How to Choose the Perfect Luggage for Any Trip

Choosing the perfect luggage is more than just a matter of style or preference. It's a practical decision that can significantly impact your travel experience. In this article, we'll discuss the key factors to consider when choosing a luggage.

1. Size and Capacity

The size of the luggage depends on the duration of your trip and the number of items you plan to bring. Luggage is typically divided into three categories:

• Small (hand luggage): 55 x 40 x 20 cm, ideal for short trips of 1-3 days.
• Medium: 65-70 x 45-50 x 25-30 cm, suitable for trips lasting 4-7 days.
• Large: 75-80 x 50-55 x 30-35 cm, ideal for trips lasting more than a week.

Make sure to check the restrictions for hand luggage and registered baggage with your airline if you're planning to travel by plane.

2. Material of Manufacture

Luggage is made from various materials, each with its own advantages:

• ABS-plastic: lightweight and affordable, but less durable.
• Polycarbonate: lightweight, flexible, durable against impacts, but can be scratched.
• Aluminum: very strong and durable, but heavier and more expensive.
• Fabric (polyester, nylon): lightweight, flexible, has external pockets, but less protected from moisture and damage.

3. Wheels and Mobility

Modern luggage has two types of wheels:

• Two-wheeled: you need to tilt the luggage to move, take up less space, but less mobile.
• Four-wheeled (spinner): rotate 360 degrees, allow the luggage to move in any direction without tilting, more mobile, but wheels can be vulnerable.

Choose a luggage with high-quality wheels that roll smoothly and are securely attached.

4. Handles and Ease of Use

Pay attention to:

• Telescoping handle: it should extend smoothly, lock in multiple positions, and be strong.
• Side and top handles: for easy lifting of the luggage in different situations.
• Ergonomics: handles should be comfortable to use and not chafe your hands.

5. Safety and Locks

For protecting your luggage, the luggage must have a reliable locking system:

• TSA locks allow airport security personnel to check your luggage without damaging the lock.
• Combination locks are safer than keys, as you don't risk losing the key.
• Some luggage has built-in tracking systems.

6. Interior Organization

A well-organized interior space will help you pack items efficiently:

• Dividers and partitions for sorting items.
• Stretch straps for securing clothes.
• Internal pockets for small items.
• Moisture-resistant compartments for cosmetics or wet items.

7. Luggage Weight

The weight of an empty luggage is important, especially if the airline has restrictions on baggage weight. Modern materials allow manufacturers to create lightweight, but strong luggage. Typically:

• Lightweight luggage weighs from 2 to 3 kg.
• Medium — from 3 to 4 kg.
• Heavy — more than 4 kg.

8. Design and Recognizability

While functionality is more important than appearance, design is also important:

• A bright color or unusual design will help you easily identify your luggage on the baggage belt.
• Some manufacturers offer the possibility of personalizing the luggage.
• It's worth choosing a design that matches your style and won't go out of fashion in a few months.

9. Budget

Luggage can cost from a few hundred to tens of thousands of pounds. Determine your budget before purchasing, but remember that a high-quality luggage is an investment that will last you many years. Often, more expensive models offer better quality, longer warranty, and additional features.

10. Testing Before Purchase

If possible, test the luggage before purchasing:

• Check how smoothly the telescoping handle works.
• Evaluate the smoothness of the wheels.
• Check the lock operation.
• Feel the weight of the luggage.