Which is better: a travel bag or a suitcase? What is a travel bag or suitcase on wheels for? Other little things worth paying attention to

Most people love to learn new things, get fresh impressions, and therefore travel. And a travel bag has always been a constant companion on travels.

A strong backpack with ropes, a canvas cross-body bag, a wicker knapsack and a plywood suitcase are long gone. There are a variety of travel bags on the market today, so it can be difficult to make the right choice.

Travel suitcase on wheels

A suitcase differs from a bag in that it usually has a rigid frame (sometimes rigid walls) and a hinged lid. A travel bag on wheels can also have a rigid design, but it opens from the top.

Advantages Such models are indisputable: they are always quite roomy, thanks to the solid frame, fragile things do not wrinkle or break in them, and most importantly, they ride on wheels. The main advantage of travel suitcases on wheels is that the traveler does not have to carry heavy weights.

Flaws are also obvious - such a travel bag cannot be rolled up and put in a corner. It requires a special place for permanent storage when not in use.

How to choose a bag or suitcase on wheels

When choosing a travel suitcase, remember that it should have three handles: a retractable one and two small fabric handles for carrying up steps or over obstacles on the road.

If there is only a retractable handle, the model is not the most reliable. Fabric handles must be riveted or securely stitched with nylon threads. Travel suitcases or rolling bags are usually quite spacious, which means they will be heavy when traveling.

Pay attention to the placement of the wheels. It is best if the wheels of the suitcase are attached separately and rotate in different directions. Wheels and bearings must be steel. No matter what they tell you about the fact that plastic is lighter than metal, but still very strong, this is not a strong enough argument. When a loaded suitcase weighs 40 kilograms, it does not matter at all how much its wheels weigh - 500 grams or 800, it is important that they do not crack.

Sports travel bag

Durable, roomy bags made of soft fabrics were previously used by athletes when going to various competitions. They are convenient for transporting personal items and sports equipment. Gradually, such bags became very popular among travel lovers.

Undoubtedly dignity The advantage of sports travel bags is their lightness and ability to change their shape depending on what they carry.

Storing them at home between trips is also very convenient - they crumple, fold and can be stored in a closet or on mezzanines, taking up virtually no space. If you expect to return from a trip with numerous souvenirs, you can easily take with you an additional soft bag that will fit in any other one.

Disadvantage What makes sports travel bags so great is that they need to be carried in your hands, not rolled around. Sometimes it is inconvenient to use during rain, because it is impossible to place it on wet ground without getting dirty. In addition, you need to remember that the sporty style of the bag is not suitable for a business trip.

How to choose a sports travel bag

The most important criterion when choosing a sports bag for traveling is its durability. The fabric should be waterproof and very durable, but the design of the handles is much more important. The most reliable handles are made of dense synthetic material, covering the entire bag, and not sewn to the fabric in certain places. It is in these places that the handles come off, often at the most inopportune moment.

Such bags are always fastened with a zipper, so you should also pay close attention to the quality of the fasteners.

In the old days, this was the name given to medium-sized travel bags made of carpet fabric. Then traveling bags began to be made from leather, and a travel bag became a sign of respectability. Doctors traveled with traveling bags, carrying their professional supplies in them.

The handles of this bag are small, leather or metal. An important feature is the presence of constipation. The design of the lock can be very complex, and therefore the cost of the bag is high.

Travel backpack

Summer is vacation time and many people are going on trips. All airports and train stations are packed with vacationers who want to forget about the daily hustle and bustle of everyday life and completely immerse themselves in relaxation.

Of no small importance during this period is travel bag or a suitcase. Every family that purchases such a thing expects to use bag or suitcase long years. Or at least they could survive a few trips.

The market today presents a huge variety of such products, and prices range from quite tolerable and exorbitant amounts. How then to choose a suitcase with durable wheels, a reliable zipper, practical, convenient and pleasant to look at? Let's figure out what the experts advise.

First of all, you must decide for what purposes you need suitcase or bag. When hiking in the Carpathians, you will need a backpack; you won’t always need a briefcase for a business suit, but for traveling to warm countries, a travel bag or suitcase is just right.

So let's start with the bags.

The main priority of the bags is the soft material from which it is made, so the travel bag can be easily squeezed into any corner of the trunk of your car. The bag can also be worn on the shoulder, unless, of course, it has wheels. As for bags on wheels, they combine two characteristics: comfortable transportation and flexible shape.

The only disadvantage of a travel bag that should be noted is that the things in it get very wrinkled, but you don’t always need a perfectly ironed suit on vacation.

The best option for flights is to take a small bag into the cabin, in which you can put all your valuables, and you can pack clothes and other accessories in a suitcase.

If you only need a bag to carry personal items, then you can choose an inexpensive option. But if you are going to relax in a luxury hotel, then buy a bag of more expensive models, since hotel staff often evaluate the well-being of their clients by the quality of shoes and luggage.

The advantages of a suitcase are that when moving, things in it wrinkle less, and they can be folded neater and more compact. True, large suitcases are always checked into the luggage compartment, which can lead to the loss of things. Therefore, before packing a large suitcase, think about whether you need to take so many things with you. You may be able to get by with a small suitcase that you can take on board the plane.

Tip No. 4. What you need to pay attention to when choosing a suitcase with wheels.

Basically, all suitcases have wheels, so you need to look at how they are made. The most ideal option is when the wheels are deeply recessed into the body of the suitcase, since they can break if moved frequently. Also an excellent indicator of quality is the presence of a separate axle for each wheel.

As for the number of wheels, there can be two or four. It’s better, of course, to have four, because if one wheel breaks, then you can somehow drag your load with three, but not with one. Also look at the material the wheels are made of, rubber-like silicone will be more durable than hard plastic, which is prone to breaking.

Tip No. 5. Which handles are durable and won’t come off on your first trip.

The telescopic handle on a suitcase is a very fragile mechanism, so it is better that it consists of fewer elements (not 3, but 2). It was also completely recessed into the body and was well secured.

In addition to such a handle, the suitcase should have several ordinary ones. They are often made from plastic or plastic tape, which is what airport baggage handlers usually handle. If they are not there, then no one will take the time to look for the retractable handle, and your suitcase may be thrown by grabbing the wheels or corners. In this case, there is a high probability of damage to your luggage.

When buying a not very expensive suitcase, carefully check the fastening of all handles, the retractable mechanism and the material from which the telescopic tube is made; it is better that the handle is reinforced (polyvinyl chloride).

Tip No. 6. Which locks should be preferred in suitcases?

Digital locks are built into the suitcase body, but they are not reliable enough, so it is better if there are additional lugs for a small padlock. If they are not there, then you can hang a padlock directly on the zippers of your suitcase.

Wrap large suitcases that you check in as luggage with a special film so that they do not open when shaking, and also this way your suitcase will be clean.

But if thieves somehow like your luggage, then no locks will save your things, so take all valuables with you into the cabin in hand luggage.

Tip No. 7. What material to choose for a travel suitcase or bag.

Typically, fabric and plastic suitcases are available on the market. Fabric suitcases are light and comfortable, but they are easy to damage or cut. And plastic ones often get scratched and sometimes cracks appear on them. The most durable suitcases are made of plastic, which is reinforced with small metal shavings, preferably titanium. Such suitcases, naturally, are more expensive. But the most prestigious are leather products, which are quite uncomfortable and heavy. Therefore, the choice is yours whether you want to impress everyone with a crocodile leather suitcase or buy a practical item.

Today, the bag market is not as large as it seems at first glance. In most cases, cheap bags are made in the CIS countries; they are quite durable, although they do not look very solid. Italian and English companies produce higher quality.

Inside a high-quality suitcase there are several compartments, the main one and additional ones, which are closed with a zipper. There shouldn't be too many of them, as this will complicate packing your things.

Also be aware of baggage regulations to avoid any embarrassment at the airport.

But most importantly, take your choice of suitcase seriously. Don't buy the first thing you like, but check your purchase carefully. Don't let your holiday be ruined by a poor choice of luggage.

Happy shopping!

Summer is vacation time, which means there are trips ahead of you to visit friends and relatives or travel to other countries. To avoid a surprise during your trip in the form of a handle coming off or a wheel falling off your suitcase, you should think in advance about how to choose a good quality travel bag. Once purchased, a good bag will serve you for many years and will be a reliable companion on all your trips. Let's dive into the world of bags and find out how to choose a travel bag with or without wheels, what you need to pay special attention to when purchasing.

What is better to choose - a bag or a suitcase?

To make a more precise choice, you need to weigh the pros and cons. Let's consider all the options:

• The suitcase has a rigid frame, so it is more suitable for transporting fragile items. Things put in a suitcase will not get wrinkled along the way. Travel bags are mostly soft, so you shouldn’t carry particularly wrinkled items there.
• But during transportation, suitcases take up more space, they have to be checked in as luggage, and, due to their massiveness, they are much heavier than bags. The bag is more compact and can be crumpled and folded.
• If we talk about durability, then the bag is inferior to its bulky, but more durable brother.

The bottom line is this: it all depends on the purpose of your trip and your priorities, so the choice is yours. But if you decide to purchase a travel bag, then let's look at what you need to pay attention to when purchasing this product.

Choosing a travel bag

So, how to choose a travel bag, what characteristics to pay attention to.

Size

First of all, you need to decide what size bag you want. The bag can be small, medium and large:

A medium-sized bag is considered optimal. Everything you need will fit there and nothing extra. Well, unless, of course, you are going to travel with five minor children. But even in this case, a medium size bag is preferable. It's better to take two medium ones than one huge one. Although, this is a matter of taste.

Important! Keep in mind that a larger bag will hold more, but it will also be heavier to lift. In this case, Hercules will come in handy.

There is another argument in favor of medium bags:

• If you fly by plane, then in the case of one huge bag for the whole family you will have a clear excess in kilograms and will have to pay extra for the extra kilos. Some airlines do not allow the total weight of baggage to be divided among several people.
• If you are traveling by train, then the medium size is a clear advantage, since it can easily be placed in the luggage space under the shelf.

Important! Some models have a special zipper that increases its size by several centimeters.

Choosing a pen

The handle must be strong and reliable so as not to break off at the most inopportune moment:

• When purchasing, check how comfortable it is to hold. If you don’t like something and the handle seems uncomfortable to you, for example, too thick or slippery, then it’s better not to take such a bag. After all, you are trying it on while it is empty, and if you put things in it, it will become heavy and even more uncomfortable.
• Pay special attention to the presence of a telescopic handle. It should be well fixed in two positions - extended and closed. The metal from which it is made must be durable and reliable.
• The handle on the side of the bag will come in handy if you need to move your luggage; the shoulder straps will also come in handy, just make sure that they can be unfastened if necessary.

Important! Choose a model with handles made of fabric and sewn into the bag - they are more reliable than glued handles, and they are also made of plastic.

Wheels

How to choose a bag with wheels and what kind of wheels should it have? First of all, it is desirable that they exist at all, since such models are much more convenient:

• When choosing a bag with wheels, pay attention to their size. The larger the wheel, the better its maneuverability, which means the more convenient it is to use such a product.
• Silicone wheels do not wear out as quickly as plastic ones and do not rattle as much when driving.
• The design of the wheels should be such that they are recessed into the body of the bag. This design is more reliable and less fragile. Particularly convenient are models in which the wheels can be removed if desired.

Material

Most often, travel bags are made from synthetic fabrics, as well as leather and leatherette:

• Leather products have a beautiful and impressive appearance, but they are not very comfortable to use. They themselves are quite heavy, and if you put things in them, they are completely unliftable. In addition, leather is difficult to care for - such products, despite all kinds of impregnation, quickly lose their attractive appearance and become covered with scuffs and scratches.
• Products made from leatherette are lighter, not as expensive, but are also susceptible to scratches and other troubles.
• Recently, leather has been replaced by new generation synthetic materials. They are beautiful, waterproof, lightweight, plus not as expensive as genuine leather. Such materials are not afraid of either rain or snow.

Other little things worth paying attention to

How to choose a good and high-quality travel bag on wheels? We draw attention to the following points:

• The bottom of the bag should be rigid so that the product does not deform during use.
• You can choose the color to suit your taste. Try to ensure that it is not easily soiled on one side, so that it is easier to clean and, at the same time, noticeable, especially if you often fly by plane. This will make it easy for you to locate your luggage when you claim it.
• Try to choose a light bag, because after you put your things in it, it will become much heavier.
• When purchasing, inspect the zippers - they should open and close freely, without getting stuck halfway. It would be good if they were metal and had two locks.
• Pay attention to the seams - on a high-quality product they are even and the threads do not stick out; the presence of small holes and missing seams is also unacceptable.
• Having a combination lock will also be useful, especially if you are traveling by plane or train. No one will definitely get into a closed bag.
• It’s good if the product has pockets - you can put travel items in them or what you need in the first hours of arrival. This will allow you not to rummage through your luggage in search of essentials.
• The presence of a large partition inside the product, on the one hand, is convenient; you can separate things, but on the other hand, large things will no longer fit there.
• All mechanisms - zippers, handles, wheels - should work easily and move without difficulty.

Traveling is one of the most enjoyable things in a person’s life. Problems with luggage, a handle that has come off, a wheel that has fallen off, a zipper that won’t close, or simply something clumsy in which we put our things - we don’t want to spoil our good mood with such annoying moments. Therefore, we will determine how to choose a good suitcase or the right travel bag that will not ruin your trip.

#1 Bag or suitcase?

Choosing a travel bag or suitcase is not only a matter of taste, but also of comfort.

Suitcases have a rigid frame, so it is more convenient to transport fragile and wrinkled items in them. However, both storing and transporting a suitcase requires more space than is required for a bag. Plus, the suitcase itself is heavier than a bag, and when climbing stairs and overcoming curbs, no matter how you look at it, you will have to lift it with your own handles.

Travel bags are completely soft or have a hard bottom. This allows them to be wrinkled and folded. The bag is more compact than a suitcase: taller and thinner, but inferior to a suitcase in strength.

When deciding what to choose, a suitcase or a bag, think about the purpose of the trip, the things you will take, and the transport you will use to get there. Carrying a sports bag to a five-star hotel is somehow not comme il faut, just like taking a leather suitcase to grandma in the village.

If you are flying by plane, carrying secret documents, a lot of money, porcelain or an ironed suit that you put on immediately upon arrival, you need a suitcase. And, in the case of transporting things that are especially valuable to you, with a combination lock. Otherwise, bags and suitcases are equal.

A large suitcase on an airplane can be checked in as checked baggage, but on a train, hiding this colossus under a seat or throwing it on the “third shelf” will be problematic. At the same time, as for air, check on the company’s website what size and weight of luggage is acceptable, what is considered hand luggage and what can be carried for free, and for what you will have to pay a fee. This will help you make your choice.

Advice. Learn to travel light: as a rule, what we pack for the trip can be halved.

#2 On wheels / without wheels

Both suitcases and bags can be fashionable - these are wheelless models with expensive finishes, suitcases and traveling bags with small capacity. An option for those who value aesthetics and know how to get by on little on the road. The main popular goods are suitcases and bags with wheels, as well as sports bags.

As for how to choose a good rolling suitcase, there are two- and four-wheeled models with wheels made of plastic or silicone.

Pay attention to the quality of the material of the suitcase wheels - hard plastic can crack under the weight of things, soft rubber is prone to wear. Polyurethane wheels are considered optimal because they have both strength and elasticity.

A four-wheeled version is better than a two-wheeled one, since if one wheel is damaged, the suitcase can still be rolled. The best choice is a four-wheel suitcase that can be rolled on two wheels if necessary.

Each wheel of the suitcase must have a separate, strong mount; optimally, when the wheels move in different directions, protective plastic protrusions are desirable.

In a two-wheeled suitcase, it is good if the wheels are recessed into the body - there is less chance of being knocked off or torn off due to negligence. The larger the diameter, the less the bottom will scratch and get dirty.

When it comes to choosing a rolling travel bag, the same tips apply. But there is one important point. If in suitcases the wheels are always located at the edges - at a considerable distance from each other, in bags - not. There are a lot of models in which the wheels are located closer to the center of the bag, and if the bottom itself is narrow, the distance between them is 15 centimeters. So, buying such a bag is the same as buying a bag without wheels (tested by the author’s own experience). It is more or less possible to roll it only on a perfectly flat surface. Carrying such a bag is easier than rolling it, because you have to constantly maneuver and try to center the bag so that it does not roll over on its sides.

Advice on how to choose the right travel bag with wheels: the wider the bottom of the bag and the closer the wheels are to its edges (respectively, the greater the distance between the wheels), the more stable it will be.

#3 Handles

Wheeled models of bags and suitcases have a folding handle - the fewer times it folds, the more rigid it is and the less likely it is to break. Optimally - handles that fold in half.

However, such a handle is not enough for complete happiness: you can only roll a suitcase or bag with it, but not lift it! To lift and rearrange this item, there must be a strong handle on top (next to the sliding one), plus a side handle or even two handles would not hurt. Travel bags are often accompanied by a shoulder strap.

Depending on the material of the bag/suitcase, handles can be fabric, plastic or metal. Check how securely they are attached. Fabric and leather handles must be thoroughly sewn; metal rivets are possible for added strength. It’s good if the bag’s handle is voluminous - with a rod inside. Such a handle will not only be stronger, but will also not “cut” your hand.

Advice on how to choose a sports travel bag: choose models not just with high-quality sewn handles, but those whose handles encircle the entire bag or are sewn along its entire height.

#4 Material

Travel bags are made of fabric, less often of leather or leatherette. Which suitcase to choose is a more difficult question, because the variety is increasing. Here, in addition to fabric and leather, aluminum, metal chips and plastic are also found. In addition to the aesthetic component and price, all materials of bags and suitcases are distinguished by weight and durability. Fabric, although the least durable, is in principle universal; metal and plastic are protection for fragile objects.

#5 Castles

It is very convenient when a bag or suitcase has zippers to expand the usable volume. In a suitcase, such a zipper is located around the perimeter of the lid, in bags - near the side compartments.

In order to protect valuables, suitcases are equipped with combination locks or key locks. If you're 007, get a model that has both. Better yet, keep your valuables to yourself.

Total

Vacation - so many pleasant emotions and expectations in this one word! When preparing for a trip, we carefully select a resort and a specific hotel, after which we begin to pack our things for the trip. Where will we put our clothes and other small items necessary for the trip? A selection especially for you of the best tips on good quality.

Volume and size

Before you go to the store for a new suitcase, try to decide on the basic requirements for the purchase. What type of transport do you use most often, how many things are you used to taking with you and how fragile are they? Airlines are the strictest when it comes to luggage. Today, each airplane passenger can take on board one suitcase weighing no more than 23 kg. In this case, the sum of the measurements of the external sides of the luggage should not exceed 115 cm.

For an airplane, if most manufacturers indicate internal volume (in liters) as the main characteristic? If the label does not indicate external dimensions, ask a store consultant to measure the travel bag you like. Or rely on the experience of other travelers: it is believed that about 25-30 liters are enough for one person. Summer clothes take up very little space. For a holiday in hot countries, you can safely take a small or medium suitcase. The situation is much more complicated with warm things. Jackets, coats, and winter sports suits take up quite a lot of space. If you often take such things on trips, take a closer look at large suitcases.

What is your suitcase made of?

The most popular materials for the production of modern suitcases are plastic and fabric. Textile travel bags are lightweight. Such suitcases are made from special wear-resistant fabrics. The main disadvantage of textile travel bags is their inability to protect the contents from impacts.

Which suitcase is better: fabric or plastic? Textile travel bags are reasonably priced. Their walls can be sealed, but even in this case there is a high risk of damage to the contents. Plastic suitcases protect their contents better thanks to their rigid frame. However, such cases are heavier than fabric bags. Still, this is a good solution for those who regularly transport a significant number of fragile items.

Compartments and pockets

It is very convenient when a suitcase has several internal compartments. In this case, you can easily arrange different types of things inside separately. A big plus is the presence of internal pockets for small items. How to choose a good quality wheeled suitcase, does it need small external compartments? Pockets on the outside are useful for passengers who do not check luggage in the cargo area. If you travel by train or road transport, the more compartments your suitcase has, the better. Fill the outer pockets with the things you'll need on your trip so you don't have to pack extra bags or packs. Please note: some suitcases have adjustable size, which is definitely a useful feature.

How many wheels does a suitcase need?

Carrying your own luggage in your hands is a dubious pleasure. For travel and long trips, it makes sense to purchase a suitcase with wheels. The most popular modifications today are carts and spinners. In the first case, the suitcase has two wheels and is transported in a semi-tilted position. Spinners are distinguished by the presence of four wheels located at the corners of the bottom. Each wheel rotates freely around its axis. A good suitcase on wheels with a similar fastening system ideally moves on smooth asphalt or the flooring of public buildings. The advantage of spinners is minimal effort to move. It is these suitcases that are recommended for elderly people and children to buy. However, be careful: spinner wheels can break after traveling for a long time on bad roads. If you often travel significant distances on foot with your luggage, it makes sense to choose a trolley suitcase.

What is the ideal pen?

When choosing a suitcase, you need to think about how you will transport it. Most modern travel bags have a retractable handle. It can be made of metal or plastic. Pay attention to what the part that you will use to carry the suitcase is made of. It’s good if the handle is rubberized or has a fabric pad at the top. A useful feature is the ability to secure it in several height positions. This is especially true if the suitcase will be used by several people of different heights.

Before purchasing, be sure to try carrying the suitcase around the store. This simple test will help you determine if it's the right height for you. How to choose a suitcase on wheels that is good quality and comfortable? Pay attention to the presence of side handles for carrying by hand. It is advisable that there are two of them - in this case, you can easily carry the suitcase with someone together, and putting it away on a shelf or in the trunk will not be difficult. These handles should also have rubber or fabric pads.

Suitcase clasp

Plastic suitcases are closed with special latches. Their quality, quantity and strength depend entirely on the cost of the product. Fabric suitcases usually have a zipper. It's good if it's plastic and wide. Please note: some suitcases have a zipper more than 1 cm wide. And this is not a design move, but a practical solution - such a fastener will last longer than a narrow one. Try to carefully close an overfilled suitcase, and then it will serve you for a very long time.

Your things are under lock and key!

Plastic suitcases have built-in locks. This is quite convenient, but remember: if the mechanism breaks, you will have to break into the case yourself. How to choose a travel suitcase that will protect your belongings? Zippers usually have special padlock arms. The protective device itself can be purchased at a store that sells travel bags. can be coded or regular mechanical (with a key). In the first case, you need to remember the combination of numbers, and in the second, you need to have the key with you at all times. Considered the most reliable

How to choose a travel suitcase and how to extend its service life?

What color should I choose for my suitcase? Today in any store you can find travel accessories in classic colors and bright, original ones. Which suitcase should you choose? An unusual design or bright print is something that will always help you easily recognize your own luggage. But be careful, even if you have a very original suitcase - do not forget to read the tags. Before purchasing, check the functionality of the fittings and wheels. If something sticks a little or is questionable, this suitcase is not worth buying. Remember that large travel bags and cases are practically beyond repair. The failure of one zipper or wheel almost always means the death of the entire product.

It is not enough to know how to choose a good quality rolling suitcase; it is important to ensure that your purchase is properly cared for. Lubricate the wheels regularly with silicone grease. At the airport, it is advisable to wrap your suitcase with film; this will protect it from mechanical damage and dirt. Try not to overfill your suitcase. But if you need to transport a lot of bulky items, use special vacuum bags. We wish you pleasant travels and hope that you will be able to choose a suitcase that will make them even more comfortable!