Choosing the right luggage can be a daunting task with all the brands and styles on the market, whether you are a backpacker or a business traveller our guide will help you make an informed decision.
Hard Suitcase
In choosing hard luggage there are 3 main considerations, weight, security and strength.
There are 3 main materials used in the construction of hard suitcases, ABS, Polypropolene and Polycarbon. ABS and Polypropolene are both rigid materials that have been used for a long time, Polypropolene is the preferred case for travel professionals as it is probably the toughest material. Polypropolene does have one drawback, no lining can be fixed to the interior because of the nature of the material, this makes the case more like a shell and does not have any feeling of luxury. ABS on the other hand can be lined and fitted with all kinds of extras, usually out of the 2 ABS are usually the most expensive. Both ABS and Polypropolene are fitted with fixed locks and are therefore very secure. Both these materials are quite heavy and can weigh up to 9kg for a large case.
Polycarbon is a relativeley new case material that has a great advantage over other materials, it is lightweight. It is also strong as its flexibility absorbs impacts. As the case is flexible a zipper is fitter which may not be as secure as fixed locks, some manufacturers have attempted to overcome this by reversing the zipper and protecting it with a rubber strip.
There are many brands and ranges all offering lightweight, durable and guaranteed cases. This is something you should research...Are the cases really light or is that just what the swing tag is telling you? (ask the salesperson to weigh the case for you or lift it yourself and compare it to other cases.)
If weight is not an issue for you then perhaps your main concern is durabilty, some very lightweight cases sacrifice some of the cases strengthening features. For durable suitcases you should primarily look at the fabric the case is made from. Ballistic Nylon is usually considered to be the strongest fabric, Filament polyester is another material that is strong and lightweight. Also have a look at the wheels, do they look robust?... many cases use inline skate wheels which are proven to be long lasting but other brands use even better wheels.
The Guarantee is also something you should look at, how long is the guarantee?, what does it cover?, is it an international guarantee.
All these factors along with price should be considered when choosing the right case for you.
A Travel pack is a large backpack usually between 60 - 90 Litre capacity. When Choosing the right pack, you should consider the following:
1.What size pack you need, the smaller the pack the better as it will be easier to manage and store. If you are going for a long time you may not be able to get away with a 60-65 litre pack and will need to go larger. If you aren't very big then don't go for a 80-90 litre pack as this will prove difficult to manage. The most popular size pack is 70-75 litre a compromise of packing space and size.
2. What features you need, most people consider a detachable daypack to be neccesary as it is useful for excursions and your carry on luggage. Other features that may be useful...Waterproof cover (this can be used when you are wearing the pack as it leaves the straps exposed), Straps for holding a sleeping bag, Seperate section for your laundry and/or shoes, Pocket for your water bottle, Headphone slot, Shoulder strap, Compreshion straps. Consider which features are important to you and buy the appropriate pack.
3. Do you need wheels, some brands have brought out travel packs that have a built in trolley system that converts your travel pack to a wheelie bag. This is very useful for people who find carrying a heavy load all the time tiring.If this appeals to you make sure you consider your destination as it won't always be practical to use wheels in some locations and they may end up never beign used.
If you require your backpack to carry your gym gear then think about how much space you need and what other features you might require such as a water bottle holder on the side or a backpack split into 2 compartments so that you may separate your shoes or a wet towel from the rest of your belongings, click here for some general daypack choices.
Duffel Bag Inc. Wheeled
Choosing the right Duffel Wheel Bag.
Duffel bags offer an alternative luggage solution to suitcases, they are not as wide as a suitcase but are usually taller, they can be lighter than a suitcase although this is not always the case. Most duffel bags these days have wheels and are similarly constructed to a regular suitcase which means they are ideal for travelling and will stand the rigours of your journey.
Wheeled duffel bags main advantage over suitcases comes back to the shape, their narrow width makes them ideal for cruises, boating holidays and train holidays. When travelling by car 2 duffels will fit nicely into the boot of your car which you can't always manage with 2 suitcases.
A mobile office is a wheeled business bag that is usually carry on size and can be used to carry your laptop, paperwork, accessories and sometimes some space for clothes.
There are 2 distinct categories:
Upright or Vertical, these cases are taller than they are wide and have a compartment for your laptop as well as an organiser section. Most of the capacity is designed for your clothes and you can store a few changes of clothes and shoes.
Horizontal, these cases are wider than they are tall and are designed to carry not only your laptop but also files and folders, paperwork, and come with a lot of compartments and sections for all your accessories. These business cases don't usually have any space for your clothes.
Luggage news and luggage reviews brought to you by The Luggage Professionals, Sydney. Information on lightweight luggage, wheeled backpacks, carry on luggage, anti-theft bags and travel accessories. Our feature articles cover a wide range of subjects and brands such as Victorinox Luggage, Antler Luggage, Titan Luggage, Samsonite Luggage, PacSafe Anti-Theft bags and Eagle Creek Packing Cubes. Visit our luggage shops in Sydney and Melbourne to see most of the products featured on this luggage website.
