Trips provide an exciting opportunity to experience other areas of your state, country and world. Choosing appropriate luggage is important for organization and to enhance the convenience and comfort of your trip. Size, weight, function and accessories will determine which type of luggage is appropriate for your trip. Other considerations include mode of travel and space limitations during your journey.
Function
Packing bags for travel involves selecting the appropriate luggage for holding and protecting clothing, devices and supplies. Almost any type of bag or container can be used as luggage. Depending on type of travel (e.g., car versus airplane) and distance, luggage can protect valuable equipment, expand for added clothing and souvenirs or simply organize clothing.
Types
Basic types of luggage are described according to material. Soft-sided luggage is made of durable material such as canvas or plastic; hard luggage is constructed of plastic and composite materials to retain its shape and distribute weight or pressure.
Sizes
Standard sizes for luggage are usually classified for air travel. Carry-on luggage is less than or equal to 21 inches in height so that it can fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat. However, some smaller aircraft have tighter compartments in the passenger area and may not be able to accommodate carry-on bags greater than 16 inches high. All bags, especially those larger than 21 inches, are suitable as checked luggage.
Protection
Hard-sided luggage is more protective than soft luggage. The rigid exterior is designed to prevent internal damage from outside sources that can poke, crack or break items. The housing in hard luggage is designed to distribute weight from other bags or materials. Soft-sided luggage has limited protection against crushing and tearing. Its weight distribution is usually limited to the sides of the frame that give it shape.
Weight
Soft-sided luggage is usually lighter in weight than hard luggage because it lacks the rigid housing and frame. Other accessories such as wheels and handles may add weight to the bag. Weight and baggage limitations by airlines, along with the items you need to pack might help determine the best size and type of bag for the trip. For example, 60 pounds of clothing, shoes and toiletries for a long trip may fit in a large soft-sided wheeled suitcase instead of two hard-sided suitcases (the latter may require a fee for an extra checked bag).
Accessories
Both hard and soft luggage are available in wheeled versions and can include compartments that expand. Hard-sided luggage can accommodate other bags to be stacked or attached with a strap, eliminating the need for small carts to carry multiple pieces of luggage. Soft-sided wheeled bags may be able to accommodate other bags; however, ease of rolling stacked bags around may be reduced because the soft luggage may be unbalanced.
Specialty
Soft-sided luggage is available in a wide variety for specialty uses, such as backpacks, briefcases and sports bags. Hard luggage is usually available as a traditional suitcase or supply briefcase for business and electronic equipment.
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