Your companion for any kind of journey, the luggage is a non-negotiable gear for all travellers. While the choice of luggage can significantly impact your travel experience and comfort during a trip, the right kind will only enhance your convenience, organisation and safety. That said, the luggage should suit the duration of your trip, destination, itinerary and personal preferences, and should be spacious, easy to carry and durable.
PICK IT RIGHT
Depending on the nature and duration of your trip, you might opt for a suitcase, backpack, duffel bag or a combination. On a short trip, a spacious duffle bag with pockets and compartments, a lightweight backpack for impromptu outdoor adventures or a compact crossbody bag could be the answer. A water-resistant, spacious backpack with adjustable straps could be perfect for a weekend hiking or camping trip. For longer journeys, a durable backpack or a wheeled suitcase with ample space could be more suitable.
“Make sure there is sufficient space for your personal belongings in your luggage and it’s easy to carry. Comfort should be the top priority,” says Rahul Bhatia, founder of MonaB India, a lifestyle accessory brand.
There are some key considerations to remember while selecting travel luggage—from size and type to durability and organisation to portability and security. Choosing a luggage with compartments, pockets and dividers to keep your belongings organised and easily accessible can save you time and frustration during packing and unpacking. A suitcase with separate compartments, say for clothes, shoes and toiletries, can make finding items a breeze.
According to Charu Sachdev, co-founder of DharmaOriginals, an eco-conscious travel bags and essentials label, “Consider the ease of carrying or rolling your luggage, especially if you’ll be navigating through crowded airports or cobblestone streets. Look for features such as padded straps, ergonomic handles and smooth-rolling wheels.”
COLOUR, BUILD AND DESIGN
The material of your luggage impact its durability, weight and weather resistance. Common materials include nylon, polyester, polycarbonate and leather. Lightweight yet durable materials are ideal for frequent travellers while water-resistant or waterproof materials are essential for outdoor adventures or unpredictable weather conditions.
“The construction and craftsmanship of your luggage determines its longevity and resilience to wear and tear. Look for reinforced seams, sturdy zippers and quality hardware that can withstand the rigours of travel,” suggests Sachdev.
Colour and design are equally important. While colour is primarily a matter of personal preference, choosing a distinctive or easily recognisable colour can help you quickly identify the luggage on a crowded baggage carousel or in a busy airport terminal.
A well-thought-out design enhances usability, manoeuvrability and organisation. The design of your luggage encompasses features such as wheel type (spinner or inline), handle design (telescopic or fixed), and interior organisation (pockets, dividers, and compression straps).
The debate between soft and hard luggage is a perennial one, and both come with their own advantages and disadvantages. “It’s a matter of personal preferences and travel needs, though soft luggage, crafted from flexible materials such as nylon or polyester, is lightweight and easy to carry,” says Bhatia. “But it may not be suitable for carrying delicate and fragile items such as souvenirs. Hard luggage, on the other hand, crafted out of robust materials such as polycarbonate or aluminium, offers better protection against rough handling and adverse weather conditions. However, its rigid structure makes it less flexible and heavier to carry.”
Some travellers prefer the flexibility and lightweight nature of soft luggage while others prioritise the durability and protection offered by hard luggage. What’s most important is to find the right balance among all such elements and aspects to ensure your luggage meets all practical requirements while reflecting your personal style and travel habits.
Source Agencies
