How to choose the right luggage bag – Suitcase buying guide
Weight
Check that your suitcase isn’t too heavy before setting off, as excess baggage fees are famously extortionate. The best full-size suitcases we tested weighed as little as 2.3kg when empty, with bulkier options coming in at a hefty 6.2kg. Use a portable luggage scale to prevent overages before you arrive at the airport.
Size
Most airlines allow one piece of hand luggage per passenger, with some permitting an additional smaller bag such as a handbag, backpack or laptop bag. Just because a suitcase calls itself “cabin-size”, that doesn’t mean it will fit in the cabin on your plane. Size restrictions vary, but many airlines accept cases up to 56 x 45 x 25 cm.
Color
Select a bag with a recognizable color or print so it can be easily spotted on the luggage carousel and not mistaken for someone else’s bag.
Security
Whether they have zippers with space for a travel lock or they have an internal locking system, never buy a suitcase you can’t lock.
A padlock is essential wherever you travel, but one with a Transport Security Administration (TSA) function is highly recommended for travellers.
Handles
Suitcases with handles on the top and side are particularly practical. These extra handles, in addition to the towing handle, make lifting your suitcase on and off check-in scales, luggage racks and baggage carousels much easier. Most top handles are telescopic and can be extended into multiple positions for optimum user comfort. They are also retractable for pushing down when not in use.
Wheels
You have two choices when it comes to wheels: two or four. Suitcases with two wheels tend to be lighter but have the risk of tipping over if they’re not balanced. On the other hand, four wheels will stand upright, plus they are easier to pull sideways on a plane without hitting all the passengers as you find your seat.
Storage
Internal pockets can be found inside most hard shell and soft-sided suitcases, from small integrated pockets and larger pouched compartments that can fit a laptop, to removable laundry bags and garment sections that help keep suit jackets from creasing. External pockets for stowing easy-access items are usually only found in soft-sided suitcases.
Expandability
Many suitcases feature an expandable panel, which can be unzipped for at least 10% extra packing space. Some of the top-scoring cabin cases and full-size suitcases in our roundups are expandable, and well worth considering if you can’t resist those last-minute gifts and souvenirs.
Should I buy Hard sided or Soft-sided ?
Hard sided bag – the most durable type of luggage, a hard shell suitcase has a rigid exterior that is usually made from moulded polypropylene, polycarbonate or ABS plastic, with some using aluminium. They’re less flexible than soft-sided suitcases, making them a better option for protecting delicate items. The shells are water-resistant, but water may still seep through the zipper.
Soft-sided bag – Made of polyester, nylon or a mix of both, soft-sided suitcases usually feature expandable sides for extra packing space. They tend to be less water-resistant than hard shell suitcases, but most have waterproof PVC linings for travelling in light rain.
Hardsided Suitcases For Cabin Luggage below Price 3000
1. Skybags Trooper 55 Cms Polycarbonate Blue Hardsided Cabin Luggage
Premium Polycarbonate, Adjustable Straps, 360 Roatating Wheels, Stainless Steel Strolly, Limited Edition Skybags Logo.
Unique and stylish look with spacious interiors design by Skybags. Outer material is textured with a micro-diamond finish for Scratch-Resistance and Reduced Abrasion Visibility. Durable blend of Polycarbonate and 100 percent virgin Hard Case Outer Material is designed to absorb impact under Stress And ‘Flex’ back into its original shape.
| Outer Material | Premium Polycarbonate, Antiscratch Body |
| Casing | Hard |
| Water resistant | No |
| Weight | 2 kg 360 g |
| Dimensions | 38 x 21 x 55 cms |
| Lock Type | Number Lock |
| Number of Wheels | 4 |
| Laptop Compatibility | No |
| Closure | Zipper |
| Cross Straps | Yes |
2. American Tourister Ivy Polypropylene 68 cms Black Hardsided
This includes 1 cabin size spinner, 1 medium size spinner and 1 large size spinner. A premium Polypropylene luggage in rich colours – such that will make even the A-listers turn their heads! This Spinner allows you that extra packing space to accommodate your last-minute shopping. Colour matched 3-digit Recessed TSA lock and colour coordinated components bring a rich look to the bag. Recessed TSA lock for a premium look and to provide foolproof security during your travel.
Meets most domestic carry-on size requirements,
Scratch and impact resistant material,
Extra packing space to accommodate your last-minute shopping
| Outer Material | Polycarbonate, Antiscratch Body |
| Casing | Hard |
| Water resistant | No |
| Weight | 3 kg 540 g |
| Dimensions | 47 x 26 x 68 cm |
| Lock Type | TSA Lock |
| Number of Wheels | 4 |
| Laptop Compatibility | No |
| Closure | Zipper |
| Cross Straps | Yes |
3. Safari RAY Polycarbonate 53 cms Hardsided Cabin Luggage
Ray, the genuine cabin size PC from Safari allows you to pack your belongings into a compact luggage And travel hassle free. This 53 size PC fits into all cabin size airline specifications.
| Outer Material | Polycarbonate, Antiscratch Body |
| Casing | Hard |
| Water resistant | Yes |
| Weight | 3 kg |
| Dimensions | 36 x 20 x 53 cm |
| Lock Type | Number Lock, Fixed Combination Lock |
| Number of Wheels | 4 |
| Laptop Compatibility | No |
| Closure | Zipper |
| Cross Straps | Yes |
4. Safari Thorium Sharp Antiscratch 66 Cms/ 55 Cms Polycarbonate
Presenting Thorium Antiscratch – A combination of durability and design that is crafted to add Style and elegance to your every move! The interiors are designed to offer maximum packing space and the Fixed lock will ensure safety of all your belongings. So get ready to give traveling in style a new meaning.
| Outer Material | Polycarbonate, Antiscratch Body |
| Casing | Hard |
| Water resistant | Yes |
| Weight | 5 kg |
| Dimensions | 41 x 25 x 66 cm |
| Lock Type | Number Lock, Fixed Combination Lock |
| Number of Wheels | 4 |
| Laptop Compatibility | No |
| Closure | Zipper |
| Cross Straps | Yes |
5. Kamiliant by American Tourister KAM Kiza Polypropylene 79 cms/ 68cms Hardsided
Kamiliant kiza is a design inspired by the iconic kamiliant logo. Made of resilient polypropylene material It can Withstand The rough handling during your travel. Its ultra-lightweight, hence enabling you to carry extra luggage. The dual texture makes it resistant to scratches.
| Outer Material | Polycarbonate, Antiscratch Body |
| Casing | Hard |
| Water resistant | Yes |
| Weight | 4.23 kg |
| Dimensions | 55 x 32 x 79 cm |
| Lock Type | Number Lock |
| Number of Wheels | 4 |
| Laptop Compatibility | No |
| Closure | Zipper |
| Cross Straps | Yes |
Softsided Suitcases For Cabin Luggage below Price 3000
1. Skybags Rubik Polyester 68 Cms Softsided
It is made of strong & lightweight polyester shells. Re-engineered lightweight spinner wheels for effortless mobility. TSA lock ensures security while traveling. Expander feature for extra packing space, Push Button Trolley, Smooth 4 wheeler Strolly.
| Outer Material | Polyester |
| Casing | Soft |
| Water resistant | No |
| Weight | 4.5 kg |
| Dimensions | 40 x 35 x 68 cm |
| Lock Type | TSA |
| Number of Wheels | 4 |
| Laptop Compatibility | No |
| Closure | Zipper |
| Cross Straps | No |
2. American Tourister Polyester 22.83 inches Soft Carry-on Suitcase
At American Tourister, we believe travel should be fun. We take pride in making stylish, high quality, and yeah, fun luggage that you can rely on. Side lugs and side handles for support, Bottom holder for ease in lifting luggage.
Side lugs and side handles for support,
Bottom holder for ease in lifting luggage.
| Outer Material | Polyester |
| Casing | Soft |
| Water resistant | No |
| Weight | 2.9 kg |
| Dimensions | 39 x 25.5 x 58 cm |
| Lock Type | Number Lock, Fixed combination lock |
| Number of Wheels | 4 |
| Laptop Compatibility | No |
| Closure | Zipper |
| Cross Straps | Yes |
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