Which is better - a suitcase or a travel bag? Choosing a bag for travel. How to choose a suitcase or travel bag

Most people love to learn new things, get fresh impressions, and therefore travel. And a travel bag has always been a constant companion on travels.

A strong backpack with ropes, a canvas cross-body bag, a wicker knapsack and a plywood suitcase are long gone. There are a variety of travel bags on the market today, so it can be difficult to make the right choice.

Travel suitcase on wheels

A suitcase differs from a bag in that it usually has a rigid frame (sometimes rigid walls) and a hinged lid. A travel bag on wheels can also have a rigid design, but it opens from the top.

Advantages Such models are indisputable: they are always quite roomy, thanks to the solid frame, fragile things do not wrinkle or break in them, and most importantly, they ride on wheels. The main advantage of travel suitcases on wheels is that the traveler does not have to carry heavy weights.

Flaws are also obvious - such travel bag It is impossible to roll it up and put it in a corner. It requires a special place for permanent storage when not in use.

How to choose a bag or suitcase on wheels

Choosing travel bag, remember that it should have three handles: a retractable one and two small fabric handles for carrying up steps or over obstacles on the road.

If there is only a retractable handle, the model is not the most reliable. Fabric handles must be riveted or securely stitched with nylon threads. Travel suitcases or rolling bags are usually quite spacious, which means they will be heavy when traveling.

Pay attention to the placement of the wheels. It is best if the wheels of the suitcase are attached separately and rotate in different directions. Wheels and bearings must be steel. No matter what they tell you about the fact that plastic is lighter than metal, but still very strong, this is not a strong enough argument. When a loaded suitcase weighs 40 kilograms, it does not matter at all how much its wheels weigh - 500 grams or 800, it is important that they do not crack.

Sports travel bag

Durable, roomy bags made of soft fabrics were previously used by athletes when going to various competitions. They are convenient for transporting personal items and sports equipment. Gradually, such bags became very popular among travel lovers.

Undoubtedly dignity The advantage of sports travel bags is their lightness and ability to change their shape depending on what they carry.

Storing them at home between trips is also very convenient - they crumple, fold and can be stored in a closet or on mezzanines, taking up virtually no space. If you expect to return from a trip with numerous souvenirs, you can easily take with you an additional soft bag that will fit in any other one.

Disadvantage What makes sports travel bags so great is that they need to be carried in your hands, not rolled around. Sometimes it is inconvenient to use during rain, because it is impossible to place it on wet ground without getting dirty. In addition, you need to remember that the sporty style of the bag is not suitable for a business trip.

How to choose a sports travel bag

Most important criterion When choosing a sports bag for travel, consider its durability. The fabric should be waterproof and very durable, but the design of the handles is much more important. The most reliable handles are made of thick synthetic material covering the entire bag rather than being sewn into the fabric in specific places. It is in these places that the handles come off, often at the most inopportune moment.

Such bags are always fastened with a zipper, so you should also pay close attention to the quality of the fasteners.

In the old days, this was the name given to medium-sized travel bags made of carpet fabric. Then traveling bags began to be made from leather, and a travel bag became a sign of respectability. Doctors traveled with traveling bags, carrying their professional supplies in them.

The handles of this bag are small, leather or metal. Important feature is the presence of constipation. The design of the lock can be very complex, and therefore the cost of the bag is high.

Travel backpack

a traveling mood

Avid travelers know that a trip is impossible without a quality suitcase. Especially if you are traveling by plane, because airports have different handling of luggage. Therefore, a convenient, reliable and fairly compact suitcase is a necessary thing.

How to choose it, what to pay attention to and what best models travel bags exist today, you will learn from the rating of the best suitcases from the “Price Expert”.

Criteria for choosing the best suitcase

Material. The main materials from which good suitcases are made are fabric and various types of plastic. If you prefer fabric models, it is better to choose a suitcase with a rigid inner base. It is good if the fabric is impregnated with substances that protect against moisture and ultraviolet radiation (so that the fabric does not fade). Among plastic models, preference should be given to suitcases made of polypropylene and polycarbonate. They respond well to impacts and heavy weight, which is confirmed by numerous crash tests.

Pens. A good suitcase should be equipped with three handles - a retractable one and two sewn ones for carrying a travel bag. The retractable handle should be well secured inside the suitcase; it is better if it does not have a button, in which case it is less likely to break. Some suitcases are equipped with an additional handle-stand for a handbag.

Wheels. It is believed that models with four wheels are more convenient and maneuverable. Such a suitcase would be better suited for airports where the floor is flat. If you often have to walk with a suitcase on roads of poor quality or on cobblestones, you should give preference to two-wheeled models. The wheels should be rubber and half recessed.

Which suitcase is better to buy: plastic or fabric?

When deciding what material is best to buy a suitcase from, you should first determine how you will most often travel - by train or by plane? For the train it is better to choose lightweight fabric suitcases with a comfortable and durable handle. There is no need for excessive protection from impacts and damage.

With the rise in popularity of air travel, suitcases have become more durable and wear-resistant. Now all travel bags are subject to crash tests, which should reveal the most reliable material. For air travel, it is better to buy a suitcase made of polycarbonate or polypropylene. This is a plastic that can withstand heavy loads and road tests.

The most popular suitcase manufacturers

Buyers unanimously declare that the company's suitcases Samsonite(Belgium) - the best. They note the high reliability of Samsonite travel bags, long service life and warranty service. However, the price of these suitcases is not affordable for everyone. Samsonite subsidiary - American Tourister- is also very popular, including due to reasonable prices and quality comparable to Samsonite. However, due to affordable prices American Tourist sometimes uses cheaper materials for decoration and accessories. Other manufacturers of affordable and high-quality suitcases include: Roncato(Italy), Ricardo(USA) and Rimowa(Germany).

Rating of the best suitcases for trips and travels

Name

Average price in the Russian Federation for a medium-sized suitcase, rub.

Peculiarities

Samsonite Atolas Upright

Excellent price-quality ratio

10 of 10

American Tourist Decor

Classical appearance and durable finishing materials

9.9 out of 10

Rimowa Salsa Air Multiwheel

Reliable polycarbonate suitcase for air travel

10 of 10

Samsonite Fiero

The best budget plastic suitcase in our ranking

10 of 10

Ricardo Topanga Canyon

Unique plastic suitcase with expandable capacity

10 of 10

Roncato Uno Zip

Great Italian travel suitcase

9.9 out of 10

Samsonite Black Label Cosmolite

A proven classic in the field of suitcases

9.9 out of 10

Samsonite Cubelite

The best suitcase for flights - 10 year guarantee

9.7 out of 10

Trunki Trixie

A unique rolling suitcase is an indispensable purchase

10 of 10

Samsonite Sammies

A fun first suitcase for your baby

9.8 out of 10

The best fabric suitcases

Samsonite Atolas Upright
excellent price-quality ratio from the best suitcase manufacturer


Photo: www.susmaletas.com

Average price in the Russian Federation: 5400 rub.

Comfortable and reliable suitcase made of polyester on two wheels from the budget line the best manufacturer suitcases - Samsonite.

Advantages:

  • high quality materials;
  • roomy, with the ability to increase volume up to 10%;
  • comfortable handle;
  • polyurethane wheels;
  • combination lock;
  • warranty - 5 years.

Flaws: not detected.

Typical reviews of the Samsonite Atolas Upright suitcase:

“The main advantage of this suitcase is its quality. Thick lining, wheels made to perfection. The outer material is also very dense.”

“The budget collection from the best suitcase manufacturer - Samsonite - pleased me. Good quality and good price."

Suitcase American Tourister Decor
stylish appearance and very durable materials


Photo: www.bagway.ru

Average price in the Russian Federation: 6000 rub.

A spacious and functional suitcase made of polyester with four wheels that distribute the load evenly.

Advantages:

  • durable - thick fabric and plastic inserts on the sides;
  • spacious;
  • 4 wheels rotating 360 degrees independently of each other;
  • combination lock, the ability to set up to 1000 options for three-digit combinations;
  • classic nice design.

Flaws: not detected.

Typical reviews O suitcaseAmerican Tourist Decor:

“I don’t like suitcases made of fabric, but this one is quite hard and won’t crack. I like it, in a word."

“I liked it classic design. Three years and I go on business trips with him several times every month, and not only in Europe.”

The best plastic suitcases

Rimowa Salsa Air Multiwheel
Reliable polycarbonate suitcase for air travel


Photo: www.kofferexpress24.de

Average price in the Russian Federation: 26800 rub.

A suitcase that has repeatedly become a winner in the “Best” and “Most Reliable” ratings.

Advantages:

  • very light (2.9 kg) due to the fact that it is made of polycarbonate;
  • durable - bends but does not crack;
  • 4 wheels rotating independently 360 degrees;
  • multi-stage handle;
  • built-in TSA lock;
  • delimiter;
  • The warranty on the model is 5 years.

Flaws: not detected.

Typical reviews of the suitcase Rimowa Salsa Air Multiwheel:

“My husband and I have two of these suitcases and have been using them for several years. Maybe not the cheapest, but very comfortable and light!”

“I’ve had this suitcase for many years, nothing has been done to it. And the guarantee is 5 years, I advise!

Samsonite Fiero
the best inexpensive plastic suitcase in our rating


Photo: www.luggagesource.com

Average price in the Russian Federation: 6259 rub.

Stylish, inexpensive suitcase made of polycarbonate with a combination lock and four wheels.

Advantages:

  • roomy and light;
  • lasting;
  • rough texture, thanks to which scratches are not noticeable on the suitcase body;
  • 4 wheels rotating 360 degrees;
  • built-in TSA lock;
  • warranty - 10 years.

Flaws: not detected.

Typical reviews of the suitcase Samsonite Fiero:

“Very easy to transport suitcase, light and stable thanks to four wheels.”

“The best suitcase for the money! I just wish the fabric inside didn’t look so cheap.”

Ricardo Topanga Canyon
good plastic suitcase with the possibility of increasing the volume


Photo: www.onlinetrade.ru

Average price in the Russian Federation: 6990 rub.

Suitcase made of polypropylene with the possibility of increasing the volume up to 10% and four wheels.

Advantages:

  • durable and lightweight suitcase made of 100% polypropylene;
  • four wheels rotating independently of each other 360 degrees;
  • three comfortable handles;
  • the possibility of increasing the volume, which is not typical for plastic suitcases;
  • cross straps inside the suitcase, pockets for shoes and small items;
  • built-in TSA lock.

Flaws: not detected.

Typical reviews of the Ricardo Topanga Canyon suitcase:

“It’s a good comfortable suitcase, I was pleased with the opportunity to increase the volume, it will come in handy on the way home when souvenirs and other purchases arrive.”

Roncato Uno Zip
excellent suitcase on wheels from Italy


Photo: www.pensorosa.com

Average price in the Russian Federation: 18090 rub.

A good lightweight suitcase on wheels, impregnated from moisture, will last you for many years. In addition, it has a 10-year warranty.

Advantages:

  • lightweight (2.8 kg), but very durable thanks to the polycarbonate material;
  • protection from moisture and fading;
  • four wheels rotating 360 degrees independently of each other;
  • comfortable handle;
  • stylish design;
  • warranty - 10 years.

Flaws:

  • scratches cannot be avoided.

Typical reviews about Roncato suitcase Uno Zip:

“In the store it seemed to me that the suitcase would quickly break - it was so light. But the seller, fortunately, persuaded me to buy it. The suitcase is good, very reliable, and has withstood more than one flight.”

Samsonite Black Label Cosmolite Spinner
best classic suitcase on wheels


Photo: s3.amazonaws.com

Average price in the Russian Federation: 23900 rub.

Advantages:

  • durable and lightweight suitcase;
  • four wheels rotating independently of each other 360 degrees;
  • built-in TSA lock;
  • comfortable handles on the top and sides;
  • the retractable handle has retractable support for a small handbag;
  • Stylish design, different colors.

Flaws:

  • scratches cannot be avoided.

Typical reviews of the Samsonite Black Label Cosmolite Spinner suitcase:

“The suitcase is lightweight but very durable. Excellent wheels, convenient retractable handle with special support for a small bag.”

“If you travel often, don't think twice about buying this suitcase - it's the best. I bought two of these for myself - medium and small.”

Samsonite Cubelite
best suitcase for flights: 10 year warranty


Photo: travelcases.ru

Average price in the Russian Federation: 19380 rub.

Suitcase from the very famous brand in the world of polypropylene travel bags with four or two wheels, reliable and functional.

Advantages:

  • roomy, despite its small size;
  • very light - 2.3 kg;
  • protection from shock, burnout and moisture;
  • 4 wheels rotating independently of each other, with a decent diameter, or two wheels, at the buyer’s choice;
  • partitions inside the suitcase;
  • combination lock;
  • stylish design and different colors;
  • warranty - 10 years.

Flaws:

  • scratches remain on the suitcase;
  • The retractable handle may become loose over time.

Typical reviews of the Samsonite Cubelite suitcase:

“I don’t regret the purchase one bit! We've flown with this suitcase 8 times and it's in excellent condition (apart from small scratches). We always take it with us baby food in glass jars, everything is always intact.”

“I wanted to buy a plastic suitcase, but one that was lightweight. There must be a warranty from the manufacturer and 4 wheels. In the end I bought Samsonite Cubelite. I’ve been using it for two years and have never regretted it!”

The best children's suitcases

Trunki Ride-On Suitcase
a unique rolling suitcase is an indispensable purchase


Photo: thesfile.com

Average price in the Russian Federation: 2500 rub.

A unique children's suitcase-wheelchair made of plastic. Suitable for both a child who wants to have his own travel bag, and for parents who simply use the suitcase as a gurney.

Advantages:

  • plastic suitcase on four wheels;
  • there are two handles-horns for the child when he sits;
  • concave seat and additional clamps;
  • a belt for carrying a suitcase;
  • there are handles to use the suitcase as a shoulder bag;
  • Suitable for children from 2 to 5 years old.

Flaws: not detected.

Typical reviews of the suitcase Trunki Ride-On Suitcase:

“At the airport, the suitcase caused a sensation, people turned around, came up, and asked where we bought it. Even after resting, the child rides it around the apartment, plays, and after playing, carefully puts all his toys in a suitcase.”

Samsonite Sammies
the best fun first suitcase for your baby


Photo: www.buro247.ru

Average price in the Russian Federation: 6200 rub.

A very successful children's collection of suitcases from the world famous brand Samsonite.

Advantages:

  • light and compact suitcase made of polyester;
  • easy to wash, not easily soiled;
  • a convenient retractable handle for the child, which can be hidden and zipped, there is a carrying handle;
  • many pockets and compartments;
  • there is a place to write down the address and name of the child if he gets lost;
  • Great design for a child.

Flaws:

  • high price for a children's suitcase.

Typical reviews of the Samsonite Sammies suitcase:

“The best suitcase for a child is light, so you can take it on the plane as hand luggage. Under the little animal's face there is a place to write down the child's full name and address information. The fabric is light, but does not stain at all and is easy to wash.”

Which travel suitcase is best to buy?

Choosing a suitcase is a serious matter, so pay attention to the selection criteria presented in this article. If you travel by train more often, buy a suitcase with comfortable handles that is easy to carry and lift. For those who travel by plane, a light and spacious travel bag with two semi-recessed or four wheels, protection against impacts and heavy weight is suitable.

Durable, roomy bags made of soft fabrics were previously used by athletes when going to various competitions. They are comfortable to transport personal items and sports equipment. Little by little, these bags have become very popular among travel lovers.

Undoubtedly advantage Sports travel bags have their lightness and ability to change their shape depending on what they carry.

Storing them at home between trips is also very convenient - they crumple, fold and can be stored in a closet or on the mezzanine without actually taking up space. If you expect to return from a trip with countless souvenirs, you can easily take with you an additional soft bag that will fit into each one.

A shortcoming Sports travel bags can be considered to be the fact that they need to be carried in the hands, and not rolled. From time to time it is uncomfortable to use during the rain, due to the fact that it is impossible to place it on wet soil without getting dirty. In addition, you must not forget that the sporty style of the bag is not suitable for a work trip.

How to choose a sports travel bag

The most important criterion when choosing a sports bag for travel is its durability. The fabric should be waterproof and very durable, but the design of the handles is much more responsible. The most reliable handles are made of dense synthetic material, covering the entire bag, and not sewn to the fabric in certain places. Therefore, in these places the handles come off, usually at the most inopportune moment.

Such bags are fastened with a zipper at any time, so you should also pay attention to the level of quality of the fasteners.

Travel bag

In the old days, this was the name given to medium-sized travel bags made of carpet fabric. Later, traveling bags began to be made from leather, and a traveling bag became an indicator of respectability. Doctors traveled with traveling bags, carrying their own experimental equipment in them.

The handles of this bag are small, leather or metal. A serious highlight is the presence of constipation. The design of the lock can be very complex, and based on this, the price of the bag is high.

Travel briefcase

In the distant past, a briefcase ceased to be a common accessory of a tourist traveling through wild places, carrying all his own property on his shoulders.

Modern briefcases come from the most various materials, made in different styles and are very popular among young people. They are not very huge, much more often than average size, the main advantage is free hands.

Travel bag sizes

The size of the bag is chosen taking into account the nature of the trip. For a short work trip, you need a small bag; for a long vacation with the whole family, you will need a huge suitcase on wheels, and probably more than one.

For some, a change of underwear and a pair of trousers is enough, but for others, a whole wardrobe needs to be packed, including all their favorite things.

It’s hard to get by with just one travel bag, so it’s most practical to get several bags of different sizes.

Vacation - so many pleasant emotions and expectations in this one word! When preparing for a trip, we carefully select a resort and a specific hotel, after which we begin to pack our things for the trip. Where will we put our clothes and other small items necessary for the trip? A selection especially for you best advice About, good quality.

Volume and size

Before you go to the store for a new suitcase, try to decide on the basic requirements for the purchase. What type of transport do you use most often, how many things are you used to taking with you and how fragile are they? Airlines are the strictest when it comes to luggage. Today, each airplane passenger can take on board one suitcase weighing no more than 23 kg. In this case, the sum of the measurements of the external sides of the luggage should not exceed 115 cm.

For an airplane, if most manufacturers indicate internal volume (in liters) as the main characteristic? If the label does not indicate external dimensions, ask a store consultant to measure the travel bag you like. Or rely on the experience of other travelers: it is believed that about 25-30 liters are enough for one person. Summer clothes take up very little space. For a holiday in hot countries, you can safely take a small or medium suitcase. The situation is much more complicated with warm things. Jackets, coats, and winter sports suits take up quite a lot of space. If you often take such things on trips, take a closer look at large suitcases.

What is your suitcase made of?

The most popular materials for the production of modern suitcases are plastic and fabric. Textile travel bags are lightweight. Such suitcases are made from special wear-resistant fabrics. The main disadvantage of textile travel bags is their inability to protect the contents from impacts.

Which suitcase is better: fabric or plastic? Textile travel bags are reasonably priced. Their walls can be sealed, but even in this case there is a high risk of damage to the contents. Plastic suitcases protect their contents better thanks to their rigid frame. However, such cases have more weight than cloth bags. Still, this is a good solution for those who regularly transport a significant number of fragile items.

Compartments and pockets

It is very convenient when a suitcase has several internal compartments. In this case, you can easily arrange things inside various types apart. A big plus is the presence of internal pockets for small items. How to choose a good quality wheeled suitcase, does it need small external compartments? Pockets on the outside are useful for passengers who do not check luggage in the cargo area. If you travel by train or road transport, the more compartments your suitcase has, the better. Fill the outer pockets with the things you'll need on your trip so you don't have to pack extra bags or packs. Please note: some suitcases have adjustable size, which is definitely a useful feature.

How many wheels does a suitcase need?

Carrying your own luggage in your hands is a dubious pleasure. For travel and long trips, it makes sense to purchase a suitcase with wheels. The most popular modifications today are carts and spinners. In the first case, the suitcase has two wheels and is transported in a semi-tilted position. Spinners are distinguished by the presence of four wheels located at the corners of the bottom. Each wheel rotates freely around its axis. A good suitcase on wheels with a similar fastening system ideally moves on smooth asphalt or the flooring of public buildings. The advantage of spinners is minimal effort to move. It is these suitcases that are recommended for elderly people and children to buy. However, be careful: spinner wheels can break after traveling for a long time on bad roads. If you often travel significant distances on foot with your luggage, it makes sense to choose a trolley suitcase.

What is the ideal pen?

When choosing a suitcase, you need to think about how you will carry it. Retractable handle Most modern travel bags have them. It can be made of metal or plastic. Pay attention to what the part that you will use to carry the suitcase is made of. It’s good if the handle is rubberized or has a fabric pad at the top. A useful feature is the ability to secure it in several height positions. This is especially true if the suitcase will be used by several people of different heights.

Before purchasing, be sure to try carrying the suitcase around the store. This simple test will help you determine if it's the right height for you. How to choose a suitcase on wheels that is good quality and comfortable? Pay attention to the presence of side handles for carrying by hand. It is advisable that there are two of them - in this case, you can easily carry the suitcase with someone together, and putting it away on a shelf or in the trunk will not be difficult. These handles should also have rubber or fabric pads.

Suitcase clasp

Plastic suitcases are closed with special latches. Their quality, quantity and strength depend entirely on the cost of the product. Fabric suitcases usually have a zipper. It's good if it's plastic and wide. Please note: some suitcases have a zipper more than 1 cm wide. And this is not a design move, but a practical solution - such a fastener will last longer than a narrow one. Try to carefully close an overfilled suitcase, and then it will serve you for a very long time.

Your things are under lock and key!

Plastic suitcases have built-in locks. This is quite convenient, but remember: if the mechanism breaks, you will have to break into the case yourself. How to choose a travel suitcase that will protect your belongings? Zippers usually have special padlock arms. The protective device itself can be purchased at a store that sells travel bags. can be coded or regular mechanical (with a key). In the first case, you need to remember the combination of numbers, and in the second, you need to have the key with you at all times. Considered the most reliable

How to choose a travel suitcase and how to extend its service life?

What color should I choose for my suitcase? Today in any store you can find travel accessories in classic colors and bright, original ones. Which suitcase should you choose? Unusual design or a bright print is something that will always help you easily recognize your own luggage. But be careful, even if you have a very original suitcase - do not forget to read the tags. Before purchasing, check the functionality of the fittings and wheels. If something sticks a little or is questionable, this suitcase is not worth buying. Remember that large travel bags and cases are practically beyond repair. The failure of one zipper or wheel almost always means the death of the entire product.

It is not enough to know how to choose a suitcase on wheels of good quality; it is important to ensure the purchase proper care. Lubricate the wheels regularly with silicone grease. At the airport, it is advisable to wrap your suitcase with film; this will protect it from mechanical damage and dirt. Try not to overfill your suitcase. But if you need to transport a lot of bulky items, use special vacuum bags. We wish you pleasant travels and hope that you will be able to choose a suitcase that will make them even more comfortable!

Beginning travelers often wonder what to take on the road – a suitcase or a travel bag. Advice from friends who travel frequently helps little. Some are supporters of suitcases, so they don’t understand how you can travel with a bag, while others, on the contrary, cannot imagine themselves with a bulky suitcase.

To ensure that the trip is not uncomfortable, you need to make a responsible choice. Different types bags and suitcases have their own advantages and disadvantages that you should be aware of.

Suitcases: reliable protection for your belongings

Suitcases are associated with bulkiness and inconvenience of carrying. Indeed, it is difficult to call them hand luggage, which can be carried in your hands for a long time and without any inconvenience. The wheels that every modern suitcase is equipped with won’t go everywhere. For example, on antique cobblestones or off-road use, they will break.

All the advantages and disadvantages of a suitcase come from its rigidity. The walls reliably protect things, nothing gets mixed inside, everything remains in its place. If you plan to bring fragile items from your trip, it is better to give preference to a suitcase. Good protection of things is especially important for those who fly by plane. Every loader is convinced that bags and suitcases contain only firewood and bricks, with which nothing will happen.

The disadvantage of rigid walls is the fixed volume. You can always squeeze a little more into your bag. With a suitcase, I remember the game “Tetris”: you need to arrange things correctly. Carrying a suitcase in your hands is inconvenient, and it’s not always possible to carry it. This is not a problem for those who take a taxi and plan to stay in a hotel. But if the trip involves traveling by public transport, it’s worth considering whether a suitcase is suitable for this.

Choosing a suitcase: what to look for

When choosing, you need to look at:

  • Pens. They are attached to the suitcase body in different ways.
  • Dimensions. There are three standards - S, M and L. The smallest one will fit only what you need: personal hygiene items, underwear, a couple of T-shirts. With a medium suitcase you can go on a visit - there is room for gifts in it. Large models are intended for those who, just in case, take with them a fur coat, skates, scuba gear and plan to take from their trip everything that is sold in local stores.
  • Type and number of wheels. Two-wheeled suitcases travel at an angle - the hand accounts for only 30% of the weight of the luggage. They cope well with uneven roads. Ideally, the wheels are recessed into the body and have a diameter of 50 mm or more. Experience shows that small wheels break faster.


The material from which the suitcase is made is very important. This topic requires special attention.

Plastic and fabric suitcases

Advantages of plastic:

  • Waterproof.
  • Easy to clean.
  • Strength. Depends on the material of manufacture. The most expensive products are made of impact-resistant plastic with titanium inclusions. After a lot of travel, they can be inherited in quite decent condition. The standard material is polycarbonate with metallic inclusions. Combines a sufficient level of protection and an affordable price.

The disadvantage of a plastic suitcase is its weight. You have to pay for the safety of things with physical labor - even an empty product can weigh 4–5 kg. And ultralight suitcases tend to be unreliable.

Advantages of fabric products:

  • All other things being equal, the products are cheaper than plastic ones.
  • They stretch by 30–50 mm, allowing you to fit a little more than stated by the manufacturer (but still a little less than necessary).
  • The fabric is scratch-resistant.
  • Low weight.
  • They have side compartments where it is good to put essential items (personal hygiene items, napkins, etc.). In the first hour at the hotel, you will thank the manufacturer for not having to look for all this in unpacked luggage.
  • If the fabric is treated with water-repellent impregnation, it will not get wet or dirty.

When choosing a fabric suitcase, ask whether it is impregnated with a water-repellent composition. If not, it's better not to buy.

The disadvantages of the products include the ability to cut them. In addition, the fabric gets dirty, and even a small suitcase is unlikely to fit in the washing machine.

For those flying by plane, it is important to know two rules for packing your suitcase:

  1. Don't overload. Loaders throw luggage to each other. The heavier it is, the higher the probability of undershooting.
  2. Use a case or protective film. Locks may not protect you from theft.

Bag - for fidgets

Bags are convenient to use in cases where you are not going to be in one city throughout your vacation. It is better not to take suitcases on a bus tour or a car trip.

Regardless of their type, the advantages of bags include:

  • Capacity. There is no need to stack things neatly on top of each other and save every cubic centimeter of space. You can just squeeze everything in until the zipper comes together. Of course, you shouldn’t overload the bag too much, otherwise the clasp will quickly break.
  • Easy to carry. Throwing a bag over your shoulder is much more convenient than carrying it in your hands. There are tourists who go on vacation with one bag and come with two (the second contains souvenirs). Taking an empty suitcase with you is not so convenient.
  • Convenient storage. About nine travel bags can be stored in the tenth, all somewhere in the back of the closet. This won't work with suitcases.

The disadvantages of travel bags include their fragility. If treated the same, the suitcase will last longer. The most common problem with bags is the handles coming off, and at the most inopportune moment. Fasteners are also torn off and zippers are broken. But this is the owner's fault, because the bags are made of fabric, not rubber.

Types of travel bags, their advantages and disadvantages

There are three types of travel bags:

  1. Sports bag. She doesn't necessarily look athletic. There are very elegant leather goods. It’s good if the handles have an extension, encircling the entire bag. Thanks to this, the load is distributed differently.
  2. Travel bag. Such bags have been known since antiquity. They have always been considered a sign of good wealth and status. Previously, products were made from carpet fabric, today - from leather.
  3. Backpack. Those who go hiking have no problems with the choice: naturally, they always take a backpack. Spacious tourist backpack Convenient for less extreme travel as well. The only problem is that many people consider such bags unrespectable. Indeed, it would be strange to see a businessman in an expensive suit with a backpack over his shoulders. But for young people this is a great option.

When choosing a travel bag, pay attention to the material it is made of. Leather is very beautiful, but it does not tolerate high loads. Therefore, leather goods are suitable only for those who carry few things with them. More durable options are made of polyester and nylon. It is important that the bag is impregnated with a composition that protects it from getting wet.

Still, what to choose?

The decision depends on where you are going. To transport luggage on airplanes and buses, it is better to take a suitcase. If you need to walk a lot with your luggage, it is more convenient to use a strong travel bag. For those who plan to travel frequently, it is better to have both. Choose carefully and carefully. And, most importantly, in advance

Loading...Loading...