Hard and soft edges
If you are torn between choosing hard side or soft square luggage, consider the following points: Hard side luggage is more protective when it comes to waterproofing and wear markings, but rigid means you may sacrifice space when packing (compression straps and mats, but it does provide some help). Soft luggage is more flexible and has lower weight and usually has more exterior pockets that allow easy access to essentials during transportation, but can easily tear them apart.
Rotator and roller
Luggage with four wheels (also known as Spinner luggage) is more convenient and can be operated on smooth surfaces such as airports. But even with the best rotary luggage, more wheels mean a higher chance of damage and can be cumbersome on rough terrain, as the rotator hub rotates at 360 degrees. 2-wheel roller luggage (also known as roller luggage) is generally considered more durable, but it may be easier to dump if the weight inside is unevenly distributed. Another thing to consider before buying roller luggage is how often you go to a hilly destination, as you may feel more like a workout with the 2-wheel suitcase in the back.
International or domestic scale
Before logging into a specific suitcase, it is important to be familiar with the airline’s international and domestic carry-on size requirements as they are unique. Most domestic airlines carry measurements at 22 inches. x 14 inches x 9 inches. As for international airlines, carrying measurements are smaller than those of domestic airlines and may also have weight limits. Be sure to check your airline’s carry size limits to make sure you won’t be surprised once you reach the gate.
weight
The goal of any carry-on luggage is to be as light as possible (so you can wrap those unused pounds to clothes and travel items!). For software luggage, empty luggage ranges from 4 to 5 pounds and can reach up to 10 pounds for hard side luggage. When determining what’s right for you, consider your travel time and the weight of your luggage once packaged – it may be worth getting cheaper luggage scales to see where you are, and also check the carry-on weight limit policies of the most flying airlines.
Internal compartments and tissues
Traveling forces you to limit your life (including everyday necessities) to a small footprint and can easily become messy, so organization is a key feature to consider. External pockets, hidden pouches, internal partitions, laundry and dedicated toilet bags can all help us make items available without getting stuck in a mess.
Safety features
The built-in TSA approved lock allows the agent to easily access and inspect your carry-on luggage without causing any damage, while the double zipper can help prevent cracking. YKK zippers are widely regarded as the most powerful zipper on the market and are used by a variety of brands including Monos and TravelPro.
Warranty and price
Luggage is an expensive investment (high quality products usually start at $250, and sets can range from $750 to over $1,000, so it is crucial to buy pieces with a good warranty. The best luggage company (and most) warranties (and most) guarantees replacement parts and even some specific products. Scratches, etc. may be excluded), so it is important to check out beautiful prints.
style
Think about your lifestyle and “look” and consider a suitcase that helps emphasize this. Carry-on luggage can be minimalist, without bells and whistles, or a statement that will have passengers asking you about where you purchased.
Brand influence
If you value ethical purchases, look for brands that use recycled materials, offset their emissions and ensure fair working conditions.
