Booking an airline ticket for a trip involves serious consideration of luggage. Whenever possible, and to avoid the extra cost of checked luggage, some travelers make sure to put all their belongings in their carry-on suitcase, the one that can be placed under the seat or over their head, in the lockers specially reserved for this purpose. There are rules to follow in this area, especially with regard to dimensions. Do you want to optimize the price of your plane ticket and leave with a practical carry-on bag? Here are a few tips to help you make the right choice.
Criteria to take into account when choosing your cabin baggage
The dimensions of the carry-on bag are the first criteria to consider when choosing. For a long time, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) recommended choosing a piece of luggage whose sum obtained after adding the length, height and width of the cabin baggage was less than or equal to 115 cm. The rules have changed slightly and the baggage must now meet the following dimensions: 56 cm x 45 cm x 25 cm. However, the authorized size of a carry-on bag varies from one airline to another, and from one class to another. It is exactly the same for the weight. It varies from 8 kg to 18 kg depending on the same criteria.
In order not to be mistaken, there is only one reflex to have, to go on the website of the company with which you travel to check. This will avoid unpleasant surprises and additional costs at the airport.
The material used for the manufacturing is the second criterion to take into account. When choosing the ideal carry-on suitcase, some travelers are fans of polyester, a synthetic fiber that is soft, elastic, resistant and easy to care for. Others find that their belongings are safer in rigid carry-on cases made of materials such as aluminum, curv, polycarbonate, polypropylene or ABS, which are known to be more resistant to shocks or scratches.
The closing system is another important point. Today, the most common and practical models are carry-on suitcases with a zipper that can be locked with a three-digit padlock. This is the best way to avoid theft at the airport, on the plane and on the train!
It's time to look at the handles. The best models are the suitcases with a telescopic handle, essential to avoid struggling during the traveler's various movements, but also with a carrying handle, very practical to lift the suitcase when needed, as in the subway steps for example. For a simpler trip and to move without effort, it seems obvious that we can no longer do without a suitcase equipped with 4 wheels.
Regarding the storage and compartments, many carry-on suitcases have a main space for clothes, but we also appreciate a second space with a lock to slide in items such as a laptop, a tablet, a travel guide and all the charging wires.
The different types of suitcases
Soft suitcases are popular because they fit more easily in certain places. They usually have several compartments and are lighter. However, be careful when travelling to a rainy destination, as you may find that some of your belongings get soaked in the event of a rain shower, due to the fabric lining. Travelers who really want to go for a soft suitcase should choose a polyester lining at all costs, which is known to be waterproof. Another disadvantage of soft suitcases is that they are not shock resistant. Thus, the risk of damaging personal belongings is greater in case of a fall or kick from another traveler for example.
The rigid cabin suitcase is the one that best absorbs shocks, thanks to its hard shell. The 100% polypropylene or polycarbonate models are the most resistant. They are therefore the most suitable for protecting fragile and valuable objects. In case of rainy weather or snowfall, there is also no risk of infiltration.
Note that there are also hybrid or semi-rigid suitcases on the market, which combine the soft side with the waterproof and resistant side.
Soft, rigid or hybrid suitcases, several specialized websites such as baage.fr, mesbagages.com or lemondedubagage.com allow you to equip yourself in a few clicks, with the biggest brands at the best prices. Baage is a French marketplace specialized in luggage in Europe and offers a wide selection of quality luggage for all budgets.
Quality luggage brands
In the travel industry, some luggage brands are known to offer high quality products. Brands like Samsonite, Delsey, American Travel, Bluestar, Rimowa, Swiss Kopper, Wave and Roncato offer solid and practical products that travelers can keep for years.
In conclusion, the choice of a carry-on suitcase is essential and requires taking into account several criteria. Technical characteristics that will allow you to travel easily and safely. For this, several major brands, such as those mentioned above, have proven themselves and already convinced thousands of globetrotters.
