How to Pick the Ideal Luggage
Few things are more worthless and frustrating than a cheap piece of luggage that falls apart during your vacation. Ergo, it's crucial to invest in quality luggage that can withstand a baggage handler's bad day. Somewhere out there is your dream luggage set.
- Difficulty:
- Easy
Instructions
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1
Consider where you're going and what you're packing before you shop for new luggage. This will determine the quantity and size of luggage you'll need.
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2
Determine your budget before you shop. This will help steer you in the direction of quality luggage brands you can afford. A reputable luggage store that specializes in all types of luggage will give you advice based on your budget and travel needs.
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3
Decide whether you want soft or hard-case luggage. Heavier, hard-sided suitcases offer far better protection for fragile items (if packed properly). Soft luggage is lighter.
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If you choose a roller model, look for heavy-duty wheels (some have durable in-line skate wheels) and a sturdy base.
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When buying soft luggage, check the denier of a fabric, a measurement that refers to the fineness of the yarn. Generally speaking, the higher the denier the more durable the fabric.
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Look for a quality zipper that's heavy-duty enough to support the weight the bag was designed to hold. (Top of the line zippers are YKKs.) Critical seams and attachment points for webbing should be bar-tacked.
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Make sure the bags fits airlines' approved carry-on size. Most bags within the 24 X 14 X 9-inch (61 x 35.5 x 23-cm) size restriction is considered legal on all planes.
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Choose a size that's appropriate for the length of your trip. Keep in mind the possibility of needing to accommodate unexpected items or expand for a longer trip.
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Tips & Warnings
Look for luggage that isn't too heavy to carry long distances. For larger suitcases, a difference of 5 lbs. (1.9 kg) or less doesn't matter much in the overall weight of a fully packed bag.
Consider a color other than black. Brightly colored luggage stands out better on the airport carousel.
The majority of airlines allow bags up to 40 lbs. (14.9 kg).
Is the pullout handle protected? It won't work if the shaft gets bent.
If you unintentionally buy a knockoff, the warranty is also fake.
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Comments
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Feb 08, 2006
I remembered using a suitcase with wheels that were as far apart as the shafts. Every time there was a bump, even a minor one, the suitcase would start to wobble sideways until it tipped over. So when shopping for suitcases, be sure to look for ones that have wheels wide apart, ideally located at the very edges. -
Feb 08, 2006
I remembered using a suitcase with wheels that were as far apart as the shafts. Every time there was a bump, even a minor one, the suitcase would start to wobble sideways until it tipped over. So when shopping for suitcases, be sure to look for ones that have wheels wide apart, ideally located at the very edges.
