Whether you’re a frequent flyer or you just take the occasional vacation away, it’s important to choose the right luggage for your adventure. Not only do you need something that’s going to hold all of your belongings, but it also needs to keep everything safe (whether you decided to store your luggage or not). This is often a daunting task for travelers because there are so many options out there to choose from.
We’re making the decision a little easier for you by sharing some advice on how to choose the best luggage for traveling. After all, the right storage will make your trip go much more smoothly, right?
Select Hard Shell or Soft Shell
One of the first things you may want to consider when purchasing a new piece of luggage for traveling is what the exterior is made out of. As you hunt for your perfect luggage, you’re going to encounter suitcases that have either a hard or soft outer shell. The one you choose to go with will depend on your needs when traveling.
The hard shell suitcases on the market today are often made with a polycarbonate exterior. These shells are durable, so they offer some extra protection for your belongings that are stored inside. This is perfect for carrying any of your tech gadgets with you. The hard, polycarbonate shell is also great because it’s easy to clean by simply wiping it down.
On the other hand, you might be more drawn to the soft shell luggage. These are typically made from leather or a heavy fabric. If you’re going to be storing your luggage in an overhead compartment while on the plane, the soft shell suitcase should have no problem making the squeeze into this tight space. Plus, you’ll appreciate the added storage that outside pockets add!
Choose the Right Size
Another important factor when choosing the best luggage for traveling is the size. The size of your luggage is going to depend on a variety of things. First, you’ll want to consider the airline you’re flying with to learn what their luggage allowance is because everyone has different regulations. Also, will you choose a carry-on or will you be checking your luggage?
Another thing to keep in mind is that you shouldn’t choose luggage that’s a struggle for you to manage when it’s empty. You need something that you can handle because there typically won’t be anyone around to help you lift or carry your bags. Make sure the luggage you decide to purchase doesn’t put on a strain on you physically.
Go for Something Lightweight
If you want to save some money while traveling, you likely want to avoid any kind of overweight baggage fees. And while that largely depends on what you’ve packed into your bag, it also depends on the weight of the luggage you’re bringing on board. For this reason, you should consider how much a bag weighs before making your purchase.
Instead of going for a heavy, bulkier bag, go for something that’s lightweight. You always want to go for a lighter piece of luggage to help you save cash while traveling. There are plenty of options on the market that are advertised as being lighter, so you’ll want to look into those to avoid added fees when flying.
Get Functional Wheels
When traveling, wheels on a suitcase can make a huge difference. Instead of having to carry a heavy bag, you’re able to pull it behind you or push it in front of you to get around quickly. It really takes the stress out of navigating the busy airport. However, you’ll have to choose between two wheels or four when selecting your new luggage.
Suitcases with two wheels are easy to maneuver, but they’re also prone to tipping over if they’re not balanced. On the other hand, you can select a suitcase with four wheels, which will stand upright. They’re also easy to move around, plus can be pulled sideways since they have a wider range of movement. If you choose four wheels, make sure the suitcase you purchase has a locking system though, otherwise they won’t stay in place!
Choose an Expandable Zipper
Trying to fit all your things into a suitcase can often be a challenge! It’s even more difficult when you’re returning home with a few extra things in your bag! That’s why it’s a great idea to choose something with an expandable zipper. It’ll allow your bag to grow, thus giving you a little more space to pack everything in. Just be aware that an expanded suitcase may have trouble fitting into an overhead compartment!
Get Compartments for Organization
If you’re someone who loves to be organized, especially when traveling, you’ll need to consider what kind of compartments are inside the luggage you buy. Zipper pockets both inside and outside your bag provide a place for everything you’re bringing on your trip. If you fall in love with a bag that doesn’t have as many compartments, you could also purchase a luggage organizer to keep things tidy.
Pick Your Durability
The last tip to keep in mind when choosing the best luggage for traveling is durability. You want something that is made of quality materials and will withstand your travels time and time again. You’ll also want to consider where you’re flying to and any activities your luggage may need to endure.
A long-lasting piece of luggage is made of quality material, has tough wheels, sturdy handles, and strong zippers. You don’t have to break the bank for quality luggage, but you also don’t want the cheapest option on the market either. Great luggage should last you a long time and will be worth the price you pay.
Luggage options to consider…
What is your favorite luggage for traveling? Let us know in the comments!