australia:luggage
choosing luggage / suitcases for travel
introduction
there is no one solution for all needs
consider price, size, volume, weight, toughness, protection, waterproofing, ease of maneuver whilst in check in queues, ease of lifting (does it have good handles on top and side), zip quality, etc
consider how easy it will be to spot on the conveyor belt
ensure straps and seams are double-stitched and wheels are tough and robust and easy to maneuver
synthetic zippers made of interlocking nylon coils may be better than metal zips for durability
check the retractable handle to ensure it slides in and out smoothly and locks in position
at various times of the year, many products can be purchased new at 40% off the retail price, such is the retail mark ups.
checked in luggage for the international traveler
most singles will want to consider a medium size suitcase which weighs 2.5-3kg
a rolling suitcase rolls better and will allow more weight to be taken than a rolling backpack
hard case vs partially framed soft cases:
4 spinner wheels vs 2 inline wheels
airline size limits
how tough and light are they?:
weight vs capacity
Samsonite Cosmolite FL medium 69cm = 68L at 2.5kg but too expensive for most
Samsonite Lite-Shock medium 75cm = 98.5L at 2.5kg but may be too large and too expensive for most
Samsonite 72 hours or Uplifter soft medium 71cm = 79/86L at 2.6kg but may compromise on durability and thus the slightly heavier but the much more durably built Samsonite BLite 3 may be the best compromise
Delsey Helium 69cm = 101L at 3.2kg
Delsey U-Lite soft 67cm = 78/86L at 3.0kg
Antler Aire Softside medium 68cm = 70L at 2.3kg more affordable but less protective
IT Luggage, The Lite expander soft spinner medium 65cm = 77L at 2.1kg and very affordable
the large backpack with wheels option
unless you are actually planning to carry this on your back a lot instead of rolling it, AND you can keep the total weight including bag down to around 15kg, AND you do not have a bad back, THEN, a rolling backpack MAY work for you, and will certainly be easier on cobblestones in Europe or if going on trails.
IF you decide on this option, ensure it is well fitted to YOUR body shape
it should be as close as possible to your back
all the weight should be transferred to your hips, NOT your shoulders - make sure the waist belt is large, padded and can be adjusted so it fits over your pelvis snuggly
don't forget you also have to carry your cabin luggage which will probably be a day pack which can attach to the main pack, although this can create a security risk with potential valuables out of sight and out of feel from pick pockets
protect your back by taking great care when lifting it on and off your back
cabin luggage
australia/luggage.txt · Last modified: 2017/04/09 13:29 by gary1