbonate.
The Maxlite® 5 21″ Expandable Spinner is just 5.4 pounds empty. It’s the only mid-priced lightweight option with a one-year warranty for repairs.
Smart Features: Connected Capabilities
Technology is changing the way we travel with smart luggage. Today, connected suitcases have features that make trips smoother and easier. Features like GPS tracking and digital scales are becoming key for those who travel often.
Convenience at Your Fingertips
Smart luggage stands out with its location tracking feature. GPS lets you see where your suitcase is, giving you peace of mind. It also means you won’t lose it. Plus, digital scales in the luggage make it easy to check the weight, helping you avoid extra fees at the airport.
For more security, some connected suitcases have fingerprint locks. These let you open your bag easily and safely. And, built-in power sources with USB ports keep your devices charged while you’re on the move.
| Smart Luggage Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| GPS Tracking | Monitor your bag’s location for peace of mind |
| Digital Scales | Easily check your bag’s weight to avoid fees |
| Fingerprint Locks | Secure your belongings with a biometric lock |
| Power Sources | Keep your devices charged on the go |
These smart luggage features cost more, but they’re great for frequent travelers. They make journeys easier and add convenience and security to your trips.
Locks: TSA-Compliant for U.S. Travel
If you’re flying to, from, or within the United States, you need TSA-compliant locks for your suitcases. These locks have a special key that TSA agents can use to open your bag during checks. This way, they can look inside without breaking the lock. It keeps your luggage safe but lets authorities access it if needed.
Many luggage brands have TSA-approved locks. They’re made of strong materials like hardened steel or zinc alloy. These locks can handle checked bag inspections and stay strong. Make sure the lock you buy clearly shows it’s TSA-compliant to meet U.S. travel needs.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| TSA-Compliant Design | Allows Transportation Security Administration agents to inspect your luggage without cutting the lock |
| Durable Construction | Withstands the demands of travel and checked bag inspections |
| Clear Identification | Ensures you’re purchasing the right luggage locks for your U.S. travel needs |
Using TSA-compliant locks means you can travel securely. You’ll still let authorities check your luggage when needed. This easy step makes going through U.S. airports smoother.
Expandability: Extra Space for Souvenirs
Choosing the right luggage is key for your travels. Expandable hard-shell suitcases are great for extra space. They’re perfect for souvenirs or more items you buy on your trip.
But, remember, some carry-on size bags get too big when expanded. They might not fit in the overhead bin anymore. If you check your bag, an expandable one can give you the extra room you need.
- The Away Carry-on Flex can expand its depth by 2.25 inches.
- The Béis Large Check-in Roller offers a 112-liter capacity and expands 2 inches in depth.
- The Samsonite Freeform Spinner expands by 2 inches in depth and weighs 5.6 pounds.
- Travelpro’s Platinum Elite luggage line includes a carry-on and checked bag that expand by 2 inches.
- The Calpak travel trunk expands by 2 inches and measures 31.5 x 15.5 x 12.5 inches.
When picking an expandable suitcase, think about what you need to pack and the size limits for carry-ons. The right expandable luggage offers flexibility and convenience for your trips.
Suitcase buying guide: how to choose the best luggage
Choosing the right suitcase is key for any traveler. It’s important whether you’re going for a weekend or a long trip. This guide will help you pick the best luggage for your needs and budget.
Zipper Quality
The zipper is a crucial part of a suitcase. You should pick one that’s strong and reliable. Chain zippers, made of metal, are better and stronger than coil zippers. YKK zippers are top-notch for their quality and long life.
Weight Considerations
Luggage should be light. Experts say non-wheeled bags should be 2 to 4 pounds, and wheeled ones should be under 7.5 pounds. This means the weight you carry is mostly your stuff, not the suitcase.
Compartments and Organization
Suitcases with good compartments make packing easy. Look for ones with laptop sleeves, suiter compartments, and many pockets. These features help keep your things organized and easy to find.
Expandability and Versatility
Some hard-shell luggage can expand, but an expanded carry-on might not fit in overhead bins. This feature is useful for extra souvenirs or items on the way back.
Smart Features
New tech has brought smart features to luggage. These include location tracking, digital scales, fingerprint locks, and power sources. They make traveling easier and keep you connected.
Keep these factors in mind to find the perfect luggage for your travels. Happy travels!
Wheels: Spinners vs. Two-Wheelers
Choosing the right luggage can really change your travel experience. Suitcases often have either spinner wheels for easy movement or traditional two wheels. Each type has its own benefits, depending on how you travel and what you prefer.
The Spinner Advantage
Spinner luggage is now the top choice for many travelers. These wheels make moving around easy, whether you’re in a busy airport or a crowded train station. They let you move in any direction easily, making it less tiring to carry your suitcase.
Two-Wheelers for Uneven Terrain
Spinner luggage works great on flat surfaces, but two-wheeled bags are better for rougher ground. They’re perfect for getting over curbs, stairs, and other rough spots. These bags also fit well in overhead bins and are less likely to get damaged.
| Feature | Spinner Luggage | Two-Wheeled Luggage |
|---|---|---|
| Maneuverability | Excellent, with 360-degree rotation | Better for navigating uneven terrain and stairs |
| Overhead Bin Fit | May take up more space due to protruding wheels | Recessed wheels allow for a more compact profile |
| Durability | Susceptible to damage from baggage handlers | Rollaboard® wheels are more durable |
| Rolling Efficiency | Smooth maneuverability in open spaces | Larger wheels provide better straight-line rolling |
When picking between spinner luggage and two-wheeled luggage, think about your travel plans and the ground you’ll cover. Spinner bags are great for all-around use, but two-wheelers are better for tough terrain and lots of stairs.
Storage: Internal and External Pockets
Packing for your travels can be easier with the right suitcase. Modern suitcases have special pockets for laptops and other devices. They also have zippered pockets and pouches for small items.
Exterior pockets on soft-sided luggage are very useful. They let you quickly grab things like boarding passes or a spare charger. These pockets help keep your suitcase organized and make your trip smoother.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Interior pockets | Dedicated, padded compartments for laptops and electronics, plus zippered pouches for smaller items |
| Exterior pockets | Quick access to items needed during travel, such as boarding passes, travel documents, and chargers |
| Packing organization | Streamlined suitcase storage for a stress-free travel experience |
When picking a suitcase, think about what you need for packing and travel. The right suitcase makes your journey smooth and organized. This lets you enjoy your trip more.
Materials: Hard-Shell vs. Soft-Sided
Choosing between hard-shell and soft-sided luggage can change your travel experience. Each type has its own benefits. It’s important to think about what you need and what you prefer.
Durability and Flexibility
Hard-shell luggage is made of strong materials like polycarbonate or ABS plastic. It’s very durable and protects your things well. Soft-sided bags, made from nylon or polyester, are flexible. This makes them easy to move around in small spaces.
Packing and Portability
Hard-shell carry-on bags usually weigh 5 to 10 pounds. Checked bags are a bit heavier, around 9 to 12 pounds. This makes them easy to carry, especially when you’re watching your weight for flights. Soft-sided luggage is even lighter, making it easy to carry around.
| Feature | Hard-Shell Luggage | Soft-Sided Luggage |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Excellent | Good |
| Flexibility | Limited | High |
| Weight | Heavier | Lighter |
| Packing Options | Clamshell design for easy organization | Zippered expansion for extra space |
| Exterior Pockets | Limited | More options |
Choosing between hard-shell and soft-sided luggage depends on your travel needs and what you like. Hard-shell suitcases protect your items well. Soft-sided bags are flexible and versatile. Think about your trip type, how much gear you’re bringing, and how you like to pack to choose the best luggage for you.
Conclusion
This suitcase buying guide has covered all the key factors to consider when shopping for new luggage. It looked at zippers, handles, compartments, and weight. By knowing what you need for your travels, you can pick the best suitcase for you.
Choosing the right carry-on or checked bag can make your trips better. It makes them more organized and fun. This guide’s packing tips will help make your next trip easy, no matter where you’re going or how long you’ll be away.
There are many options out there, so finding the perfect suitcase is easy. Start your next journey with confidence. Know you have the right luggage to keep your stuff safe and make your trip smooth.