Since ancient times, people have used various devices to carry things. One of the devices that has survived to this day is a suitcase. The word suitcase comes from the Persian language: (jamo - thing, dan - to store.) - a box with a handle for carrying things.
Modern suitcases are indispensable companions for most travelers. Even astronauts take them with them into orbit.
Who invented the suitcase on wheels?
The pilot of the American airline Northwest, Robert Plath, often noticed difficulties for passengers when carrying and transporting luggage in modern airport terminals. In 1988, he found a way to solve this problem. A year later, Robert registered a patent for the invention of a suitcase on wheels with a retractable handle, and after leaving aviation he headed a company producing such products. Suitcases became very popular and were distributed all over the world.
Now, 25 years after its invention, hundreds of companies and factories produce thousands of models of such suitcases on all continents, and many travelers have a question: which suitcase to choose for traveling?
Rules for transporting baggage on an airplane
From the rules of passenger air transportation, we know that a passenger has the right to transfer 1 piece of baggage free of charge, the total dimensions of which do not exceed 158 centimeters, and the weight in economy class does not exceed 23 kilograms. Based on these requirements, it is advisable to choose largest size suitcase, and the weight is minimal.
Our suitcase size: height-width-depth ~ 64-43-25 cm when fully folded. After transformation, the depth increases by 4-5 cm. A fairly large suitcase is 28" - according to the international classification.
Analysis of the components of a good suitcase
Practicality is a very important property of any thing, especially when taken on a long journey.
The meaning of the adjective “Practical” is beneficial, convenient in some of its properties, well suited for solving any problems.
We have traveled a lot and personal experience found out what to pay attention to.
Suitcase material
Throughout its service, the suitcase must withstand heavy loads and emerge unscathed from extreme situations. Therefore, a good suitcase should have a rigid frame on all sides.
Modern suitcases are made from various materials, let's consider them from a practicality point of view:
Suitcase zipper
A strong and reliable zipper will withstand torture when closing and will not come apart along the way. Types of lightning:
- Direct - less reliable;
- Spiral is the best option.
Organization of internal space
The following attributes will greatly simplify fees:
- Several branches and internal pockets;
- Straps for convenient packing of things and insurance during emergency opening.
External Add-ons
Allows you to more fully use the capabilities of the suitcase:
We have already described in detail how to pack your luggage yourself and save a lot of money.
It will make life difficult for attackers and will not allow the lock on a suitcase to steal something unnoticed.
Types of locks:
- Hinged - must be placed motionlessly on the body and block two fasteners;
- Built-in - difficult to repair if broken;
- Coded - write down the code, it can be forgotten or confused;
- With a small key - don't lose it.
Suitcase wheels
The most important part of a modern suitcase is the wheels. There are two versions: 
The best material for wheels is rubber or artificial rubber.
Suitcase without handle
For the convenience of transporting a modern suitcase, there are usually at least three handles: on the side, on the top, and also a retractable - telescopic one.
In high-quality models, several fixation positions are possible. The retractable handle breaks most often; it must be securely fixed in the retracted position. Try not to bend the guides or lift the suitcase by the retractable handle.
The suitcase should not be easily soiled and easy to clean. In general, any color you like will suit you. Unisex suitcases are more versatile.
conclusions
So, the ideal suitcase looks like this:
- Weight up to 4 kg, sum of sides no more than 158 cm, when loaded, weight no more than 23 kg;
- Made from impregnated fabric;
- Has a rigid frame;
- Not easily soiled, preferably in a unisex style;
- Has 2 large recessed rubber wheels;
- Equipped with a special lock;
- Has at least 3 handles;
- The retractable telescopic handle has several positions;
- There are bottom and side stops;
- A special badge with full name is provided. owner and his contact phone number;
- Availability of a protective cover;
- Equipped with travel vacuum bags.
- The cost of such a suitcase can range from $30 to $300, depending on the brand and place of purchase.
When you arrive on vacation in the tropics, immediately take out all your things and hang them in your closets. Unfortunately, in Sri Lanka we ourselves did this too late. Due to changes in temperature and humidity, mold may form on things. The ventilation holes provided in the suitcase are clearly not enough. And one last piece of advice: take only the necessary things.
The truth is in numbers. Good luck!
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 measurements external parties 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 takes 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 are heavier than fabric 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 moves ideally on smooth asphalt or floor covering 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 may break after a long journey on bad roads. If you and your luggage often travel significant distances on foot, 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. Most modern travel bags have a retractable handle. It can be made of metal or plastic. Pay attention to what the part of it 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 completely depend 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 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 travel bag that will protect your things? 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 regularly silicone grease wheels. 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!
Two clear advantages fabric suitcases- lower price and the presence of external pockets in which you can put small items needed during the trip, and souvenirs purchased at the last moment before departure.
Plastic suitcases They are usually more durable than fabric ones, they do not get wet and are easy to clean: just wipe with a cloth. Thanks to the hard shell, you can safely transport fragile items in a plastic suitcase.
2. Choose the appropriate size
- Small suitcase(height up to 59 cm) is suitable for a short trip of a few days.
- Medium suitcase(height up to 70 cm) - perfect option for a trip of one person for 2 weeks or for two, but for 7 days.
- Large suitcase(height 70–80 cm) - a choice for long trips for two or even three with a small child.
- Very large suitcase(height more than 80 cm) - a family travel companion. However, with such a suitcase you can only travel by water or land.
Lifehack: luggage scales will help you find out the exact weight of your suitcase during packing and correctly distribute things if necessary.
3. Correct wheels are very important
Suitcases come in two-wheel and four-wheel versions. When you roll a suitcase on two wheels, a quarter of its weight rests on your hand. It will be difficult to carry a large suitcase.
Suitcases with four wheels are lightweight and maneuverable: each wheel is fixed on a separate axle and can rotate 360 degrees. But it will only be able to drive on a relatively flat surface: on uneven areas you will have to lift it. By the way, remember that you cannot lift a loaded suitcase by the retractable handle.
When going on vacation, everyone thinks not only about what to take with them, but also what to pack it in. For air travel, the best luggage option is suitcase on wheels.
Available in stores huge selection travel suitcases on wheels. A few things will help you navigate through all the diversity: simple rules, which will allow you to choose the right suitcase.
So, today we will look at what kind of travel suitcases there are in general, what you should pay attention to when buying, and how to identify a quality suitcase.
It's no secret that the right suitcase is 30% of a successful vacation. Plan ahead for success.
Which suitcase to choose: size matters
Suitcase size
The appropriate suitcase size is determined based on the needs of its owner:
- how many people will use it at the same time (for a trip alone small will do suitcase; for traveling with the whole family, you should take a large suitcase);
- preferred travel destinations (winter things are much more of a dream than summer ones);
- who will use it (it will not be easy for a fragile woman to lift a heavy, huge suitcase).
By size, travel suitcases on wheels are divided into the following categories:
| Suitcase size | Internal volume (liters) | Size (inches) | Height (centimeters) |
| Small | 20 – 25 | 20 – 21 | 45 – 55 |
| Average | 25 – 70 | 24 – 25 | 59 – 65 |
| Big | More than 70 | Over 30 | From 80 |
When choosing a very large suitcase on wheels, you need to keep in mind that almost all the necessary and unnecessary things fit into it, which can lead to superiority.
Many air carriers, reducing air ticket prices, introduce maximum luggage weight per passenger. In addition, they are regulated to the maximum permissible baggage dimensions. You can find out this information from representatives of the air carrier.
In addition, airports have established a standard - one suitcase cannot weigh more than 32 kg. If your travel bag exceeds this limit, you may be forced to repack your luggage on the spot, which is very inconvenient to do in a crowded airport, or the airline may not take it on board at all. This situation is even worse.
So we choose a roomy travel suitcase, but don’t forget about reason.
To avoid problems with luggage when checking in for a flight, it is better to check the weight of the suitcase either at home or at the entrance on the airport scales.
How to choose a suitcase: price issue
The price of a travel suitcase is one of the decisive characteristics for many travelers. At the same time, the price of a suitcase is not always an indicator of its quality.
For example, when buying a suitcase on wheels famous brand It should be borne in mind that 20-40% of its price is payment for the famous brand.
A suitcase that is too cheap can also cause trouble. The low price of the suitcase is due to the low quality of materials. Think about what is better: buying one reliable suitcase for decades or buying a cheap one every time.
As a rule, the suitcase flies out of sight of the passenger. Often, baggage handlers at airports do not stand on ceremony with passengers' luggage. There is only one conclusion - choose a suitcase made of quality materials.
How to choose a suitcase: evaluating materials
There are currently a lot of materials for suitcases - fabric, plastic, and leather suitcases.
Fabric suitcases
Fabric suitcases
Travel suitcases made of fabric are practical and relatively light. Suitcases made of nylon, polyester and polyamide, as a rule, have a special impregnation that protects the contents of the suitcase from precipitation and contamination.
However, fabric suitcases become deformed quite easily if the material is too thin. High-quality travel suitcases made of fabric do not sag under the weight of other loads and have a durable frame.
When using a fabric suitcase, you need to keep in mind the rules for packing things - all fragile things are laid out among soft clothes, away from the frame and edge. Although sometimes this doesn’t help. Particularly valuable and fragile items should be taken with you in hand luggage.
Plastic suitcases
Plastic suitcases
Travel suitcases can be made of plastic. Plastic is a fairly lightweight material, but cheap plastic is not reliable enough. Such a suitcase is easily scratched and even splits if handled carelessly.
A suitcase made of high-quality plastic with titanium chips is one of the best options. Such a travel suitcase will retain its shape, is lightweight, and does not allow moisture and dirt to pass through.
Leather suitcases
Leather suitcases are more a question of the prestige of its owner than of convenience.
Leather travel suitcases are very expensive, they scratch quickly and are quite heavy. If it is not used correctly, such a suitcase on wheels will very soon lose its original appearance.
reliable zippers
Wide zippers
The best zippers for a suitcase are wide ones plastic zippers with large teeth. The wider the zipper, the better.
Reliable zippers of the travel suitcase on wheels have width about 1 cm. The zipper should be tight, fasten and unfasten well.
Spiral zipper teeth are a more reliable option than tractor zippers.
Which suitcase to choose: organizing the interior space of the suitcase
Suitcase from inside
The interior space of a travel suitcase is sometimes divided into parts, sometimes the suitcase is one whole. The choice depends on who and how will travel with this suitcase and how to pack things.
If you have a lot of small things, then it is better to purchase a suitcase with compartments.
If you use it when traveling vacuum bags, which allow you to reduce the volume of things, then this is not important. Vacuum bags - ideal remedy for transporting things in a suitcase on wheels:
- reduce the volume of things;
- protect from damage and contamination;
- protect the internal contents of a fabric suitcase from impacts (when air is pumped out, the contents of the bag become very dense);
- does not allow things to mix during transportation.
Any suitcase should also have a small pocket where you can put very small things that may get lost in the general contents.
Which suitcase to choose: with or without pockets
External pockets
External pockets of a suitcase on wheels allow you to increase its volume and the number of things transported. In this case, you need to carefully look where the pockets are and follow some rules when packing things.
It should be kept in mind that it is much easier to steal things from the outer pocket than from the inner compartment. It is better to put something soft and not too soft in the outer pockets. expensive clothes. A soft layer of clothing will serve as additional protection for the contents of the fabric suitcase.
Suitcases without external pockets are more protected from theft, but if you need to take out or put in any small items, you will have to open the entire suitcase.
Which suitcase to choose:
combination or padlock
A combination lock on a travel suitcase is a convenient invention, but not very practical.
Combination locks often break beyond repair. Even if the lock functions well, the owner of the suitcase may forget the code or confuse it (travel is always stressful situation), change. In case of problems with the combination lock, the suitcase will simply have to be replaced with a new one. However, such a suitcase also has an advantage - when traveling with the whole family, each tourist can open the suitcase himself, knowing the code.
Suitcases with a padlock are a better option. In this case, the main thing is not to lose the key to the lock. Although padlocks also have a drawback - they can be easily opened by intruders.
How to choose the right suitcase:
evaluating the wheels
The wheels of a travel suitcase are one of the main characteristics. A situation where “it’s hard to carry, but it’s a shame to throw it away” can arise if you choose the wrong wheels for your suitcase.
Number of wheels on a suitcase
4 wheel suitcase
Different models of suitcases have 2, 4 or more wheels.
Suitcases with four wheels are designed to ride on flat surfaces.
2 wheel suitcase
At the same time, they are very maneuverable: the suitcase goes in any desired direction with minimal effort on the part of its owner. At the same time, such wheels protrude strongly beyond the body of the suitcase, increasing the likelihood of their breakage.
When going on a trip, assess the condition of the roads near your home, think about how you will get to the airport. If you have to go public transport and walking on not too smooth roads, you should choose a suitcase with two wheels.
Two-wheeled suitcases are less maneuverable, but more passable. At the same time, they can only be carried in an inclined state, and according to the laws of physics, the owner of the luggage takes on part of the weight.
The location of the wheels of the suitcase
The wheels should be recessed into the body of the suitcase, so they will be less prone to breakage.
Suitcase wheels
Strongly protruding suitcase wheels can easily be damaged while traveling.
The wheels of the suitcase must function independently of each other. You should not choose a suitcase where all the wheels are mounted on one axle.
Wheels on one axle
Types of wheels for a suitcase
Silicone wheels
Wheels on suitcases are made of cast silicone, semi-silicone, semi-plastic and plastic.
The wheels should not be fragile and loud, and they should not rattle when moving. It is better to choose suitcases with wheels made of silicone and semi-silicone with a soft ride and minimal possibility of deformation. This will ensure that the wheels remain intact and safe for longer.
Wheel mounts must be metal.
The larger the wheels, the higher the maneuverability.
The presence of an additional support for a suitcase with wheels is a necessary detail
Once your suitcase is packed and ready to travel, try standing it upright.
Often the weight of the contents of a suitcase is distributed unevenly and the suitcase may fall.
To avoid unexpected falls of the suitcase, you should choose a suitcase with wheels with an additional support. The emphasis can be stationary, or it can be retractable. The choice is yours.
How to choose the right suitcase:
checking the handles
Suitcase handles
A proper travel suitcase has several handles.
Handles made of fabric or plastic should be top and side suitcase. It is optimal if they are made of compacted material, have additional rivets or are embedded with screws into the body of the suitcase.
The presence of side handles will simplify the procedure for lifting the suitcase for both you and the baggage handlers at the airport, which will reduce the likelihood of damage to the suitcase.
Retractable (telescopic) handle – important detail suitcases on wheels. The retractable handle should be tightly installed in its mounts, have several positions, not dangle and not make extraneous sounds. When closed, the retractable handle should go completely into the body of the suitcase. The preferred material for a retractable handle is metal rather than plastic.
Before buying, roll the suitcase around the store a little, see if the height of the handle suits you, and whether it’s convenient for you to manage an empty suitcase.
Which Suitcase to Choose: Adjustable Suitcase
It is very convenient when a suitcase on wheels allows for the possibility of changing the internal volume. This is usually typical for fabric suitcases. A zipper is sewn along the perimeter of the travel suitcase, which, when fastened, slightly reduces the volume, and when unzipped, it releases an additional fold of fabric, increasing the internal space of the suitcase.
The lucky owners of such a suitcase should remember the maximum weight of 32 kg and the maximum baggage dimensions established by the air carrier. Although increasing the suitcase by 10 cm in height is a significant increase in internal space.
Which suitcase to choose: deciding on the color
Same suitcases
The color of a suitcase is a matter of taste of its owner. But it’s better to choose an “uncommon color” so as not to look for your black suitcase among 101 identical black twin suitcases.
Bright and light-colored suitcases are very soiled, any dirt will be immediately visible to everyone. Maintain balance.
In any case, when you receive your luggage, look at the tag to see if it is yours or your neighbor’s.
How to choose a travel suitcase: checking the weight
The lighter the suitcase, the more convenient it is, firstly, and, secondly, the more things you can transport without paying for excess weight.
The lightest suitcases on wheels are made of fabric, the heaviest are made of leather. Plastic suitcases belong to the medium weight category.
How to choose the right suitcase: signs of a reliable suitcase
The suitcase must be made of dense, high-quality materials, have a wide zipper and durable wheels.
Owner information
In addition, the suitcase must have a solid base. At the corners of the suitcase there should be rubberized linings, which will serve as additional protection for your luggage.
Before purchasing a suitcase with wheels, check how all zippers, handles, and wheels work. Pay attention to whether all seams are even and of high quality. IN good suitcase the threads should not stick out.
It is convenient when the suitcase has a special place where you can place information about yourself in case the suitcase is lost.
Now we have learned how to choose the right suitcase. I hope that the article was useful and interesting. Share it with your friends, let them also choose a good quality suitcase.
Happy shopping and enjoy your trip!
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