What are suitcases and how to choose them?
For a trip of any length with you, you need to take spare clothes with shoes and other things - for this, suitcases were invented. A wide range of these devices is offered on the market today, you can choose according to size, design and other features, as well as find them with additional equipment and a security lock. Let's consider in more detail the products for the transportation of things, the characteristics of the varieties and recommendations for choosing a suitcase.
History
Initially, fabric knots were used to carry things, which were replaced by baskets, after which convenient and practical bags appeared. Previously, people often moved on foot, so transporting clothes required something reliable, made of practical materials. For this, felt, rough types of fabric and leather were used. Over time, when carriages and carts became the main means of transportation, bags of different sizes appeared, but the transformation and improvements did not stop there. The container for transportation has gone through many changes and modifications: for example, the chests were quite expensive and large, not everyone could afford such a luxury.
Such a suitcase, which we know today, first appeared in the middle of the 19th century, its creator was the founder of the world famous brand Louis Vuitton. It was a real revolution, the suitcases acquired a flat shape, which improved the ability to transport several units at once. At that time, the suitcase case became quite popular.The history of the creation of this device dates back to 1835, when, as a teenager, then unknown to anyone at the time, Louis went to work in a workshop, where travel chests and boxes for transporting and storing hats were created.
The guy's talent did not go unnoticed, this led him to the imperial house, where he became a packer for the wife of Napoleon III. The experience increased, and after a certain time, Mr. Vuitton opened a personal workshop on one of the streets of Paris. The debut was a hard suitcase, which turned out to be quite popular. Since then, various changes have been made, for example, the products began to be pulled with cloth, produced in different sizes, and today not a single traveler can do without it.
Views
There are several types of suitcases, they can be divided into categories such as size, purpose, material and other parameters. Travel ones are designed for travel of different lengths, they are durable, some of them are suitable as carry-on luggage, others are too large. There are specialized cases in which you can store tools, various equipment, each of them is equipped with a handle. Representative suitcases are worn by diplomats, office workers and businessmen to demonstrate the status and position of the owner.
On the market, you can find versatile models that are suitable for both the sophisticated traveler and the ordinary employee of the company who often travels on business trips.
Technologies do not stand still, and if you want something original or innovative, then the “smart” suitcase should be noted. Its main feature is the presence of artificial intelligence, which can visually recognize the owner. In addition, such units are always equipped with locks, may have a battery, and some even know how to follow a person. Thus, modern suitcases can be not only beautiful, but also roomy, practical, suitable for different trips, so everyone has the opportunity to choose something at their discretion.
Materials (edit)
For the manufacture of suitcases, manufacturers choose several types of material, depending on the requirements and purpose of the product. This is an important parameter that should always be considered when buying, since the durability and service life of the product depend on it.
To get started, you can familiarize yourself with plastic products made of polypropylene or polycarbonate. These materials provide a solid body, but the unit has no side pockets, only the main compartment, which may have partitions and small compartments for storing various things. This option is suitable for air travel. The properties of plastic suitcases include the following: they are resistant to mechanical damage and moisture, are offered at an affordable price and in different sizes.
The polypropylene body is wear-resistant, strong to cracks and does not deform, moreover, one of the main advantages is water resistance, high temperature resistance. Moreover, such products are much heavier than those made of polycarbonate. Such a device for transportation will last a long time, if you take care of it properly, do not expose it to strong mechanical stress.
Fabric suitcase is also popular, manufacturers use nylon and polyester. The main factor that determines strength is fiber density, so you should pay attention to this factor before buying. If the value is 800, this indicates that the product will cope with the load and will last a long time. In practice, it has been proven that polyester bags retain their shape much longer than others. Nylon is lightweight yet durable and hygroscopic. These suitcases are offered at an affordable price. Often the product is equipped with many compartments and additional pockets.
On the practical side, the silicone models proved to be the best, they are equipped with metal mounts and bearings. This is a wear-resistant and elastic material, the shape of the suitcase remains unchanged even under load.
Wooden suitcases can be called decorative or souvenir; they are often used to decorate a photo studio. And here Fiber products are a real rarity; even in Soviet times, students and representatives of the working class used to go with them; today, such suitcases attract collectors and interior designers.
Well-known brands of travel bags and bags also produce leather suitcases that look aesthetically pleasing, expensive, and at the same time a practical accessory for everyone who loves to travel. In addition, this material is durable to wear, but requires specialized care and is afraid of high humidity.
Dimensions (edit)
Thanks to this parameter, it is easy to select the unit for the trip, depending on its duration. There is a wide variety of fittings on the market and each airline has different baggage requirements.
For carry-on luggage, a mini-suitcase is suitable, the average size of which can be 40x55x20 cm. Suitcase for travel of different nature has dimensions of 47x68x30 cm, it is in great demand. For a vacation in a warm country, you can choose something larger, especially when it comes to a family trip - this is a huge 53x81x36 cm unit.
Design options
As for the design, there are no rules here, manufacturers always offer a wide selection of classic options, as well as for lovers of everything bright and colorful. The color scheme starts with white and black, and ends with yellow, pink, golden, acid green and other tones. A suitcase can tell a lot about your preferences and highlight your look. It is worth noting that fun prints can be found not only on children's products - huge bags and travel bags also have original images. If we talk about branded products, many fashion houses always use a seasoned classic style, but delight their fans with limited editions, which are very unusual and extravagant.
Popular manufacturers
We bring to your attention the top famous brands that produce a variety of suitcases for every taste.
American Tourister offers quality products of high strength, which is achieved through the use of new technologies and modern materials. The body of the product is resistant to mechanical damage, does not fade and remains presentable for a long time. It should be noted the modern design - these are stylish travel units that will not leave anyone indifferent. Some models have the ability to expand in volume, they are equipped with wheels that rotate and provide better movement. The color scheme is varied, which is another plus.
American trademark Samsonite has been producing hand luggage and suitcases for a long time. Their exquisite design and exceptional durability are known to many. The assortment includes plastic models as well as nylon products. Inside there are straps that can be used to securely fix the contents. The ultra-lightweight design has become the hallmark of the company's products, experts use impact-resistant plastic - it is lightweight and at the same time resistant to bending.
Swiss products from Victorinox offered in a traditional classic design. Suitcases reliably protect things, while the weight of the products is low, there are fixing straps and a mesh pocket inside. Outside, in a separate compartment, you can transport magazines, books and hide documents so that you have constant access to them. Good handling is guaranteed on any surface.
Consistent German quality is presented in the products from Travelite. These are reliable suitcases that are in demand all over the world. The production process is subject to the strictest controls, so the products meet high requirements. The range includes models of any size, each is equipped with a telescopic handle, wheels and has several compartments inside.
The premium class includes RIMOWA productswhich offers collections in elegant colors. The body of the product is always shock-resistant, as it is made of polycarbonate according to modern technologies, the handle with corners is covered with natural leather, and inside there is a beautiful and durable fabric, there is a separation system. These units are distinguished by their maneuverability, impact resistance and stylish design.
It is impossible not to mention the Italian travel bags and accessories from brand Roncato, because the assortment is striking in its quality and appearance. Here you can find roomy suitcases. A distinctive feature of the Uno Zip series is the unusual coating of the outer case, which will be protected from any damage and scratches. Products are closed with a zipper, which is protected from moisture, which is reliable and convenient.
Most of the well-known manufacturers offer products in a wide price range, so finding a cheap, but at the same time, high-quality suitcase is not difficult, but you can also choose a premium product.
Fittings and equipment
Combination locks and a suitcase latch are important attributes in a product. Despite the fact that not every product has such a complete set, there is always something additional in the set, for example, an organizer, a bag, a belt for fixing things and much more. Today, all high-quality units are designated by the abbreviation of the international standard for safe travel TSA. If the description contains these letters, it means that the product is equipped with a combination lock, which can only be opened by the owner.
The set may include a protective cover that fits over a suitcase, removable locks, colored stickers, as well as bags for linen or shoes. Most products of medium and large sizes are equipped with wheels, there are retractable handles.
The fittings must be durable and reliable, because it is impossible to do without it.
What to consider when choosing?
In order for a suitcase to serve for a long time and faithfully, a number of criteria must be taken into account. First of all, it is important to decide how often you travel. If the trips are regular, here you will need indestructible units that will withstand the load, will not wear out in a short period, and will be easy to use.
Wheels have a separate meaning, like all accessories. Make sure they roll on their own axis, it is recommended to pay attention to products with four wheels, they are easier to transport. The material of manufacture is rubber-like silicone, which is elastic and moderately soft. A telescopic handle is welcome. Pay attention to the number of compartments, whether there is a belt inside the suitcase. If you are concerned about safety, you are transporting valuables, choose a unit with a combination lock that only you can open.
As for the material, it all depends on personal requirements and the intensity of travel, it is individual. The main thing is to make sure of the strength and quality of the fittings, the durability of the handles and wheels.
Operating tips
In order for the suitcase to last as long as possible, it is important not to exceed the weight for which the product is intended, so keep to the limit and try to keep your things compact. If a password is required to open the bag, and you have forgotten it, the instructions should contain information on how to reset the code. It is better to roll the suitcase on a flat surface so that the weight is evenly distributed over all wheels. It must be lifted on steps, not rolled over ledges or curbs. When collecting, put heavy things down, and already on top, fold everything light.
After each trip, empty the suitcase, wipe it with a damp cloth, remove all dirt and make sure that the garment is dry. Choose a well-ventilated area for storage, free from moisture. To maintain shape, old things can be folded inside, while all zippers and latches must be closed.
By applying all the recommendations, you will extend the life and keep the product presentable until the next trip.