If you are traveling around the world, the kind of luggage you use will have a big impact on your comfort and convenience. You want luggage that’s durable, easy to transport, and able to hold all of your belongings. Investing in quality luggage makes sense for anyone who travels frequently. The following are some of the best types of luggage to acquire if you are a world traveler or plan to become one.
Small Personal Item
Not everyone realizes that when you board a plane, you are actually entitled to not one but two carry-on bags. In addition to the carry-on bag, you can also have what is called a personal item. This is something that fits under your seat. Savvy travelers know that the most efficient way to take advantage of this privilege is to make your personal item a small bag of some kind. This can be a backpack, laptop case, briefcase, handbag or any bag that you can store under your seat. If you shop around, you can find a versatile bag that fits quite a few small items into it and still fits under your seat.
Carry-on Bags
Carry-on bags are an essential part of your luggage repertoire. For shorter trips, this may be all you need. Not checking luggage can really shorten the amount of time you spend at airports. Even if you have to check bags, however, you still will want at least one convenient carry-on bag for items you need to keep close to you.
A carry-on bag with wheels is always useful. This will be similar to larger wheeled luggage, only compact enough to fit in the overhead rack on the plane. Many companies, such as IT Luggage and Antler make lightweight wheeled uprights that are good for this purpose. Some people, however, prefer traditional smaller suitcases for carry-on bags. Other options include backpacks and shoulder bags.
Duffel Bags
Duffel bags are very useful for long trips where you’re taking along a large amount of clothing and other items. They are not ideal for carrying around. Unlike backpacks, you can’t wear them on your back. Unlike wheeled luggage, they don’t have wheels. They do, however, provide lots of storage space. They also tend to be lightweight and come in many sizes.
Large Wheel Wheeled Suitcases
Ever since they became popular, wheeled suitcases have been recognized as the most convenient type of luggage you can get. Their obvious advantage is that they can be wheeled around rather than carried. You do, however, have to be careful about weight when it comes to wheeled suitcases. Airlines have strict weight limits, and larger wheeled suitcases can quickly use up your allotted weight for checked baggage. In general, it’s best to stick to wheeled suitcases that are 26 inches or smaller.
These are the basic types of luggage that are recommended for travel. You may not need all of this for every trip, of course. For example, on shorter trips you may be able to get by with only a carry-on bag. Very long trips might necessitate a wheeled suitcase and a duffel bag. No matter what type of luggage you use, it also helps to pack strategically and as lightly as possible. The less you take with you, the lighter your load will be!
