Luggage 101

 

Construction & Materials

First things first. You need to decide what style fits you and the way you travel best: softside or hardside? Softside fabrics most commonly include polyester, nylon, cotton or canvas. Softside luggage features include exterior compartments for extra storage to stash magazines or snacks. Pay careful attention to denier rating as well as thread count. “Denier” refers to the weight of the yarn; the higher the number, the bulkier the yarn which can measure the fabric’s resistance to abrasion and tearing. Compare deniers before you purchase, but understand sometimes larger deniers do not always equate to better quality and should be viewed in combination with the type of material. Hardside bags are increasingly popular and can be just as durable and lightweight as softside depending on materials and construction. Polycarbonate is a flexible and resilient material which means bags can be stronger while still lightweight. 100% polycarbonate is typically resistant to dents and scratches. ABS is a sturdy plastic, second in strength to polycarbonate but often lighter weight.

 

Wheels

Though they may appear so, not all wheels function the same. These days most luggage styles include wheels—even carry-on styles. There are two types of wheels: spinner wheels, which rotate 360 degrees or in-line wheels, which proceed in a straight line unless lifted for a quick change in direction. In-line wheels are favored for their durability through many flights while spinner wheel styles are coveted for their ease of use.

 

Handles

Handles are designed with one goal in mind: comfort. Whether that’s achieved through the fabric or PVC options, grip placement, ergonomic design, or extra padding, what works for you is more a question of personal preference than “best”.

 

Lightweight Luggage

Luggage manufacturers have your back on this. New technologies and materials help them keep both hardside and softside options lightweight enough to keep up with TSA regulations, as well as easy to manage.

 


 

Domestic Carry-on

Fits easily into overhead airplane bins.
19-22" tall, 5.9-6.2lbs.

Medium Checked

Perfect for a weekend get-away!
23-27" tall, 6.9-7.2lbs.

Large Checked

Great for longer trips or multiple people.
28" & larger, 8.5-11lbs

Brands

Samsonite

Samsonite is not just in the business of making luggage; we are in the business of building confidence.

Delsey

Since 1946, DELSEY PARIS has been accompanying travelers from all around the world on both their personal and professional journeys. Combining expertise with innovation, DELSEY PARIS bags stand out for their unique French design and well-thought-out features, allowing you to travel elegantly and confidently.

Protocol

Practical products that look great and offer smart, innovative features, all at a great value. This brand is fantastic for a family looking to explore with our multi-pieced sets that provide the perfect solutions to have you arrive with ease.

Ricardo Beverly Hills

Smart and fashionable luggage that offers lasting quality and real value with a never-ending dedication to designing fresh, unique and innovative luggage.

Skyway

With bright colors and forward-thinking design, the Skyway brand provides fun and functional luggage at an exceptional value.

Travelpro

The choice of flight crews and frequent travelers. Innovation and durability in crafting the highest quality luggage for the experienced traveler for decades.

Dukap

Perfect combination of durability and style. Timeless designs, and rigorously tested to maximize your travel experiences.

American Tourister

Travel should be fun. We take pride in making stylish, high quality, and yeah, fun luggage that you can rely on.

High Sierra

Feature-rich, versatile adventure lifestyle for adventures everywhere, Freedom to go anywhere—no matter what form your adventure takes.