Luggage Essentials
The following 3 pieces of luggage are essential for the modem traveler to get him trough almost any trip:
1. Wheeled 21″ trolley case
For business & other short trips.
2. Wheeled 29″ suitcase
For trips lasting more than 10 days.
3. Lightweight, small sports type duffel bag
With multiple pockets for carry-on or overnight stays.
Hard-side vs soft-side
Narrow your choices down to include the most appealing pieces of luggage and find out which is best for you. Both the trolley cases and larger suitcase come in hard-side and soft-side versions.
Hard shells protect the contents better and items are less likely to get wet when exposed to the elements. But they are less flexible when you need to stuff in one last sweater, and they are heavier to pull up the steps to a hotel or your home.
Soft-sided suitcases are lighter, come with more options such as several outside zippers and can expand to fit the contents. On the downside, they are easier to break into. Get one made of heavier polyester, not lightweight nylon. Ballistic nylon is very strong and helps prevent rips that occur as bags knock their way along the conveyor belt.
Carry-on considerations
Be careful when choosing a 21″ trolley bag. Some bags, when extension pockets are fully loaded, exceed airlines size restrictions for carry-on luggage.
Hardware and features
Unzip all parts of the suitcase and see if the pockets fit your needs. Some suitcase have outside pockets big enough for file folders and separate tickets pockets.
Men may prefer one with separate compartments for shirts, suits, underwear, etc.
Women have more clothing options such as scarves, slips, bras, pantyhose, locks, blouses, dresses, sweaters and so on ad it is hard to keep track of which compartments all the various componenets are.
Trolley Bags
When looking for trolley bags you have to decide which option is best for you. Some wheels and trolley handles can be removed and set into the bag or hinge on the bag’s outside. However, those that are integrated into the bag have less chance of being snapped off a conveyor belt. One minus point is they take up the interior space of the suitcase. Look for reinforced corners. Corners usually take the most beating and will wear and tear the fastest.
Test-drive your favourite suitcase around the store. Does it turn corners well, up steps and into a big-high shelf? Or does it shimmy around like a grocery cart gone astray? If you are not comfortable with it in an airport terminal.
Colour
Consider getting a bag in a colour other than black or grey, or get a luggage tag in a bright neon colour to help distinguish your bag from others on the conveyor belt.
Lock your Luggage
Airlines have begun to get more stringent about carry-on luggage, requiring passengers to check in oversized bags, garment bags or any bag over the 2-bag carry-on limit. If you are travelling for more than a few days, you may find that you have bags to check in. all checked luggage should be securely locked. Buy extra sturdy locks to prevent someone from easily opening your bag and removing its contents.
