Luggage comes in all shapes and sizes. Types of luggage has its own merits and demerits. You can put all of your stuff in one bag, but making sure that you pack things the right way can actually save a lot of time and make your travels much more easier. Let’s give you the down low on each type of luggage so you can pick your luggage for a carefree trip ahead!
When it comes to luggage, the first thing to look at is the size. The material comes a close second, and you definitely have to take into consideration your traveling destination, how you would travel and move between lodgings, and if you would take a vehicle or trek around during your trip.
Material
Hardside luggage
The hardened shell protects your luggage from any unwarranted incident, whether it’s raining and floor is slippery, or it gets damaged on a conveyor belt, or in a bumpy car ride. Hardside luggage is another word for polycarbonate shells made out of the most tough plastic available. This is the best choice for people who travel frequently because it is known to be durable and comes in a variety of styles. It is widely popular, and you can buy it from the best luggage brands manufacturers. The prices may vary depending on the quality of plastic, size, and shape of the luggage.
Softside luggage
This is the recommended luggage for those who tend to overpack (Read: most of us). Unlike hard-shell luggage, you can find extra compartments in the softside luggage to keep your extra items that you want to carry. This is made out of fabric, canvas, nylon, or polyester. It’s expandable, while hard-shell luggage is quite rigid. The flexibility it offers makes it an attractive option for many people.
Check out our guide on whether airlines prefer hard or soft luggage.
Leather Luggage
The leather luggage is also a good option for you to travel with. Archaeological research suggests that leather luggage was invented around 1500 BC. They are a preferred material to avoid stains and water damage to your belongings. We would also recommend them if you’re feeling nostalgic and going on a visit with an intention to explore the historical monuments and vintage places.
Size
Before deciding to purchase your luggage, you factor out how much of your belongings you need to pack. If you are planning a short trip or want to travel light, a small suitcase that can fit in the overhead compartment on a plane will do just fine.
But if you’re heading out for a longer trip or if you intend to visit a cooler destination where you might pack heavy items like coats, sweaters, and boots, that’s where you will need a checked bag.
And, of course, security matters! So, if you buy a travel tote or a duffel, all you need is minimal security but maximum ease of use.
But suitcases come with two-way zippers and cross straps to keep your belongings organized and secure.
You must understand that traveling can cause wear and tear on your luggage. Therefore, durability is another factor you need to consider. The answer lies in opting a branded luggage that is water and impact-resistant and has scratch-proof and shock-absorbing exteriors.
Carry-On Luggage
Carry-on luggage is the most common type of luggage that’s perfectly convenient, if you’re planning a short trip. You can keep this luggage in the overhead cabin of the plane. You can carry your most important personal items with you and keep them in the carry-on luggage. Ensure that before traveling, you always know the largest luggage size that is allowed for check-ins (and by the way, this does not include your carry-on). If you have a carry-on luggage, you are at an advantage. You can avoid check-in fees and save your precious time while traveling.
Rolling Spinner Luggage
The rolling spinner luggage comes in two different types: rollaboard and spinner luggage. These two are easy to push, and perfect for you, if you are carrying heavy items with you. There are four wheels attached at four bottom corners, and each of them can turn in any direction, which means you can carry them around without breaking a sweat. Another advantage is their availability in both hardside and softside types.
Check-in Luggage
You check in this type of luggage before you board a plane. These are often too bulky and awkward to fit into the overhead compartment of the plane cabin. Do remember that usually, your check-in luggage should not be bigger than 62 linear inches. You need to be mindful of the weight limits that are imposed on such luggage.
If you frequently carry a large number of items, then this luggage is perfect for you. You can even check this in and add other luggage like a carry-on or a backpack. The only downside is that you will have to deal with the long waiting line at the airport.
Duffel Bags
You must have seen a duffel bag. It is made of fabric and is cylindrical in shape. It is affordable and easy to carry around. You might even find some with or without wheels. You should consider getting it if you are going on a weekend trip. Just whip it over your shoulder or find one you can drag around. Fun fact: These were traditionally used by the military and are now more commonly used for camping and working out.
It also has multiple storage options, which makes it an attractive option for tourists. It is spacious and you can pack your belongings conveniently. These serve best if you are planning to go on a short trip.
The wheeled duffle bags have the space but can be a chore to drag around, while the non-wheeled ones are easier to just whip over your shoulder. Be careful, though, as it can cause shoulder strain if overloaded or carried for a longer period of time.
Travel Bags
You might know them as the weekend bag. They are simple to use, and you can store your travel essentials for a weekend-long travel trip. The zipper on these can be annoying sometimes, but we’ve got you covered for that, too, if you’re wondering how to get a zipper back on track.
Garment Bags
Now, these are relatively uncommon, and you will only see them with businesspeople who want to maintain certain garments. It could be a suit for a big award show, and this garment bag will keep it wrinkle-free. It also contains other compartments where you can store shoes, pants, ties, etc.
Conclusion
As you can see, you have a diverse range of luggage options for traveling, and each one serves its own purpose.
Remember, your choice depends on the size and material of the luggage and the nature of your trip. There are only three materials used for luggage – the hard shell, soft shell, and leather. You will find the hard shell material more convenient if you want to protect your packed items. Alternatively, you can take advantage of the softside luggage, which is more spacious. Whichever luggage you choose for your next trip, always ensure that it is in good condition. You won’t be worried about your luggage ripping and losing your belongings if you choose the best luggage brands.
One thing you should remember: always know what size of luggage you are allowed to carry. If you’re confused, check out our guide on how to measure luggage size.
FAQ’s
What is the most common type of luggage?
There are many different types of luggage. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The hard-side suitcases, soft-side suitcases, and leather suitcases are the most common among tourists and travelers. People often carry hardside suitcases but may switch to soft-side suitcases if they have to carry more items.
Is Hardside luggage better than soft?
It’s not about which is better than the other. In fact, it depends on your individual requirements and preferences. For instance, some people may want hard-side luggage when going on a long trip. They wouldn’t want to compromise on their belongings, and some opt for a soft-side luggage, which is easy to carry around.
What is the best type of luggage to take on a plane?
Thankfully, you have multiple luggage options to carry on your flight. Depending on the distance you have to travel, you can carry luggage with a maximum length of 22”, width of 18”, and height of 10”. This is the ideal luggage size that airlines allow for passengers to carry.
