Ready for your next trip? Choosing the right suitcase is going to make the difference between a relaxing vacation and unnecessary stress. In 2024, the variety of suitcases available can be overwhelming, from lightweight carry-on suitcases to rugged options for long trips.
From this we are going to talk in today's article, where we will guide you through a labyrinth of options to help you find the perfect suitcase for your needs. You will no longer have to worry about arriving at the airport with a broken or too heavy suitcase. Here you will discover the different types of suitcases available: rigid, flexible, carry-on, large and for weekend getaways. Also, you will learn to identify the key features you should look for, such as wheel quality, material durability and interior organizational capacity. We will finish by presenting some of the best brands on the market, analyzing their pros and cons so you can make an informed decision.
Types of Suitcases: Which Luggage Fits Your Travel Style?
Choosing the right suitcase is crucial for a smooth trip. The ideal suitcase will largely depend on the type of trip you plan to undertake, its duration, and the mode of transportation you will use. That is why below we present the most common types of suitcases and their characteristics to help you decide and make the best purchase, ensuring a good investment.
Carry-On Suitcase or Hand Luggage
The carry-on suitcase is perfect for short trips, weekend getaways, or flights where checked baggage incurs an additional cost. Its main advantage lies in the convenience of keeping it with you during the journey, avoiding waits at the baggage carousel and the possibility of it getting lost. However, its capacity is limited, so it is suitable for carrying only the essentials.
Maximum dimensions allowed for carry-on luggage vary by airline, so it's essential to check the specifications before purchasing. Generally, they measure between 55 x 40 x 20 cm and 56 x 45 x 25 cm. As for materials, rigid materials such as ABS or polycarbonate, or flexible ones like nylon and polyester are commonly used.
Now, regarding brands, the best carry-on suitcases come from Samsonite (such as Samsonite Neopulse), American Tourister (such as the American Tourister Soundbox), and Roncato (with its range of lightweight suitcases).
As we mentioned, their main drawback is that capacity is limited, so it won't be enough if you want to carry a lot of clothes or bulky items.
Large Suitcases
If you are about to embark on a long trip or need to carry a large amount of luggage, large suitcases are the best option. Their capacity is significantly greater than that of the carry-on suitcase, allowing you to bring clothes for several weeks, bulky items and souvenirs. In fact, they typically have between 70 and 80 liters of capacity, though there are even larger models.
Among the most common materials used are ABS and polycarbonate when choosing a rigid suitcase, since they offer great resistance to impacts and scratches. To complete the models, ensuring greater comfort are the four 360-degree spinner wheels that facilitate their movement.
It is worth noting that among their additional features we find interior compartments with straps to hold the clothes, interior pockets with a divider and a zipper closure as well as TSA locks for greater security.
In this sector, the leading brands are Travelpro, Samsonite and Delsey which are easily found on Amazon.
Weekend Suitcase or Carry-On Luggage
The weekend suitcase is ideal for short trips, getaways or short business trips. It is characterized by being small and lightweight, and easy to transport both by plane and by car or train. For this reason, flexible materials such as nylon and polyester are often used, and some even offer the possibility of being carried as a shoulder bag or backpack.
Clearly, its strong point relates to the ease of storing and transporting.
Rigid vs. Flexible
It is important to highlight that the choice between a rigid and a flexible suitcase will depend on your preference and needs. Rigid models are generally made of ABS or polycarbonate and offer greater suitcase protection, resisting impacts and scratches better. They are also more resistant to moisture and maintain their shape even when full. However, they tend to be heavier and less flexible in terms of capacity.
On the other hand, flexible suitcases, usually made of nylon or polyester, are lighter and adapt better to the contents, allowing a larger volume if filled to capacity. They are also usually easier to store when not in use. However, it's important to note that soft suitcases offer less protection for the luggage and can be susceptible to wear due to humidity.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing the Best Travel Suitcase
Beyond size and type, there are several crucial features that will determine durability, comfort, and functionality of the product.
Therefore, selecting the right suitcase involves considering aspects that may seem minor at first glance but will significantly influence the travel experience, as we will see below.
Material
Of all the key factors, one of the most important is the material of the suitcase, since it impacts durability, resistance, and weight. Some of the most popular options right now are:
- Polypropylene: a lightweight plastic resistant to impacts, ideal for carry-on suitcases, offering a good balance between weight and durability. It is usually more expensive than ABS.
- ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): a rigid, resistant and durable plastic, although somewhat heavier than polypropylene. It is a cheaper option and offers good protection for luggage.
- Nylon: a flexible textile material, light and water-resistant. Suitcases made with this material are easy to fold and store, but are less resistant to impacts than rigid options. They are usually cheaper than rigid suitcases.
- Polyester fabric: very similar to nylon, polyester is resistant, waterproof, durable and is often used in weekend or flexible travel suitcases, which makes it an interesting option due to its water resistance when the fabric has been treated.
Wheels
Another key factor is the wheels, because they influence the comfort of transport, especially in heavy suitcases. Among the most common options we find suitcases with:
- 2 wheels: easy to carry on a flat surface, but more difficult to maneuver on uneven terrain.
- 4 wheels: offer greater maneuverability, rotating 360 degrees, making it easier to move in any direction.
- 8 wheels: similar to four-wheel models, but distribute weight more evenly, making movement even easier.
What is also important is to verify the quality of the swivel system and the durability of the wheels, which should be resistant and have a high-quality bearing that ensures smooth and quiet movement.
Telescoping Handle and Hand Grips
A good telescoping or extendable handle, robust and adjustable in length, is essential for optimal comfort when moving the suitcase. Before making your purchase, make sure the handle is sturdy and adjusts easily. The hand grips, both top and side, should also be durable, easing lifting and handling of the suitcase in different situations. We recommend that the handles be padded and ergonomic for greater comfort.
Closing System
A secure closing system is key to protecting the contents of your suitcase. We advise choosing a suitcase with robust and resistant zippers that have reinforced pulls, as well as an additional security closure, such as locks or integrated TSA lock.
Weight
The empty weight of the suitcase is a factor that is often underestimated, but it is important. A lightweight suitcase will allow you to carry more items and exceed the weight limits allowed by airlines. However, remember that lightness should not come at the expense of the suitcase's strength or durability.
Best Suitcase Brands in 2024: A Quick Guide
Before concluding today's guide, we cannot fail to mention that the market offers a wide variety of models from different brands. To help you navigate the maze of options, below we present some of the best brands most appreciated by consumers.
Samsonite
Samsonite is a global leader in the luggage sector, recognized for its durability and sturdiness. Its catalog features a wide range of suitcases, from lightweight carry-on models to large and robust options for long trips. Its suitcases stand out for the quality of materials, wheel efficiency, and the durability of its handles. In terms of price, there are options ranging from more affordable to high-end suitcases with innovative features.
American Tourister
American Tourister, a brand belonging to the Samsonite group, offers a more affordable alternative while maintaining a good level of quality. Its suitcases are known for their good value for money, making it an ideal option for those seeking durability without excessive spending.
Roncato
Roncato is an Italian brand that stands out for its elegant design and the use of high-quality materials. Its suitcases have a design and sophisticated style, as well as a high level of functionality. They often use lightweight and durable materials such as polycarbonate, combining durability with light weight.
Roncato tends to offer a wide price range and a mid-to-high segment, positioning itself as an option for those seeking quality and style without compromising functionality.
Conclusion
In short, choosing the perfect suitcase depends on your individual needs and the type of trip you will undertake. As you have seen, the market offers different types of suitcases, from the compact carry-ons ideal for quick getaways to the spacious large suitcases for longer trips.
The important thing is that before making the purchase, you analyze some key features that have to do with the wheels, materials, closing systems, and even weight, which will directly influence the comfort and durability of your luggage. If you are looking for comfort and functionality, you can take a look at the models offered by leading brands such as American Tourister, Roncato or Samsonite.