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1. How to Buy Luggage
» How long is your average trip? Overnight, two days, four to six days or longer. Are you traveling by air or car?
» If air traveling for a week a 26 inch pullman is recommended. Noting that the airlines are being very strict enforcing their 50 lbs per case restrictions. Over that you woill be charged an overweight charge.
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2. The Perfect Luggage
» Consider which is the best style for your type of travel. Decide between a travel backpack, duffel bag, wheeled suitcase or traditional suitcase.
» Shop around. Discount outlets often offer the same quality luggage as high-end luggage stores at a fraction of the cost.
» Open each suitcase you're thinking about buying. Count the number of inside compartments to be sure it will afford plenty of room.
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3. The Ideal Luggage
» Consider where you're going and what you're packing before you shop for new luggage. This will determine the quantity and size of luggage you'll need.
» Determine your budget before you shop. This will help steer you in the direction of quality luggage brands you can afford. A reputable luggage store that specializes in all types of luggage will give you advice based on your budget and travel needs.
» Decide whether you want soft or hard-case luggage. Heavier, hard-sided suitcases offer far better protection for fragile items (if packed properly). Soft luggage is lighter.
» If you choose a roller model, look for heavy-duty wheels (some have durable in-line skate wheels) and a sturdy base.
» When buying soft luggage, check the denier of a fabric, a measurement that refers to the fineness of the yarn. Generally speaking, the higher the denier the more durable the fabric.
» Look for a quality zipper that's heavy-duty enough to support the weight the bag was designed to hold. (Top of the line zippers are YKKs.) Critical seams and attachment points for webbing should be bar-tacked.
» Make sure the bags fits airlines' approved carry-on size. Most bags within the 24 X 14 X 9-inch (61 x 35.5 x 23-cm) size restriction is considered legal on all planes.
» Choose a size that's appropriate for the length of your trip. Keep in mind the possibility of needing to accommodate unexpected items or expand for a longer trip.
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4. Closeout Luggage Sets
» Determine which luggage pieces you really need and which pieces you can do without. You may never use a garment bag, a toiletry bag, or that extra tote. However, that third carry-on sized suitcase might make your life easier and double as your new overnight bag. Figure out what you need so that you can buy an appropriate set.
» Buy at the right time. Luggage typically goes on sale during or right after major holidays. March, May and July are believed to be the best months for getting great closeout deals on luggage sets.
» Go to the right place. Avoid smaller specialty and boutique stores for luggage sets as they carry less inventory and prices remain fairly consistent. Larger "box stores" and major chain retailers often provide special incentive sales around the holidays to buy luggage sets, but sometimes these sales are more hype than bargain. Discount department store retailers, outlet malls, and closeout stores are the best bet for getting a complete set of higher quality luggage at a great price.
» Check for quality before you purchase. Getting a great bargain on luggage is key, but refuse to compromise on quality. There's no point to investing in a set of luggage at any price if it falls apart and you have to buy a new one in just a few years. Be sure to pick something in a color and pattern that you don't mind looking at for the next several years.
» Opt for nylon or ballistic nylon over cloth, durable zippers with wide teeth, recessed rubber wheels and locking telescoping handles. A hybrid hard and soft side luggage set is the best deal. It has a hard frame and nylon covering, which makes it both durable and lightweight.
Budget Travel inc
Travel Tools - Article Index
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