Packing a Suitcase is An Art
Who knew packing a suitcase was an art? Not me.
Too often a man doesn’t realize or appreciate all his wife or significant other does for him. It took my wife dying for me to come to this realization. She always packed the bags for our vacations and for my business trips. She never complained that we were still using the same luggage we’d received as a wedding present all those years ago.
Old, outdated suitcases, a laundry basket, tote bags, and even grocery sacks jammed full of my belongings filled my car as I drove halfway across the United States to attend a writer’s conference.
Hassle and major pain describes unloading the car each evening as I checked into my hotel. The only benefit from my packing was all the steps I walked as I made four or five trips from my car to the room each night. At the conference center, I repeated the scene as I carried my baggage to the room.
To my horror, once in the room I couldn’t find simple things like pain medication or even my socks without rifling through a suitcase, bag, tote, and even plastic sack. I promised myself I would never repeat this nightmare.
I asked the counsel of a couple of experienced traveller friends. With their help, I learned how to get the right bags and how to organize them for a trip. The cross-country trip a few years ago was the first of many. I’ve traveled to a resort out of the country, taken a couple of cruises, and made a few trips across the USA. I’ve learned the right suitcases and bags are important.
How To Select a Suitcase or Luggage
Size and Weight:
- One of the most important factors to consider when selecting a suitcase for traveling is the size and weight of the suitcase.
- Airline weight restrictions vary, but most airlines have a weight limit of 50 pounds for checked baggage, so it’s important to choose a suitcase that is lightweight and easy to maneuver.
- I have one bag to carry-on, one for my computer, and then I check a larger bag.
- If you have more bags, you’ll get charged extra baggage fees.
- You should opt for a carryon luggage as large as 22 (length) x 14 (width) x 9 (height) inches.
- A checked bag no larger than 62” (the total linear dimensions of length + width + height), including wheels and handle, which is standard for most US airlines.
Durability:
- I lost a wheel on a large suitcase on my first trip. It made moving the item almost impossible.
- I learned that cheaper isn’t better.
- It’s important to choose a durable suitcase that can withstand the rigors of travel.
- Search for suitcases made from strong materials like polycarbonate or ballistic nylon, which are less likely to get damaged during transit.
Organization:
- Packing a suitcase can be a hassle, so it’s important to choose one with organizational features like compartments and pockets to help keep everything in its place.
- I’ll write a follow-up article on how to pack your suitcase.
Wheel and Handle:
- Remember my lost wheel? It made moving the large bag a hassle.
- I failed to consider the mobility of my suitcase.
- Considering mobility is important.
- Look for four-wheeled suitcases as they are more stable, easier to move and you can pull it beside you instead of carrying it.
- Also, telescoping handles for easy carrying.
Security:
- Make sure that the suitcase has a secure lock, so that your belongings will stay safe while in transit.
- Make sure you know your lock combinations as security check points may want to inspect the bag’s contents.
Water Resistance:
- A visit to a place with a high chance of rain or humidity requires special consideration.
- You’ll want to choose a suitcase that is made from water-resistant materials to help keep your belongings dry.
- This helped on a cruise – tour I took to Alaska.
- My luggage sat in the pouring rain at Whittier, Alaska, for a half-hour when being transferred from the ship to the train.
Brand Reputation:
- It’s a good idea to choose a suitcase from a reputable brand that has a track record of producing high-quality and durable products.
- Ask your friends who travel what they recommend.
Overall, these are the most important aspects that you need to keep in mind when choosing a suitcase for your travel. It will depend on your specific travel needs and budget to decide which one is the best for you.
Once you have your bags and suitcase. You’ll need to pack them Next, I’ll share one great way to pack and organize your suitcase and bags.
Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.
