When it comes to planning a trip, choosing the right suitcase is one of the most important decisions. It needs to be reliable, convenient, and meet all your needs. How do you choose the perfect suitcase? In this guide, we’ll walk through key factors that will help you make the right choice, whether you’re embarking on a long vacation, a weekend getaway, or a business trip.
The first thing to consider is the size of the suitcase. Think about how long you'll be traveling and how many things you need to take with you. Here are some recommendations:
Tip: If you often travel by different means of transport (plane, train, car), consider the weight of the suitcase when it’s empty. A lightweight suitcase will give you more freedom to pack additional items.
The material of the suitcase plays a key role in its durability and the protection of the items inside. Here are the pros and cons of each type:
Hard-shell suitcase (made from ABS, polycarbonate, or polypropylene). These provide better protection for fragile items and are generally more resistant to impacts. Modern models, such as those from Snowball and WINGS, use strong and lightweight materials, making them perfect for frequent travelers.
Pros: Durability, protection from external damage, water-resistant surface.
Cons: Less flexible for packing, can be heavier than soft-sided counterparts.
Soft-sided suitcase (made from polyester, nylon). These are more flexible, allowing you to pack more items thanks to the expandable fabric. They are ideal for trips where flexibility is more important than protection.
Pros: Lighter, more expandable, convenient exterior pockets.
Cons: Less protection against impacts and moisture.
This is perhaps one of the most underrated aspects when choosing a suitcase, but wheels can significantly impact your travel comfort.
2 wheels. These types of suitcases are great for uneven surfaces, such as sidewalks or dirt roads. They are usually more durable and less likely to break, but they need to be pulled behind you.
4 wheels (spinners). Suitcases with 4 wheels are much easier to move in any direction. They are ideal for airports and other smooth surfaces. Four-wheel suitcases can also be moved sideways, making them easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
Tip: For maximum comfort, choose suitcases with quiet, high-quality wheels, such as those from Snowball, which provide smooth movement even on crowded streets.
Protecting your luggage is crucial when traveling. Most modern suitcases come with TSA-approved locks, which are mandatory for travel to the USA and other countries. TSA locks allow customs authorities to open and close your suitcase without damaging the lock.
Tip: Suitcases with double zippers (Secure Zip), like the models from Snowball, offer extra protection against tampering or unnoticed opening. This gives you more peace of mind when it comes to the safety of your personal belongings.
Don’t forget about additional features that can make your suitcase even more convenient:
When choosing a suitcase, don’t compromise on quality. Trusted brands like WINGS and Snowball offer suitcases that have undergone extensive durability testing. Investing in a high-quality suitcase will pay off after just a few trips, as you won’t need to worry about breakages or damages.
Choosing the perfect suitcase depends on the type of trip and your personal preferences. By considering all the factors mentioned above —from size and material to wheels and security features —you’ll be able to pick a suitcase that makes every journey more comfortable and secure. Remember, a good suitcase is not just an accessory, but a vital travel companion.
Expert Tip: If you’re looking for a suitcase that combines style, durability, and convenience, consider the collections from Snowball and WINGS, known for their innovative solutions and reliability in all types of travel.