Suitcase, bag or backpack: Secrets of traveler's perfect choice
How to choose a backpack or bag for a trip (photo: Freepik)
Preparing for a trip always starts with choosing the right luggage bag. Suitcase, bag, or backpack - each option has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on the type of trip and personal preferences.
Suitcase: the perfect choice for organized travel
A suitcase is a classic choice for most travelers, especially if you are traveling by air or staying in a hotel. The main advantage of a suitcase is its spaciousness and ease of transportation thanks to wheels and a retractable handle.
It's also easy to organize your belongings thanks to its compartments and clips. Suitcases are best suited for business trips or family travel, where the neatness of your luggage is important. However, there are also disadvantages: they are less convenient for off-road travel or in places with uneven surfaces.
Before choosing a suitcase, pay attention to:
- Material: hard (plastic) models protect things better, while soft ones are lighter and more flexible.
- Size: depending on the duration of the trip, the standard volume is from 30 to 100 liters.
- Number of wheels: 4-wheeled models are more maneuverable, while 2-wheeled models are better for moving on uneven surfaces.
A suitcase is ideal for organized travel but can be inconvenient in more active environments.
A heavy suitcase is easy to roll rather than carry (photo: Freepik)
Duffel bag: convenient for short trips
The bag is a great choice for short weekend trips or sports trips. The main advantage is its compactness and lightness, as well as the absence of the need to spend a lot of time packing.
The bag is convenient for carrying sportswear, accessories, or personal items if your luggage is small. It also fits easily in the luggage compartment or under the seat in transportation.
At the same time, the bag has a disadvantage: it is difficult to carry for long distances, especially if it is heavy. Therefore, this option is suitable if you do not need to travel long distances on foot.
What to consider when choosing a bag:
- Capacity: bags with a capacity of 20-40 liters are ideal for short trips.
- Material: waterproof material will protect your belongings in rainy weather.
- Handles: the presence of a long shoulder strap will make carrying more convenient.
The bag is the best choice for those who appreciate the ease and speed of getting ready for a trip.
A bag is easier to carry around (photo: Freepik)
Backpack: the choice for active travel
A backpack is an ideal option for those who are planning an active trip: hiking, camping, or city tour. Thanks to the even weight distribution on the shoulders, it is easy to carry even over long distances.
Modern backpacks have many compartments that allow you to organize things conveniently. They're great for carry-on luggage on an airplane or trekking in the mountains.
However, backpacks can be inconvenient if you need to transport bulky or fragile items. Another disadvantage is that things are harder to find because they are packed in layers.
Before buying a backpack, consider:
- Volume: for one-day trips, models up to 30 liters are suitable, and for multi-day trips, 50 liters or more.
- Ventilation system: the back with a ventilation mesh will make wearing more comfortable.
- Adjustable straps: they will ensure a proper fit and reduce the load.
A backpack is the best friend for active and curious travelers who value freedom of movement.
A backpack is a versatile but not always convenient option (photo: Freepik)
Sources: Smart Traveller, Solo Travelling, Lifehacker.
