The most comfortable suitcases for travel. How to choose a good quality rolling suitcase. Which suitcase is better, plastic or fabric?

In this article we will answer your question how to choose a suitcase What is better, a plastic or fabric suitcase, with 2 or four wheels, what size is optimal.

Plastic or fabric?

Our customers are often faced with the question, which suitcase is better, plastic or fabric?

Previously, this question did not arise; in our country only fabric suitcases were presented, and their choice was quite meager. With the advent of plastic ones, the choice has increased significantly and these suitcases quickly gained popularity in Russia.

However, the reputation of plastic suitcases was spoiled by cheap Chinese copies, which were and are still sold even in reputable-looking stores. Such suitcases are beautiful, bright and inexpensive. These are all their advantages.

Behind beautiful design, there is a fake hidden, it is quite possible that such a suitcase will be enough for one flight. They crack, their zippers and wheels break. Before you buy a nameless suitcase, no matter how beautiful it may be, compare it with inexpensive models from well-known manufacturers.

The differences are primarily in higher quality fittings (zippers, wheels).

Airport workers handle luggage, to put it mildly, without thinking about its safety.

If you have a suitcase filled with heavy things (20-25 kg) and a wheel breaks, you will have to carry it in your hands.

Therefore, to avoid discomfort on your trip, we recommend only branded suitcases. And only in this case can you consider buying a plastic suitcase.

Let's look at the benefits of plastic.

The first advantage relative to fabric is its stronger water resistance. This is understandable, fabric allows water to pass through, plastic does not.

Often suitcases wait to be loaded into the luggage compartment of the plane, on a trolley, right on the street. At this time it may go heavy rain, and in Russia there is a snowstorm.

Plastic will to some extent protect your things from getting wet.

The second advantage is its shock-absorbing properties, because... the case is more rigid compared to fabric, and if it hits, for example, against another suitcase, it will absorb the force of the impact. Of course, this works up to a point.

And the main advantage is the design. Due to the fact that anything can be depicted on plastic, designers do not skimp on ideas, presenting more and more new options.

For example, one of the most fashionable suitcases,

It can be uniform in calm or bright colors, or maybe with an image of your favorite city, an art image, in general, at the will of the designer and among the plastic suitcases, there will definitely be one that you will fall in love with.

Such suitcases, unlike fabric ones, become full-fledged participants in the trip, they attract attention, everyone asks where you bought such a suitcase. You don’t want to put it away in a closet or on the balcony; it pleases the eye with its presence in your apartment. And you will see it on the luggage belt from afar.

Now let's talk about the disadvantages of plastic.

Plastic is a material that, unlike fabric, is scratched. If you don't wrap it in film at the airport, it will quickly lose its appeal. However, even fabric, if not protected, will quickly become worn out.

Manufacturers are aware of this feature, and all suitcases are supplied in a transparent film, which many do not remove. Its presence can only be noticed on a more matte surface; if the film is removed, the suitcase will be glossy. But if you don’t take it off and wrap it with stretch at the airport, it will be like new.

The next disadvantage is its possible damage; if a sharp and very heavy object falls on it, it may crack. But from our own experience, we will say that this happens too rarely to refuse an original and stylish suitcase.

Now let's look at fabric suitcases.

The situation is the same as with plastic: the cheapest models often turn out to be disposable fakes. Our store offers only high-quality brands that have proven themselves to be excellent. Therefore, we can definitely advise you how to choose a suitcase.

The advantage of a fabric suitcase is its durability. Because The fabric is more pliable than plastic, such a suitcase will withstand much greater physical tests.

Scratches on it are less visible.

The next advantage that we note is its advantage in the additional possible volume. It happens that there are small things left that you need to take with you, but there is no more room.

You can, in the literal sense of the word, push these things into a fabric one; under the pressure of other things, it will stretch a little.

Disadvantages of a fabric suitcase:

The fabric can fray if the suitcase catches on a sharp corner. And the plastic will only be scratched.

But under normal conditions, when other suitcases are thrown on top of suitcases, a fabric one will be more reliable. This is if we return to the positives.

The next disadvantage, and probably the main one, is the classic design. It's completely ordinary, just a suitcase. Not a stylish accessory, but just a suitcase, you won’t remember what it looks like, it’s the same as thousands of others. In general, it does not produce any emotions and does not add brightness to your journey.

However, you may just need a suitcase, because... travel is already a bright event! And the question of design is very subjective, here who likes what more.

The next point we will look at is the number of wheels.

Suitcases come on 2 wheels and 4.

Suitcase on 2 wheels.

Pros:

Suitcases of this type are most convenient if you have to carry it on bad roads.

Firstly, because such suitcases have larger wheels by default than four-wheeled ones.

And the larger the wheels, the easier it is to overcome imperfections in the road surface. It's like on a car, the smaller the wheel size, the harder each hole appears (this does not mean a low profile, but simply a diameter).

The wheels stay in the same plane all the time, without rotating or interfering with movement. Once in the hole, they will not dangle or rotate; the suitcase will move strictly along the directed path.

Another advantage of such suitcases is that if you have to go down stairs (metro, airport, train station), with a suitcase on 2 wheels this climb will be much easier. You won't need to lift the full weight of the suitcase, just lift it and push it behind you.

Suitcases with 2 wheels often use silicone wheels, which are familiar to us from roller skates. Roller skates come with plastic wheels and silicone ones, and you've probably noticed how much more enjoyable it is to roller skate with silicone wheels. The same situation applies to suitcases. On them, the suitcase moves smoothly and quietly.

And the main advantage of such suitcases is that the wheels are recessed inside the body. After all, as you know, at the airport suitcases are thrown from great heights and all protruding parts are at risk. For a suitcase with 4 wheels, the most protruding parts are the wheels themselves; the design is such that it is impossible to place them in any other way. But with a two-wheeler there is no such problem.

Now a few words about the four-wheeled suitcase.

Its advantage is its amazing maneuverability.

Even if the suitcase is very heavy, you will not feel its weight. 4 wheels rotate around its axis 360 degrees, thanks to this you will be comfortable with it in transport.

Let's say you are traveling in a crowded subway car to the airport or train station. In order to move the 2-wheeled suitcase a little towards you, you will need to lift it if it is standing sideways towards you (in 2-wheeled suitcases the wheels are in the same direction), which is not very convenient. And the 4-wheeler can be rotated around as convenient for you.

You can carry it sideways, backwards, you can even push it forward and it will roll on its own.

Compared to 2 wheels, your luggage on 4 wheels will seem much lighter than it actually is.

Optimal suitcase size.

Small, medium or large? Which suitcase should you choose?

The answer to this question is not as simple as it seems. In any case, it is always a compromise.

In Russia, suitcases are usually measured in centimeters in the format length x width x depth (height), for example 50x40x20.

The photo shows the Edmins 12s30 suitcase,

The average dimensions of a small suitcase are 50x40x20, medium 65x40x30, large 80x50x33. The differences between these standards are plus or minus 5-10 cm depending on the model.

You can see the difference in the sizes of standard suitcases in this photo:

The photo shows a suitcase made of polycarbonate,

Small suitcase suitable for those travelers who appreciate every moment of their journey.

You won't have to wait agonizingly while checking in your baggage, but will be able to board the plane straight away. The same is true upon arrival, with hand luggage there is no need to wait for your luggage on the belt, you can immediately go outside and enjoy your journey without depressing queues.

It's also worth noting that each airline has its own requirements for cabin baggage. Most companies support a format of no more than 50*40*20, and you will not have any difficulties with them. But for low-cost companies this format may be smaller, because... they save space occupied by the passenger.

Carry-on suitcases weigh less, which means they are much easier to wheel.

Average suitcase size Suitable for travelers who don’t have enough things to fit in their carry-on luggage, but the larger size is too big for them.

This is probably the most optimal suitcase size. It is almost as maneuverable as the small one, but will hold 1.5 times more things.

From experience, we will say that the medium one usually fits everything you need; it is not without reason that it is the most popular size.

Large suitcase size- this is for those who are not used to compromises. Everything will fit!

It often happens that when you are in some exotic country, you want to bring souvenirs to your loved ones, and more for everyone! In such cases, you cannot do without a large suitcase.

Our catalog contains some models with expanding volume
, this solution will help those who are a little short, say, a small one, but the average one is too big. Or the medium is missing, but the large size is too big. Or a big one is missing. It is precisely for such situations that these models provide these additional centimeters.

Excellent fabric suitcase with expanding capacity

It's time to draw a conclusion and answer the question of how to choose a suitcase.

If you need a suitcase of a classic design that will be larger than a small one (i.e. you will have to check it in the luggage compartment), then our advice is a fabric suitcase, and it is best suited with an expanding volume. These models have 2 silicone wheels, i.e. as mentioned earlier, the move is soft and silent, and the wheels themselves are recessed into the body, which makes this suitcase the most reliable.

If you need a small suitcase that you will not check into the luggage compartment, and will take it with you on board the plane, then here you can also choose either a fabric suitcase or a plastic suitcase, also on 4 wheels. Both can be selected with an expanding volume. The plastic one will be bright, and the fabric one will be a more classic option.

And if you are looking for a large suitcase, then the best choice would be a fabric suitcase with 2 wheels, because... if it is large, then its operation means putting it in the luggage compartment; here it would be better to have 2 wheels (the reason is described above).

This article is based on our experience with suitcases, and we hope that after reading it you have learned how to choose a suitcase.

We sell daily a large number of suitcases, and thanks to our recommendations, our store’s customers do not have problems when traveling.

Take a look at our entire range of suitcases, maybe you will find what you are looking for, and we will tell you whether it is suitable for your purposes or not.

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, respectable 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:

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.
Material: silicone wheels (silent, soft, but burst under load and rough roads), plastic (noisy, brittle, unreliable), rubber (silent, the most reliable).
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:

Tight fastening.
Several pull-out positions.
No extraneous sounds when pulling out or “hanging out” in the suitcase.
When closed, the handle should be 100% buried in the body.
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:

Additional belt.
A cover to protect your suitcase from scratches and moisture.
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.

People who travel frequently know that no trip is complete without a suitcase. This is especially true when traveling by plane, because luggage can be handled differently at airports. This indicates that a suitcase today is not a luxury, but necessary thing.

If previously suitcases were bulky and very heavy, and traveling with them was associated only with torture, today such an accessory will only make travel easier, making it more enjoyable and interesting.

This article will look at the best suitcases for travel in 2019-2020, which collect a large number of positive feedback on specialized forums. We will talk about how to choose the right suitcase and which model to choose.

Rules for choosing a suitcase

Before purchasing the accessory in question, you should take into account several recommendations provided by experts. They are:

Material. Most often, such products are made of fabric or plastic. Those who like fabric should choose models with a rigid base inside. Ideally, the material is prescribed with a special solution that protects it from moisture and exposure to sunlight, which prevents color loss.
Plastic lovers are recommended to give preference to models made of polycarbonate or polypropylene. Such products can withstand impacts and heavy loads well.
Pens. A high-quality and comfortable product should have at least three handles, one of which extends, and the other two help to carry the suitcase. It is worth paying attention to the fastening of the retractable handle: if it does not have a button, then it is more reliable. Some travel bags have another handle - a handbag holder.
Wheels. Experienced users say that a suitcase with four wheels is the best quality and most comfortable, but it is suitable for use on flat airport floors. If the product will move on asphalt or a bad road, then it is better to buy a model with two rubber wheels.

When choosing an accessory, it is better to consult with knowledgeable people so as not to make a mistake and regret the purchase.

Which companies produce the best suitcases?

Currently, the domestic market offers a large number of products from various manufacturers. Which company is the most reliable? It is worth talking about this in more detail.

Rimowa - manufacturer of luxury travel bags made of polycarbonate or aluminum. Such products are lightweight, reliable and distinguished for a long time services. Since 1898, when the company opened its production, it has been constantly improving and delighting its fans.
Samsonite is an American company founded more than a century ago and, after some time, moved to China. Today, her suitcases are bought all over the world and are deservedly recognized as one of the best in terms of price and quality.
Delsey is a company that has been producing travel bags for over 60 years. Products differ unusual design, so they are often purchased by celebrities.
Roncato is a brand that produces suitcases, bags and briefcases with pleasant designs suitable for the fair sex. The company from Italy boasts its own product line, which includes a large number of unique models of travel bags.

All manufacturers strive to remain among the leaders, so they monitor the quality of their products and value their customers.

The best plastic suitcases

MYxBAG

Suitcases Russian production from Tula. The suitcase body is made of durable polycarbonate and is more heat resistant than ABS plastic, making it perfect for flights. The suitcase is easy to use and beautifully designed.

It is roomy and has a compartment inside with compression straps and a partition with a zipper, which allows you to neatly place your things. Large selection of colors. You can also order your own unique design on the suitcase. Ultra-warranty for the suitcase – 1 year. Suitcase cost: 3350 rub.

Pros:

Made from lightweight but durable material;
Housing resistance to high and low temperatures;
The presence of 4 movable wheels rotating 360;
The telescopic handle is fixed in 3 positions;
2 comfortable handles for lifting the suitcase;
Built-in combination lock;
Internal divider and clamping straps;
Stylish design;
Affordable price.

Minuses:

Not found.

Samsonite Fiero

Everyone knows that you have to pay well for a quality item. Some suitcases sometimes cost as much as a good laptop. According to customer reviews, the products in question are of excellent quality, although they are relatively inexpensive.

Suitcases in this series stand on four wheels, are made of polycarbonate and are quite lightweight. The product is equipped with a combination lock and comes with a warranty of up to 10 years.

Pros:

large capacity;
ease of construction;
quality;
minimal noticeability of scratches;
reliable lock;
wheel rotation angle.

Minuses:

normal design.

RIMOWA SALSA AIR MULTIWHEEL

The product in question is gaining a large number of positive reviews on thematic forums. The suitcase is attractive in appearance, spacious and of good quality, as it is made of polycarbonate.

Pros:

light weight;
quality material;
resistance to weak impacts;
the presence of four rotating wheels;
comfortable handle;
combination lock;
dividing insert;
5 year warranty.

Minuses:

the product has no flaws.

Roncato Uno Zip

The outer shell of the travel bag in question is made of polycarbonate, impregnated with an anti-wetting agent. Although the product is expensive, it is worth its price. The suitcase is lightweight, can withstand heavy loads and serve the owner for a long time.

Pros:

treatment with a special solution that protects the product from sunlight and moisture;
thoughtful handle design;
attractive design;
ease;
capacity;
rotating wheels.

Minuses:

scratches may be visible;
high cost.

RICARDO TOPANGA CANYON

The model in question is made of polypropylene, stands on four legs that rotate around its axis, and can be increased to 10% of the main volume. Comments indicate that the suitcase is comfortable, reliable and durable.

Pros:

strength;
light weight;
quality material;
presence of four wheels;
long handles;
increased capacity;
combination lock;
many pockets.

Minuses:

there are no shortcomings.

Salsa Deluxe

Such suitcases can be made of either polycarbonate or aluminum. They are of good quality and high cost.

Pros:

“add a bag” system: the owner can connect several products together at any time;
strength;
stable wheels;
attractive design.

Minuses:

high price.

Sansonite Cubelite

All travelers know that when traveling by plane excess weight luggage should be paid extra, so such people try to purchase suitcases with low weight. It is these parameters that the model under consideration corresponds to.

The travel bag is made of polypropylene and has beautiful design and light weight. The wheels can be either two or four - depending on the specific model. The only caveat is that in bright light, even the smallest scratches and flaws catch the eye. In addition, the handles on the product often become loose, as some reviews indicate.

Pros:

increased capacity;
ease;
rotating wheels;
reliable lock;
aesthetic design;
partitions inside;
protection from sun and moisture.

Minuses:

visibility of scratches;
unreliable handle;
overcharge.

Travelite Quick

The company that produces the suitcases in question began operating in 1949. Today it occupies a leading position throughout the world. The products are made in Germany, so they are high quality and durable.

The body of the travel bag is made of durable plastic, which does not wear out for a long time and is easy to clean. Thanks to its bright design, the suitcase catches the eye and is difficult to lose or forget somewhere. Inside there are two compartments separated by a special partition; there are straps on the sides for securing fragile items.

Pros:

relative cheapness;
several pens;
reliable wheels;
nice design;
quality material.

Minuses:

The accessory in question has no drawbacks.

SAMSONITE BLACK LABEL COSMOLITE SPINNER

The model in question collects a lot of feedback from regular users. This is explained by the fact that it is made of polypropylene and has a bright pattern - a shell. The product has many advantages and virtually no disadvantages.

Pros:

strength and lightness of construction;
the presence of four independently rotating wheels;
code protection;
the presence of comfortable lower and upper handles;
additional handle for a handbag;
beautiful appearance;
Possibility to purchase the product in different colors.

Minuses:

noticeable damage to the housing cannot be avoided.

The best fabric products

American Tourist Decor

The products of the company in question are very popular both in America and around the world. People who like fabric suitcases often choose this model because it has a long service life, is quite high quality and reliable.

The suitcase is made of polyester with plastic side inserts. It has good capacity, which makes it an indispensable travel assistant.

Pros:

reliable design;
durable frame;
combination lock;
durable wheels;
large volume;
attractive design.

Minuses:

rarely found on the domestic market;
not resistant to fire and humidity.

Travelpro Walkabout Light Collection

The product has a classic design, but it can serve the owner for a long time. It is noteworthy that if the retractable handle breaks, you can use the regular one without any problems. The suitcase is equipped with unique wheels that spin in the direction the owner needs.

Pros:

nice design;
reliable body;
small sizes;
comfortable handles;
high-quality wheels;
relative cheapness.

Minuses:

not protected from moisture and fire.

Victorinox Hybri-Lite

The traditional style suitcase from Switzerland has won the hearts of many travelers. Although the product is soft to the touch, it reliably protects the owner’s belongings, because its top is made of high-quality nylon.

The travel bag is lightweight and has good capacity. There are pockets and straps inside, and 2 rubber wheels rotating 360 degrees on the outside.

Pros:

classic design;
comfortable handles;
reliable lock;
large volume;
ease.

Minuses:

may get wet and fade in the sun.

SAMSONITE ATOLAS UPRIGHT

This budget travel bag is made of polyester and equipped with two wheels. It has good design and long service life.

Pros:

quality material;
large capacity;
you can increase the volume;
three pens;
reliable combination lock;
5 year warranty.

Minuses:

No shortcomings were found in the model under consideration.

AMERICAN TOURISTER DECOR

This spacious polyester product features increased functionality and four 360-degree rotating wheels.

Pros:

high-quality manufacturing materials;
large volume;
reliable wheels;
burglary protection guarantee;
beautiful decoration.

Minuses:

there are no shortcomings.

The best suitcases for a child

SAMSONITE SAMMIES

This brand is known all over the world. It produces various variations of travel bags, and children's bags are no exception. With such an accessory, any child will be happy to go on a trip, will not be capricious and will be able to carry some of their things independently.

Pros:

material of manufacture – polyester;
easy wash;
many pockets;
attractive design;
presence of four wheels;
several special hands for the baby;
strap for transporting a suitcase;
Suitable for children up to 6 years old.

Minuses:

too overpriced.

TRUNKI RIDE-ON SUITCASE

A special suitcase in the shape of a gurney for a small child. It is made of durable plastic, equipped with reliable wheels and can be moved by both parents and children.

Pros:

reliable and strong plastic case;
several pens, including one for the baby;
special fasteners;
beautiful design;
high-quality belt for transporting the product;
comfortable handle for carrying over the shoulder;
Ideal for children aged 2 years and above.

Minuses:

No shortcomings were noticed in the product in question.

What suitcase is ideal for traveling?

If a person is going to go on a trip or flight, then he needs somewhere to pack his things. When purchasing a suitcase, experts recommend carefully inspecting the material of manufacture. For example, a fabric product will have more weight, but will not be scratched. In addition, plastic suitcases do not get wet, while fabric suitcases will have to be treated with a special protective compound.

Next, professionals examine the handle of the suitcase. It should not jam, because this state of affairs cannot but irritate. Then you should inspect the wheels and understand how they rotate. If this happens on different sides, then there is no need to buy such a travel bag, because the wheels should not spin at odds. This is worth considering when the question arises as to which suitcase is best to buy for travel.

Accessory compartments can be selected based on personal preferences. Experts advise buying models that are equipped with a small internal pocket where you can put documents, a phone and other valuables. Quite often, an additional handle is needed, because the retractable one periodically breaks if the suitcase often falls.

It’s worth clarifying right away that a high-quality travel bag will not be cheap. The materials discussed above, polycarbonate, aluminum and polyester, are considered luxury, so you will have to pay a considerable amount for a product made from them. If a seller offers such suitcases at a low price, then you can be sure that these are not original products, but an obvious fake.

A travel suitcase on wheels is an indispensable thing for various trips. Once you feel the comfort and convenience that it gives, you won’t be able to refuse. It’s much more pleasant to roll your suitcase imposingly than, drenched in sweat, toil under heavy bags or backpacks, cursing everything in the world.

Here are some more benefits of this travel accessory. The suitcase is convenient to open when checking at the airport, train, or plane. The organizer allows you to quickly find and carefully remove any item without having to rummage through the contents. The hard polycarbonate suitcase ensures the safety of fragile items inside. The extended telescopic handle allows you to hang bags and packages without holding them in your hands. The suitcase does not collect all kinds of dirt from the floor and is easy to care for.

Choosing and purchasing a travel suitcase on wheels is a responsible issue and requires a serious approach. After all, you can pay dearly for your frivolity - more expensive than you think. The central lock came loose and refused to fasten during the trip, the wheel flew off, the handles came off. Situations like these can ruin any vacation. And they are not at all uncommon. Especially if your suitcase is waiting to be tested for strength in the luggage compartments of airports, where they usually do not stand on ceremony with other people’s property.

It is worth immediately noting that when purchasing a suitcase on wheels, the formula “ what you pay is what you buy"works only partly. To get a decent bag that will last for many years, it is not at all necessary to pay for it an amount commensurate with the cost of a top-end smartphone. This formula often fails: expensive suitcases, for which a large sum was paid, can fail their owner very seriously. So, it’s not so much the price tag that is important, but a thoughtful approach to choosing.

First, let's go through the basic questions that the future owner of a suitcase on wheels must answer for himself. What are the main selection criteria?

SIZE

As we all remember, “size matters,” and when choosing a travel suitcase, making a mistake with this very size is fraught. It can vary greatly: if the height of children's suitcases usually does not exceed 30-40 cm, then the height of their “big brothers” can easily reach up to 80 cm. There is no universal option in the context of size. But there is a universal solution, which is offered by most well-known manufacturers: buy a set of three suitcases of different heights.

To still decide which size to choose, you need to ask yourself the question: “ For what purposes are you purchasing a travel suitcase?" Only you can answer - we will give only a few tips. The generally accepted selection criteria are as follows.

For short trips of up to a week, a suitcase with a height of 55 cm (30 liters) is suitable.
If you are going on vacation or a long business trip, the best solution would be to take a suitcase with a height of 65-70 centimeters (70 liters).
If the whole family is going on vacation, a large suitcase with a height of 85 cm and a volume of 100 liters or more will help out.

Extra-large suitcase

Such suitcases ( extra large bag) are limited to a height of 80 cm, a width of 50, a depth of 30 cm and a volume of 100-110 liters. The usual weight of a high-quality suitcase of similar dimensions is about 5 kg, and the recommended weight with luggage is up to 40 kg.

There will be no problems with it either at the airport or on the bus - the suitcase will go into luggage. The only caveat: most airlines have a maximum weight per piece should not exceed 32 kg, and you will have to monitor this so as not to overpay.

pros

The ability to take an exceptional amount of things with you in the “one piece of luggage” format. No countless bags, packages and backpacks. The extra large can accommodate an adult without any problems. It’s really extremely convenient for long-term trips, with children, in a large family, when moving, etc. Outerwear, in particular, men's suits, will not get wrinkled in such a suitcase. In addition, manufacturers often include special covers for suitcases of this size.
You can sit on such a suitcase without any problems and carry other bags on top. And children really love to move around like this - sitting on top and holding on to the telescopic handle. There is every reason to call such a suitcase a “universal vehicle.” Despite its impressive size, one such accessory will fit in the trunk of any car.

Minuses

Large dimensions are required. On a train (in particular, in a compartment) with such a suitcase it is frankly inconvenient: it does not fit in the luggage compartment under the berth and can only stand on the floor, making movement difficult. Placing a full suitcase on the very top, given its weight, is also difficult and unsafe.
Lifting such a suitcase with a payload of 30-35 kg is not easy even for an adult man in the prime of his life. Therefore, loading it into a carriage, putting it in the trunk, lifting it up the steps is an activity that many people cannot do.
When flying, when a suitcase is checked in as luggage, you shouldn’t expect any reverence from the baggage handlers. On the contrary: some of them consider such difficult places to be disrespectful and treat them accordingly. Therefore, immediately imagine the consequences of rough handling and falling from a height. If the place weighs more than 30 kg, they can be quite deplorable: wheels, plastic parts, and the like fly off. Therefore, when checking in as luggage, at least high-quality packaging in shock-absorbing material (for example, film) is required, as well as a reasonable weight limit so that a fall from a height does not have serious consequences.
A high-quality (and taking into account all the challenges described above, it should be high-quality a priori) suitcase of this size will not be cheap at all. If your budget is limited and you obviously don’t have enough money for a decent option, it’s better to look at a smaller product.

Summary: Think carefully before purchasing such a suitcase. The thing is objectively useful, but only for those who really need it. Do you have anything to carry in such a suitcase? After all, this is the wardrobe of an entire family. Is it too heavy for you? Raising thirty-odd kilos even one step for a woman or an elderly person is often an impossible task.

Well, for purely informational reasons, it’s worth noting that Europeans haven’t gone on vacation with suitcases of this size for a long time. Unless the extra large suitcase comes with several small children who cannot yet take personal bags. Carrying your entire wardrobe with you is strictly not accepted in Europe.

Large and medium sizes

Suitcases 65-75 centimeters high (large, medium bag) are the most universal and, therefore, in demand. But in addition to size, other factors must be taken into account: material, weight of the product, number of wheels (two or four), locks.

pros

Lifting an adequately loaded medium-sized suitcase is usually over the shoulder of an adult, and you can usually do without the help of others.

Minuses

Such a suitcase most likely will not fit under a standard seat on a train, since its width usually exceeds 40 cm.
A regular fabric bag of similar dimensions will fit more things, since fabric, unlike polycarbonate, has the ability to stretch.
You cannot take such a suitcase into your hand luggage when boarding a plane. If you are not indifferent to its condition, then it is very advisable to pack everything in film before checking it in (or purchase/sew a suitable size cover).

Small suitcase

Such accessories are called " cabin bag” and are usually suitcases with maximum permissible dimensions according to airlines: we are talking about a height of up to 55 cm, a width of up to 40 cm and a depth of up to 20 cm with a volume of about 40 liters. Weight - 2-5 kg depending on the material. Taking into account the payload packed in the suitcase, the total weight reaches 10-15 kg. We talked in detail about such suitcases.

pros

Thanks to its compact size, the suitcase fits in the luggage compartment above the passenger seat on an airplane. Without any problems, it will fit into the interior of a car (under a child’s feet, for example). And on a train, under the berth, you can fit as many as two such pieces of luggage (flat on top of each other).
Budget airlines (Ryanair, Wizz Air, EasyJet) allow you to take such a seat and another bag (smaller) into the cabin for free, but only if they weigh less than 10 kg.
Even children can lift a weight of 10 kg, so when traveling with a cabin bag, you won’t have to regularly ask others for help.

Minuses

Small volume limits possibilities: a bag like this usually only fits a pair of jeans, a pair of underwear, a few shirts, a pair of shoes and a thin windbreaker. It is quite enough for one person for a few days, but no more. Especially if you are flying low-cost and are limited to a weight of 10 kg. You will have to wear sweaters, down jackets and boots, and pack the rest very tightly and carefully. Therefore, the risk that clothes packed in a suitcase will become wrinkled is quite high.
The ratio of the price of a suitcase and the volume of transported luggage in this case is not at all in favor of the buyer. There is no clear correlation “bigger suitcase - higher price, smaller - lower”. The difference in cost between a large and small suitcase from the same collection is only 10-15%, and the difference in volume reaches 300%.
If a suitcase is purchased specifically for flights with low-cost airlines, you should remember that not only the size of hand luggage is limited, but also its weight. And the 10 kg allowed by most companies also includes the suitcase itself. The lightest cabin bag models weigh no more than 1.5 kg, but their cost is off the charts.

MATERIAL

Plastic

Looking through the official websites of the most famous suitcase manufacturers, it is easy to conclude that they rely on high-tech plastic - as the most promising material for the manufacture of travel suitcases on wheels. However, calling the material used for the production of top models of suitcases “plastic” (even high-tech) is a stretch.

Pros of plastic suitcases

Modern elegant design: you are not purchasing a suitcase, but a fashionable and stylish accessory.
Waterproof: you don’t have to worry about the condition of your suitcase and things in any weather conditions.
Absolute hygiene: just wipe the suitcase with a damp cloth - and it will shine clean again. Thanks to simple care, you don’t have to carry your suitcase through puddles and snowdrifts, and you also don’t have to inspect the trunk of a taxi for dirt.

Minuses

A plastic suitcase is significantly more expensive than a fabric suitcase, and the price of light and elegant models can be quite steep.
A product made of cheap plastic will be quite heavy in itself, and also vulnerable to damage. Dropping a heavy, sharp object on it may cause a crack.
Plastic is a material on which scratches and dents appear quite easily under mechanical stress, so such suitcases require careful handling. When placed in the luggage compartment (for example, on a train under a berth) and especially when checked in at the airport, it is advisable to pack a plastic suitcase in a cover or film, otherwise it will quickly lose its appearance.
There are differences between plastic and plastic: manufacturers have both simple polypropylene and expensive polycarbonate, both curve and ABS plastic. It is quite easy to distinguish the material of a suitcase even by eye. But some Chinese manufacturers are already trying to produce cheap plastic that is “very similar” to more expensive material. It is necessary to navigate the “composition”, since the materials differ quite greatly in properties, and all good producers They always indicate exactly what material a particular product is made of.

Curv

Today, kerv is one of the most technologically advanced materials used for the production of suitcases. This is a development of the Samsonite company, which is a specially intertwined plastic fiber.

Suitcase made of kerv material

It is exceptionally lightweight and resistant to external influences, even low temperatures. Durable and beautiful. Perhaps, kerves have only one significant drawback - the high price. Whether it is justified is up to you to decide. Well, for clarity, watch the video with “field tests” of this material.

Polycarbonate

Sleek, lightweight plastic that is flexible and durable. Polycarbonate suitcases are not subject to cracking, which appears over time. They are easily recognized by their shine and smooth coating, which is applied specifically to reduce the likelihood of scratches. The material allows us to produce suitcases with different textures: corrugated, lumpy, grooved, etc.

Polycarbonate suitcases

The lightness of the product will allow you to take more things with you. Moreover, keep in mind: when packing for a trip, it is recommended to fill polycarbonate suitcases completely. Otherwise, excessive flexibility of the material can play a cruel joke.

Polypropylene

Durable, tough and durable material, resistant to scratches and abrasion. It is easy to paint, so suitcases made of polypropylene can be distinguished by their endless color scheme. A textured anti-scratch coating is usually applied on top.

A significant disadvantage of polypropylene is its heavy weight, but its price is lower than polycarbonate. Also, polypropylene suitcases can be transported half-filled or even empty without any problems.

Polypropylene suitcases

While studying the assortment, you may be surprised to find that a suitcase made of polypropylene may cost more than its “colleague” made of polycarbonate. But there is nothing surprising here: in addition to brand fame, the quality of the material plays an important role . In other words: good budget polypropylene is definitely better than bad polycarbonate.

ABS plastic

This is a "pioneer" that was used at the end of the 20th century to produce the first plastic suitcases. Suitcases made of ABS plastic are frankly heavy, fragile, subject to scratches and wear, but despite all these significant shortcomings, they are still popular, especially among manufacturers from Asia (who, by the way, often decorate their products with attractive prints). The reason is the low cost of the material.

Suitcases made of ABS plastic

Textile

Inexpensive fabric suitcases are always in high demand. And, perhaps, fabric is the most popular material among manufacturers. The main driving force here is, of course, the low price of the fabric and ease of production. But there are also significant disadvantages. It’s worth thinking about them before purchasing, because fabric is still fabric.

Pros:

The low price of the material and ease of production will allow you to purchase a suitcase very inexpensively, especially on Chinese Aliexpress.com. All you need is labor and simple sewing equipment to start the production process.
Fabric tends to stretch, so you can put more things in a textile suitcase than the declared usable volume suggests. Things will have to be stuffed in the literal sense of the word, but still.
Resistant to shocks, drops and scratches. Fabric suitcases withstand dents and scratches much more easily than their plastic “brothers.”
The presence of zippered external pockets makes life much easier when you need to quickly get or put something down.
Fabric suitcases attract less unnecessary attention when traveling.

Minuses:

Fabric, even expensive, still tends to get wet. Therefore, if your suitcase is left in an airport cart for 20-30 minutes in heavy rain, the consequences may not be the most pleasant.
Despite the resistance to impacts and scratches, the fabric may tear or fray. A sharp angle will cause much greater cosmetic defects to a fabric suitcase than to a plastic one.
Dirt, greasy spots, bad smell– the fabric easily “collects” all this onto itself. Therefore, if you put a suitcase in someone else’s trunk, under a berth on a train, or even just carry it along the street, you will have to be careful. If you fail to notice spilled motor oil or dog waste, the attractiveness of the purchased suitcase will decrease radically. It is usually impossible to wash a fabric suitcase in such a way as to return it to its original appearance: stains, stains, and odors still remain.
The design of fabric suitcases in most cases is strict, classic, utilitarian, and the appearance (especially of a well-worn fabric product) will not bring aesthetic pleasure. You can’t really call it a stylish accessory.

Leather

These are usually extremely expensive designer products. In principle, we are not talking about functionality and practicality here - only style, chic and luxury. Leather luggage is traditionally distinguished by small or medium sizes, since the material itself cannot be called light. It is vulnerable to moisture, scratches, and constantly requires care. Well, a suitcase on wheels from brands such as Louis Vuitton may well cost 3-4 thousand dollars. Therefore, manufacturers of goods designed for a wider range of customers, as a rule, limit the use of leather to leather handles, zippers, logos, etc. - as an element of luxury, nothing more.

Aluminum

Used in the last century mainly for the manufacture of small suitcase cases. Nowadays, due to its high cost, weight and low practicality, aluminum is used only for the manufacture of telescopic handles. Sometimes aluminum can be found in the form of corner trims, decorative inserts, etc. One of the few manufacturers who still produces premium aluminum suitcases is the German company Rimowa.

NUMBER OF WHEELS

To reduce costs, some suitcase models are equipped with only two wheels rather than four. This will not cause any particular inconvenience, but only in the context of using small and medium-sized specimens that can be lifted without problems. A large suitcase on two wheels will be frankly inconvenient, since large dimensions and weight require additional maneuverability.

SAFETY

Manufacturers equip suitcases with several burglary protection options. All of them are quite conditional and in no way relieve the owner from the need to look after his luggage.

A “TSA approved” combination lock is a lock with a customs inspection function (TSA - Transportation Security Administration), ideally only security personnel have a universal key for such a lock. The owner opens the suitcase using a 3 or 4-digit code. All well-known manufacturers complete their products with just such locks. The TSA lock is easily identified by its recognizable logo.

A small padlock can be opened using the supplied key or a code combination. It may also have TSA functionality.
A regular combination lock without TSA is also quite common: for example, it comes with inexpensive Chinese suitcases.

In practice, the picture looks like this:

A TSA-enabled lock won't stop professional airport burglars who probably have the right keys, but it will protect you from receiving luggage with broken locks. After all, the security service, if necessary, will not look for the passenger to open the suitcase; the lock will simply be carefully “cut through.”
Any locks will undoubtedly come in handy if you leave your luggage for a long time, for example, in a hotel room. You can easily zip up and close your valuables in your suitcase so that they do not become an eyesore for the service staff. Locks in the luggage room, etc. would also be a good idea.

MANUFACTURERS

The world's largest manufacturer of bags, suitcases, and backpacks, founded in the USA in 1910 and over 100 years, has become one of the most recognizable “suitcase” brands. The company has gone from a simple wooden chest to an elegant lightweight case made of high-tech kerve material, and today it firmly holds the first place in the global luggage market.

The assortment includes both inexpensive models of suitcases made of fabric, as well as top-end models made of the lightest material, carpet. There is also a large selection of different cases, briefcases, umbrellas, etc. For children, in collaboration with Disney, a whole collection of products with their favorite characters has been developed.

Samsonite owns such well-known brands as Hartmann, American Tourister, High Sierra and Tumi.

Samsonite is traditionally of very high quality, a reasonable, justified price for the product, as well as a 5-10 year warranty.

The Canadian company Heys appeared in the mid-80s of the last century and literally blew up the market by offering an innovation that was exceptional for that time - lightweight and durable polycarbonate suitcases. They were not cheap, but first-class quality, practicality and design did their job.

Now, over the years, the company continues to focus on innovation, offering more and more high-tech options. There are built-in luggage scales that transmit current weight to the smartphone, a suitcase that opens only with a fingerprint, a smart Bluetooth lock, and a proximity sensor.

Heys has not forgotten about the youngest customers: there is a large selection of high-quality bags and suitcases for children with Marvel and Nickelodeon heroes: Spiderman, Dasha, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Minions, Monster High, etc.

An Italian manufacturer of leather suitcases and accessories of the highest quality, which appeared in the mid-twentieth century. Initially, all items were made exclusively by hand.

Remaining a family business, Milan-based Bric's is famous for its expensive, stylish and high-quality products, including suitcases made of polycarbonate, chicly trimmed with leather and elegant inserts of other materials, such as aluminum.

A suitcase from Bric's Milano is a recognizable corporate design, style and impeccable quality, however, seasoned with a high price. Expensive and respectable.

Perhaps the most famous Italian company specializing exclusively in luggage. Founded in 1940 as a small family production, Antonio Roncato quickly grew into a whole factory with a major innovation for those times - the production line, which made the brand a market leader. Now Roncato owns hundreds of branded boutiques around the world. Most of range is still produced in Italy.

An American company from sunny California, founded in the late 1970s in Beverly Hills. Known throughout the world due to its availability and good price-quality ratio.

A French company that literally “breathes in the back” of Samsonite, ranking second among luggage manufacturers in the global market. This is despite the fact that production employs less than a thousand people. It was founded in 1911 as a factory producing cases for cameras and typewriters. Now among the innovations being introduced into Delsey suitcases you can find: a battery built into the suitcase for charging tablets and smartphones, GPS location, remote locking, microphone, communication via an application.

Tumi is a ritual knife for sacrifices in the culture of the ancient Incas. This is what Charles Clifford named his company upon returning to the United States after serving in the Peace Corps in Peru. The company produced a variety of bags, suitcases, and covers. Its calling card was the so-called ballistic nylon - a high-strength material that was used in the American army to produce special anti-fragmentation jackets. Several layers of fabric laminated together could stop the blast wave and also trap bullets and shrapnel. After the more reliable Kevlar appeared, ballistic nylon faded into the background, but became popular in “civilian” life as a material for the production of bags, backpacks, etc. The company TUMI, which became part of Samsonite in 2016, uses it with great success so far.

Each TUMI product comes with a unique 20-digit code that allows the owner to register their product in the Tumi Tracer program. If your luggage is lost, finding its owner will be quite easy.

The common German surname in the brand name in this case does not indicate affiliation with the country. The company was founded in the USA by a native of Bavaria, Joseph Hartmann. The luggage chests he produced were in great demand, since Joseph relied primarily on impeccable quality. The company still produces exclusively stylish and expensive products.

Since 2012, the Hartmann brand has been owned by Samsonite.

WHERE CAN I BUY

Having a payment card, you can independently place and pay for your order in any of the popular foreign stores. Almost none of them offers direct international delivery at reasonable prices, but the buyer can easily indicate as the delivery address the coordinates of one of the forwarding companies, of which there is now no shortage.

Don’t forget that at the forwarder’s warehouse, your other orders received at the same warehouse can be packed inside the suitcase. Therefore, in order not to “carry air”, you can use consolidation.

Suitcase sets are delivered to the recipient folded one inside the other according to the “matryoshka” principle, so when purchasing a set, know that you will not have to pay for the delivery of several pieces.

Suitcases are large goods, so the price of international delivery is very important here. As one of the options for inexpensive delivery of suitcases, we can recommend “sea” from the American meest.us, as well as the German meest-germany.com (for Ukraine mymeest.com).

Based on many years of experience in online shopping, we can definitely say that the most interesting place where you can buy a good suitcase at an exceptional price is, of course, the eBay auction. And that's why. Suitcases on wheels are a very specific product: you shouldn’t count on big discounts and seasonal sales here. After all, producing a good product is not cheap at all, and fashion here does not change from season to season - it can take decades for a trend to change. Therefore, getting a really honest 30% discount is already good. But it’s still a drop in the bucket, considering the market value of a good suitcase is $250-500.

Foreign online stores, even those famous for the biggest discounts (for example, Amazon), still offer goods at more or less market prices. But, as you probably know, the main advantage of the ebay site is that, due to its business model, it allows you to purchase goods really cheaply, sometimes for symbolic money, for next to nothing. Why?

Firstly, they often sell goods whose condition cannot be defined as “new” and which, for this reason, cannot be sold in traditional online stores. These are goods returned by customers that have cosmetic or functional defects of varying degrees, require repair, etc.

Secondly, of course, auction trading, which allows, with a competent approach and a certain amount of luck, to get an exceptionally good price.

By combining these factors, you will get a real opportunity to purchase the suitcase of your dreams without spending your monthly family budget on it.

The largest selection will be offered, of course, by the American ebay.com (), which is interesting primarily for the first-class products of Heys - a company focused primarily on the markets of the USA and Canada.

Among the additional advantages of ebay: secure payment through the Paypal payment system, which allows you not to share your payment card details with anyone, as well as the ability to open a dispute and get a full refund of the amount paid, including delivery, if the product is not received or does not match the description.
. Of course, it makes sense to note that although such products look stylish, they are inferior in practicality and reliability to truly “luggage” brands.

The Amazon hypermarket is well known to all fans of foreign online shopping. The regional branches in the USA - and in Germany - are most revered by residents of Russia, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan.

The choice here is more than impressive; delivery to the forwarder warehouse is free in most cases. Prices are more or less market prices. But getting a good discount is quite realistic.

Be sure to remember that sellers on Amazon, in addition to Amazon itself, can also be third parties. If the product is offered by just such a seller, pay attention to its rating and reviews, otherwise, being fooled by the “sweet” price, you can become a victim of a scammer.

Chinese Aliexpress site in last years has become perhaps the main shopping destination for online shoppers from Russia and Ukraine. Low prices and free delivery attract a huge number of customers. But there are no well-known brands here, and there are much fewer quality products than we would like. Therefore, you should carefully consider your purchase and buy a suitcase with caution.

Suitcase It's summer, and all the planes and trains are filled with people eager to forget about daily work in the harsh Russian climate, see the world, sunbathe with their children in the southern sun. Suitcases and travel bags for such trips are stored in any Russian family for years, but for sellers of luggage accessories, summer is still the busiest time. There are all kinds of suitcases, travel bags, briefcases and backpacks here, and prices range from quite affordable to exorbitant – but what should you buy? Let's try to give some advice.

Tip 1. Where and why?
First of all, you need to decide where you are going, why and for how long. People go hiking in the Crimean Mountains with a backpack; a backpack for an ironed suit is also not often needed, so we will consider only the luggage that most vacationers go south with - travel bags and suitcases. Everyone makes the choice between them independently, although a number of important points are not always taken into account. Let's start with the bags.

Suitcase from the limited collection GLOBE TROTTER

Tip 2. How to choose a travel bag.

One of the main advantages bags is their softness. When transporting a bag, for example, in a car, a soft bag can be stuffed into any corner of the trunk or interior, but this cannot be done with a fixed-shaped suitcase. In addition, the bag can be carried using a shoulder strap, while the bag fits well and comfortably to the traveler's body. A separate type of bags are bags on wheels, combining ease of transportation and changeability of shape - but keep in mind that only the upper part of the bag is shaped, since the bottom is mounted on a rigid frame with wheels. Another important thing dignity bags – their small size and the ability to take them with you into the airplane cabin. Let us immediately note the main flaw any bags - things you wear will inevitably get wrinkled in them. But we don't often need a perfectly pressed tuxedo to visit the casino in Monte Carlo, right? And then, you can put only wrinkle-resistant items in the bag, and carefully pack the rest in a suitcase.

When buying a bag, you need to decide what your goals are. If the task is just to move personal items, a razor and cologne from your apartment to a Turkish hotel, then there is no need to buy an expensive bag. If you are going to stay in a luxurious five-star hotel and count on the reverent attitude of the staff, then you should buy a more expensive bag - the ministers of the hotel cult pay attention primarily to the client’s shoes and luggage.

Classic GUCCI travel bag

Tip 3. What are the advantages of a suitcase over a bag?
Advantages suitcases in front of bags are obvious - when moving, things can be placed in them more neatly, wrinkle less and look much better upon arrival. However, when traveling by air, a large suitcase has to be checked in as luggage, which risks losing things. So it’s worth considering whether you really need that many clothes for a week-long holiday in Greece? It makes sense to get a suitcase that is the right size to take into an airplane cabin - this will definitely be indicated in the instructions for the suitcase. And remember the rule: before the trip you should collect everything that you consider absolutely necessary for your vacation. And then remove exactly half of these things and take with you twice as much money.

Cotton canvas suitcase EASTPAK BY KRIS VAN ASSCHE

Tip 4. What to look for when choosing a suitcase with wheels.
Bags are not necessarily equipped with wheels, but suitcases without wheels are now almost never produced. However, the wheels are also different. First of all, they should be recessed as deeply as possible into the body of the suitcase, otherwise they will definitely break during loading and unloading at the airport. It is important that the wheels roll separately, each on its own axle. How many wheels? If you have to transport it exclusively on a smooth, level surface, then four are better (for large suitcases), but this does not always happen, even at “Western” airports, and rolling such a suitcase on cobblestones or sand is extremely inconvenient. On the other hand, if at least one wheel breaks on a large two-wheeled suitcase, then things are bad. And on three wheels you can somehow move the suitcase. The ideal option is a four-wheeled suitcase that can be carried on both 4 and 2 wheels. Moreover, they must be made of rubber-like silicone; wheels made of hard plastic will certainly crack and break.

Plastic suitcase Samsonite suitcase of the popular Cosmopolite series

Tip 5. Which handles on your bag and suitcase won’t come off on your first trip.
It is now impossible to imagine a suitcase or bag on wheels without a telescopic handle. But not just any one is suitable - it is better if the handle is made of two rather than three retractable sections (fewer joints - less breakage). The handle should be strong and completely recessed into the body of your luggage. And of course - in addition to the retractable handle there should be one more, or better yet two regular pens made of plastic or durable plastic tape. The baggage handlers at the airport will not bother with the telescopic handle, and if there are no others, they will simply throw the suitcase onto the conveyor belt, grabbing the wheels or corners, inevitably damaging something.

Travel bag for short trips ANYA HINDMARCH

When purchasing a medium-priced bag, special attention should be paid to the fastening and type of handles. The handles should be firmly attached to the base - you can just pull them. It is desirable that the handles are reinforced, for example, with a polyvinyl chloride tube. Plain nylon straps dangle around the sides of the bag and inevitably get dirty, even in a clean Western airport.

Tip 6. Suitcase with which locks should you prefer?

A digital lock is usually built into the suitcase body. It would seem that this is enough, but it is better if there are also ears for a padlock. Particularly large suitcases should be wrapped with a special film, but not to prevent thieves, but only so that the locks do not accidentally open when shaking. You shouldn’t count on complete protection from airport craftsmen. If they like your luggage in some way, they will still open the suitcase, take out your diamonds, iPhone and bottle of vodka, and wrap the suitcase again so that you won’t even notice anything. The precautions are obvious. As the ancient Greek Biant said, I carry everything I own with me. He meant that he takes everything valuable with him into the cabin of the plane.

Hard case for transport in the cabin of an aircraft SALVATORE FERRAGAMO

Tip 7. What material should you choose from for a suitcase or travel bag?

For travelers, suitcases made of cloth and plastic are produced. Lightweight suitcases made of durable synthetic material are comfortable, but still susceptible to cuts and other damage. Plastic hard suitcases are much better in this sense, but they get scratched and (rarely) even crack. The most durable suitcases are made of plastic reinforced with fine metal (titanium) shavings. Of course, they are more expensive. The most prestigious and, accordingly, the heaviest and most uncomfortable are leather suitcases. And of course, the most expensive. In the era of crimson jackets, such suitcases made an impression on other crimson jackets; now there seems to be no need to show off crocodile suitcases and buy them. Billionaire Bill Gates, by the way, wears regular jeans and a backpack everywhere.

Suitcase made from WENGER fabric

The market for travel bags is not as large as it might seem from a quick look around the store. Bags are made from simple nylon, or from more impressive synthetics with a polymer lining, or from leatherette and, finally, from genuine leather. The cheapest ones are, of course, nylon bags of various sizes. Despite foreign inscriptions such as “Pro sport” and “Luxus”, most cheap bags are made in Russia and neighboring countries. At the same time, domestic bags are quite durable, although they do not give the impression of being solid. Much more High Quality products are produced by Italian companies, and the best ones for a similar price can be considered noble English trunks.

Of course, the most spectacular, respectable and expensive bags are made of leather - usually from cattle, or even exotic animals. They are also the heaviest, but it is unlikely that the owner of such an expensive bag will travel many kilometers with it. He will put the bag in the trunk of his equally expensive car or give it to a porter at the hotel. Or buy a bag on wheels with retractable handles.

Leather suitcase on wheels GLOBE TROTTER

Tip 8. What should be inside a well-made suitcase.

Inside the suitcase there should be several compartments, closed with a zipper or simply separated from each other. Too many compartments are not recommended as this will make packing things difficult. Do not forget about the restrictions - you cannot carry atomic bombs, dueling pistols and... well, you understand everything yourself in suitcases checked in as checked luggage.

Spacious and lightweight suitcase from travel clothing manufacturer THE NORTH FACE

Happy shopping! Just don’t rush to shell out your money; you’ll see a charming suitcase with an eye-catching label. There has been no shortage for a long time, and now you can’t escape from poorly chosen luggage items - at least for the entire vacation.