Welcome to the ultimate luggage buying guide, your complete resource for choosing the perfect travel companion. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or planning your next adventure, finding the right luggage can make all the difference. With so many options available, the process of purchasing luggage can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to provide you with expert advice and essential tips that will help you make an informed decision.
In this guide, you will learn how to set a budget, consider your travel needs and preferences, understand the different types of luggage, and choose the best features and materials available. We will also recommend top-rated luggage options for 2021 and help you make a final decision on the best luggage to buy. Image source:
How to Buy Luggage: A Step-by-Step Guide
Investing in the right luggage can make all the difference on your next trip. Here are some essential tips on how to buy luggage:
- Set a budget: Determine how much you can afford to spend on luggage before you start shopping.
- Consider your travel needs: Think about the type of trips you’ll be taking and the items you’ll need to pack. If you’ll be flying frequently, you may want to consider lightweight luggage with spinner wheels for easy maneuvering through airports.
- Choose your type of luggage: Suitcases, carry-ons, backpacks, and duffel bags all have their pros and cons. Consider which type of luggage will work best for your specific travel needs.
- Check for essential features: Prioritize features like size, weight, durability, wheels, handles, and organization compartments that are essential for your travel style.
- Research materials: Luggage materials like polycarbonate, nylon, and leather each have their own benefits and drawbacks. Take the time to research and compare different materials to find the right one for you.
- Read customer reviews: Reading reviews can help provide valuable insights into how a particular luggage piece performs over time, and can give you a better idea of what to expect from your purchase.
- Choose a reputable brand: Investing in a high-quality, trusted brand will ensure your luggage lasts for years to come.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect luggage for your next adventure. Keep in mind that buying luggage is an investment, so take your time, do your research, and choose wisely.
Understanding Different Types of Luggage
Choosing the right luggage can make all the difference in your travel experience. There are various types of luggage to choose from, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here are the most common types of luggage:
| Type of Luggage | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Suitcases | Spacious, with multiple compartments; works well for extended trips. | Bulky and heavy, may be challenging to maneuver in tight spaces. |
| Carry-ons | Compact, lightweight, and fits easily into overhead compartments; ideal for short trips. | May have limited storage space, and airlines may have different size restrictions regarding carry-on luggage. |
| Backpacks | Easy to carry for extended periods, perfect for hiking and backpacking. | May not offer as much storage or compartments as other types of luggage; may not be as durable as other options. |
| Duffel bags | Flexible and lightweight, making them easy to fit into tight spaces; ideal for short trips. | May not offer as much protection for fragile items; may not have wheels for easy movement. |
Consider the purpose of your travel and your individual preference when selecting a type of luggage.
Features to Look for in Luggage
Choosing the right luggage can make or break your travel experience. While style and color are important, there are several features of luggage that you should prioritize when making a purchase.
Size: When picking out luggage, size matters. Consider the length of your trip and the amount of items you’ll need to pack. Most airlines have size restrictions for checked bags and carry-ons, so it’s essential to choose accordingly.
Weight: The last thing you want is to pay overweight baggage fees or struggle with heavy bags during transit. Look for luggage that is lightweight but still durable and sturdy enough to protect your belongings.
Durability: Investing in durable luggage can save you money in the long run. Hard-sided luggage made of polycarbonate or aluminum is known for its durability and scratch resistance, while soft-sided luggage made of nylon or polyester is flexible and can absorb impact.
Wheels: Wheels can make a big difference in the maneuverability of your luggage. Look for spinner wheels that rotate 360 degrees for easier handling and stability.
Handles: Handles are another essential feature to consider when buying luggage. Look for telescoping handles that can be adjusted to your height and padded handles that provide comfort when carrying your bag for extended periods.
Organization Compartments: Staying organized on the go is crucial, and luggage with multiple compartments can make this easier. Look for luggage with separate compartments for shoes, toiletries, and electronics to avoid rummaging through a cluttered bag.
Remember, when choosing features of luggage to prioritize, consider your travel needs and preferences.
Materials and Construction of Luggage
The materials and construction of luggage are two critical factors to consider when making a purchase. The right combination can result in a durable and long-lasting investment. In contrast, the wrong combination can lead to poor performance and quick deterioration.
Luggage Material
Some popular materials for luggage include:
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Polycarbonate | Durable, lightweight, and scratch-resistant. Good for frequent and international travel. | Can crack under extreme temperature. More expensive than other materials. Difficult to repair. |
| Nylon | Flexible, waterproof, and affordable. Good for outdoor travel and casual trips. | Can tear or fray. Not as durable as other materials. |
| Leather | Luxurious and stylish. Good for business travel and short vacations. | Bulky, heavy, and requires more maintenance. Not as resistant to wear and tear. |
When choosing the right material for your luggage, consider your travel style, frequency, and personal preferences.
Luggage Construction
The construction of luggage plays a critical role in its durability and longevity. High-quality craftsmanship and sturdy materials can result in a lasting investment. On the other hand, cheap construction and flimsy materials can lead to frustrating and costly repairs.
“Investing in a well-constructed luggage can save you time, money, and hassle in the long run.”
Look for luggage with reinforced corners, secure zippers, and durable handles and wheels. Check for any loose stitching or defects that may indicate poor construction.
As you shop for luggage, keep in mind that a combination of sturdy materials and robust construction can ensure a reliable travel companion for years to come!
Factors to Consider for Specific Travel Needs
When planning a trip, it’s essential to choose luggage that aligns with your specific travel needs. By considering factors such as travel duration, destination, mode of transportation, and personal preferences, you can make an informed decision on the type of luggage that best suits you.
Travel Duration
If you’re going on a weekend getaway, a small carry-on may suffice. However, for longer trips, it’s essential to have spacious luggage that can accommodate all your travel essentials, such as clothing, toiletries, and gadgets.
Destination
Your travel destination should also impact your luggage choice. For instance, if you’re headed to a city, you may consider a sturdy wheeled suitcase. However, for outdoor adventures such as camping or hiking, a durable backpack may be more suitable.
Mode of Transportation
How you travel is a vital factor in luggage selection. If you’re flying, consider luggage that complies with airline regulations, such as size and weight restrictions, to avoid unnecessary baggage fees. For road trips, a durable trunk or cargo carrier may be more suitable.
Personal Preferences
Your luggage should also reflect your personal style and preferences. Whether you prefer bright colors or classic neutrals, hard or soft shell luggage, prioritize the factors that matter most to you when selecting your travel companion.
Top-rated Luggage Options for 2021
Staying up-to-date with the latest luggage trends and customer reviews can be helpful in making a wise purchase. In this section, we present a curated list of top-rated luggage options for 2021, based on their performance, durability, and customer satisfaction. These recommendations will serve as a starting point in your research.
Away: The Carry-On
The Away Carry-On is a customer favorite, with its premium features and sleek design. Built with robust polycarbonate material, it offers a hard shell with resistance against wear and tear. The interior pocket system is a standout feature for organization, and the wheels and handle provide easy maneuverability.
Samsonite: Prodigy Hardside Spinner
The Samsonite Prodigy comes with a lightweight yet durable shell, an integrated TSA lock, and spinner wheels for effortless navigation. Its interior is well-organized to keep your belongings secure and in place. Moreover, its size makes it possible to use as a carry-on, which is convenient for short trips.
Briggs & Riley: Baseline Expandable Spinner
The Briggs & Riley Baseline Spinner features a hybrid construction of nylon and fiberglass, which provides it with great durability. Its exterior compression system saves space and ensures maximum packing capacity. It also has CX™ technology that allows you to expand up to 26% more room when needed, perfect for over-packers.
Rimowa: Classic Cabin
The Rimowa Classic Cabin is a stylish option with luxury features. It’s made with high-end, sturdy aluminum-magnesium alloy with a glossy finish. The Multiwheels system ensures smooth maneuvering, and the interior includes mesh pockets and adjustable dividers. The Rimowa is a fashionable, high-end luggage option.
Tumi: V3 International Expandable Carry-on
The Tumi V3 has multiple features, including four, double-wheeled spinners, a three-stage telescoping handle, and a TSA-approved combination lock. The Tumi Tracer program ensures you can track your bag in case it gets lost, and it has a spacious interior with adjustable dividers. The expandable option is perfect for unanticipated shopping during your travels.
Choosing the Best Luggage for You
Congratulations! You’re one step closer to finding the perfect travel companion. Now that you’ve learned about the different types, features, and materials of luggage, it’s time to put that knowledge into practice.
Start by assessing your travel needs and preferences. Consider the duration of your trips, the mode of transportation, your budget, and any other factors that are important to you. This will help you filter out options that don’t align with your requirements.
Next, use the insights from the top-rated luggage options we presented in section 7 to narrow down your choices. Look for brands that offer quality craftsmanship, durability, and functionality.
Remember to prioritize the features that matter the most to you, such as size, weight, wheels, handles, and compartments. A luggage that caters to your needs will significantly enhance your travel experience and give you peace of mind.
Lastly, consider the warranty, return policy, and customer service of the brand you’re interested in. These factors can make a difference in the long run and ensure you’re making a wise investment.
By following these guidelines, you’ll be equipped to make an informed decision and purchase the best luggage for you. Happy travels!
Conclusion
Congratulations on completing the ultimate luggage buying guide! By following the step-by-step process, you are now equipped to make an informed decision when purchasing new luggage for your travels. Remember, the key is to consider your specific needs and preferences, prioritize essential features, and choose quality materials and construction. Take your time to research different brands and models, and don’t be afraid to invest in a high-quality piece of luggage that will last you for years to come.
By using this guide, you can ensure that your next travel adventure is hassle-free, organized, and stress-free. Say goodbye to lugging around heavy, outdated luggage, and hello to a new travel companion that fits your unique style and needs. We hope our comprehensive resource has been helpful, and we wish you safe and enjoyable travels!
