The World’s Best Luggage Brands

Are you going on a trip? Your comfort while traveling depends largely on the suitcase you choose as your traveling companion.

Agree that a broken wheel, a broken zipper, or having to lift your suitcase over every curb and step does not add up to a pleasant experience. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider the choice of a travel bag. After all, the suitcase, as a rule, is purchased not for one or two trips but for a much longer period.

So, what should you pay attention to first of all? Pleasant appearance, durability, compactness, or maybe the convenience of transportation and reliable locking system? All these characteristics are important for a comfortable suitcase, along with a lot of pockets, capacity, shock resistance, and resistance to dirt.

There are hundreds of models on store shelves. It is impossible to check each of them in practice. So how do you choose the best one and not regret it? And is there, in principle, an ideal model that combines all the necessary characteristics?

To help travelers, we have compiled a rating with a detailed description of manufacturers, models, and their features based on the reviews of those who have already used such suitcases. We hope that it will be useful for you.

The Best Brands

A suitcase is a rectangular object for transporting things with a hinged lid, rigid walls, and a handle. The ability to retain its shape distinguishes this accessory from other types of luggage equipment. This feature determines the main advantages of the product:

Things inside are not crumpled or damaged, maintaining the position and appearance given to them when packed.
To save space, you can put several pieces of luggage on top of each other.

The modern suitcase did not appear until the 19th century. Before that, people traveled with bundles and trunks, and then travel bags and satchels appeared. The inventor of the suitcase was a packer at the court of French King Napoleon III. He had his own workshop where he set up the production of bags with rigid walls. The invention brought the designer world fame, and today, the name “Louis Vuitton” is associated with fashion, style, and prestige.

Since then, the product has undergone many transformations, from materials to the appearance of clasps and telescopic handles. However, the most revolutionary improvement can safely be considered the wheels. Ever since American Bernard Sadow came up with the idea of attaching wheels to a suitcase in the 1970s, traveling with your belongings has become much easier.

Today, $43 billion dollars worth of luggage is bought and sold worldwide each year, and this figure is constantly growing. The largest number of leading manufacturers are located in Europe and North America.

Alezar

The models of this Finnish brand are very diverse. They come in different colors, with prints, made of fabric, polycarbonate, and plastic. However, the most famous products are durable suitcases made of nylon fabric with numerous pockets. They are roomy, with a well-organized interior space. They are suitable for travelers who do not carry fragile things, as they lack impact and compression protection.

American Tourister

Another well-known brand was acquired by Samsonite. The new owners, as always, tried to keep all the features of the company. Today, American Tourister offers simple and reliable suitcases at an affordable price.

There are no extra features or expensive materials, but all the basic functions work flawlessly. This was the goal of the brand’s founder, Sol Kofler – to sell high-quality luggage that every traveler can afford.

The brand’s products are distinguished by bright colors that lift the mood. Most products have a body made of high-molecular polypropylene and are designed for long-term use. Children’s luggage with cartoon characters is also available.

The main series are the life-affirming Palm Valley, the calm Pasadena, and the fabric Lightway.

Away

“Affordable, comfortable, and beautiful” is the main motto of the company, which entered the market in 2016. Despite its youth, the creations of the two founders already enjoy the trust of buyers. This is not surprising because, before developing models, the women conducted many surveys to determine the needs of buyers.

In the suitcases of this brand, everything is thought out for the modern traveler. There is a power bank that allows you to charge up to two devices on the road. Inside the suitcase is not just empty space, as in many models, but three organized compartments for shoes, clothes, and gadgets. There is also a container for used items that need to be washed. The luggage closes with a secure TSA lock.

One way to make the products more affordable is that there are no dealers. The company not only manufactures but also sells its products on its own. Any buyer can contact the office, share their impressions, and leave wishes about the suitcases. Emotional connection with buyers and feedback are the most important elements of marketing.

Customers will also appreciate the system of exchanging an old suitcase for a new one, which is available in all company stores. In addition, if you are unhappy with the new product within three months of purchase, you can return it.

Bric’s

In its 70 years of existence, this Italian manufacturer has mastered both leather and plastic. The company offers luxurious hand-stitched leather goods and elegant models made of high-strength plastic.

Bric’s is always keeping up with the times. Therefore, if you are looking for luggage with technological innovations, pay attention to this manufacturer. All modern materials and inventions that affect functionality, durability, and protection are tested by the company’s specialists and offered to buyers.

Reinforced corners, telescopic handles, and four reliable wheels make it easy to move luggage and protect it from unforeseen situations on the road. The combination of materials and premium design makes Bric suitcases a highlight of any trip.

Briggs & Riley

Many people packing luggage for a trip would dream of owning an invisible expansion spell like the characters in Harry Potter. But only owners of Briggs & Riley suitcases have such an opportunity. This company’s products can expand by almost a third of their volume during packing. After everything and even a little more has fit into the luggage, special puffs return it to its normal appearance.

The Outsider handle, which runs the entire length of the back of the suitcase, is also a Briggs & Riley idea. Its rigidity prevents the back of the luggage from deforming. Beautiful, elegant zippers and additional outward-opening compartments adorn the brand’s products, creating a unique design. The interior space consists of convenient compartments and compartments.

Seven years after its foundation, in 2000, the brand was taken over by a competitor and, under its management, continues to delight fans with technological innovations.

Calpak Luggage

The company offers luggage made of hard and fabric materials. The products stand out with stylish coloring. Marble, mother-of-pearl, pearl, and massive suitcases with black trim will appeal to the fairer sex, and as a special edition – travel pillows and cosmetic bags in the tone of luggage. For men, there is a line of stylish bags in dark colors with retractable handles.

Crash Baggage

It is almost impossible not to notice the suitcase of this brand. The material with attractive artistic dents looks very stylish. Even with rough handling at the airport, a couple of extra dents will blend in perfectly with the existing ones.

The durable polycarbonate in bright colors is excellent. The two halves of the suitcase are fastened with a zipper. Inside, there are mesh pockets on the lining. The model is complemented by movable multi-directional wheels, a retractable handle, and a lock for close inspection of luggage.

Delsey Luggage

Perhaps no one approached the production of suitcases as responsibly as Delsey. Preparatory work lasted for 20 years. But the result exceeded all expectations. Every year, the company sells about 3 million products around the world.

Buyers appreciate the suitcases for their lightness and original design. In addition, each series has pleasant additions that make traveling easier. For example, an indicator that allows you to determine if the weight limit has been exceeded or a serial number unique to each suitcase. Pluggage line suitcases are even considered smart devices. They are equipped with a scale, a beacon, a locking device, a charger, and a speaker. And all this arsenal can be controlled from a smartphone.

The name of the brand is a combination of the initial parts of the two owners’ last names. They still approach the creation of luggage very meticulously. Before choosing a combination lock for the range, it is tested for 15,000 openings, and the wheels can withstand 64 kilometers of cross-country travel. Four hundred employees work on each product.

From the suburbs of Paris, where the Delsey factory is located, the products are shipped to 100 countries around the world, where they enjoy enduring popularity.

Dielle

This Italian brand offers suitcases with elegant shapes and streamlined lines. The corners are protected from impact and abrasion by leather inserts. Inside, there are additional dividers and tightening straps. Models are equipped with combination locks and four wheels.

Eagle Creek

When Steve and Nona Barker started production, their main goal was to create a comfortable and multifunctional luggage for tourists. Therefore, the suitcases of this brand have the maximum number of additional details and features that travelers will appreciate.

Various organizers, additional seats, the ability to transform into a backpack or bag, multi-directional wheels with treads and covers, mounts for hanging additional luggage, numerous handles, zippers, and carabiners. Take time to familiarize yourself with all of the purchase options.

Thoughtful details make traveling with Eagle Creek products convenient and easy. Secure gadget compartments and reflective elements make them safe for both belongings and the hiker.

Lifetime warranty and repair in service centers are significant bonuses for buyers. An additional plus is the environmental friendliness of the products. They do not contain toxic polymers that pollute the environment. So even when the product’s service life is over, there is no harm in disposing of it.

Globe-Trotter

The luggage from Globe-Trotter belongs to the luxury class. It has a unique style reminiscent of vintage suitcases but with modern details. The old-fashioned crocodile clasps that open with a key, the side handle, the strictly rectangular shape, and the unchanged clasp straps that encircle the piece. A restored 19th-century valise seems to come to life. However, the addition of wheels and a retractable handle indicates a modern product.

The company’s suitcases are distinguished by an unusual material of manufacture – vulcanized plates made of several layers of wood fibers. The raw material resembles cellulose mass, from which cardboard and paper are subsequently made. The pulp is processed and solidified into plates. The material is resistant to abrasion and moisture.

All corners of the product are reinforced with metal and leather overlays on rivets. Additional straps and top handles are made of leather. Every detail is handmade. At the customer’s request, the model can be marked with his initials.

Overall, the suitcases look incredibly stylish in a classic, noble way. No wonder that many famous British travelers, including members of the royal family, prefer Globe-Trotter luggage. The first examples of the collection accompanied their owners to Everest and Antarctica.

Hartmann

The passion of the company’s founder to create the perfect luggage remains Hartmann’s main strategy to this day.

Starting with the production of fashionable chests of the XIX century, the company gradually moved to the production of elegant suitcases made of natural and artificial leather. Luxurious leather goods are the trademark of the brand. The cost of one product starts from 600 dollars. However, a Hartmann suitcase will be a source of pride in any trip.

The brand is focused on business travelers. Each product has a special removable compartment for the transportation of suits. Attention is paid to creating sets with bags of different sizes made in a single style.

In 2012, the company was acquired by Samsonite, which maintained the trend of producing elite luggage.

Heys

Each Heys suitcase is characterized by a stylish design. Famous artists and designers work on the appearance of suitcases. Therefore, the brand’s products immediately attract attention to the luggage carousel. These are not just bright colors and various curves of the material but real paintings and prints. To date, more than 30 variants of images have been developed.

The second significant advantage is impact-resistant materials that retain their shape well. Mainly polycarbonates with reinforcing additives are used. The ribbed shape of the suitcase also contributes to its durability. Japanese specialists worked on the creation of an ideal design – the manufacturer buys polyurethane wheels of the highest quality abroad.

The whole construction guarantees many years of operation without cracks, chips, and dents.

Each product has a three-dimensional grid. The volume of the product can be changed by opening the extensions made of waterproof material.

There are currently two separate Heys companies. One is based in America, and the other in Canada. They are run by two brothers who split the original company.

Louis Vuitton

The company founded by the inventor of the suitcase still produces luggage. However, it does so in very small batches and only on individual orders. No more than 300 suitcases are produced per year. Therefore, Louis Vuitton products are expensive exclusives.

The unique print with alternating patterns, plaid pattern, and LV monogram are the brand’s signature elements. The rigid frame is made of wood and covered with fabric. Some suitcases are made of polypropylene composite. Soft luggage is made of leather. Each model is covered with a protective layer that prevents water penetration, fading, and scratches.

Most lines come with a suitcase and a small bag for miscellaneous small things.

Ookonn

Although Ookonn suitcases have a vintage hatbox shape, they are quite modern and functional. Combination lock, polycarbonate body, telescopic handle – all the attributes for comfortable traveling are there. Inside, there are small pockets and holders for things. The suitcase resembles a larger version of a lady’s handbag on wheels.

Paravel

The range includes interesting fabric suitcases and hard-shell luggage. The former is not suitable for checked luggage but is lightweight and breathable. The fabric is waterproof and practically does not tear. With proper care, these products can last for many years.

The second option is virtually indestructible and is highly environmentally friendly, as it is made from recycled materials. Large rubberized wheels with carbon steel bearings are very comfortable, and the reinforced body is impact-resistant. The internal organization is pleasantly surprising: a dense compression board with tightening carabiner straps for one half and a special removable zippered pocket for documents or a laptop for the other half.

Piquadro

The company started producing leather suitcases and bags in 1998, ten years after its founding. Before that, interesting ideas and technologies were sold to other companies. But as soon as Marco Palmieri decided to use his inventions himself, the company immediately gained fans and loyal customers. In 20 years, 1500 brand stores, boutiques, and outlets have been opened all over the world.

The range of products is made of Tuscan leather, additionally treated to increase durability. Piquadro has patented special cutting and duplicating technologies. Perfectly even and durable patches are supplied for sewing. Each product is given a personalized number. Thus, the company shows that it is fully responsible for the quality of its products.

Piquadro gives preference to functionality. The design of suitcases is strict and businesslike, without numerous decorations and unnecessary details. Therefore, it is suitable for most looks and styles.

Ricardo

Seven thousand stores around the world offer products from the American company Ricardo. Since its creation in 1978, more than 20 million bags and suitcases have been sold. The company is headed by a team of specialists with 60 years of experience in the field of travel accessories.

Among the unique know-how is a special Nano-Tex fabric for the case, resistant to dirt and moisture. As a result, the luggage always looks neat. Things are packed in the suitcase on two levels, separated by a partition. A nice feature is the built-in scales that allow you to prepare for boarding the airplane.

The company has a quality control department on the base to ensure that all parts are hard-wearing and in good working order. One of the main advantages is an excellent price-quality ratio, thanks to the production facilities in China.

Rimowa

The ribbed surface of suitcases made of aluminum and plastic is familiar to every traveler. This is a patented feature of the German brand’s products. This approach provides lightness and increased resistance to compression. Another hit of the company is waterproof models. These products are indispensable when transporting gadgets, equipment, and appliances.

Creation of each suitcase is a painstaking process, including up to 90 stages. That is why the brand’s prices are corresponding – about $1,500 per piece. This corresponds to the spirit of the elite LVMH group, which the Morshekov family company joined in 2016, transferring the controlling stake to the new owners.

When you choose luggage from Rimowa, you get a lightweight waterproof case, a special electronic tag that facilitates check-in, smooth-running mechanisms, unique styling, and a five-year warranty – main lines: Original, Off-White, Hybrid.

Roncato

Roncato is a family-owned company named after its founder. Its owners have extensive knowledge of luggage manufacturing, having been involved in it since childhood. At the beginning of its activity, the company specialized in the production of elite attaché cases and, in the 1980s, launched lines for all travelers.

Each of the manufacturer’s collections features patented innovations: flat monolithic retractable handles, coded clasps, additional locking elements on the bottom, four different-sized wheels, two of which are enclosed, uniquely shaped tie-down straps, and more. All these features make the company’s suitcases original and favorably distinguish them from other products in this segment.

Samsonite

If you want to buy a suitcase for life, Samsonite is what you are looking for. The words “reliability and durability” have long been associated with this manufacturer. It’s no coincidence that the company’s name comes from the biblical hero Samson, who had extraordinary strength.

For more than 100 years, the company has been emphasizing the reliability of suitcase construction. In its first advertising campaign, company founder Jesse Schwider, his three brothers, and his father stood on the suitcase, proving its unprecedented strength.

Since then, the manufacturer has strictly adhered to the chosen course. When purchasing the product, you can personally repeat the actions of the creator and stand and jump on the suitcase. Such an opportunity is available in every branded store. Being 100% confident in quality, the company provides a lifetime warranty on some models.

Being a buyer of Samsonite, you can count on innovative solutions and constant improvement of models. The company is the discoverer of many popular features. Combination locks, suitcase and bag sets, rubber seals, four wheels with the ability to move in any direction, plastic cases, and many other innovations are the result of the work of the Schwider brothers.

The best-known lines are the lightweight frameless Qyster, the plastic Silhouette, and the ribbed Cosmolite.

Thule

The Swedish manufacturer is focused on travelers. In Thule stores, you can buy car seats, trailers, car mounts for sports equipment, and much more. Suitcases are one segment of the extensive range, which was added in 2010.

The Thule logo on the products guarantees durability and reliability. Each product undergoes up to 100 tests before hitting the store shelves and has a five-year warranty, even under active use.

The manufacturer’s suitcases consist of a plastic base or aluminum frame covered with strong, thick, waterproof nylon that is resistant to tears, stretching, and scratches. Steel bushings on the wheels increase the luggage’s durability when in motion. A telescopic handle serves as a complement.

Nice and thoughtful features include:

Interior compartments.
Impact-resistant compartments for gear and gadgets.
Adjustable straps that turn the entire luggage into a compact unit.

Titan

The brand does not produce titanium suitcases. The name rather speaks about the reliability of products and the scale of the manufacturer. However, the color and material can be chosen to suit any taste.

Bright shades and stylish relief images on plastic make the brand popular among young people. The leading model, Titan Xenon, was noted for its durability. Its features make it suitable for any kind of traveling. Reinforced side guards protect against impacts. The large, sturdy wheels can withstand off-roading.

Quality luggage of this German brand will not cost a lot. The products are affordable for any budget.

TravelPro

To the founder of the TravelPro brand, travelers owe the retractable handle on suitcases, which is now an integral part of any travel bag. Robert Plath modernized a small suitcase by adding wheels and a handle. This product became the prototype for modern luggage used by flight attendants and pilots when boarding airplanes.

When orders from fellow pilots for his invention poured in like a cornucopia, Robert realized it was time to start his own company and optimize production. Since the company’s inception, some 500,000 pilots have benefited from the inventor’s know-how.

TravelPro models are designed for frequent travel and are characterized by durability. The main advantages include balanced luggage, smooth running, and flawless operation of all mechanisms. The company has patented special systems that ensure smooth running (PrecisionGlide).

Among the company’s offerings is compact carry-on luggage, which can be taken into the cabin of an airplane and at the same time accommodate the maximum number of necessary things. The main basic model is the Rollaboard.

Trunki

These children’s toy suitcases, made in the form of fabulous animals, immediately attract attention. The little owner can not only roll his luggage but also ride on it. Four sturdy wheels, a recess for a seat on top, a clasp in the form of a nose, and funny horns to hold on to – each model is painted and decorated to look more like the chosen character, vehicle, or ship. The interior is organized like any other suitcase.

Tumi

Everything that Tumi produces is worthy of the attention of the gods. That is why the company was named in honor of the Peruvian knife, which was used to prepare offerings to the gods. The best materials, thoughtful details, and patented innovations make the manufacturer’s products luxurious. Among the company’s clients are such famous artists and politicians as Barack Obama, Angelina Jolie, and Brad Pitt.

The first successful step of the company, founded in 1975, was the covering of suitcases with ballistic nylon, which competitors did not use. The padded suitcases, like the bags, were in high demand. Now, this nylon has been perfected. The FXT brand is known for its maximum durability and is highly regarded in the travel accessory material market.

The main advantages of Tumi products are maneuverable and silent wheels, the presence of locking clips on the handles that keep the piece in the right position, a convenient zipper replacement system, an electronic tag for luggage tracking, and metal threaded material in pouches for money and gadgets. All this makes the company’s suitcases practical and convenient.

The main collections are Alpha Bravo – for young and active, Alpha – for business and representative, and T-tech – for extravagant and dreamy.

Victorinox (Luggage & Suitcases)

One hundred and fifty years ago, the company was known as a successful manufacturer of knives, and now – bags. At the same time, excellent Swiss quality distinguishes both directions. The brand is named after the founder’s mother, Victoria, and the stainless steel (INOX) from which the knife blades are made.

Victorinox suitcases have many of the advantages of modern luggage. They have a special compartment for documents and laptops, the ability to expand the interior space, telescopic handles, and plastic corners that protect luggage from scratches and deformations.

Cast silicone wheels deserve a special mention. Increased durability, quietness, and good traction are the main advantages of this accessory. Wheels will help to transport luggage over rough terrain without shaking and breakages.

Fabric surfaces of suitcases are necessarily treated to protect against moisture, and polycarbonate is additionally strengthened. So even in bad weather and heavy loads, your luggage stays safe, and your bag doesn’t lose its neat appearance.

Wenger

Before starting to produce travel bags, the company changed the direction of its business several times. It changed its name four times before Theo Wenger named the company after himself and focused on army knives. The manufacturer quickly became associated with Swiss quality and received 50% of army contracts.

Since 2005, Wenger merged with its main competitor in knife manufacturing, Victorinox. After the merger, the steel products of this brand ceased to exist, but watches and luggage continue to please customers. They are made of fabrics, plastics, and polycarbonate. The main feature of luggage is its lightness. A bag of large volume (up to 100 liters) weighs no more than 11 pounds.

Travelers note that even with rough handling by airport employees, the luggage remains undamaged. Cracks, chips, and scratches are not formed. The design of the products is modern, with all the usual suitcase details: wheels, retractable handles, and additional side legs.

The Wenger brand marks the company’s products manufactured in America. For European consumers, the manufacturer uses the Swissgear brand.

Xiaomi

Want your suitcase to follow you on its own? With Xiaomi, it’s possible. The company turns everything it touches into a “smart” gadget. And luggage is no exception. Most products from Xiaomi are equipped with useful additional devices that make the life of a modern traveler as easy as possible.

To move after the owner, the robotic luggage has a built-in camera and several sensors. Thus, the product determines the direction and even the speed of the owner’s movement. For the device to work, charging is required. However, in the future, in addition to battery consumption for movement, the suitcase will charge the owner’s gadgets. One charge is enough for 20 kilometers of travel.

The suitcase is made of the most modern materials. Its three-layer composite shell with a honeycomb structure is resistant to shocks, scratches, and temperature changes. The paint remains bright even when exposed to sunlight. Even fire can’t reach the interior compartments.

The rubber wheels rotate 360 degrees and are virtually silent. The anodized aluminum handle can withstand heavy loads without sagging, allowing you to fit extra luggage on it. TSA locks make it easy to get through customs. The interior is divided into two zones by zippered dividers. Additional pockets for gadgets are built into each zone, so they are in the center of the suitcase and protected from shaking and bumps of soft objects.

Each suitcase is available in several sizes and colors.

Other Brands

Many fashion houses and car manufacturers, among others, produce luggage. Their models are also worthy of attention and are characterized by decent quality. Michael Kors, Audi, Vivienne Westwood, BMW, and Guess – designer models stand out for their individuality. They attract attention with their shapes and colors. Car brands prefer the most modern materials, which ensures the high durability of suitcases.

How to choose the right suitcase

Going to the store, it is worth thinking in advance about what characteristics you want to see in your future traveling companion. We will try to list the main points to which you should pay attention. This will help you decide on your choice.

Suitcase Sizes

Most manufacturers produce the same model in three or four sizes.

S – luggage height up to 55 cm, volume up to 45 liters. Ideal for the cabin of a bus or airplane. It can carry toiletries, spare underwear, gadgets, or packs for a short trip for one person.
M – up to 70 cm and 65 liters. A weekend trip for two people or a longer trip for one person.
L – larger models up to 158 cm and 125 liters. It’s a great family size. It can accommodate clothing, shoes, and hygiene items for adults and children.
XL – the largest size, holding up to 150 liters. Suitable for winter family vacations.

Sometimes, it makes sense to buy several items of different sizes.

Which Material is Best for Luggage?

All suitcases are divided into two main groups: hard and soft. The first guarantees the safety of fragile luggage and is easy to care for, but it has a limited volume and costs more. The second ones are more spacious, but they are less protective against shocks and are prone to dirt. Each group includes several types of materials.

ABS plastic. The most affordable but not very durable option. Requires careful handling. In case of a strong impact, it can crack. It is distinguished by its shine and a variety of shapes, patterns, and colors.
Durable and resistant to impact. Medium in weight between plastic and polycarbonate. Reasonable price.
Resistant to scratches and temperature fluctuations. Lightweight. Reliable. Luggage made of polycarbonate is significantly more expensive.
A modern type of plastic made from woven and heated polypropylene fibers. It bends beautifully to take various shapes but is prone to scratches.
The most durable material. Impacts can create dents but no cracks. Therefore, luggage quickly loses its new look but is suitable for long-term use.
Smooth, lightweight and durable. Waterproof. It will last for many years. Susceptible to fading in direct sunlight.
Virtually maintenance-free. Maintains bright colors for long periods of time. Does not protect luggage from water.
Luggage with this coating is expensive and prestigious. However, it requires careful care. The natural material is quickly covered with scuffs and cracks if it dries out too much. Scratches are also a common problem.

Some manufacturers use special coatings and treatments to level out the flaws of the materials.

How to choose luggage handle?

A suitcase has a rolling handle and built-in carrying handles. The former extends as needed. A holder made of light and thick metal, such as aluminum, is ideal. It is better if the mechanism is hidden inside the suitcase. Otherwise, the handle will stop working when the “shell” of the holder is bumped and bent.

Luggage can not always be rolled. To overcome step rises in transportation or ditches, the bag has to be lifted. It is good if the luggage has two sturdy sides and top handles on metal rivets that can support a full suitcase without breaking.

How to choose handles for telescopic luggage?

A well-made telescopic handle allows you to roll your suitcase, secure a small bag, or even sit your child down. So when choosing, favor thick-walled retractable tubes or a sturdy flat rod. It is obligatory to have several positions to adjust to the height of the owner.

Wheels

When choosing, you should pay attention to the material of manufacture, the number of wheels, and the method of attachment. Modern materials include rubber, silicone, and plastic.

Silicone is considered the most silent and durable. Its disadvantage is cracking with frequent temperature changes. Plastic products make a lot of noise and break more often, but they are cheaper. Regardless of the material, it is important that there are metal bearings inside. Otherwise, the wheels will not last long.

Remember: the larger the diameter of the wheel, the easier it is to roll over rough terrain. Two wheels create a small but still present load on the owner when moving. Four supports completely take the weight off the person carrying the luggage. It is convenient if the wheels rotate around their axis in different directions, which makes maneuvering easier.

Number of internal compartments

Textile suitcases have more different pockets and compartments, allowing you to conveniently arrange things. Plastic counterparts consist of one roomy compartment and an additional mesh pocket. Some models have a partition between the two halves with pockets for gadgets.

Zipper fastenings

The zipper is the most vulnerable part of the luggage. Its strength determines the safety of the contents inside. The wider the teeth, the stronger the product. A metal runner is preferable to a plastic one. A bonus will be if, at the junction of the halves of the suitcase, there is a rubberized protective flap that closes the zipper.

Built-in scales

An additional function that indicates the weight of your luggage, thus avoiding unpleasant surprises and additional charges at the airport. The screen is located next to the top handle. If you’re not traveling by air, there’s no point in paying for a built-in scale.

Combination lock

A variety of locks are used to further protect luggage, including padlocks and built-in locks. They can be locked with a key or a special code. In the first case, it is important not to lose the keys, and in the second – not to forget the code. TSA locks are becoming increasingly popular, as customs officers can open them with a universal key without resetting the owner’s code. If the suitcase is not checked as luggage, the lock becomes less important.

To choose its features correctly, try answering the following questions.

Several important tips

How often do you travel?

If once or twice a year, there is no need to buy an expensive branded suitcase that costs as much as all your future tickets for years to come. Those who travel once every 2-3 months or more often, for example, for work, should pay attention to a wear-resistant model made of modern materials. The name of a well-known manufacturer is important here, as well-known brands have their own quality control systems and pay a lot of attention to it.

Which suitcase should you choose for air travel?

Hard-shell suitcases were designed primarily for air travel when suitcases need to be checked into the luggage compartment. Such a suitcase protects against shaking, bumps, falling off the luggage belt, etc. Therefore, if you prefer a bus, car or train, you can choose a textile suitcase. Besides, without air travel, there is no point in overpaying for a TSA lock, combination lock, or built-in scales.

Are you going on vacation to a resort, sanatorium, or city sightseeing?

Plastic wheels and 4-wheel suitcases are suitable for flat roads and surfaces. They are ideal for transferring from plane to bus and from transportation to hotel. Steep downhills, uphills, steps, potholes, and unpaved roads can only be handled with steel bearings, a rubberized base, and two large wheels.

Are you traveling alone or with your family and children?

In the latter case, it is better to buy a large suitcase or even two at once. When you have a child and things, it is more convenient to travel with one piece of luggage. In addition, a small carry-on bag will come in handy. When flying with children, you will need a change of clothes, diapers, snacks, toys, etc. It is convenient to put all these things in a small suitcase and take it with you into the airplane cabin.

Additional features like combination locks, straps, interior dividers, and attractive prints affect the price of the suitcase. Therefore, if the budget is limited, it is better to choose a modest model with a reliable case, handle, and wheels.

A travel suitcase is purchased for a long period of time. Therefore, approach this issue with caution. Make a list of requirements, read reviews, and familiarize yourself with the models presented in local stores. Make a purchase only if you are completely sure that it is exactly what you are looking for.

FAQ

How to pack a suitcase for a flight?

Start by making a list and gathering all the things you need in one place. Before you put things in your suitcase, make sure they are well packed.

Use plastic bags for clothes. Personal hygiene items such as shampoo, lotion, liquid soap, and perfume should be wrapped in several layers of plastic. If the bottle is damaged, surrounding items will not be harmed. Fragile items, dishes, and vases should be wrapped in soft clothing and fill the empty space inside to prevent damage.

To create a proper center of gravity:

Place the heaviest items in the middle of the suitcase.
Distribute shoes and smaller items to the sides.
Do not overfill the suitcase so that it barely fits.

In case of a bump, fall, or sudden jerk, the zipper may break, and your belongings will fly all over the airport.

It is recommended that you take all gadgets into the airplane cabin. However, if you check in a laptop or tablet, place it in a shockproof case and place it at the seam level of the suitcase with a layer of clothing on both sides.

When checking luggage, even hard-shell suitcases are recommended to be wrapped in bubble wrap to avoid scratches and dirt.

How to clean plastic suitcases?

Wash fabric suitcases using upholstery and carpet cleaners, following the instructions. Water treatments are only allowed for hand washing. Do not machine wash or wring items to avoid loss of shape. Brushes and vacuum cleaners are suitable for dust and dry dirt.

How to clean fabric suitcases?

Do not dry soft luggage near heaters or in direct sunlight to preserve the vibrant color of the fabric.

How to care for suitcases?

If you travel once a year, does your suitcase require special care when stored? If stored properly, no. The key is to thoroughly clean your suitcase after you return home. Remove all dirt, vacuum the interior, and wipe down the wheels. After that, the suitcase can calmly wait for the next trip.

Where to store a suitcase?

Store only an absolutely dry and clean suitcase. It is convenient to wrap it in several layers of plastic film to avoid accumulation of dust or dampness. Some manufacturers offer special storage cases. If you have several suitcases and store them nested one inside another, don’t forget to wrap the wheels of smaller suitcases with soft plastic wrap.

Once wrapped, the suitcases can be stored in the pantry, on the mezzanine, or on the balcony. The main condition is to avoid dampness and pressure on the walls.