Are you trying to find the best luggage bag to bring on a trip? Or maybe you want to replace your old one? Whichever it is, you want to know what options you’re working with.
When you go through the types of luggage bags, you’ll notice they come with different features. Some are better for short trips, while others are ideal for long travel. But how do you know which to get?
So, here’s your guide to buying luggage! Let’s get started.
Types of Travel Luggage Bags
When you need a bag for a trip, you might want to check out several luggage options to be sure you get the best one. It can go from large and heavy to small and wheeled.
Even so, the primary criteria you should focus on when picking a bag is how it fits your preference. So, it helps to know what makes each option a good one.
The following are the types of luggage bags you can find with their pros and cons:
Wheeled Luggage
Wheeled or rolling luggage refers to bags that come with wheels. It’s one of the popular types of travel bags because of its convenience and capacity.
This type of luggage comes in different sizes according to your needs and usually has a sturdy structure. It allows the bags to withstand bag transport systems at the airport.
You can also find them in duffel or backpack versions for more variety in style and purpose.
A wheeled duffel suitcase is excellent for light packers or complex-shaped objects because it uses lightweight material. On the other hand, a wheeled backpack works if you want a travel bag you can roll and carry it at your convenience.
Duffel Bags
Next to wheeled ones, another well-known kind of travel luggage are duffel bags. The traditional duffel bag is as simple as a bag with more length than height. Besides using it for travel, many people also use duffel bags for sports since they come with specific options made for each one. This sports duffel bag is a great one that also works for travel.
One of the best things about a duffel is that you can easily store large gear or clothes, especially if they come in unique shapes. The downside is that it often has little to no pockets. So, it can make organization complicated if you prefer to use different compartments.
Nonetheless, a duffel bag can withstand several pounds, even if it’s made with a thin-like material. With this, you can bring lots of stuff without worrying about exceeding the weight too much since the bag itself is light.
Because of the construction of this kind of bag, it may be less secure. So, if you get this, you might want to look into tools for locking it.
Travel Packs
Many would suggest a travel backpack when you buy luggage since it’s easy to carry like regular ones but offer more support. This way, you can bring many items without hurting your back. Additionally, they come with travel-specific features, like extra compartments, lockable zippers, and multi-straps.
A travel backpack is best when you go on a trip that requires lots of moving around, like a hike or day tour. It’s also a good option if you want your luggage to be lightweight. View this casual travel backpack for more features.
Travel packs are also durable compared to regular backpacks. Some also come with extra shoulder and back support to increase comfort levels. But note that if you overpack or bring several heavy items, it could still cause aches later.
Messenger Bags
Messenger or courier bags refer to luggage options that come in a boxy appearance since it’s meant for work or school files. Even so, you can use it as a travel bag, depending on how much you take with you.
This kind of bag makes it easy for you to access your items without taking off the entire thing or opening several zippers at once. Moreover, it usually uses a buckle or clasp to stay secure. So, it’s easier to install an extra lock.
Some say there aren’t many differences between a messenger bag and a backpack. Moreover, a messenger bag doesn’t distribute the weight of your items across your body. If you bring more than you can carry, it becomes a hassle to have the bag.
On the other hand, if you pack your belongings well, you can enjoy your trip with an easy-to-use bag.
Travel Totes
A travel tote might be the ideal choice if you prefer buying luggage specifically for travel. Like other typical bags, it comes in many sizes but usually remains within the portable range. So, you will likely be able to carry them around.
It’s a good place to store your essentials but small enough to take while you visit different spots. But like duffel bags, a travel tote lacks pockets and other compartments. If you use this, you want to store your belongings in their own organizers.
You can also use a travel tote on regular days when you need to bring more or big items. Check out this multi-purpose travel tote to start.
Luggage Trunks
A travel luggage trunk resembles a chest. It’s a rectangular container with a sturdy structure and is usually hard-shelled for extra durability. So, you want to consider this if you’re worried about your stuff banging into things.
Another great point about travel trunks is that they come with double locks or more. This way, you can leave your valuables wherever you go.
The downside to this vintage-like luggage is that it’s bulky and heavy. So, you might have trouble carrying and bringing it around yourself.
At the same time, it gives you less room for your stuff when it comes to weight. If a typical luggage bag can carry up to 20 pounds, you get around half of that weight to work with unless it comes in lighter material. Either way, it’s best to expect travel trunks to weigh more than most luggage options.
How to Pick a Luggage Bag
Now that you know your options, it’s time to choose! Some pick the kind of travel luggage they use according to which description fits their preference or needs the best. Even so, you want to note a few things to ensure you’re choosing the ideal one.
The following are the factors to consider when you buy luggage bags:
Check the Weight
One thing you should constantly monitor when traveling is the weight of your luggage, especially if you’re going on a plane. The airport has guidelines on how much weight you can bring onto the aircraft before you board. If you go over it, you have to pay additional costs.
While carry-on and luggage restrictions vary at every airport, a good rule of thumb is to have less than 10 pounds when you board. This way, you have lots of room for more stuff.
You can check the total bag weight with your items in it before you board to ensure you don’t exceed the limit. At the same time, it helps you estimate how much stuff you can bring to reach a similar measurement.
Get the Measurements
Not all travel bags will go through airport security with ease. It’s because some places also come with size limits. So, it’s best to check with your airline company before buying tickets to be sure you get the right size.
Moreover, you want to consider where you’re staying, how you travel, and where you’ll bring your travel luggage. For example, if you’re going on a hiking trip, it’s best to have a bag you can comfortably carry on your bag. A small one might not fit all your belongings, but an oversized option could cause discomfort.
If you aren’t sure about the other details, consider taking a bag you can easily bring whether you carry it or not. This way, you can prepare for a situation where you have less room than expected.
Test the Security
An essential factor when picking travel bags is checking their security. Can you add a lock, or does it come with a built-in one? Is the zipper easy to access, or can they be hidden?
Even if it doesn’t have its own locking features, you also want to test the basic security components. It includes zippers, buckles, straps, and more.
Be sure your luggage can keep your stuff secure throughout the trip. If it doesn’t already have one, consider installing one yourself. And so, you can feel safer visiting different spots without taking your luggage all the time.
Pick a Handle
One thing many people overlook when buying luggage is the handle. Most focus on the features of the actual bag, so it’s easy to forget the value of its handle.
Your travel bag’s handle can affect how comfortable the luggage feels when you carry it around. It refers to the placement, size, or even material used.
Many suggest picking a luggage bag that allows you to tow it better. For example, having the handle at the top or side for easier lifting.
Moreover, you want to ensure it’s the right height for you. This way, it’s comfortable to hold whether you’re walking around or waiting somewhere.
Decide on Wheels
Many luggage options come with wheels for convenience, especially for an international trip. With wheels, you don’t have to worry about lifting your bag all the time since you can roll it while you move.
So, if you’re picking a bag with wheels, take your time to test it out. You want to be sure it glides smoothly and allows you to make seamless turns in any direction.
The size of the wheels can also affect the luggage’s comfort and convenience. It’s best to go for the versatile option if you aren’t sure what to get.
Remember that you can still choose among travel bags without wheels if you prefer a carry-on.
View Storage and Capacity
Storage capacity is one of the biggest factors you should consider when you buy luggage, no matter what type you get.
It’s also good to note that more room is better than having too little. So, don’t hesitate to look for a larger option if your current size isn’t enough for your necessities.
Under storage, you should also look into the compartments available in the bag. Does it have pockets or extra sections? Are there pockets on the inside and outside? These help you optimize your space, so try to look out for bags that have more of it.
Another aspect of storage is the bag’s expandability. Most luggage bags are flexible and allow you to increase the capacity or store large items. You might want to consider luggage options with expandable features to get extra packing space.
Choose a Style
You can find a broad range of colors and designs when you check the types of luggage bags. One way or another, you can find one that fits your taste or gives you the vibe you want.
Most recommend picking a luggage bag you can use for the long term rather than for a single trip. So, try finding a travel bag that fits your preference from the get-go. This way, you know you will use it even when you go on your next few trips.
Consider Material
It’s good to consider material when you go through different luggage options to ensure the bag is durable. You can pick one based on the type of trip you’re going on.
You want water and scratch-resistant bags for adventure trips and hard-duty or sturdy options when you travel by plane. Note that the material can also affect the cost of your luggage bag, so set a clear budget and purpose to narrow your options.
Find the Perfect Travel Bag by Learning the Types of Luggage Bags
You can find several types of luggage bags, but it takes a lot of thinking to determine which is best for you. Although it generally depends on your preference, it’s good to know how each luggage bag works and what features they offer.
