How to Choose the Right Suitcase: A Comprehensive Buying Guide

Your Guide to buying the best Suitcases

Overview

Buying a suitcase can be a daunting task, with so many different styles, sizes, and materials to choose from. This buying guide provides helpful information to make the process easier and ensure that you choose the best suitcase for your needs. From budget considerations to style tips, this guide will walk you through the essentials of finding the perfect suitcase. With the help of this guide, you’ll be sure to find the perfect suitcase to make all your travels a breeze!

Key features

  1. Size - The size of the suitcase should be appropriate for your needs. If you are taking a long trip, you may need a larger suitcase than you would need for a short trip.
  2. Weight - Choose a suitcase that is lightweight but still strong enough to protect your items. Consider the size and weight of the suitcase when it is empty and when it is full.
  3. Durability - Select a suitcase that is made from strong and durable materials, such as polycarbonate or aluminum, to ensure it will last for many years.
  4. Wheels - Look for suitcases that have four wheels that turn 360 degrees for easy maneuverability. Also consider a suitcase with extra wheels for added stability.
  5. Handles - Choose a suitcase that has adjustable or telescoping handles to make it easier to lift and carry.
  6. Compartments - Look for suitcases that have multiple compartments to organize and separate your items.
  7. Security features - Choose a suitcase with a TSA-approved lock to keep your items secure while you travel.
  8. Warranty - Look for a suitcase with a good warranty to ensure that your investment is protected.

See the most popular Suitcases on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Travel Luggage Security - Suitcases offer added security that helps to protect your belongings when you are away from home or traveling.
  • Durability - Quality suitcases are designed to last for many years, even with regular use and wear.
  • Storage Capacity - Suitcases have a substantial amount of storage capacity compared to other types of luggage, allowing you to pack more items in one bag.
  • Style/Portability - There are a variety of styles and sizes of suitcases to choose from, making it easy to find a suitcase that meets your specific needs and can be easily transported.
  • Organization - Suitcases often come with different pockets, compartments, and straps to help you organize and easily access your items.

Cons

  • Durability: Suitcases can be prone to wear and tear over time and can become damaged from the stress of transport.
  • Size and Weight: Suitcases come in a variety of sizes and weights. Depending on the size and weight, the suitcase might be difficult to maneuver and carry.
  • Features: Suitcases may not have the features you need, such as built-in locks, wheels, or compartments.
  • Price: Suitcases can be expensive depending on the features, size, and brand.

Best alternatives

  1. Backpacks - A large bag typically worn on one’s back, used for transporting items.
  2. Carry-on Bags -A bag that is small enough to be taken onto an airplane as a piece of carry-on luggage.
  3. Duffel Bags -A large cylindrical bag typically used for carrying clothes or sports equipment.
  4. Travel Totes -A lightweight and roomy bag often used for short trips or for carrying items to the beach or pool.
  5. Garment Bags -Bags designed specifically for hanging and storing clothes while traveling.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Luggage Scale - a device used to weigh suitcases and other bags before heading to the airport
  • Travel Pillow - a pillow designed to provide comfort and support to a traveler’s neck and head
  • Packing Cubes - small fabric containers used for organizing and compressing clothing inside a suitcase
  • Luggage Tags - a card or tag affixed to a suitcase or bag that identifies the owner or the contents
  • Luggage Lock - a locking device used to secure the zippers of a suitcase or bag
  • Travel Blanket - a lightweight blanket designed for use when traveling

Common questions

  1. What types of suitcases are available? Suitcases come in a variety of sizes, materials, shapes, and designs. Common types of suitcases include hard-shell suitcases, soft-shell suitcases, spinner suitcases, and carry-on bags.
  2. What size suitcase should I buy? The size of suitcase you should buy depends on your travel needs. For a week-long trip, a medium-sized suitcase would likely be sufficient. For longer trips, or trips where you’ll need more room for clothing and items, a larger size would be better. If you're traveling by air, make sure to check the airline's carry-on size requirements.
  3. What material should I choose? Hard-shell suitcases are usually made of plastic, polycarbonate, or aluminum, and are more resistant to scratches and dents. Soft-shell suitcases are usually made of fabric and are more lightweight and easier to store.
  4. Should I choose a spinner or regular suitcase? Spinner suitcases have wheels on all four sides, making them easy to maneuver in tight spaces. They're also more stable than regular suitcases. Regular suitcases have two or four wheels, and can usually hold more items than spinner suitcases.
  5. What other features should I look for? Look for a suitcase with a secure locking system, a telescoping handle, and plenty of interior compartments for storage. Some suitcases also come with built-in scales, which can be helpful for ensuring you don’t exceed weight limits.

Trivia

In a 2018 survey of 2,000 people, it was found that 46% of people admitted to having packed a suitcase for a holiday days or even weeks before the trip. It was also found that those who did this felt more organized and excited for their trip. The survey was conducted by Travelodge UK. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.