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Suitcase Mood: Choosing a Reliable Travel Companion

A comfortable suitcase is a reliable companion for your trip

Size matters!

"The bigger, the better" is not an option for a solo trip. But for a family trip, it is more rational to buy a set of suitcases (usually 3 in 1): it will take up little space at home, as they nest like Russian dolls.

Manufacturers usually indicate suitcase size in liters. A volume of 20-25 L is small (suitable for carry-on); 20-75 L is medium; over 70 L is large (it can fit souvenirs, clothes, and magnets).

Material decides everything

Suitcases are produced in two versions: hard (made of plastic, metal, and even wood) and soft (fabric). However, recently the most popular versions are plastic, fabric, and leather models. This choice is quite justified: hard plastic travel suitcases do not tear and look luxurious. And a fabric suitcase can hold more things, which is quite important if shopping in Milan was successful.

"Right" wheels

If you choose a suitcase on wheels, then gel or silicone types are beyond competition. But what is better – 2 or 4 wheels? For a civilized vacation along the "airport – hotel" route, 4 wheels are better. But if there is an "obstacle course" of bumps and potholes, asphalt that has lost its marketable appearance, etc., then two wheels will make your luggage more maneuverable. All wheels should be independent, each attached separately and rotating in all directions.

Handles, locks, and zippers

An excellent option is having three handles on the suitcase: a telescopic handle, a top handle, and a side handle. The telescopic handle should securely retract into the body and lock with a button.

It is better to prefer a plastic self-healing zipper that will work even if a few teeth are missing. If you choose a fabric suitcase, the zipper should be large, at least 10 mm wide.

It is optimal to have two key locks and one combination lock on the suitcase. Combination locks can be fixed or padlocks. And do not forget to change the factory code to your own.

For each type of lock, there is a different technique for changing the code. For a fixed lock, you need to find the lock button on the side surface, press the button with a toothpick, and move the lever up and to the right. While holding the button in this position, change the digits to your personal code and release the lever. If the combination lock is a padlock, the instructions for changing the code are as follows: turn the open shackle of the lock and press it, while holding it in this position – change the code, then release the shackle.

When buying a suitcase with a padlock, you should immediately purchase spare locks that can be quickly replaced if they break or are lost.

Now, knowing the main nuances of choosing a reliable suitcase, all that remains is to decide on the color. But that is purely a personal preference. You can choose a bright color and a flashy print, screaming about your favorite vacation, or a classic of the genre – restrained colors and a strict style. Have a great trip!