Experienced travelers know the importance of buying good luggage. Even a teenager knows the horror of living with the fear that your bag will split open on its way down the airport conveyor belt and belch all your dirty socks and underclothes into the baggage claim area.
The following tips will help you make good choices about buying luggage.
If you're headed for a cruise around the world, by all means go for the matched set of designer bags. Most people, though, go on occasional business trips, annual vacations and last minute trips to visit friends and family. Few need an eight-piece set of designer bags. You might consider a good carry-on bag, a large suitcase for longer trips, a wheeled duffle bag and something small for a weekend, such as a large tote bag.
Business travelers often use garment bags with built-in pockets so they can keep suits and shirts wrinkle-free. Be aware that taking full garment bag on board is no longer an option on most airplanes.
Few suitcases come without wheels. Even duffle bags are now made with wheels. When buying a piece of luggage, check that the wheels are at least 2.5 inches in diameter and that they're sturdy and don't stick out too far. If you're carrying computer equipment, you might look for a backpack with wheels.
Experts favor synthetic zippers over metal ones since they can be fixed more easily if the teeth become misaligned. Check that they slide easily. If you have to struggle to get them started, you're probably looking at a poor quality suitcase.
The folks who design luggage know exactly what sizes fit under airline seats and in luggage compartments. If you stick to popular brands, size should be no problem. If you like to be sure, add the height, length and width. If they come in under 45 inches, you're fine.
Also, make sure that you can lift the luggage, particularly carry-ons that you have to hoist into overhead bins. If your designer bags have so many wheels, handles, straps, built-in pockets and gizmos that you can hardly lift them when they're empty, how will you get them into your car?
You won't know much about durability until you've owned your luggage for a few years, so do a little research. Travel agents, consumer reports and friends' recommendations may be your best bet.
Did you think we'd tell you to buy the cheapest bags you could find? If you can afford those designer bags with all the gizmos, go for it. At least you know the manufacturer's reputation. If you're on a budget, you're better off getting one or two excellent pieces than a whole array of low-quality pieces of luggage.
Do a quick check before you buy new luggage:
Take your time and avoid buying brands you've never heard of. A good bag will be your travel companion for many years.