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What to Consider When Buying a New Suitcase: My 5 Key Factors
Over the years, I’ve gone through more suitcases than I care to count, and buying a new one was never a fun experience. Let’s face it—suitcases aren’t cheap, and the constant need to replace them can get old really fast. This time around, I decided to do a little more research before pulling the trigger on a new one. Here’s what I took into consideration before making my purchase:
1. Wheels: The Unsung Heroes
One of the biggest pain points I had with my previous suitcases was the wheels. Over time, they wear out, and if the wheels are poorly made, they’ll give out pretty quickly. What I really noticed was that my old suitcases only had the standard wheels that only went forward or backward, which isn’t ideal. What I really wanted was a twin-wheel system, which allows you to maneuver the suitcase in three different directions. This makes a huge difference, especially when navigating crowded airports or tight spaces.
2. Handle: The Right Height and Comfort Matter
Another thing that always bugged me was the extendable handle. After a while, the handles would get stuck or jammed, and the lack of a soft-grip made it uncomfortable to carry, especially when hauling a heavy suitcase. What I found works best is a two-post handle, which not only solves the height issue but also gives you the option to piggyback a smaller bag (like a tote or laptop case). This feature made a world of difference when I was juggling multiple bags.
3. Weight: Go Lightweight
In the past, my suitcases were mostly made from fabric, and while they were durable, they were often heavier than I’d like. When I switched to a suitcase made from polycarbonate, I was blown away by how light it was! Not only is it lightweight, but it also offers excellent impact protection. If you’re looking for a suitcase that won’t weigh you down while still being tough enough for travel, polycarbonate is a great choice.
4. Zipper: The Security Factor
Here’s something I never thought about until I started hearing stories from friends and family: theft from luggage. I’ve heard more than one story about items being stolen from luggage, both domestically and internationally. It turns out that having a lock on your suitcase doesn’t necessarily make it secure. I even came across a video of a locked suitcase being opened with a ballpoint pen—yikes! To avoid this, look for chain zippers instead of coil zippers—chain zippers are much harder to break into. Also, make sure your zippers are made by YKK, which is known as one of the best brands in the zipper industry.
If you want to go a step further, there are suitcases available that are made without zippers at all, offering extra peace of mind.
5. Cost: Find a Good Deal
Let’s be real—suitcases can be pricey. I bought my polycarbonate two-piece suitcase five years ago for just under $100 on eBags, and it’s been by far the best travel luggage I’ve had. I’ve traveled all over the world with it, and it’s still in great condition. I’ve definitely gotten my money’s worth.
If you’re looking for a deal, flash sale sites are a great place to score discounts on quality luggage. Websites like GILT, HAUTELOOK, RUELALA, and MYHABIT often have amazing sales on luggage, so if you’ve got a bit of patience, you can definitely find a great deal.
The Next Big Thing: High-Tech Luggage
I’ve been eyeing a suitcase for a while now called the Raden. This suitcase has some seriously cool features: it weighs itself, has USB charging ports, and even has Bluetooth tracking. While it’s priced higher than your average suitcase, I think it’s totally worth it for the convenience and added features. It’s no surprise that it was named one of Oprah’s Favorite Things in 2016. Take a look at this video to see how awesome it is, or check out Oprah’s review.
Another suitcase that’s been getting rave reviews is the AWAY suitcase. My friend Crystal recently bought one and absolutely loves it. It’s lightweight, has fancy wheels, and even comes with an integrated charger for charging your devices while on the go. It’s definitely one of the best suitcases I’ve heard of in a while. You can read more about why Crystal loves her AWAY suitcase here.
FAQs
1. What should I look for when buying a suitcase?
Focus on these key features: wheels (twin-wheel systems make a huge difference), a comfortable handle (with adjustable height and a soft-grip), lightweight materials (polycarbonate is ideal), secure zippers (chain zippers are better than coil zippers), and a reasonable price.
2. Are polycarbonate suitcases really worth it?
Yes! Polycarbonate suitcases are lightweight, durable, and provide impact protection, making them a great choice for travelers looking for sturdy luggage that won’t weigh them down.
3. How can I prevent theft from my suitcase?
Look for chain zippers rather than coil zippers—they’re much harder to break into. Also, make sure your zippers are made by YKK, a brand known for quality. If you’re really concerned about security, there are even zipper-free suitcases available.
4. How do I find a good deal on luggage?
Check out flash sale sites like GILT, HAUTELOOK, RUELALA, and MYHABIT for amazing deals on quality luggage. It’s a great way to save money on high-end suitcases.
5. What’s the best high-tech suitcase out there?
If you’re looking for high-tech luggage, the Raden suitcase is definitely worth considering. It has Bluetooth tracking, USB charging ports, and even self-weighing capabilities. If you’re looking for a slightly more affordable option, the AWAY suitcase is also a great choice with integrated charging and fancy wheels.
Conclusion
After going through so many suitcases over the years, I finally feel like I’ve found the right one for my needs. The 4 key features—wheels, handle, weight, and security—are all important when it comes to choosing the perfect suitcase. And don’t forget to keep an eye out for those sweet deals on flash sale sites! Whether you’re upgrading your luggage or looking for something with a little more high-tech flair, you can’t go wrong if you take your time and do a bit of research.
So, happy suitcase hunting! Let me know if you have any other questions or if there’s a suitcase you’ve been eyeing!