Here are a few tips on what
features to look for when purchasing luggage
- Wheels - Look for wheels that have a wide track, have a bearing
system and recessed into the actual frame of the bag.
- Fabric - Denier only measures the weight of the thread. The higher the count,
the heavier the thread. Solid materials like all nylon or polyesters will hold up better
in the seems than the majority of blends. Ballistic just means it uses a
basket type of weave in the fabric and it usually resist tearing better. Don't get fooled
by manufacturers that say "ballistic type" but are not really using a basket
weave.
- Frames - Most Soft luggage use a narrow metal band for the main support
and then uses thin polypropylene (plastic) boots on the rest of the bag to give structure.
Better frames are called "honey comb memory frames". they use a highly resilient
corrugated plastic that is much wider than and will flex instead of bending and
breaking unlike common frames.
- Pull Handles - Look for recessed handles that are not exposed to
damage. The exception is Briggs & Riley that address the problems of exterior handle
systems. Thicker tubing is desired.
- Zippers - Look for name brand zippers like YKK. The larger the easier
they are to zip and have a longer life.
- Size - Buy the sizes that will best suit your needs for future
trips as opposed to buying for one particular trip. Most popular sizes are 26"
upright pullman, 22" upright, and tote.
- View Carry-on Luggage Size Restrictions
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