Choosing the right suitcase from amongst the oodles of options available can be quite overwhelming. Let's have a look at the factors that need to be taken into consideration while selecting a suitcase for a trip.
During the last 15 years, the world has witnessed a remarkable growth in travel frequency. Overseas travel has become a part and parcel of several lives. People fly for business one day to a particular country and another day to another country.
All this traveling requires the assistance and accompaniment of a durable travel suitcase. There are various types of suitcases showcased at every luggage store. Rolling suitcases, duffel bag with or without wheels, tote bag, makeup bag, garment bag, etc., are available today.
But, out of the sea of suitcases, how is one supposed to know which is the optimum one for a particular trip. Moreover, the decision to choose the right suitcase is extremely important for women traveling by themselves.
Mode of Travel
The mode of travel is a major factor to be taken into consideration while choosing the suitcase. If you are traveling by air, then you need to buy a carry on baggage and a check-in baggage.
The size restrictions vary from one airline to another, thus, it’s important to check the airline restrictions before purchasing your suitcase. If you are driving down, you have to take into consideration the size of your luggage compartment. Soft duffel bags with wheels are suitable for those traveling by bus or train.
Frequency of Travel
Frequent travelers need durable suitcases, one cannot run to purchase a new one for every trip. It is wise to invest money into a reliable, branded, good quality suitcase, unless you want your gears damaged during transport. Shelling out money to buy a branded suitcase, serves to be more economical, than replacing a cheaper, damaged suitcase with a new one.
Purpose of Travel
Your choice of suitcase will differ with the purpose of your travel. If you are headed for a business meeting, your choice will vary from a person traveling on a holiday. Businessmen and women must choose bags that provide space to keep laptops and other important documents.
Moreover, if one is required to wear a business suit then the size of suitcase will vary once again. On the other hand, campers will prefer taking backpacks instead.
People going on a holiday will require bigger suitcases, preferably rolling bags with additional empty space, so as to pack souvenirs bought during the holiday.
Duration of Travel
The duration of the trip will determine the size of the suitcase. The more days you intend to spend on your visit, the more your travel requirements will be! A duffel bag will be sufficient for a weekend trip, whereas, a large rolling bag would be required for a month’s stay. Depending on the duration of your stay, select the size of your travel bag.
Type of Luggage
The type of items you intend to carry will also determine the kind of baggage choice.
If you are carrying fragile items, hard case suitcases (made from materials such as polypropylene and polycarbonate) are suitable, which will protect your luggage from damage. On the other hand, if you do not have anything that is fragile and the travel distance is short, soft duffel bags are a good option.
Local or International Travel
Weight of the suitcase plays a crucial role while traveling overseas. It’s best to choose a lightweight suitcase, so as to avoid extra baggage weight charges while flying.
Moreover, hard case suitcases are recommended for overseas trips; for the security of luggage inside. Soft cover bags are prone to risks such as wear and tear, whereas, poor quality hard case bags are prone to crack under pressure. Thus, choose your suitcase carefully.
Color and Style
Suitcases not only have to accommodate one’s luggage, but also have to suit one’s personality.
Bag manufacturers understand this ‘want’ of the masses and roll out collections of trendy suitcases every year to attract the younger generation. You can pick such trendy bags or else opt for luggage travel sets which are also available in matching colors.
The benefit of buying unique looking bags, is that they are easy to identify on the conveyor belt. This also prevents others from accidentally lifting up your bag from the conveyor belt.
Number of People Traveling
The choice of suitcase is highly significant when one is traveling alone. The fact that you are traveling alone, means you should be able to handle all your luggage on your own. Backpack with wheels is an excellent choice for single travelers, as they can be strapped on the back with ease.
Rolling bags with retractable handles are perfect for single travelers commuting by flight. They not only accommodate a lot of stuff, but can also be wheeled easily across the airport.
Compartments and Compactness
The suitcase chosen must accommodate maximum items in the most efficient manner. The suitcase must have separate compartments and pouches to pack different categories of items, so as to keep the luggage organized. It also helps one locate the items quickly when needed. Some suitcase packing tips can help you pack your belongings in an efficient manner.
Budget
While shelling out thousands of dollars on designer bags is unnecessary, it’s not advisable to opt for cheap suitcases as well. Low quality bags will only increase complications during your trip. Wear and tear during the trip or breakage due to pressure can result in damage of packed goods. Then, running around for a bag is maddening.
Hence, it’s important to buy bags of reliable brands. If budget is an issue, the wisest thing to do would be to keep an eye out for discounts during the year and take full advantage of them.
Buying luggage travel sets of three, five or more, will also prove to be comparatively cheaper on the whole. Peruse through the internet for any seasonal offers, etc., which will enable you to purchase good suitcases for a lower price.
Before you make any hasty decisions about choosing the right suitcase for your trip, it is important to go through the different kinds of suitcases available today. Conducting a small research online and reading through some reviews, will help narrow down your search. Hope you find what you’re looking for! Happy Traveling!
