So, you’re planning a getaway and you need to decide what kind of luggage to bring. How exciting! We will look at the pros and cons of suitcases versus backpacks, and hard-shell versus soft-shell suitcases so you can start to decide which is best for your purposes. Depending on where you are going, what you are doing, and how long you plan to be away, one kind of luggage will seem much more suited to your trip than the rest. Let’s have a look at your options.
Suitcases vs Backpacks
Step one of choosing the right kind of luggage for your journey is to decide between suitcases and backpacks. When making this all-important decision, you should consider how easy both options are to maneuver and manage. Suitcases all have wheels these days, and most of them have four wheels that work in all directions. This makes them very easy to steer, and as they are on the floor, you are not supporting the weight of your items.
However, even with the convenience of wheeled suitcases, wear and tear can happen over time because of travel challenges. That’s the importance of knowing about a suitcase repair online shop or stores near you, where you can get a range of spare parts to fix your luggage. Such online shops can be a lifesaver when your suitcase’s wheels or handles are damaged during your travels, allowing you to extend the lifespan of your favorite travel companion without having to invest in a brand-new one. Plus, compared to buying a new suitcase when facing such issues, travelers can potentially make an environmentally friendly choice by reducing waste.
On the other hand, backpacks free up your hands so you can more easily access your documents and carry other items, like water and food for your trip. You do have to support the weight of backpacks while you travel, making them a bit more work than suitcases. However, they are also far easier to manage on stairs or rough terrain. Weigh up these pros and cons and see which seems best for you.
Whichever kind of luggage you choose, follow these packing tips to save space and narrow down the essential items that you need to bring with you.
Hard Shell vs Soft Shell Luggage
When choosing a suitcase for your travels, one of the first considerations you will need to make is whether you want a hard or soft shell-style suitcase. There are various benefits to both options, so let’s break them down.
When it comes to soft-shell cases, a great benefit is that they are easier to stuff last-minute items inside, due to their flexibility. Soft-shell cases mold to the shape of items inside, which can make them easier to pack as full as possible. On the other hand, they are often heavier and more likely to burst a zip due to over-stuffing. Moreover, soft material is more likely to rip or develop a hole.
On the other hand, you have hard-shell suitcases, which are more modern. The popularity of hard shell luggage has grown in recent years, partly due to its durability. Hard-shell cases do a better job of protecting whatever is inside and can withstand more bumps and scrapes. What’s more, the technology is so good that these sturdy cases weigh next to nothing. This means you do not have to worry as much about weight restrictions when packing.
Consider What Kind of Trip You Are Going On
Lastly, you should think about what kind of trip you are going on, as this will help you to choose the correct luggage. Can you get away with traveling with just one carry-on item? This will save you from having to pay for a checked bag and it will also make navigating the airport, train station, buses, or streets far easier. Being bogged down with too many bags will have a detrimental effect on your enjoyment of the trip as a whole.
On top of that, think about whether you will be doing a lot of walking with your bags. If so, on what kind of terrain? Perhaps you will be spending a day in a walkable city before you check in to accommodation. In this case, a backpack or small suitcase might be good options. Think about access to elevators or escalators and consider whether you may have to walk up stairs or a lot of hills.
If your trip is focused heavily on the outdoors, a backpack might be the best bet. Whereas, if your vacation is focused on relaxing in a hotel, you might want to pack a big hard-shell suitcase full of clothes, books, and shoes for your trip. Try to envision yourself on your holiday and decide which kind of luggage makes the most sense.
Now you should have a pretty good idea of what kind of luggage you want to take with you on your trip. Remember that backpacks are good for rough terrain, but suitcases are easier on your back and are designed to be easy to maneuver. Moreover, keep in mind that hard-shell suitcases are more durable and lightweight, while soft-shell can be appealing when you are trying to stuff in some last-minute items. You should consider where you are going and what you will be doing on your trip and it will become clear which option is best for you.
