When it comes to travelling often we’ll prioritise a lot of things such as where we stay and the airline we fly with but more often than not, for most people however, luggage is far down on the list of priorities. If you think about it though, it’s one of the things that’s always with you on a trip and it’s what you use to carry all your essentials so it’s one area where you shouldn’t compromise on quality. You don’t want to have to deal with broken luggage when you’re running late for a flight or navigating the streets of a foreign city with a dodgy wheel or broken handle.
If you ask plenty of seasoned travellers they’ll say that it was worth investing in good luggage, if only for the fact it saves you from the drama of dealing with luggage that doesn’t work. So before you splash out on your next suitcase here are a few things to keep in mind:
What material is it made from
Your options usually involve a soft suitcase or hard suitcase. Soft suitcases are usually made of leather or nylon whilst hard cases are usually made from plastic or metal. Consider pros and cons like the fact that while leather may be sturdy it could also show more scratches over time whilst plastic is lightweight but it can also be vulnerable to cracking.
Examine the stitching
The stitching on a suitcase is important to its longevity. Ensure that there is double or reinforced stitching and that it looks neat and tidy— you don’t wan subpar stitching that will come apart at the first hint of pressure (which is inevitable given how much we generally try to cram into our luggage).
Look at the hardware
Test out any zippers by opening and closing them a few times to ensure it glides smoothly and doesn’t snag. Also check that the zips sit evenly and there’s no puckering in the fabric. Be sure to test the locks as well to make sure that it shuts completely and opens quite easily.
Check the reviews
It’s important to do your research before purchasing a particular brand of luggage. Read the reviews about each brand to see what people are saying. Investigate popular brands at various price points like Samsonite and American Tourister, Tumi and Rimowa to find out what works best for you and fits into your budget.
No Comments