Your practical guide to suitcase choice
Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or an occasional traveler in search of new discoveries, there’s one thing you can’t do without: your travel suitcase! This large wheeled bag makes it easy to organize your belongings, protect your valuables and make your travels more enjoyable. Here are the 10 criteria you need to take into account to find the perfect suitcase!
10 steps to the perfect travel suitcase
1. The size
The size of your suitcase depends on the duration and nature of your trip. If you’re traveling light, a cabin suitcase will suffice. For a longer trip, opt for a medium or large size. Next, check the interior capacity to see if it can hold all your belongings. An expandable suitcase can be very practical, adapting to the volume of your luggage each time you travel. You can also buy two models of different sizes, so you can choose according to the occasion.
2. The weigh
The weight of the empty suitcase is a decisive factor, especially if you have a weight limit for your luggage. This is often the case for air travel. It’s best to opt for a lightweight but durable suitcase to maximize the space available for your belongings. But be careful not to sacrifice quality for lightness.
3. The manufacturing
The manufacturing material has an impact on the look, texture, flexibility and rigidity of the case. Most manufacturers opt for recycled polyester (RPET), polypropylene, polycarbonate and ballistic nylon. Choose a beautiful, light and resistant material. We particularly recommend RPET for a soft case, and polypropylene for a hard one.
4. Wheel system
Choose a suitcase with 4 multi-directional (spinner) wheels for optimum maneuverability. These wheels allow you to move your luggage easily in all directions, making your trips to the airport or train station much smoother. They also need to be sturdy to withstand the weight of the suitcase and the rolling motion.
5. The handles
Make sure your travel case has strong, comfortable handles, both on the top and on the side. This will make it easier to lift and carry, whether you’re putting it in an overhead compartment or lifting it into a vehicle.
6. The quality of closures
Suitcases often have several zippers. To avoid losing your belongings, they need to be of uncompromising quality. Each zip must also be strong and durable to avoid problems of breakage or jamming. Some suitcases feature lockable zippers for added security.
7. Safety options
The security of your luggage is paramount. That’s why it’s so important to choose a suitcase with a reliable locking system. A combination lock offers basic security, while a TSA (Transportation Security Administration) lock is specially designed for international travel. A key-operated model can be interesting, but care must be taken not to lose the key. The most sophisticated models are even equipped with a GPS tracking device to avoid any risk of loss.
8. Compartments and pockets
The organization of your suitcase is essential to optimize space and facilitate access to your belongings. Choose a model with compartments, compression straps and storage pockets. Internal compartments let you separate clothes, shoes and toiletries. External pockets offer practical space for small items and documents.
9. The price
The first thing to do is to set a budget before you start looking for the travel suitcase that’s right for you. It may be a good idea to invest in a high-quality model that stands up to wear and tear, especially if you travel frequently. Don’t hesitate to compare offers before you decide. The aim is to find the best value for money. You can also take advantage of discounts to get a good deal.
10. The warranty
A top-quality product costing hundreds of euros always comes with a warranty. You can be sure that your suitcase will provide excellent resistance to shocks and other aggressions. A solid warranty testifies to the brand’s confidence in the durability of its product. Did you know that the best manufacturers offer up to 5 years’ warranty on their suitcases?
