Which suitcase is lighter? How to choose a suitcase for travel

Your travel experience largely depends on the right suitcase! Which one is better for a vacation and which one for a business trip? What is more reliable: fabric or plastic? How many wheels does a durable suitcase have? Read about all this below!

How to choose the size?

The size of the suitcase is selected based on the duration of the trip and the amount of things you will need. For a vacation by the sea, shopping abroad and for a business trip, one size will not fit! How to choose the right suitcase? Let's talk.

Small suitcase (height up to 59cm) is suitable for a short trip or business trip. Please note that small suitcases may fit the size of hand luggage (40x55x20) or be larger than the established dimensions. In the latter case, you will have to check it in as your luggage.

Important! If you plan to take your suitcase on board the plane, make sure that it does not contain items that are not allowed in hand luggage. For example, nail scissors or liquid.

Average suitcase (height up to 70cm) is the optimal solution for one person on a trip of 1-2 weeks, or perhaps for two if you take a minimum of things with you or go for 3-4 days.

Big a suitcase (height up to 80cm) is useful for a family vacation; it will fit the belongings of all family members! A large suitcase will also be useful for overseas shopping. These suitcases have a capacity of up to 120 liters, which is enough to carry your entire seasonal wardrobe!

Important! If you are going to the sea with a child, in addition to one large one, you can also purchase a small children’s suitcase. Such a purchase will teach your baby independence and allow him to take his favorite toys, games and other important things with him.

A very large suitcase (height more than 80cm) will accommodate the whole family’s belongings and will be convenient on sea cruises and when packing things for moving.

Important! Some airlines allow suitcases no larger than 158 cm in baggage based on the sum of the side measurements. Therefore, if you plan to travel by plane, it is better to take 2 medium suitcases or a “medium and large” set.

Should I choose plastic or fabric?

Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. At the same time, fabric and plastic have the same strength and reliability. What is more convenient for you is up to you to decide!

Plastic The suitcases keep their shape perfectly. There is a much better chance of transporting a fragile item in a plastic suitcase than in a fabric one. Hard suitcases are made from different types of plastic. The most reliable suitcases today are made of polycarbonate, polypropylene and the unique Curv® material. Plastic suitcases are great for air travel!

Fabric suitcases have external pockets that will perfectly fit a magazine, tickets and perhaps even bulky outerwear. With a fabric suitcase, the things you need on the road will always be “at hand” and you won’t have to open the main compartment. Fabric suitcases are a convenient luggage option for traveling by train or car.

Choosing the best wheels

Wheels are the most vulnerable part of a suitcase, so when choosing a suitcase, you need to pay special attention to the wheel system. As you know, there are suitcases with 2 and 4 wheels.

2 wheel trolley suitcases have high cross-country ability: such a suitcase will travel both on paving stones and on the smooth floor of the airport. A significant disadvantage of 2-wheeled models is that approximately 1/3 of the weight of such a suitcase will fall on your hand. Owners of large suitcases will especially feel this.

4 wheel suitcases are designed for the most comfortable travel. It’s really easy to roll such a suitcase, even when loaded, on any smooth surface: on the airport floor and flat roads, but moving along the pavement will be a real test of strength! But recently, manufacturers have significantly improved 4-wheel systems by making double wheels. Such suitcases can be transported on both 2 and 4 wheels.

Zipper or snaps

Lightning have been used for several decades. Closing the suitcase with a zipper is convenient, quick and familiar. Many models have built-in combination locks that securely secure the tabs. This design makes it easy to close and quickly open the suitcase.

Latches- another option for closing the suitcase. Such models have a frame that makes the suitcase body more durable. When closed, the suitcases are practically airtight: both in light rain and in tropical downpours, your things will be in perfect order! One of the latches usually has a combination lock that allows you to use the suitcase as a safe. This will be convenient, for example, if there is no safe in the rooms or for a child in a summer camp.

Important! Choose a lock with TSA functionality, this will allow your suitcase to comply with baggage regulations in a number of countries with stricter customs controls.

Internal organization

The internal organization of the suitcase can be standard or improved.

IN standard organization you'll find straps to secure items, a divider, and perhaps a zippered pocket. With this kind of internal organization, you will additionally need clothes bags, a cosmetic bag and other items for practical packing.

When 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 purchasing such a product. Especially for you, we have made a selection of tips for choosing the right product.

Features of the material

The modern market offers customers textile and plastic products. In both cases, everything depends on the characteristics of the material itself. In general, textiles are much more advantageous in terms of impact resistance, but they hold their shape less well, and therefore the items inside are less protected. At the same time, among the goods you can find quite cheap ones. Plastic is good because it holds its shape, but it can burst from a blow or fall. The exception is polycarbonate - if you look at the rating of travel suitcases, it turns out that today this is one of the most popular 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 train (any mode of transport), pay attention to the wheels. It’s good if they are slightly recessed into the body, this helps protect the system from frequent breakdowns. But most of all the questions concern exactly how many such elements there should be. We recommend taking a closer look at models with two wheels. They are very convenient 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 carried at an angle on two points of support, only always on four. If you neglect this rule, the internal structure may fail very quickly. And in general, four-wheeled models are less resistant to various negative factors such as falling. If a suitcase for traveling on wheels is chosen correctly, it can last for several years with intensive use.

What size should I go for?

When deciding which suitcase to buy for travel, you must take into account the size parameters. Before purchasing, find out what the baggage size requirements are for the airlines you will be flying with and the railroads. For example, Russian Railways rules provide for free baggage transportation up to 36 kg in weight (for SV - 50 kg). The sum of the three measurements should not exceed 180 cm. If you often travel by train, it is not difficult to calculate the appropriate indicators. For airlines, everything is more complicated - weight and dimensions can 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 comfort. Large products (70-80 cm), as well as very large ones (from 80 cm) are a convenient choice for traveling by car, as well as on water transport, where there are no restrictions on the carriage of such cargo.

Combination lock and handle features

If you are answering the question about how to choose a suitcase for travel, be sure to check that the product has a combination lock. The most convenient one is the one that blocks the pawls, and therefore the zipper cannot be opened. This cannot be said to be a panacea against unauthorized encroachments - such a precaution is ideal if most of the time things are in plain 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, you cannot protect yourself one hundred percent with just one lock. For additional protection you will still have to use 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

RONCATO UNO ZIP . The very lightweight Italian-made design does not immediately seem very reliable, but this is only due to ignorance. In fact, these products come with a 10-year warranty, which fully justifies the product's performance.

Have fun on your trips!

When going on a trip or business trip, you always need to take a lot of things with you. For transportation, you can use a large bag or a bulky backpack, but due to the heavy weight, pain in the arms and back is guaranteed. The best option for traveling is suitcases with wheels. It looks compact but still has good capacity. And thanks to the wheels, it maneuvers perfectly and does not cause difficulties during transportation. Below are 9 of the best manufacturers of rolling suitcases.

The best plastic suitcases on wheels

Plastic suitcases are best suited for air travel. Polycarbonate or polypropylene are most often used for their production. These are lightweight materials that cope well with road tests and heavy loads. However, suitcases made from cheap plastic are easily scratched and may even break. Suitcases made of plastic with the addition of titanium chips are of high quality. They are more durable and do not allow dirt and moisture to pass through.

4 Sun Voyage

Best price
Country Russia
Rating (2018): 4.5

The company offers a wide range of rolling suitcases at budget prices. Products made from a plastic moisture-resistant frame preserve the contents of luggage even under severe mechanical loads. The lineup includes not only adult models for business trips and vacations, but also small suitcases for children. The brand also produces an exclusive line with original illustrations from Nikas Safronov.

The suitcase body is made of ABS plastic with the participation of scientists from the Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology. The product is equipped with 4 wheels, for the reliability of which bearings are used in the design. The models are equipped with convenient compartments for large and small items. In 2014, the brand presented its products at the international exhibition CONSUM EXPO.

3 Roncato

10 years warranty
Country: Italy
Rating (2018): 4.7

Plastic suitcases from the Italian brand are distinguished by streamlined shapes and bright colors. The constant introduction of new technologies and the regular development of the model range make the company a leader in the production of luggage in Italy. Durable plastic suitcases come with a ten-year warranty. All models are produced in the middle price range, and their cost varies from 4,000 to 26,000 rubles.

The brand's most famous collections are Polaris and Uno. The Uno Zip model is especially popular. The lightweight suitcase on four wheels is treated with a special impregnation against moisture. You can also highlight the Uno ZSL polycarbonate model with a reflective body. A suitcase with a hundred-liter volume weighs only 3.5 kg and is covered with a special anti-scratch layer. Reviews about Roncato suitcases are only positive.

2 Delsey

Best Design
Country: France
Rating (2018): 4.8

The brand has been known throughout Europe for over 70 years. All models are made of high quality plastic and have an exclusive design. The appearance of suitcases on wheels is so original that it is in demand among many celebrities. A distinctive feature of the Delsey models is the proprietary double zipper Zip Securi Tech.

The quality of the product corresponds to the declared price, so the French suitcase on wheels will last more than 10 years. The original design, wear resistance and internal structure make the models stand out on store shelves. Russian buyers fell in love with the Honore and Chatelet collections.

Which suitcase is better to choose with 2 or 4 wheels?

The wheels are considered the most vulnerable part of suitcases, so you should pay special attention to them when purchasing luggage. Before purchasing, you should decide on the main pros and cons of two and four wheeled suitcases.

Recently, manufacturers have modified 4-wheel models by making the rear wheels larger in diameter. And as you know, the larger the wheels, the higher the cross-country ability. This suitcase can be moved on 4 wheels on a flat floor, and tilted on 2 wheels on snow or paving stones.

1 Rimowa

Best quality
Country: Germany
Rating (2018): 4.9

The first place for the best plastic suitcases on wheels is occupied by the Rimowa brand. All of the company's products have their own passport and individual number to avoid counterfeiting. The brand was founded in 1898, and the first suitcases were made of wood. The company regularly develops and improves the quality of its products.

Rimowa specializes in premium products. There are two popular collections in its line: Salsa Air - made of polycarbonate and Topas - made of aluminum). Product prices vary from 25,000 to 70,000 rubles. The warranty on most models is 5 years. On thematic forums, users leave only positive reviews about Rimowa suitcases.

The best fabric rolling suitcases

Lightweight fabric suitcases are the best option for traveling by train, as there is no need to protect your luggage from damage and shock. The most budget-friendly material is polyester without additives. And in combination with nylon, the same fabric increases wear resistance and retains its original appearance for a long time.

Pros of fabric suitcases:

• variety of designs;
• the presence of a large number of pockets;
• increase in volume due to stretching of the material.

• difficulty during cleaning.

When packing, it is worth remembering that fragile items should be laid out among clothes, away from the edges and frame of the fabric suitcase.

3 Wenger

Many color options
Country: Switzerland
Rating (2018): 4.6

Fabric suitcases are made from high quality polyester. Therefore, the luggage frame ensures complete safety of its contents. All models are equipped with convenient maneuverable wheels. The products are very reliable and wear-resistant, as evidenced by a five-year warranty and positive reviews from owners.

The collections feature suitcases of various designs and colors - from business black tones to rich summer shades. The suitcases have a very comfortable telescopic handle with a durable lock. And a huge number of different pockets and compartments will help you compactly organize clothes, hygiene products, documentation and souvenirs. The brand also has models with a special compartment for a laptop.

2 Samsonite

Best quality
Country: Belgium
Rating (2018): 4.8

The brand is considered the founder of “suitcase fashion” and has been on the market for more than 100 years. The brand was founded in the USA, but today its head office is in Belgium. The company has the largest network of stores and warranty centers around the world. The company is confident in the quality of its products, so some models are covered by a lifetime warranty.

The company offers a huge selection of luggage, from economy to premium class. The price varies from 2500 to 35000 rubles. Cosmolite and Short-Lite are recognized as popular collections. The brand is especially proud of the development of Curv - uniquely intertwined plastic fibers. Suitcases with such a body are incredibly light and reliable.

1 American Tourist

The best ratio of price and quality
Country: USA
Rating (2018): 4.9

The brand gained its worldwide popularity in the early 90s; before that, American Tourister was a purely American company. The brand produces and sells luggage for middle and economy class. The suitcases are suitable for people who do not want to overpay for an advertised brand, but just want to transport their belongings safely. In the reviews, the owners note that despite the reasonable cost, the products are well made and last for more than five years.

The company produces two collections – Bon Air and Decor. Décor models are fabric suitcases with 4 wheels, suitable for business trips and travel. The polyester body is complemented by side plastic inserts, which makes the model quite durable. The product is equipped with several internal and external pockets with a convenient zipper. The compartment for things is equipped with a combination lock.

The best children's suitcases on wheels

All suitcases for children are miniature in size, and are distinguished by their bright design, as well as the number of wheels. Before purchasing, you should decide on the material of the luggage body. A fabric suitcase can hold more things, but a plastic one will come in handy if a child wants to turn gray on it while waiting for a flight. You also need to make sure that there is a retractable adjustable handle, because the child may get bored with carrying luggage, and then the parents will have to do it.

2 Atma Trade

Best price
A country: Finland (manufactured in China)
Rating (2018): 4.6

Atma Trade is a budget brand of suitcases for children. The price for the Kids series is about 3,000 rubles. The brand is a structural division of the Impreza concern. The brand's products are extremely popular due to their low cost and variety of designs. And with the help of an adjustable handle and maneuverable wheels, the child can easily carry his luggage.

Atma Trade collections are so diverse that every child can find a case with their favorite cartoon character. Boys will love the Supercar model, where the plastic completely follows the curves of the car. And girls will love suitcases with a classic body shape, but with bright images of princesses and cats.

1 Trunki

Unique design
Country: England
Rating (2018): 4.9

Trunki was invented by English designer Rob Law. While walking in a suitcase store in 1997, he was disappointed that there were no interesting children's models. Then he decided to combine a ride-on toy and a suitcase. This is how luggage appeared in the form of animals and cartoon characters. To implement the idea, the Magmatic company was organized. All products are manufactured in factories that meet international standards ICTI and ISO 9001. The brand has won many awards for the innovation, exclusivity and design of its products.

A rolling suitcase is not just for transporting things. You can ride on it, holding on to special protrusions - horns. For such interesting luggage, the manufacturer offers to additionally purchase bright stickers and unique seats. In reviews, parents admire the design of the suitcase and talk about how their children play with it while waiting for a train or plane.

What should you pay attention to and how to choose a suitcase for travel?

First of all, you should pay attention to:

• Quality– a suitcase is a long-term item that can serve you for many years, so you shouldn’t skimp on it. The baggage handlers at the airport will throw it onto belts and carts, put 5-7 more of the same bags on it, transport it in pouring rain or snow... it must withstand all of this.
• Mobility– you will have to travel long distances with him, from and to the airport, on a bus, taxi, train...
• Airline requirements– the suitcase must comply with the airline’s baggage allowance.

In addition to these 3 main requirements, pay attention to:

Suitcase interior

The interior space can be equipped with dividers and fastening straps,

Suitcase with divider and fastening straps

or with compartments for shirts, shoes and small items.

Suitcase with compartments for shirts and shoes

Which specific configuration to choose is up to you. On the one hand, partitions help you pack things, on the other hand, it will be difficult for you to fit a large item in your suitcase, especially if the partitions are hard. In any case, belts are a must; they allow you to compact things if there are a lot of them and secure them if there are few.

How to choose a suitcase on wheels?

Suitcases can be on 2 or 4 wheels. The four-wheel design is more stable; such a suitcase does not need to be tilted and is convenient to roll in narrow aisles (especially in the subway and train). Unfortunately, it is inconvenient to carry it on a regular road with uneven surfaces, cracks and puddles, except when the design allows the suitcase to be tilted and rolled like a regular two-wheeled one.

Suitcase with 4 wheels located outside the body

You cannot skimp on a suitcase with four wheels; in this design, they protrude beyond the boundaries of the body, and if the suitcase is cheap and of poor quality, then the wheels may break or come off. Most often they are damaged on the baggage belt at the airport or when moving on uneven surfaces.

The wheels of a 2-wheeled suitcase are usually recessed into the body, making them much more difficult to break off. The larger the diameter of the wheel, the more convenient it is to roll it over uneven surfaces. The design with small wheels is unstable and often tips over. Ideally, they should be 7-10 cm in diameter and at least a quarter recessed into the body.

The material from which the wheels are made is of great importance. They can be plastic, semi-plastic, semi-polyurethane and polyurethane (they are also called silicone). The most durable are polyurethane, they practically do not wear out, unlike plastic ones, they do not leave marks, are silent and provide excellent shock absorption when moving on uneven surfaces.

Pay attention to the gap between the suitcase body and the ground; if it is small, the bottom will be scratched. For a plastic suitcase, this is not a big problem, but a fabric one can tear or fray. Many manufacturers reinforce this part with leather or plastic padding.

Plastic lining on the bottom of a fabric suitcase

Suitcase weight

Weight is one of the most important characteristics. The heavier the suitcase, the less things you can take with you. Please remember that the maximum allowed baggage weight is 20-23 kg in economy class. A suitcase with a volume of about 100 liters weighs on average 4.5 – 6 kg. This means that you will only take about 15 kg on the plane. If weight is not a critical indicator for checked luggage, then when choosing a bag for carry-on luggage, you should pay attention to this parameter first of all.

Most airlines allow bags weighing up to 10 kg as hand luggage. A suitcase with a volume of about 30 liters weighs from 2.1 – 4 kg. This means that approximately half of the allowable weight is the suitcase's own weight. Some carriers allow hand luggage weighing no more than 5-7 kg into the cabin; in such cases, an ultra-light suitcase will come in handy.

Suitcase material

Modern suitcases are made of plastic, textiles, leather and metal.

Plastic suitcase

For the manufacture of plastic suitcases, polycarbonate, polypropylene and ABS plastic are most often used. Modern plastic suitcases are lightweight and resistant to deformation and stress.

The rigid body does not allow it to sag, your things will be reliably protected, but on the other hand, it limits the volume; it does not stretch, unlike fabric. Another disadvantage is its compactness; thanks to the same rigid body, you may have difficulty placing it on the top shelf of an airplane. If the fabric one bends in this case and allows you to close the lid, then with a plastic suitcase it will be somewhat more difficult. But again, this depends on its size and the configuration of the aircraft.

Fabric suitcase

Fabric suitcases are the most common; they are light, durable and, most importantly, inexpensive. Pay attention to the quality of the fabric; it should be abrasion-resistant and coated with waterproof impregnation (for example, Teflon). The advantages of fabric suitcases include the presence of side pockets for various small items. They can significantly increase its capacity.

The disadvantages include problems with cleaning; they get dirty quickly and are difficult to wash. If it is enough to wipe the plastic one with a damp cloth, then you will have to work hard with brushes and stain removers. To avoid frequent cleaning, choose darker colors, such as black or dark blue...

You won’t be able to carry fragile items in a fabric suitcase; under the weight of other luggage, they may break.

Metal and leather suitcases

Suitcases made of metal, or rather aircraft-grade aluminum, are rare and are quite expensive. They are shock- and fire-resistant, they do not form scratches or rust, and at the same time, metal suitcases are very light.

Leather suitcases are considered the most expensive, but also the most demanding to care for. Scratches quickly appear on them, so you won’t be able to do without a film or a special cover.

Locks and zippers

Most often on suitcases there is a plastic zipper; on good models it is self-repairing, i.e. even if you lose a few teeth, it will still work. It is very convenient if the zipper is reversible, it can be fastened on both sides.

Recently, lightning protection can be found on some models; it prevents unauthorized access to your luggage.

In this example, in addition to protecting the zipper, it is possible to fix the zipper with a combination lock with the TSA function. You can buy a regular padlock, but if you are planning to travel to the US, it must be TSA-enabled.

The TSA or Transportation Security Administration practices mandatory screening and, if necessary, inspection of all baggage in the United States.

TSA agents have the right to search any suspicious bag or suitcase. To open locks, a special TSA key is used; if it does not fit, the lock is cut off. At the same time, neither the airline nor the transport security agency itself will be held responsible for damage to the suitcase.

All locks from well-known luggage manufacturers, such as Samsonite, Roncato Antler, Carlton and others, are certified by the transport association and equipped with a special red diamond icon.

Olga Stepanova

Reading time: 10 minutes

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It would seem - what’s easier than buying a suitcase? I chose the most beautiful one, and that was the end of it, and the lady with the suitcase! But it was not there! After all, choosing a suitcase is a whole science! It is important not to make a mistake with the size and volume, to provide for all the important points, to guess with the choice of material, the number of wheels and even with locks.

The main thing is not to panic! We will tell you how not to make a mistake with your choice, and which suitcase will be the most convenient on your trip!

Travel suitcase sizes and ideal weights

One of the key parameters when choosing a suitcase is, of course, its size. The Russian range of these products is predominantly represented by foreign brands, therefore, as a rule, the English system of measures is used, and the size of a travel suitcase is determined precisely in inches and diagonally.

Video: Choosing a suitcase for travel!

Select the size of the suitcase by height and in inches:

• S (height< 60 см; вместительность < 50 л). A good “light” option for carry-on luggage. In such a suitcase you can put a pair of shoes and a cosmetic bag, your favorite book, or a set of souvenirs for loved ones. Suitable for a child, teenager. Average dimensions are 16-20 inches (height: 48-54 cm, width: 30-40 cm, depth: 20-22 cm). The 20-inch product with a capacity of 45 liters is the most popular suitcase.
• M (height< 70 см; вместительность < 90 л). Most popular size. An ideal option for a tourist who takes with him the essentials. Dimensions: 24 inches (height - 65 cm, width - 42 cm, depth - 24 cm).
• L (height > 70 cm; capacity< 120 л). Large suitcase for family vacations. Size: 28 inches (height - 72 cm, width - 44 cm, depth - 26 cm).
• XL (height > 80 cm; capacity< 180 л). This huge suitcase is perfect for a cruise. It will easily fit the whole family's things.

On a note:

Do not forget that dimensions can fluctuate by 3-5 cm +/-, and the “capacity” of a suitcase often depends on the brand and manufacturer.

For example, the capacity of small suitcases can be 30 liters or 49 liters, and medium ones - from 50 liters.

And definitely pay attention to the weight- especially if you are flying by plane (the weight of a suitcase is not limited by anything only when transporting it independently by train or car, and airlines have introduced restrictions on the maximum weight of suitcases).

Video: How to choose a suitcase?

Choice of suitcases by material – fabric, plastic, leather?

What material would be preferable for a suitcase? Of course, leather and fabric are nicer. But plastic models can also be quite attractive.

The advantages and disadvantages of luggage products, which we will discuss below, will help you navigate:

Fabric suitcase

Convenient for traveling by train and car. The most wear-resistant fabrics are polyamide, nylon and polyester.

Pros:

• The cheapest one is when choosing a suitcase based on material.
• Light weight.
• Existence of external spacious pockets.
• Does not deteriorate from impact.
• Sometimes it has the function of increasing volume due to a large external pocket.

Minuses:

• Does not protect fragile items inside the suitcase well.
• May get wet and leak in the rain (requires purchasing a cover).
• Deformed.
• Difficult to wash after traveling.

Plastic suitcase

The suitcase is good for transporting fragile items in small quantities.

Modern models are made of high-strength plastic, but they are more expensive.

Pros:

• Relatively light.
• Things inside are protected from shock and rain.
• Easy to clean.

Minuses:

• Scratches remain on the surface. To protect against them you will have to get a cover.
• A blow can cause it to split.

Leather suitcase

Good for business trips.

Pros:

• Attractive, solid appearance. Status thing!
• Not afraid of moisture.
• Easy care.

Minuses:

• High price.
• Prone to scratches.
• Too heavy.

Video: Crash test of suitcases

Suitcase with wheels or without wheels - pros and cons of both

When choosing a suitcase for vacation, be sure to check the wheels. This is one of the most important selection criteria!

With broken wheels, even the most beautiful and durable suitcase will not see overseas countries and luxury hotels - it will go to the mezzanine or straight to the trash heap.

Save yourself the hassle and money - check the wheels right away:

1. Number of wheels. The suitcase with 4 wheels is designed for rolling on smooth roads. Pros: long service life, easy operation, good maneuverability. Pros of a 2-wheeled suitcase: higher cross-country ability. Minus - the wheels break quickly, low maneuverability, you can only roll in an inclined state.
2. Material: silicone wheels (silent, soft, but burst under load and rough roads), plastic (noisy, brittle, unreliable), rubber (silent, the most reliable).
3. Wheel size. Of course, 2 solid wheels, recessed into the body and not protruding beyond its limits, will be more passable. It is recommended to choose a product with independent wheel mounting (metal and mounted on metal bearings).

A suitcase without wheels is certainly cheaper, but extremely inconvenient on any trip.

Checking the suitcase handles:

• Side and top handles (additional) are needed for more comfortable lifting of the suitcase. Telescopic – for moving the product along the road.
• The handles should be made of dense material and with additional rivets or screws screwed into the body of the suitcase.
• The presence of a retractable handle is one of the main advantages.

Criteria for choosing a telescopic handle:

1. Tight fastening.
2. Several pull-out positions.
3. No extraneous sounds when pulling out or “hanging out” in the suitcase.
4. When closed, the handle should be 100% buried in the body.
5. The ideal material is metal.

Having chosen a suitcase, roll it around the store by the handle: check the height of the handle, the comfort when rolling the suitcase

Video: How to choose the right rolling suitcase?

Suitcase and the safety of things when traveling – how to choose a reliable suitcase?

When choosing a suitcase, do not forget about additional criteria:

• We are looking for a reliable zipper! The ideal option is wide (approx. - from 1 cm), dense, with huge teeth and plastic. Choose spiral-shaped teeth, the most reliable (tractor teeth break faster). It would be good if the zipper was also rubberized and protected from moisture.
• Lock. A hinged one is considered more practical, but it is not very reliable, and the key is often lost. A combination lock is more reliable, but if it breaks or the code is lost, you will have to damage the suitcase or take it to a service center. The ideal option is a combined one, with both locks, and a combination lock - with the TSA system.
• Inner space. A practical and high-quality suitcase has several compartments, small pockets with a waterproof lining (for documents), a double bottom and special fastenings that hold things inside if the suitcase is accidentally opened. Check whether the gasket inside is of high quality; it should be made of dense fabric, without crooked seams.
• Additional emphasis. This option will protect your suitcase from falls. The additional support can be stationary or retractable.

May also be useful:

1. Additional belt.
2. A cover to protect your suitcase from scratches and moisture.
3. A bright ribbon for the handle and an address tag - so as not to confuse your suitcase with someone else's.

Video: How to choose a suitcase for a stylish trip?

Let's summarize - so which suitcase will make your travels easy and enjoyable?

So, we have studied the criteria for choosing a suitcase, and all that remains is to summarize and determine - what is it, the ideal suitcase for traveling?

• For a short trip with a minimum of things on a plane to a country with smooth roads, an 18-inch suitcase with 4 wheels, with a plastic or leather body and silicone wheels, is suitable.
• For a long vacation with the whole family when traveling by car It is better to choose large, lightweight 24-28-inch 2-wheeled fabric suitcases with the ability to increase volume due to an external pocket.

The best suitcase It has rubber wheels, a solid wide zipper, a durable body and the most comfortable interior space.