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How to Choose the Right Suitcase

How to Choose the Right Suitcase

woman in a luggage store, selecting a suitcase from a variety of options displayed in different sizes

Choosing the right suitcase is a crucial part of ensuring a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

The wrong luggage can lead to airport delays, unnecessary fees, and even damage to your belongings.

This detailed guide will help you navigate the complexities of selecting the best suitcase for your travel needs.

We’ll cover airline considerations, trip duration, materials, and more.

Along the way, we’ll highlight Travelpro products, including a luggage set that’s ideal for various types of travelers, so you can make a well-informed decision.

And Travelpro offers FREE SHIPPING on all orders over $99!

So, basically free shipping on almost everything.

Airline Considerations: Choosing Luggage Within Regulations

Before you even think about style or material, it’s important to consider airline luggage regulations.

Most airlines enforce strict rules on the size and weight of both carry-on and checked luggage, and failing to adhere to these can result in significant fees.

Carry-On vs. Checked Luggage

You first need to decide if you’re traveling light with only a carry-on or if you’ll need to check your bag.

Here’s how the two differ:

  • Carry-On Luggage: Most airlines limit carry-on luggage to around 22 x 14 x 9 inches, although this can vary slightly by airline.

    You’ll also want to keep your carry-on under the weight limit, which typically ranges between 15-22 pounds.

    A good carry-on should fit in the overhead bin and be lightweight but durable.
  • Checked Luggage: If you’re planning a longer trip or have bulkier items, you’ll need to check a suitcase.

    Most airlines allow checked luggage to be 27 to 32 inches in height, with a weight limit of 50 pounds.

    Be careful about packing too much, as exceeding weight limits can incur extra fees.

Travelpro’s Platinum® Elite Carry-On is perfect for those looking to maximize space while staying within airline carry-on regulations.

Its sleek design and expandability make it a top choice for frequent travelers.

For checked luggage, consider the Travelpro® x Travel + Leisure® Large Check-In Trunk Spinner for longer trips, as it’s lightweight and designed to hold more without tipping over the weight limit.

Duration of Stay: Matching Your Suitcase to Your Trip

The length of your trip will heavily influence the size and type of suitcase you choose.

Packing for a two-day business trip is very different from packing for a two-week vacation.

  • 1-3 Days: For short trips, a carry-on should suffice. A 20-22 inch suitcase can easily hold a few outfits, toiletries, and shoes.

    The Travelpro Platinum Elite Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage is a great option for a weekend getaway.

    It’s compact, lightweight, and features a dedicated garment bag to keep clothes wrinkle-free.
  • 4-7 Days: For trips lasting around a week, a mid-sized suitcase (24-26 inches) is ideal.

    This size allows you to pack extra clothing, shoes, and some additional items without feeling cramped.

    The Travelpro Crew Versapack 25″ Expandable Spinner offers plenty of space with internal organization that helps keep everything neatly packed.

By aligning your suitcase size with your trip duration, you can ensure that you’re packing efficiently without being burdened by an oversized or under-equipped suitcase.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 29″ Expandable Spinner

Material: Hard-Shell vs. Soft-Sided Suitcases

When choosing between a hard-shell or soft-sided suitcase, you’ll want to consider factors like durability, weight, and flexibility.

Hard-Shell Suitcases

Hard-shell suitcases are made from materials like polycarbonate, ABS, or aluminum.

They offer excellent protection for your belongings and are resistant to scratches and dents.

  • Pros: Hard-shell cases offer superior protection for fragile items, are typically waterproof, and can be more secure.
  • Cons: They lack flexibility, making it harder to fit into tight spaces or expand, and they can be heavier.

The Platinum® Elite Medium Check-In Hardside Spinner is a top-tier option for those seeking hard-shell protection.

It offers the durability of a hard-shell case while incorporating modern, stylish elements like smooth gliding wheels and a chic exterior design.

Platinum® Elite Medium Check-In Hardside Spinner

Soft-Sided Suitcases

Soft-sided suitcases, typically made from materials like nylon or polyester, offer more flexibility in terms of packing and squeezing into tight spaces, like overhead compartments.

They’re usually lighter than hard-shell cases but provide less protection against impacts.

  • Pros: Soft-sided bags are lighter and can expand to fit more items. They often have additional exterior pockets for easy access to small items.
  • Cons: They offer less protection from impacts and can be prone to wear and tear.

The Travelpro Maxlite® 5 Carry Me Away Carry On Luggage Set is an excellent option for travelers who prioritize flexibility.

It’s lightweight, durable, and offers plenty of exterior pockets for added convenience.

Travelpro Maxlite® 5 Carry Me Away Carry On Luggage Set

Spinner vs. Roller: What Type of Wheels Do You Need?

The type of wheels on your suitcase affects how easily you can maneuver through airports, train stations, and city streets.

Spinner Suitcases

Spinner suitcases come with four 360-degree rotating wheels, making it easy to roll the suitcase in any direction.

These are ideal for smooth surfaces like airport floors and allow you to push or pull the bag beside you, reducing wrist strain.

  • Pros: Spinners are easier to maneuver in tight spaces, reduce strain on your arms, and roll smoothly in any direction.
  • Cons: Spinner wheels are more prone to breakage and don’t perform well on rough terrain.

Travelpro® x Travel + Leisure® Large Check-In Trunk Spinner is a fantastic option if you’re looking for smooth, easy navigation through airports and city streets.

Its spinner wheels glide effortlessly, and the telescoping handle adjusts to different heights for added comfort.

Travelpro® x Travel + Leisure® Large Check-In Trunk Spinner

Roller Suitcases

Roller suitcases have two wheels and must be tilted to roll.

They are generally sturdier and work well on uneven surfaces, like cobblestone streets or gravel.

  • Pros: Roller suitcases tend to have stronger, more durable wheels, making them ideal for rougher surfaces.
  • Cons: They can be more tiring to pull, especially over long distances, and are less maneuverable in tight spaces.

If you often find yourself navigating uneven or rugged terrain, the Travelpro Platinum® Elite Carry-On Rollaboard® is designed for durability and ease of movement over rougher surfaces.

Travelpro Platinum® Elite Carry-On Rollaboard®

Handle Length and Comfort: A Crucial Factor

Your suitcase’s handle can significantly affect your travel experience.

A telescoping handle that adjusts to different lengths allows you to find the most comfortable fit for your height.

Travelpro’s Carry-On Spinner Luggage Set are engineered for durability and comfort, minimizing wobble while allowing for multiple height adjustments.

Make sure the handle on your suitcase extends and retracts smoothly and is comfortable to grip.

Padded or ergonomic handles are a plus, reducing hand fatigue if you’re pulling your suitcase for long distances.

Travelpro’s Carry-On Spinner Luggage Set

Special Features to Look For

While size, material, and wheels are the core considerations, additional features can make your travel experience even more seamless.

Expandability

If you’re someone who tends to bring home more than you left with, expandability is a crucial feature.

Expandable suitcases offer extra packing space when needed but can still shrink down to a more manageable size for smaller loads.

The Travelpro Platinum® Elite Large Check-In Spinner offers up to 2 inches of expandable space, making it ideal for those who need a little extra room.

Travelpro Platinum® Elite Large Check-In Spinner

Interior Organization

A suitcase with thoughtful internal organization can make packing much easier.

Features like built-in compartments, mesh pockets, and garment straps help you pack neatly and keep your items in place during transit.

Travelpro luggage often includes convenient features such as removable wet pockets, which are perfect for storing toiletries or damp clothing, and zippered compartments for shoes or delicate items.

Travelpro Crew Classic Carry-On / Medium Check-In Luggage Set

Built-In Locks

Security is always a concern, especially if you’re checking your bag.

Many suitcases, including those from Travelpro, come with built-in TSA-approved locks, allowing airport security to open your bag if necessary without damaging the lock.

Travelpro Luggage Set: The Perfect Travel Companion

For those who need more than one suitcase, investing in a luggage set is a smart choice.

The Travelpro Maxlite Air 3-Piece Luggage Set includes a carry-on, medium checked bag, and a large checked suitcase, covering all your travel needs.

This set is ideal for those who want consistent quality and matching pieces across different trip durations.

Why Choose the Travelpro Maxlite Air 3-Piece Set?

  • Durability: Built to last with high-density nylon fabric, these bags resist stains and abrasions.
  • Versatility: The expandable design allows for extra packing space, and the multiple size options mean you’re prepared for short weekend trips or long international vacations.
  • Maneuverability: With 360-degree spinner wheels and a telescoping handle, this set is designed for easy navigation.
  • Interior Organization: The bags in this set include compartments for all your travel essentials, keeping everything organized and easily accessible.

The Travelpro Maxlite® Air Carry-On / Medium / Large Hardside Set offers the versatility and convenience that every traveler needs, making it a worthwhile investment whether you’re packing light for a business trip or gearing up for an extended vacation.

Travelpro Maxlite® Air Carry-On / Medium / Large Hardside Set

Making the Right Choice for Your Travel Needs

Choosing the right suitcase depends on many factors, including airline regulations, trip duration, and personal preferences.

By considering everything from the size and material to the type of wheels and special features, you can find the perfect luggage

to suit your needs.

Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a casual traveler, Travelpro offers a variety of suitcases and luggage sets that combine durability, style, and convenience.

From the lightweight Maxlite 5 collection to the ultra-durable Platinum Elite series, Travelpro provides options for every traveler.

Investing in the right luggage will not only make packing easier but also ensure that you can travel without worrying about broken wheels, heavy bags, or disorganized belongings.

Now that you’re equipped with all the knowledge, it’s time to choose the best suitcase for your next adventure.