gadgets & gear
Just in Case
Selecting Your Luggage The only time you should ever have to think about your suitcase is when you’re buying it. Cheap luggage has let down many a weary traveler; worry now so you don’t have to later. Consider the following as you start shopping.
Color
Stay away from light-colored cases, which show stains and dirt more easily, as well as common-colored ones. A CNN travel report lists black, gray, and red as colors to avoid. Cases in these colors are hard to identify at baggage claim. They are also the target of thieves, who can easily make off with a plain-colored bag without drawing attention.
Wheels
Photo by kolobsek@yandex.ru
Consider buying luggage with spinner wheels that rotate 360 degrees. This allows the case to have a greater range of motion. Be aware that because spinning wheels are unprotected, there is a greater risk that they will get irreparably damaged in transit.
Material
There are two basic types of suitcase: fabric cases (like the standard trolley or duffle bag) and hard cases. Each type has pros and cons that need careful consideration:
Fabric cases
Fabric is the most common material for luggage, so these cases come in a wide variety of sizes, colors, and prices. Fabric cases are also versatile in that they often have many pouches and compartments for organizing your belongings. The soft material has a little give, so you can always shove in an extra Taiwanese sarong or Mickey Mouse mug. However, fabric cases are not as protective as hard cases and are more difficult to clean. Look for water- and stain-resistant
fabrics with a high denier (similar to thread count) for maximum durability. A good fabric case retails at about $100 or more.
Hard cases
The main purpose of a hard case is to protect your belongings. These cases are more durable than fabric cases and are more easily cleaned, even though they scuff and scratch more easily. In general, the colors of these cases are limited, making it difficult to get a unique one. Additionally, their rigid shape is inflexible, and their stiff material adds a fair amount of weight to the case. Look for cases made from aluminum or polycarbonate, which strike a balance between weight and durability. Quality hard cases retail at about $200 or more.
—Kelsey Berteaux