How to Buy the Perfect Luggage

The perfect luggage is a critical component of a successful trip. The main considerations when choosing luggage should be durability and space.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Carry-on Bags
• Luggage Carts
• Luggage Locks
• Luggage Sets
• Backpacks
• Duffel Bags
• Fanny Packs

1. Consider which is the best style for your type of travel. Decide between a travel backpack, duffel bag, wheeled suitcase or traditional suitcase.

2. Shop around. Discount outlets often offer the same quality luggage as high-end luggage stores at a fraction of the cost.

3. Open each suitcase you're thinking about buying. Count the number of inside compartments to be sure it will afford plenty of room.

4. Check the frame material. Fiberglass, aluminum or durable plastic are the best choices for sturdy, lightweight frames.

5. Choose bags with taped seams; look for a strip of cloth that reinforces the zipper and provides added durability.

6. Check all zippers and locks to insure that they function properly.

7. Pick the bag up and carry it to test the handle for weight balance and comfort.

8. Ask the salesperson whether the bag is weatherproofed. If possible, purchase Cordura or ballistic nylon fabrics.

Tips & Warnings

• Purchase your own small locks for luggage to increase security.

[poetthom]

on 7/5/2009 Oh, almost forgot. If you're in need of a tote or carryall for the touring - Eddie Bauer makes a light weight '3 way' (shoulder, back and hand carry)carryall. Found it at Target for $35. Heavy duty nylon/cordura fabric, zippers, numerous pockets and a 'office' section for pens, etc. This USED to be an LLBean item, but has been refined by Bauer. I have one and it works exactly as it should.

[poetthom]

on 7/5/2009 Costco's Kirkland brand (made by Skyway) is a heavy cordura with a pop-up expander ($145.00 for 26" model). Heavy duty everything on this model and under 14 pounds. It's not sold online, so you'll have to visit a store.

[rebepa333]

on 12/27/2008 I personally like Swiss Army Luggage. Its have great quality and a life time warranty so you know you'll have it for life! A great place to get it is at www.SwissArmyLuggageonline.com largest selection of Swiss Army Luggage on the internet at the lowest prices guaranteed. Free Shipping on all orders over $99. Most of our items come with a FREE life time warranty.

[Elfenaura]

on 11/30/2007 Three more things.
First - if you're buying a suitcase, determine the weight of the bag. Weight is becoming a bigger consideration as airlines reduce weight allowances. I was just on a safari to Africa and we had 30 pound max weight limits on our bags. Some bags weigh a lot even when empty.
Second - think about how much and where you will be walking with your bag. If you're doing a log of walking in places with uneven pavement (like Venice or many eastern European cities) you may want to consider a bag with larger wheels. These go over bumps and curbs more easily.
Third - find a stencil you like at a craft store - or make one yourself. Then stencil your bags with a nice bright spray or brush on paint. I can spot mine from across the room.

on 6/30/2006 To avoid picking up someone else's suitcase by mistake, make sure to put a distinguishing feature on yours. Tie a ribbon on it, paint a distinctive mark on it or put a colored strap on it. This not only reduces the possibility of mixing up your luggage with someone else's, but it also means that you'll spot your case on the belt straight away.