How to Choose the Right Travel Luggage Bag for Your Next Trip

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How to Choose the Right Travel Luggage Bag for Your Next Trip 

 

If you are eager to head off somewhere new, there is a good chance that you are already considering which piece of luggage is going to be your partner-in-crime.  Before you make a purchase, read on for everything you need to know about choosing the right travel luggage bag for your next trip.

Consider the logistics of your trip. 

To ensure that you choose luggage that suits your needs, you want to make sure you are thinking through your trip’s logistics.   

For starters, the length of your trip will play a large role in which bag should accompany you. If you are only heading off for a weekend trip, then you may simply want to pack everything into a small, lightweight carry-on suitcase or a duffel bag. Longer trips are going to require you to use something with a lot more space.   

Another consideration is the modes of transportation you will be using. For trips that include multiple layovers, train or bus rides, or lots of moving around, you want to ensure your luggage is easy to carry. In this case, a wheeled backpack or a backpack duffel may be the best option. Alternatively, a lightweight rolling suitcase can work, but it can limit your flexibility.   

The type of travel also must be regarded. For example, the luggage you opt to take on a camping trip will be very different from what you use when you are staying at a fancy hotel.   

Similarly, the activities included in your itinerary are going to affect your choice. Some trips require an adventurous bag, while others need something that can effectively protect your belongings. When selecting your bag, think through the amount and type of gear you may need to pack and the environments in which your luggage will be moving. 

Choose between soft and hard luggage. 

Another significant consideration you need to make is whether you want to be using soft or hard luggage. While many travellers have a definite preference when it comes to this decision, both have their pros and cons and can be better suited for different types of travel and packing styles.  

Soft Luggage 

Generally, soft luggage offers the most flexibility, particularly for carry-on luggage or for short trips. Not only are these easier to compress into tight overhead compartments on aeroplanes, but they also are fantastic at absorbing shock. Plus, they are lightweight, further increasing their flexibility and convenience.   

That being said, if you do opt for a piece of soft luggage, you want to make sure you are paying careful attention to the fabric and selecting an option that has excellent protection against wear and tear, as well as being waterproof and stain-proof.   

You can choose soft luggage in the form of a backpack, a duffel (that can be worn on your back or wheeled through the airport), or a rolling carry-on.   

For those travellers who enjoy the easy access of exterior pockets, soft luggage usually has these, along with a single large interior compartment. Usually, a soft suitcase utilizes the front of the bag as a sort of lid.  

Hard Luggage 

Over the past few years, hard-shell luggage has seen significant upgrades with brands using ultra-lightweight materials to make the bags as light yet durable as possible.   

One of the main benefits of using a hard-shell suitcase is that it will protect any fragile items a lot better than a soft bag. For this reason, if you are going to be checking your luggage at the airport, you probably want to lean towards this type.   

On the other hand, this style can be challenging to carry on to a plane as it can’t be squeezed into overhead bins in the same way that soft luggage can. Luckily, even if it flies millions of miles, this type of bag is easier to clean than the other option.   

For travellers who prioritize organization when they are on the move, a hard side suitcase may be preferable as these offer a clamshell design with two halves that fold together. This means you have to split your belongings into the two compartments, which will help you keep track of everything. 

Listen to recommendations. 

Generally, lightweight carry-ons are recommended for international travel, weekend trips, overnight stays, or single-day business trips, as it is reassuring to have your belongings with you at all times. If you are purchasing one of these bags, look for one that offers multiple compartments for organization, durable wheels, and is made from lightweight materials. 

Backpacks, duffels and wheeled backpacks are ideal for day trips, adventure travel, and multi-destination travel.   

If you are packing lots of gear, these styles are suitable as they are lightweight and are comfortable to carry around with you. These are often the most versatile options and are great for situations when you are moving destinations a lot or don’t want to deal with rolling your luggage over cobblestone streets.   

Finally, rolling luggage is suitable for all occasions – but mainly longer trips (whether for business or adventure). The quality is the most crucial factor when choosing one of these bags, as you don’t want the wheels or handle to break when you are on the other side of the world.   

This style of luggage offers the most space and can be kept organized by using packing cubes. 4-wheeled luggage is generally preferable as the bag glides relatively effortlessly and doesn’t require you to put too much weight on your wrists.  

Final Thoughts 

No matter where you are headed or for what reason, you can find the right piece of luggage for every type of trip when you shop for Tumi bags online.  

Whether you opt for one piece or an entire collection, these bags are the best on the market and are guaranteed to make your travels go a lot smoother. Browse the Tumi offerings, keep your travel plans in mind, and you will soon have the perfect luggage for all your upcoming adventures.   

What considerations do you make when choosing your luggage? Do you have particular types or styles of bags that you prefer to use for different trips? Which pieces are on your wishlist this year?  

Let us know your thoughts and any additional insights you may have in the comments below!