How To Pick The Perfect Suitcase For Your Next Trip
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Hey Traveler!
Want to know how to pick the perfect suitcase for your next trip? Wondering if hard shell or soft is best? Let’s find a suitcase that will meet all your travel needs!
We know the importance of having a reliable and sturdy travel suitcase. But, with so many brands, price points, and features available on the market, choosing the perfect one that suits your unique travel needs can be overwhelming.
In this guide, I will take you through the factors to consider when choosing a travel suitcase, the different types of suitcases available, and the so-called “features.” By the end of this guide, you will be equipped with all the knowledge you need to choose the perfect travel suitcase for your next adventure!
The Right Travel Suitcase Matters
Choosing the right travel suitcase is crucial for a comfortable and stress-free journey. Imagine having a suitcase that is too heavy, too big, or too small for your needs. Not only will it be uncomfortable to lug around, but it will also take up unnecessary space and make packing a nightmare. A high-quality travel suitcase can make all the difference by providing you with enough space, durability, and ease of use.
Factors to Consider When Choosing luggage
When choosing a travel suitcase, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, you need to think about your travel needs.
Are you traveling for a short or long trip?
Will you be carrying any fragile items?
Consider all modes of transportation. Will everyone’s luggage fit into a rental car? Will you be walking a lot? Can you manage to lift and maneuver your suitcase easily?
Accommodations. Small accommodations and sleeper trains can leave you without a closet to store your luggage. If traveling to Europe, don’t count on lifts (elevators); they are often incredibly tiny and out of order.
How much room do you need for shopping and souvenirs?
How and where will you store your suitcase at home?
Additionally, you need to consider the size and weight restrictions of the airline you will be flying with. Most airlines have specific size and weight limitations for carry-on and checked luggage. Lastly, consider your preferences, such as the suitcase's style, color, and brand.
Carry-On vs Checked Luggage - Which is Right for Your Needs?
Choosing between carry-on and checked luggage depends on your travel needs. Carry-on luggage is ideal for short trips or for those who want to avoid the hassle of checking in their luggage. It is also perfect for those who want to avoid the risk of their luggage getting lost or damaged. Checked luggage is ideal for extended trips or those carrying bulky items.
Understanding Luggage Size & Weight Restrictions
Understanding luggage size restrictions is essential when choosing the right travel suitcase. Airlines have different sizes and weight limitations for carry-on and checked luggage. It is essential to check with your airline before purchasing a suitcase to ensure it meets the size and weight restrictions.
Let’s find something that isn’t too large, too small, but just right for your trip!
LUGGAGE SIZES:
18 – 20” International Carryon
21 – 22” Domestic Carryon
23 – 24” Medium Checked
25 – 27” Large Checked (25” suitcases are the most popular for women travelers who check luggage)
28 – 32” Extra Large Checked
LUGGAGE WEIGHT:
Obviously, the lighter your suitcase is when empty, the easier to lift & maneuver and let’s be honest, there will be more room for shopping. Many airlines have a 30kg / 50lb limit for checked luggage. Therefore, you may want to invest in a handheld luggage scale to ensure you don’t get caught paying hefty baggage fees.
PRO TIP: Paying a luggage allowance tends to be cheaper when done in advance.
Types of Suitcases - Pros and Cons of Hard vs Soft Shell
There are two main types of suitcases - hard shell and soft shell.
Soft-shell suitcases are made of lightweight materials such as nylon or polyester. They are more flexible with give and wiggle room and offer more storage space. They are also easier to open in tight spaces. However, softshell luggage is less waterproof and more susceptible to stains. With that being said, most suitcases have a waterproof UVC lining to help protect your items from light rain. In addition to waterproof spray, a waterproof PVC cover is another smart option when traveling in wet weather.
Choosing between a hard shell and a soft shell depends on your personal preferences and travel needs.
Hard shell suitcases, on the other hand, are sturdy and made of durable materials. However, hard shell suitcases can dent, scuff, and crack, which causes them to fall apart more rapidly than soft luggage. When items are packed well, hard shell luggage will sufficiently protect breakables from rough handlers and wet weather (except the zippers). Hard suitcases are often easier to clean, more spacious, and weigh less than soft-shell luggage (with some exceptions). Being lightweight is a huge bonus when trying to keep your baggage weight to a minimum or when you’re traveling carry-on only. Another plus is that thieves won’t be able to slash through your bag to grab and go.
Features to Look for - Handles, Wheels, Locks, & More
When choosing a travel suitcase, look for features that make it easy to use and convenient. Handles, wheels, locks, and zippers are some of the features to consider. Handles should be sturdy and comfortable to grip. Wheels should be smooth and easy to maneuver. Locks should be secure and easy to operate. Zippers should be durable and glide smoothly.
Wheels
2 wheeled luggage (rollaboard luggage) will save you a bit of packing space but only rolls forward and backward, limiting to pulling it behind you. This style tends to tip over easily when not balanced.
4 wheeled luggage (spinners) make it easy for you to pull your suitcase alongside you, which can come in handy in crowds and tight spaces.
Rachel Bacha went viral when she posted about her experience as a ramp agent “Any time you are purchasing a suitcase, get a bag with four wheels for a couple of different reasons.” From her experience, Rachel said that bags with two wheels are going to get tossed, and alternatively, a bag with four wheels will get rolled and will be less likely to come out of that plane hold with any signs of damage.
PRO TIP: If you are traveling to Croatia, check to ensure the city you plan to visit hasn’t banned wheelie suitcases.
Handles
We often underestimate how much we put our handles through, and a broken handle can turn your suitcase into a heavy box on wheels. A large strip of Velcro can be used as a temporary handle if you find yourself in a bind. But hopefully, your suitcase won’t fail you!
Telescopic handles extend out of the back of the suitcase and lock into place for use. Ensure the length is perfect for your body and doesn’t cause back strain or hit your heels when in tow. If you’re exceptionally tall, you can buy collapsible handle extensions.
I recommend internal telescopic handles with ergonomic features. An internal collapsible handle is protected from damage but can reduce packing space. However, an external system is more susceptible to damage. You should also consider handles that lock in place securely with a single control button. When extended, the handle should not wiggle and should allow you to maintain a comfortable but firm grip.
Pro tip:
TravelPro features static top and side handles and an internal telescopic handle with ergonomic features.
Briggs and Riley, offers Aircraft-grade aluminum telescoping handles with multiple stop heights that are engineered with a superior impact-resistant design and ergonomic outsider handle grips.
More Features
Compartments & pockets help keep things organized. But I prefer to use packing cubes and compression cubes in my luggage.
Piggy back clip is a looped clip on the top of the bag that allows you to clip on a jacket or a second bag. You can buy an affordable attachment here if your suitcase doesn’t have one.
Expandability: Even hard cases have this option now! I think it is a must-have, especially for the trip home.
Colors: Bright colors and patterns will stand out when searching for your suitcase in a sea of luggage and may even decrease the theft risk.
Bob Arno, author of "Travel Advisory: How to Avoid Thefts, Cons, and Street Scams While Traveling" stated that police who were investigating baggage theft from Sky Harbor airport, found roughly 1,000 stolen bags at a Phoenix couple’s home and almost every one of them was black.
Specialized Types of Suitcases - Backpacks, Duffels, and More
Apart from hard-shell and soft-shell suitcases, there are specialized types of suitcases, such as backpacks, duffels, and more. Backpacks are perfect for those who want to travel light and hands-free. They are ideal for hiking trips or for those who want to explore a new city on foot. Duffels are perfect for those carrying bulky items such as sports equipment or musical instruments.
Security
When traveling to airports across the USA, Canada, Japan, Israel, Finland, Norway, Denmark, Czech Republic, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Netherlands, Switzerland, South Korea, New Zealand, as well as other countries, security agents are equipped with tools to open TSA LOCKS. This means if you use these locks, your luggage can be opened and examined without any damage.
How do I know if my padlock is TSA accepted?
Simply look for the ‘Red Diamond.’ The TSA and other security agencies accept every lock that carries the Travel Sentry® Approved mark.
Purchasing Luggage
Keep your eye open for seasonal sales.
Consider your travel type and frequency before deciding how much you want to spend.
Like most things in life, you shouldn’t compromise quality for the price.
Read reviews on the brand’s website and third-party websites.
Review warranty & return policies.
I like to look for free shipping and returns when shopping online.
If buying online, give yourself time to return it and shop around before your trip.
Tips for Packing Your Travel Suitcase - Maximizing Space and Organization
Maximizing space and organization is essential when packing your travel suitcase. I find that a combination of rolling and folding clothes can save space and prevent wrinkles. Packing cubes or compression bags can help organize your items and save space. Placing heavier items at the bottom of the suitcase can prevent them from crushing lighter items. Packing essentials such as toiletries and medications in a separate bag is also important for easy access.
How to Care for Your Suitcase - Maintenance & Storage Tips
Taking care of your travel suitcase is essential to prolong its lifespan. Cleaning it regularly with a damp cloth can prevent dirt buildup. Lubricating the wheels and zippers can prevent them from getting stuck. Storing it in a cool and dry place can prevent mold and mildew growth. It is also essential to remove any luggage tags or stickers before storing them to prevent any adhesive residue from damaging the suitcase.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect travel suitcase can make all the difference in your travel experience. By considering your travel needs, understanding luggage size restrictions, and choosing the right suitcase type, you can ensure a comfortable and stress-free journey. Features such as handles, wheels, locks, and zippers can make it easy and convenient to use. Following the tips for packing and caring for your travel suitcase can prolong its lifespan and ensure it stays in top condition for many future adventures!
Carry-on standards vary by airline - always check with your airline before flying.
I hope you travel more & pack less. Cheers, Amanda Holt
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