What to Look for in Quality Luggage

So, you’ve made your travel plans for that long-anticipated vacation. Maybe it’s a once-in-a-lifetime trip. You’re ready, with maps, an itinerary and research on what to see and do when you arrive at your destination. All you have to do is pack your bags and board the train, plane, car or other conveyance. Everything is planned and handled, right? Well, maybe not…what about your luggage?

Travel Luggage: An Important Part of Any Trip

Take a minute to look critically at your luggage. Poorly designed and constructed luggage can be a nightmare when you’re traveling. Such luggage can be difficult to pack and carry. It generally lacks the functionality and versatility you need. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the features of quality luggage to help you make an informed purchase decision. Your travel bags should be as carefully chosen as your destination. Here are some of the topics we’ll cover:

• Style
• Price
• Number of pieces you’ll need and recommended sizes
• Soft- or hard-sided
• Frame
• Wheels and Zippers
• Materials used in construction
• Interior features

Style: What Kind of Traveler Are You?

Style might not seem like an important factor when choosing travel bags, but a bad choice will haunt you throughout your trip. For example, if you’re fussy about your wardrobe, you should consider purchasing a garment bag. Garment bags minimize wrinkling but can be cumbersome to carry. Or maybe you’re a minimalist whose trip will be totally casual and informal. Then consider a sturdy duffel bag. Some travelers prefer backpacks while others like traditional suitcases. Regardless of what style you choose, make sure the luggage will be durable. More on this later in the article.

Price: Getting What You Pay For

Inexpensive, poor quality bags can have an unfortunate tendency to pop open at the most inopportune times. Buy the best luggage you can afford. Choose luggage from a reliable, well-known manufacturer or designer. Don’t forget to check discount as well as dedicated luggage stores. You may find high-end or designer luggage sets at surprisingly low prices in a “big box” retailer. Chances are, though, that the best deals will be on line, from electronic retailers. Since they don’t have the overhead of a traditional store, these retailers usually offer attractive deep discounts. If you shop carefully and be sure you know what you want, a purchase over the Internet can save you a lot of time and money.


Number of Pieces and Sizes You’ll Need: Traveling Light or Not

At the very least, you’ll need a piece of carry on luggage like a tote bag and one other bag (either carry on or checked). A 22-inch upright rolling case will stow neatly in the overhead compartment of an airplane and will carry enough for a weekend. For a week’s sojourn, choose a 24-inch size, either upright or traditional. For stays up to 2 weeks, a 26-to 27-inch suitcase is appropriate. If you’re going to be away for two weeks or longer, you’ll need a 29- to 30- inch piece of luggage, or a combination a small and medium-sized case. Add on a garment bag and you easily could need 4 pieces of quality luggage for longer trips, depending, of course, on your personal preferences.

Soft- or Hard-Sided: Which is Right for You?

Soft-sided luggage and duffel bags are lightweight and expandable to accommodate all that extra stuff you’ll be returning with. Soft-sided luggage fits easily into compartments or racks or stows neatly under a seat. Generally, soft-sided luggage is less durable and doesn’t do as good a job at protecting your possessions. Hard-sided luggage is sturdier and protects your stuff better. However, this type of luggage isn’t expandable and can be bulky. Hard-sided luggage is also heavier before it is packed. Regardless of what type you choose, be sure it has wheels. Rolling luggage is easier to move and handle.