subject: Choosing The Right Type Of Luggage [print this page] Choosing a suitcase or travel bag can be tricky. It is tempting to go for the cheaper luggage from a discount store, often justified by the fact that most luggage doesn't last more than one or two trips anyway. That is probably because you haven't bought the right type of bags for the type of traveling you do. With designer luggage, you're paying for the name, not the functionality.
When choosing luggage, you need to consider where you are traveling to, what type of vacation you are going on, and what forms of transport you will be using. On airplane trips, keep track of regulations. Hard cases will protect your items better. The downside is that they are inflexible. They also will be more heavier.
Soft bodied bags are lightweight and expandable. They are great for plane trips, but they won't protect your stuff as well. Your best bet will be a semi soft bag. A semi soft bag will protect contents, and expand. These bags can be squashed into overhead bins and car trunks, but will retain their shape and protect their contents when checked at the airport.
Rolling bags are good no matter the type of travel. Carting a suitcase through airports and bus stops gets tiring. Recessed wheels are less likely to break. If you can afford a suitcase with 4 spinner wheels, it is recommended. Four wheels give the bag better balance, and spinner wheels can turn at least 350 degrees, making it easy to turn corners and steer the bag in any direction.
Make sure the handle length is comfortable for you. The handle should lock in. Better quality bags will have two sets of short handles. Some rolling bags have a hook or detachable piggyback clip which allows you to hook another bag onto the rolling bag, using it as a cart to help you carry more than one bag.
Choose a bright color or unusual pattern so that your bag is easily identifiable on the baggage carousel or in the bus cargo hold. Leather will be easily scratched as well as add weight. Polyester is not as strong as nylon, but either way, a self-repairing zipper is a must. Metal zippers break easily, especially when you're trying to stuff an extra two week's worth of shopping into your bag.
A combination lock is also recommended. Label your bag and leave contact details in the bag. A good bag will last you a lifetime, so don't be stingy. Get a warranty on the bag if it's offered.
