How to choose a suitcase: practical tips and tricks. How to choose a good quality suitcase on wheels: tips

29.08.2019

What is important when traveling? You can list endlessly, but still one of the key components of a comfortable trip is a suitcase on wheels. And here the buyer is faced with the main problem of the consumer - the choice. How not to get lost in the range of travel bags? Which suitcase to choose for yourself and which one is right for the child?

A suitcase on wheels - a reliable travel companion

The suitcase must fit your height

Surely you have come across a situation when, having arrived at your destination, you opened your suitcase and were horrified at the state in which your things came. And it began: the search for an iron, a suitable socket outlet, ironing board, etc. But these problems could have been avoided if you had spared no time and money and bought a good suitcase on wheels. The advantages of this baggage are:

compactness - despite its external bulkiness, a high-quality suitcase on wheels does not take up much space and allows you to tightly place folded things;
Convenience - modern models are equipped with telescopic handles, wheels and a large side handle - you can either combine the methods of carrying or choose one that is convenient for you;
beauty - modern suitcases are part of the image, so a travel bag can enhance your look or even ruin it.

In addition, most models have a clear distinction between compartments for storing clothes, including seasonal ones. The only condition is that fur and woolen things must be packed in plastic bags so that moths do not multiply.

Criterias of choice

It is important to evaluate not only the appearance of the suitcase, but also how it is organized inside.

Finickyness is usually considered a disadvantage, but when choosing a suitcase on wheels, this is a necessary quality, without which a successful purchase is unlikely to take place. So, travel baggage is assessed according to several criteria.

Spaciousness

This parameter is usually calculated in liters. The largest models are considered to be 90 liters. But usually such suitcases are a kind of nesting doll: from larger to smaller (for children). The only difficulty is finding a quality product in Chinese replicas. So it is better to take a suitcase with a capacity of 60-80 liters, where, if necessary, two things can be placed. Travel baggage for 30-40 liters is in demand for short (about 5-7 days) trips. If you have a suitcase with a limit of 10-15 liters, then you have purchased a copy from the children's series.

It is interesting. It is believed that owning a suitcase on the road is important for the baby from the point of view of psychology: it teaches responsibility and helps to fully feel the importance of what is happening.

Manufacturing material

The durability and reliability of a suitcase depends on what material it is made of. There may be several options here.

If you like to impress others, show off your eyes, then leather luggage is what you need. Such suitcases are spectacular, they look luxurious and impressive. However, they have a very high price, and when used, such a travel companion will cause a lot of trouble: from scratches that cannot be disguised with anything, to an impressive weight, as well as deformation due to improper operation.

If you do not like to waste weight, choose a fabric model of a suitcase. Moreover, most of them are equipped with a special zipper, which, when open, allows you to increase the volume of your travel bag by 20%. In addition, the fabric is impregnated with special compounds that preserve the pattern in contact with moisture and dust. There is, however, one significant drawback: an unreliable frame, which is easily crushed - so it is not recommended to carry fragile things. Or, you need to wrap the beating one in something soft (for example, in packaging polyethylene with air bubbles).

The plastic case, on the other hand, can please with lightness and impact resistance, but its surface is easily scratched. In addition, these models do not have external pockets.

Clasps

A fundamentally important criterion for choosing a suitcase is the fasteners. Best of all, if it is a wide spiral lock with large teeth. ... And one more important point: the zipper should move freely along the fabric, without catching the sides.

Casters

In children's models, the wheels are made of silicone so that they are more maneuverable and do not add extra weight to the luggage

Due to the high pressure, the rollers on the suitcase are the first thing that breaks down. So when choosing the right luggage, pay attention to a number of important points:

Number of wheels. Depending on the size, the suitcase can have from 2 to 4 rollers. The latter option is intended for flat roads - the maneuverability of the moving elements will allow you not to make a lot of effort when moving. However, in this case, there is a risk of breakage of the rollers, since they protrude beyond the borders of the sides. If you plan to carry things off-road, it is better if the suitcase has 2 wheels. But at the same time, you will need knowledge of physics: the angle of inclination of the baggage should be such that the weight of the baggage is mainly transferred to you - this way you will preserve the integrity of the cargo.
Location. The most successful are the casters built into the body. Fasteners should not be located on the same axis, otherwise it will quickly break.
Size and material. The most functional are silicone or semi-silicone casters. Only here the axis still remains predominantly metal, as well as the fastening of the rollers to the body. But the permeability of the baggage in bad weather depends on the size - the larger the wheel, the easier it is to move.
Additional features. Some models are equipped with casters that can move around their own axis. This adds maneuverability to the luggage. But this function cannot be called necessary and obligatory.

Pens

Usually 2 handles are made on suitcases: on the side and on top.

Quality models are equipped with two sets of handles, on the side and on the top, which are fixed either with screws or metal rivets. The retractable handle should also be metal, sit firmly in the base and not fidget back and forth. In the closed position, it should completely "sit" in the body. An important nuance: to understand whether a suitcase suits you in height, you can use a simple trick. Roll your empty luggage around the room by pulling the handle all the way out. If you do not experience any inconvenience, then the size is yours.

Lock

The suitcase must be tightly and securely closed. There are 3 types of locks:

Code. This is the so-called family castle. It is convenient in that if, for example, one of the family members needs to get to his suitcase, he can easily open the whole "matryoshka" without fuss and nerves about finding a key. However, there is also a drawback: it is enough for an outsider to find out the code, and he will have access to all your things.
Key. Convenient and practical. Though sometimes the keys are lost. But in this case, the usual master key will save. As a rule, the locks on suitcases are not too intricate.
Two in one. Both the key and the code will ensure that your belongings are kept securely in your suitcase.

Colour

This is where you can show your individuality! But at the same time, basically everyone chooses black because of its practicality. If you are not seduced by the prospect of identifying your luggage among hundreds of similar bags, choose bright colors. Just keep in mind that on light colors, any contamination becomes obvious.

How to choose a quality children's suitcase?

Children's models from many manufacturers are represented by models in the form of animals or fairy-tale characters

In principle, the criteria for choosing a travel companion are the same for both adults and children. But some of the nuances of the selection of luggage for the baby still require special attention:

It is better if your baby's suitcase is made of plastic. Then you can, during long waits or flight delays, put the little one right on the body of the bag.
The children's suitcase should have silicone wheels, as well as the function of fixing the position of the handle. Moreover, the size of the rollers should not be too large - it will be inconvenient for the kid to drive such a vehicle.
As for the lock, then, of course, for a little traveler it will be more interesting to use a code lock. Just ask him to write down these numbers and remember them yourself.

When choosing the color of the suitcase model, remember that stains and dirt will be more noticeable on bright colors.

An important role in extending the life of travel luggage is played by caring for it:

We lubricate and clean the wheels regularly. Silicone spray is suitable as a lubricant. It will remove residual dirt, including a mixture of factory grease and sand.
Don't forget about a case or packing tape. These measures are necessary to protect the body of the suitcase from scratches and dust.
We purchase vacuum bags. By packing things in them, you save space, but also avoid the hassle associated with the need to take "everything now" with you.

Most travelers, when choosing suitcases, are guided, first of all, by the number of things. But the assortment of suitcases today is so great that, even having decided on the volume, it will not be easy to stop at one model. Let's figure out how to choose the right suitcase.

Today there are two main types of suitcases: trolley suitcase and spinner suitcase. Their main difference is the number and type of wheels. The classic trolley case has two wheels, they are located on the bottom of the suitcase on the side of the telescopic handle.

Spinner suitcase: advantages and disadvantages

A spinner suitcase, unlike a trolley suitcase, has four wheels that can rotate around its axis. This allows the spinner to move in any direction, so even the most voluminous and heavy load can be easily handled by a child or elderly person.

You can move the spinner suitcase in an upright position, holding the telescopic handle. This allows you to properly distribute the load when transporting luggage and relieve the back and arms. In addition, with the suitcase in an upright position, it is convenient to queue or climb escalators, as well as walk between the seats of the aircraft, leading the carry-on suitcase in front of you along the narrow aisle.

Fidget spinner features you need to know about

Spinner suitcases have several features that are best known in advance. Firstly, the unusual structure of the wheels makes such a suitcase a little heavier than a trolley suitcase.

Secondly, its maneuverability must be taken into account when ascending inclined planes, for example, escalators. At such moments, the suitcase must be held with your hand so that it does not "run away".

The weak point of a spinner suitcase is its wheels. Under normal operation, they will serve their owner for more than one year. However, the wheels can be damaged from long driving on "rough terrain" or due to careless handling of luggage by loaders. Their repair is usually very expensive, and a complete replacement of the spinner wheel system will cost a little less than buying a new suitcase.

It is best to buy a suitcase in brand stores that give a guarantee for their products. For example, American Tourister suitcases are warranted against any manufacturing defect, but of course the company does not fail.

Plastic, leather and textiles: materials for every taste

Travelers often prefer plastic or fabric suitcases. Plastic suitcases keep their shape well, so your luggage will remain unharmed during long flights. True, such suitcases do not have external pockets in which it is convenient to put useful little things, and low-quality plastic can crack if the movers handle it carelessly.

Anti-clutter pockets

Correctly positioned interior compartments of the suitcase will make it as spacious as possible and help to avoid unnecessary clutter. Small pockets and compartments should be equipped with fasteners; it will be convenient to store small fragile things, personal hygiene items, souvenirs in them. And for things in the main compartment, draw-down straps should be provided.

Plastic suitcases are usually divided into two large compartments with additional small pockets. This will be especially convenient for those travelers who go on a journey together with one suitcase.

Attention to wheels and zippers

Examine the wheels of the suitcase. The most wear-resistant are rubber wheels, plastic and even silicone can burst when driving over uneven surfaces. The wheels should protrude above the frame of the suitcase, then during transportation the bottom of the suitcase will not come into contact with the ground, which means it will remain clean and undamaged. In this case, it is better to give preference to a suitcase with two large wheels than four small ones.

Don't forget to pay attention to the zippers. Experts advise to abandon the so-called "tractor" lightning. Despite the fact that they look impressive and reliable, in practice they often break down in use, especially if you have to close an overflowing suitcase.

And do not forget to look at the handle by which the suitcase can be lifted. It should not be simply sewn in, but fixed with special rivets. Otherwise, when lifting a full suitcase, it may simply come off.

Choosing a suitcase by height

And, oddly enough, the choice of suitcase may depend on your height. Try walking around the store with a model you like. If its height does not match your height, you will immediately feel discomfort in your hand and back. If you are buying a suitcase not only for yourself, then it is better to choose a model with a handle that will slide out to several positions. Then each of those who have to travel with this suitcase will be able to adjust the length of the handle for themselves.

Choosing a suitcase for travel, many of us face many difficulties. Today there are a lot of offers on this market, and therefore it is worth considering all the characteristics that are important when buying such a product. Especially for you, we have made a selection of tips for choosing the right product.

Material features

The modern market offers customers textile and plastic products. And in fact, and in another case, it all depends on the characteristics of the material itself. In general, textiles are much more advantageous in terms of impact resistance, but they hold less shape, and therefore things inside are less protected. At the same time, among the goods, you can find quite cheap ones. Plastic is good because it keeps its shape, but it can burst from impact, fall. The exception is polycarbonate - if you look at the rating of travel suitcases, it turns out that today it is one of the most demanded options. Our advice: choose either polycarbonate products or expensive textile models from well-known brands. When thinking about which suitcase to choose for travel, don't expect too much savings.

Choosing a suitcase for travel: features of wheels

If you are deciding how to choose a suitcase for traveling by plane or by train (by any mode of transport), pay attention to the wheels. It is good if they are slightly recessed into the case, this allows you to protect the system from frequent breakdowns. But most of the questions concern exactly how many such elements should be. We recommend taking a closer look at models with two wheels. They are very easy to transport, although less maneuverable if there is little space. If you choose products with four wheels, the problem will be different - they cannot be transported at an inclination on two support points, only always on four. If this rule is neglected, the internal structure can fail very quickly. In general, four-wheeled models are less resistant to various negative factors such as falling. If you choose the right trolley for travel on wheels, it can last for several years with intensive use.

What size should you focus on?

When deciding which suitcase to buy for travel, it is imperative to take into account the size parameters. Before buying, find out what are the requirements for the dimensions of baggage in the airlines you will fly and on the railways. For example, Russian Railways rules provide for free baggage transportation up to 36 kg in weight (for SV - 50 kg). The sum of three measurements should not exceed 180 cm. If you travel by train often, it is not difficult to calculate the appropriate indicators. It is more and more difficult for airlines - the weight and dimensions may not only differ, but also change regularly. To avoid problems during the trip, we recommend choosing small and medium designs (up to 59 and up to 70 cm, respectively) - this is the best suitcase for traveling and taking into account your own comfort. Large items (70-80 cm), as well as very large ones (from 80 cm), are a convenient choice for traveling by car, as well as by water transport, where there are no restrictions on the carriage of such cargo.

Combination lock and handle features

If you are answering the question of how to choose a suitcase for travel, be sure to check that the product has a combination lock. The most convenient is the one that blocks the dogs, and therefore the zipper cannot be opened. This is not to say that this is a panacea for extraneous encroachments - such a precaution is ideal if most of the time things are in sight or you can be sure that there are no strangers nearby (for example, in the trunk of a bus). If we are talking about which suitcase to choose for traveling by plane, then it is impossible to protect one hundred percent with one lock. For additional protection, you will still have to use a film. But the retractable handle in any case should be metal - this is the most reliable and high-quality approach. It can be double or single. In the first case, the weight is distributed more evenly.

Editor's Choice

After reviewing the rating of the best suitcases for travel, we have selected five solutions that, in our opinion, will be an excellent choice .. Another offer from SAMSONITE, but in a plastic one. Stylish, strong, convenient product for those who are very demanding on quality.

RONCATO UNO ZIP. The very lightweight design of Italian production immediately seems not very reliable, but this is only out of ignorance. In fact, these products are guaranteed for 10 years, which fully justifies the characteristics of the products.

Good luck with your travels!

One of the main attributes when traveling on vacation or business trip is a suitcase. He will help you take your things to your destination safe and sound.

From the article you will learn how to choose the right suitcase on wheels of good quality for travel that suits you in shape, size, material of manufacture, etc.

Since a suitcase is bought for more than one trip, it is worth deciding which type of transport you use more often and take this into account when choosing.

For travel on airplanes, choose a suitcase in bright colors so that it is immediately visible when you receive your baggage on the conveyor belt.

The body of the suitcase must be strong, since the loaders cannot count on the respectful attitude towards it. Reliable locks will help against intentional or unintentional opening during transportation.

If you prefer to get to your destination by train, then you will have to carry the luggage yourself, so you need to take into account its weight when filled. When traveling together, it is better to choose two small suitcases than one heavy one.

What material to choose a suitcase from

The material from which the suitcase is made is a matter of taste for everyone. The most widespread are suitcases made of fabric and plastic, leather are also widespread.

Fabric

Advantages of a fabric travel suitcase:

low price;
light weight;
the presence of external pockets;
not afraid of blows.

Disadvantages:

does not protect fragile things inside from impact;
subject to deformation;
with poor-quality impregnation, the fabric may get wet in the rain.

For production, we use fabrics that are resistant to wear with a special impregnation, such as: polyester, nylon and polyamide.

Cloth suitcases are better for traveling by car or train.

The suitcase itself will most likely not be damaged by falls or other blows, but fragile things inside can break, so it is better to put them in the middle, wrapping soft things.

Plastic suitcase on wheels

What should a hard suitcase be made of? The most optimal material will be plastic, it is strong enough, lightweight and can be painted in any color.

Advantages:

light;
well protects things laid inside;
does not get wet;
easy to clean.

Disadvantages:

scratched;
may crack on impact.

A plastic suitcase is suitable for those who transport fragile things; with a careful attitude, it will last longer than a fabric one.

Modern plastic suitcases differ from a simple plastic "soap dish", they add metal and even titanium chips, which makes them more durable and immune to shock. The only negative is the high price.

You can buy a special case to protect the plastic from scratches.

Leather suitcase

There are more disadvantages than advantages here. They are expensive, heavy, prone to scratches, which leads to a loss of their original appearance.

Of the advantages, one can note not the fear of moisture and the rich appearance, which gives solidity to its owner.

More suitable for business trips than leisure.

What size suitcase to choose

Before buying a suitcase, you should decide on its size. For one person, medium or even small is suitable, and for a family, a large one is needed.

If you are flying by plane, consider the baggage requirements of the airlines. In most airlines, the allowed weight of baggage in Economy Class is 23 kg, and the dimensions in the sum of three dimensions (height, width and length) are no more than 158 cm. The heavier your suitcase is, the less things you can take on the road.

Rolling suitcases can be divided into the following categories:

Small - height up to 59 cm, volume 20-25 liters, suitable for one person on a short trip of several days.
Medium - height 60-70 cm, volume 25-70 liters, for one or a spirit person for 1-2 weeks.
Large - height from 70 cm, volume over 70 liters, suitable for a trip for a whole family for a long time.

What color of suitcase to choose

The color of the suitcase is a matter of your taste, but it is still worth considering a few points:

Light and bright, they may be beautiful, but they are very easily soiled, especially fabric ones, and they can quickly lose their attractive appearance.
Classic-colored luggage will be difficult to find among the same luggage when picked up at the airport.
A bright print or an original (unusual) color is the best choice, it will not get lost in the total mass of standard luggage.

If you have a suitcase in classic colors, then you should resort to one of the tricks before check-in:

hang an address tag on it,
tie a bright ribbon to the handle,
put on the cover.

This will make it easier to find it upon receipt.

Which wheels on the suitcase are better to choose

For long trips and travel, choose a suitcase with wheels, this will greatly facilitate its transportation. The main criteria for choosing the right suitcase on wheels:

Number of wheels

There can be two or four of them. A suitcase with four wheels is easier to handle, the wheels are attached at the corners independently of each other and can rotate 360 ° around their axis. Its disadvantages are that it is only suitable for transportation on a flat surface.

If you have to roll your suitcase on an uneven surface, then it is better to choose with two wheels. It is more maneuverable and reliable, but some of its weight will fall on you.

Wheel types

Which wheels are the best for a suitcase? Wheels vary in material of manufacture.

Plastic wheels are the most unreliable and noisy wheels; with a large weight of luggage or passing various obstacles, they can easily crack and break.

Silicone wheels are much better than plastic wheels, they are quiet, with a soft ride, but they can also burst from bad roads and heavy loads.

Rubber wheels are the most reliable wheels, they are able to withstand almost any load and are inaudible on any surface.

Wheel size

The most reliable option is a suitcase with two large wheels recessed into its body as much as possible. This will increase the "cross-country ability" and prevent it from breaking.

Wheels must not be mounted on the same axle. Choose a suitcase with independent wheels.

It is better if the wheel mount is metal and mounted on a metal bearing.

Zipper selection

Lightning is another of the main elements on which the service life depends. The most reliable zipper for a suitcase is considered to be wide (at least 1 cm), plastic, with spiral teeth.

Nothing should stick when opening and closing.

It is very convenient if an additional zipper is sewn into the upper part along the perimeter, when opened, its volume increases. Just don't forget about the maximum dimensions when traveling by plane.

Lock

If you often have to leave things unattended, then you need to pay special attention to the lock.

The lock can be padlocked or coded.

The combination lock is suitable for a family when everyone who knows the code can easily open it without waiting for the key. But if such a lock breaks, you will most likely have to buy a new suitcase.

A padlock is more practical, but you always have to carry the key with you, and the reliability of the padlock leaves much to be desired.

If you lose the key or break the lock itself, you can easily replace it with a new one without damaging the suitcase.

Those who want to more reliably protect their belongings can choose a suitcase with combined locks (padlock and combination), but this will cost additional money.

What pens should be

A rolling suitcase usually has two or three handles.

One telescopic (retractable) one should pay special attention to it, since ease of movement and service life depend on the retractable handle.

Additional handles: one on top and one on the side, serve to lift and carry the suitcase when it is not possible to roll it.

It is good if all the handles are rubberized or made of fabric. Additional handles for reliability must be fixed to the body with rivets or screws.

The retractable handle should be:

strong, metal, not plastic,
fasten tightly and do not dangle when extended,
easy to slide out,
comfortable to lie in your hand,
it is good if it has several height positions,
the longer the handle, the easier it is to roll the luggage,
in the retracted position, it must be completely recessed into the housing.

Before buying, be sure to hold on to all the handles, roll your suitcase around the store, everything should be comfortable and not cause any discomfort. Otherwise, when the suitcase is assembled and becomes heavier, then all the inconveniences will increase several times.

Pockets and compartments

It is advisable to have several compartments in a suitcase for the convenience of placing things in any category.

It's good if there is a waterproof compartment for documents. Also, an inner pocket for small items will do the trick.

The inside should be finished with high quality, dense fabric.

External pockets will come in handy if you travel by car or train and have your belongings always with you, then you can put things that you often use on the road in these pockets.

Operating rules

In order for a suitcase to serve you for many years, you must follow some rules for its use:

do not overload, it should be easy to fasten;

do not lift by the retractable handle, for this there is a special handle on top or on the side;

protect the plastic case from drops and other shocks;

lubricate the wheels with silicone grease after each ride;

wrap the suitcase with foil to protect it from dirt and mechanical damage at the airport.

Before the purchase

Before buying, check the handles, wheels and locks (nothing should dangle or jam), these are the main components of the suitcase on which its service life depends.

The suitcase itself should be sturdy, with a reinforced frame and rubber pads at the corners for extra protection of your belongings.

The material of manufacture must be dense and of high quality, the seams must be neat without protruding threads.

You buy a suitcase for more than one year, so it is impractical to save here, it is better to overpay a little, but buy a good thing that will serve you for many years. Some manufacturers provide a warranty of up to 10 years.

How to properly pack your suitcase

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