A Guide to Choosing Your Perfect Luggage

​Whether you're jetting off for a quick weekend getaway or embarking on an epic month-long adventure, choosing the right luggage is crucial. You don’t want to be that person dragging a suitcase three times your size through the airport (unless you're into making a dramatic entrance). So, let’s dive into the world of travel luggage, comparing large, medium, and cabin-sized suitcases, along with soft body vs. hard body cases. By the end of this post, you'll know exactly what to pack (and what to leave behind).
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Large Suitcases: The Overpackers’ Dream
If you're planning a lengthy vacation or moving to a new country (no pressure), the large suitcase is your trusty companion. Generally ranging from 27 to 32 inches, this giant can hold everything from clothes for every occasion to a small library of books (because, hey, we’re all trying to read more, right?).
Advantages:

• Space galore: You can fit everything. Seriously, everything. More shoes? Sure. More snacks? Why not.
• Perfect for extended trips: If you're planning a two-week (or longer) vacation, a large suitcase is ideal for hauling your entire wardrobe.
• Better weight distribution: With the larger size, weight is spread out more evenly, making it a little easier to balance when fully packed.

Disadvantages:

• Size matters: You’ll likely need to check it in, which means you could face additional baggage fees (depending on the airline). Plus, it’s not exactly the easiest thing to haul around.
• It’s like a game of Tetris: Once it’s packed, it's hard to find anything without emptying half of it out.

Medium Suitcases: The Sweet Spot
If large suitcases are too much of a hassle, but you’re not quite at the minimalist “carry-on only” stage, medium-sized suitcases (usually 24-26 inches) are your best bet. Think of this as the Goldilocks size - not too big, not too small, but just right.
Advantages:

• Flexible packing: Medium suitcases are the perfect size for a weeklong trip (or longer if you’re really good at packing). You get plenty of room but without the chaos of a gigantic suitcase.
• Easy to manoeuvre: It’s lighter and easier to wheel around than its larger counterpart, so you won’t feel like you’re trying to move a small boulder through the airport.
• Airline-friendly: Most airlines won’t charge you extra for checking in a medium-sized bag, which makes it ideal for the savvy traveller.

Disadvantages:

• Limited space for long trips: If you’re planning to take multiple outfits for different occasions or can’t resist packing just in case, this size may leave you wishing for more room.
• It could still be checked: Though it’s usually within the free checked luggage limit, some airlines may still ding you with additional fees if it exceeds the size limit.

Cabin-sized Suitcases: The Carry-On Revolution
Ah, the cabin-sized suitcase—the true hero of short trips. Typically ranging from 18 to 22 inches, these small, carry-on bags are perfect for business trips, weekend getaways, or those who just want to avoid the stress of waiting for checked luggage at baggage claim.
Advantages:

• Skip the baggage claim: You can simply walk off the plane, head straight to the taxi, and be on your merry way. It’s like being in the VIP lane of the airport.
• No additional fees: Many airlines include carry-ons in their ticket price, so you won’t have to worry about paying extra (but remember to check your carriers’ weight and size limit restrictions).
• Lightweight and compact: You’re not lugging around a monster suitcase, which means you’re less likely to get backaches. Plus, you can squeeze this under the seat in front of you if you’re flying.

Disadvantages:

• Packing Tetris: Packing for a multi-day trip in a carry-on is an art. You’ll need to master the skill of rolling your clothes and deciding which pair of shoes to leave behind.
• Restricted space: If you’re the type to overpack, this size might test your ability to say “no” to unnecessary items.

Soft Body vs. Hard Body: What’s Your Style?
When it comes to the type of suitcase, you’ll have to decide between soft-body and hard-body luggage. Each has its own unique advantages and drawbacks.

• Soft Body Suitcases: These are the flexible, stretchy friends of the luggage world. Made from durable fabrics like nylon or polyester, they can expand slightly to give you a bit more space. Plus, you can often squeeze them into tight overhead bins. Their advantages include: Expandability, lightweight, easy to squish into tight spaces, external pockets for easy access. Disadvantages include: Can get squished and damaged more easily, less protection for fragile items.
• Hard Body Suitcases: These are the solid, dependable types, usually made from polycarbonate or aluminum. Think of them as the armored cars of luggage. Their advantages include: Super sturdy and protective (good for delicate items), sleek and modern design, less prone to getting dirty. Disadvantages include: Can be heavier, less expandable, and usually has fewer external compartments.

Final Thoughts?
Choosing the right suitcase really depends on your trip length, how much you’re willing to pack, and whether or not you want to be the person trying to wrestle a massive bag through an airport. But regardless of size or material, make sure your luggage fits your needs, adds convenience to your travels, and, most importantly, doesn’t leave you stressing about baggage fees or luggage theft.