What to look for when buying a travel bag?
When you're planning a trip, one of the most essential purchases you'll make is your travel bag. A well-chosen travel bag can make your journey more comfortable and organised, while a poor choice might leave you struggling with limited space or discomfort. So, what should you look for when buying a travel bag? Here’s a guide to help you make the best choice.
1. Purpose and Trip Duration
The first consideration is the purpose of your trip and its duration. Are you going on a weekend getaway, a business trip, or a multi-week adventure? For short trips, a carry-on or duffel bag might suffice (Wheel aboard & Carry on bags) . For longer journeys, you might need a larger suitcase or a backpack with more capacity. (Travel backpacks or Rolling Luggage)
2. Size and Weight
Check airline carry-on size restrictions if you plan to keep your bag with you in the cabin. Overhead compartments have strict size limits and exceeding these can result in additional fees or the airline making you check the bag. Also, consider the weight of the bag itself; a lightweight bag maximizes the amount of your personal items you can bring without going over weight limits. Some Caribee carry on bags weigh just 1kg allowing you to maximise your carry on weight.
3. Durability and Material
Look for sturdy materials such as ballistic nylon or polycarbonate for hard-shell bags, as these can withstand wear and tear. The zippers should be robust, and seams should be well-stitched. Investing in a durable bag can save you money in the long run and prevent mishaps during your journey. For soft sided carry on bags, polyester materials are now just as strong as nylon materials, but best to buy from reputable brands.
4. Compartments and Organisation
A good travel bag should have multiple compartments to help you stay organized. Consider bags with separate sections for shoes, dirty laundry, and easily accessible pockets for essentials like passports or boarding passes. Mesh pockets and elastic straps can help keep everything in place. The Caribee Traveller 40 Carry On is a very popular travel bag due to the number of storage pockets, laptop compatibility and great organisation.
5. Wheels and Handles
If you’re opting for a suitcase, decide between two-wheel and four-wheel (spinner) designs. Two-wheel bags handle uneven surfaces better, while four-wheel ones offer more maneuverability in airports and hotels. Also, make sure the telescopic handle extends smoothly and is comfortable to grip. A lot of Caribee travel bags use oversized wheels to cater for the possibility you encounter uneven surfaces whist you travel. Some styles allow you to replace worn wheels, extending the life of your travel bag.
6. Security Features
Look for bags with built-in locks or provisions for adding your own. TSA-approved locks offer peace of mind without interfering with security inspections. Some bags also include RFID-blocking pockets that protect your personal information stored in passports and credit cards.
7. Aesthetics and Personal Style
Finally, consider a style that reflects your personality or is appropriate for your travel needs, whether sleek and professional or colorful and fun. While this doesn't affect functionality, it can make you feel more at ease and confident during your travels.
By considering these factors, you’ll be well-equipped to choose a travel bag that meets your needs and enhances your travel experience. Happy travels!