Baggage selection guide; Light and practical companion for travel

Suitcase is one of the most important travel equipments that can be used for most trips. Suitcases are produced in all kinds of soft and hard materials and in large, medium, cabin size, etc. sizes, each of which is suitable for a type of travel. If you travel a lot and are looking for the best option to buy luggage, you are suggested to check features such as size, weight, body material, locks and security systems, type of wheels, number of compartments, etc., to finally consider These things, choose efficient luggage.

Learn more about how to choose luggage for travel:

Choosing the right size of luggage

Today, many brands around the world are engaged in the production of travel luggage, and in fact, we will be faced with a variety of models and sizes to choose from; But in general, choosing the right size of luggage depends on various factors such as the type of travel, duration of travel, final destination and airlines, which are given below to make it easier to choose.

_{Photo source: Steamlineluggage.com website. Photographer: Unknown}

Small or cabin-sized luggage

Small size luggage or cabin size luggage, which is also called “Carry-On”, is usually suitable for business and personal trips that last between one and three days. The dimensions of this suitcase are about 56 x 36 x 23 cm and its volume is 30 to 50 liters depending on the brand and has a capacity of 10 to 15 kg. And they are often in the same dimension with a small difference. Keep in mind that if your travel plan is business, choose a suitcase that has a compartment for formal clothes and a laptop. Cabin-sized luggage also takes up little space when traveling by car.

Medium-sized or hand luggage

Medium-sized or hand luggage, depending on the brand, are between 61 and 68 cm high and their capacity is equal to 20 to 30 kg and the volume is 50 to 80 liters. This type of luggage is suitable for seven to 10 day trips for one person and four to seven days for two people. Also, these suitcases have many internal and external compartments, on the basis of which you can arrange travel items and accessories regularly so that everything is available when needed.

_{Photo source: Manofmany.com website. Photographer: Unknown}

Large size luggage

Large-sized suitcases, which are often suitable for seven- to 10-day solo trips, one to seven-day family trips, and moving a large amount of clothes, have a capacity between 30 and 35 kg and an internal volume of 70 to 120 liters. With a height of 71 to 79 cm, this suitcase has multiple zippers and compartments and allows you to organize any item in a separate compartment.

Children’s luggage

Children’s suitcases are another type of suitcases that are used to move children’s clothes and belongings. To make these luggage, airline standards have been met and passengers can take the child’s luggage with them to the plane cabin.

_{Photo source: Amazon.com website. Photographer: Unknown}

Weight and easy portability

Weight and easy portability is one of the most important criteria that should be considered when buying; Because in air travel due to weight restrictions, this issue will become very important. For this purpose, try to choose the lightest and most high-quality type of luggage while buying, so that it saves you from extra costs at the airport and is not difficult to carry during the trip.

Another thing that affects the weight of the luggage is the weight of the wheels. Keep in mind that the weight of luggage without wheels should not exceed 1 to 2 kg and luggage with wheels should not exceed 3.5 kg. In this case, you will have the most ideal purchase. Also note that regarding air travel, the most weight should belong to your luggage and travel accessories; So, the lighter the weight of the luggage, the easier the experience and portability.

_{Suitcase with pet storage compartment; Photo source: Roverlund.com website. Photographer: Unknown}

Body material: hard or soft?

The luggages available in the market have a variety of materials that each person can choose from according to the type and destination of the trip, the amount of accessories and individual tastes. In general, luggage is divided into two categories in terms of materials and types, the first category includes softside luggage with materials such as tarpaulin, nylon cordura, titanium-plastic, polyester and ballistic nylon; The second category includes hardside luggage made of aluminum, polycarbonate, polypropylene, ABS and leather. Each of these bags has its own strengths and weaknesses. For example, soft luggage has more internal and external compartments; But in luggage with a hard body, separate compartments have no place. On the other hand, the degree of protection of the accessories and items inside the luggage in case of impact or water and humidity is more in hard body than in soft body luggage.

_{Photo source: Manofmany.com website. Photographer: Unknown}

Soft body luggage

Soft body luggage is one of the most popular types of luggage. This type of luggage has considerable flexibility, and this has made it possible to fit more essentials with a little pressure.

• Canvas suitcase: This type of luggage has good resistance against water and humidity; But as soon as it gets wet, it smells unpleasant. Therefore, it is not considered a suitable option for traveling to destinations with humid weather.
• Ballistic nylon luggage: This type of suitcase is one of the most popular suitcases with a soft body that has a type of thick and synthetic nylon fabric. Ballistic nylon luggage is easy to clean and has high resistance to tearing, scratching and abrasion. This luggage is often produced in dark and black colors.
• Cordura nylon luggage: This luggage has high resistance against tearing, scratching and abrasion and has many color variations. Cordura nylon luggage has less weight and strength than ballistic nylon luggage.
• Titanium-plastic luggage: This material is one of the suitable and high-quality luggages that have a long life and resistance; But they are not scratch resistant.
• Polyester luggage: This suitcase has a soft and thin cover that is not high quality and strong. In terms of price, it is cheaper than nylon cordura and ballistic luggage.

_{Photo source: www.Amazon.sa website. Photographer: Unknown}

Luggage with a hard body

If you are looking for a waterproof and shockproof luggage for your trip, a hard body luggage can be the best option for you; Of course, keep in mind that all hard luggage may not necessarily have this level of capabilities and act differently in terms of resistance and insulation against water. In the following, these bags have been checked separately:

• Aluminum suitcase: This suitcase is considered one of the shockproof and waterproof suitcases, which is very strong and dignified; Therefore, for a long time, you will feel at ease about buying luggage again. Most of the aluminum suitcases are TSA lockable, which also ensures its security. The only disadvantage of this luggage is its high weight; Therefore, if you intend to move a large volume of cargo, consider its weight. Also, this issue in the case of air travel may cause you to incur additional costs.
• Polycarbonate suitcase: This luggage is very light and at the same time durable and resistant; But in terms of price, it is considered one of the expensive luggages. This suitcase also has anti-shock, waterproof and anti-scratch properties that can meet your needs for several years. Polycarbonate suitcases are also known as unbreakable suitcases and have many variations in terms of color and design.
• Polypropylene luggage: This luggage, like aluminum luggage, is heavy and highly resistant to scratches, tears and possible damages. Polypropylene luggage is recommended for travelers who are fans of polycarbonate luggage but don’t want to spend a lot of money on it.
• ABS luggage: “ABS” (ABS) is a type of compressed plastic that is placed after polycarbonate luggage in terms of comparison. This luggage has resistance, flexibility and long life; But compared to polycarbonate and polypropylene luggage, it has less strength and is cheaper in terms of price.
• Leather luggage: This type of luggage is available in two types of artificial and natural leather, each of which has advantages. You will have more durability and beauty in natural leather and higher quality in artificial leather. Also, this luggage has disadvantages, which can be mentioned as being more vulnerable than other types, heavy, hard to maintain, lack of resistance to scratches and tears, and lack of compatibility with different weather conditions. Also, the high price of natural leather is one of the disadvantages of leather luggage.

_{Photo Source: Flipkart.com website. Photographer: Unknown}

Luggage locks and security systems

Another feature and criteria for buying quality travel luggage is its locks and security system; So, when shopping, prioritize luggage with locks and high security systems. Experience shows that luggage that is not locked is more likely to be lost and stolen; Therefore, whether the luggage is locked or unlocked, it is better to avoid putting expensive items and accessories inside the luggage.

In general, today’s luggage is equipped with two encryption systems, including a simple password lock and a TSA password lock; Of course, in addition, it is possible to use side locks such as a key to create more security. Below is a brief explanation about the types of luggage locks:

• Key Locks: These locks have relatively good security and can be opened and closed with the help of a key. Losing the key is one of the disadvantages of these types of locks.
• Combination Locks: These locks are automatically found on most suitcases and the ends of the zippers (when closed) are locked in it. Coded locks are mechanical and three or four digit combinations. In addition to high functionality, these locks are also easy to use and unlike key locks, they are opened with a predetermined password. Forgetting the password can also be one of its problems.
• TSA locks: These types of locks, which have become very popular at the moment, are one of the best and most efficient luggage locks. TSA locks are highly secure, and in case of a possible problem, airport officials can open the lock without damage or breakage.
• Biometric Locks: Modern and advanced luggage today often have biometric locks that work by reading fingerprints or facial recognition. Biometric locks have very high security; But they have a considerable price.

_{Photo source: Amazon.co.uk website. Photographer: Unknown}

Type of wheels and maneuverability

Old suitcases lacked facilities such as wheels; Therefore, their transportation was done with difficulty; But this problem was solved in 1970 with the patent of the wheeled suitcase by “Bernard Sadow” and after that they made this device with wheels. In the beginning, the suitcases had two wheels on the back; But today this number has become eight with high maneuverability. Luggage wheels are one of its important features that allow passengers to move it easily regardless of their weight.

Since luggage wheels carry a lot of weight and are in contact with various surfaces, their quality and durability are very important. While shopping, you should pay attention to several things, including the number and type of wheels, how they move or their maneuverability, so that you can experience a comfortable and easy trip.

_{Photo source: Sek-ndc.top website. Photographer: Unknown}

The materials of luggage wheels are divided into two categories: “soft” and “dry”, and in general, the soft or jelly type is of higher quality than the dry type. Dry wheels make a lot of noise when moving, and in addition to hardening and slowing down over time, they may break if they hit an obstacle, friction, or uneven surfaces; But the movement in the soft or jelly type is quieter and faster, and it will not be possible to break the wheel itself (not the wheel base).

Below are some tips regarding the number and maneuverability of luggage wheels:

• Two-wheeled models: In two-wheeled luggage, which is also called “Roller”, the wheels are usually fixed and located at the back of the luggage, and they have less weight than four-wheeled luggage. The advantages of this model include fast movement and proper performance on uneven streets, and its disadvantages include overturning from the front in case of imbalance and breaking and dislocating the wheels in case of high weight bearing.
• Four wheel models: In four-wheel suitcases, which are also called “Spinner”, the wheels are located in the outer corners. Easy movement, rotation of wheels in all directions (360 degrees) etc. are among the advantages of this model.
• Eight wheel models: In this model, the placement of the wheels is similar to the four wheels, with the difference that there are two wheels on each side. The movement of luggage in this model is much smoother and smoother, and their weight tolerance is also higher. Also, eight-wheel luggage has a longer useful life.

_{Photo source: Travelerchoice.com website. Photographer: Unknown}

Interior design and number of compartments

Regardless of any type and size, travel luggage has different capacities and internal compartments. For example, some of them have compartments for laptops, formal clothes, etc., which are far more effective in choosing and purchasing. Some suitcases also have many internal compartments that may not be efficient and on the other hand, it will cover more of your hands and feet in the right arrangement; Hence, when shopping, look for luggage that includes multiple layers with durable stitching. In this case, you will have a practical suitcase.

_{Photo source: Businessinsider.com website. Photographer: Unknown}

Waterproof and impact resistant features

Waterproof and shock-resistant luggage are a good option for various trips, especially for traveling to cold destinations and areas with adverse weather conditions. In the following, we discuss the features of these bags:

Features of waterproof luggage

Waterproof suitcases are designed with the aim of protecting the internal contents from moisture and water infiltration and have features that ensure that they provide more security for your belongings in different weather conditions such as rain. Some of its features are mentioned below:

• Luggage type: Waterproof suitcases are usually made of materials such as special nylon, polycarbonate, aluminum, etc., which naturally do not allow water to penetrate into them. Also, the design is not affected by the presence of this feature in luggage. For example, suitcases that have a solid frame and sealed seams and are made of hard material are more resistant to water and moisture.
• Special zippers: One of the features of waterproof luggage is having special zippers. These zippers are waterproof and are widely used in the industry of producing all kinds of bags, suitcases, etc.
• Waterproof protector or cover: Some suitcases have a waterproof cover that can be used in rainy weather. These covers can be made for all kinds of luggage.

_{Photo source: Explore.com website. Photographer: Unknown}

Impact resistant luggage features

Anti-shock suitcases are designed to be somewhat resistant to pressure and impact and protect the accessories and items inside the suitcase. Some of the features of these bags are listed below:

• Foreign sex: Anti-impact suitcases are often made of hard and resistant body such as polycarbonate, aluminum, etc. Suitcases of this type can withstand pressure and heavy blows.
• Inner lining: Hard suitcases usually have soft inner layers that can provide relative protection from the items inside in case of shock and pressure.
• Reinforcement of corners: The sides and edges of shock-proof luggage are often reinforced with special materials so that they are less damaged in the face of possible impacts.
• Durable wheels: The wheels in luggage with anti-shock capability are more resistant so that they are not damaged in case of heavy pressure.
• Flexibility: Shockproof luggage must be flexible; Otherwise, due to the dry material of these suitcases, they may break with strong impacts.

_{Photo source: Manofmany.com website. Photographer: Unknown}

Travel style: choose luggage based on the type of travel

The type of travel, its destination and the type of means of transportation to reach the desired place have a great impact on the choice of luggage; Because, for example, different airline lines each have rules and restrictions regarding baggage that are different from each other. Below are some of the trips and their suitable luggage:

• Short trips: For single-person business or short-term trips of one to three days, the best option is cabin-sized luggage. These suitcases are smaller and lighter than other models and it is allowed to carry them in the cabin of the plane. It is suggested that if you have to carry several extra clothes, using organizers can be a great help to avoid clutter and wrinkles in your luggage. Also, keep in mind that different airlines have their own rules regarding cabin-sized luggage, including dimensions and weight; Therefore, it is suggested that if you plan to travel by air, you must get the necessary information about these restrictions in advance. You can also carry a backpack to carry a laptop or other personal items, in addition to the cabin-sized luggage.
• Travel to nature and rainy destinations: For these purposes, the best options are waterproof and shock-resistant suitcases or large backpacks.
• Long-term trips: For trips of more than a week, it is better to use large and spacious luggage. These suitcases allow you to have a more organized arrangement by having multiple sections and pockets. Also, using zip expand or zip volume increase will give you more space.
• Family trips with children: For family trips with children, using medium or large luggage can be the best idea; It is also helpful to prepare a small child’s suitcase to put the child’s personal belongings. It is recommended to use a luggage set for family trips.

_{Photo source: Manofmany.com website. Photographer: Unknown}

This article examines how to choose luggage. If you also have an experience in this field that is not mentioned in this article, please share it with us and other companions in the comments section of this article.

_{Cover photo source: Manofmany.com website. Photographer: Unknown}