Tips On Purchasing Wheeled Bags

By Author: Steve Robinson
Total Articles: 467
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Experienced travelers know that a successful trip depends on more than simply cheap airplane tickets and discount hotel rooms or cheap vacation packages. Bringing the right luggage on a trip can make traveling that much more enjoyable.

Given that rolling bags come in all shapes and sizes, many with features that may or may not be desirable, the following are features to look for when trying to decide which bag to purchase:

• Wheels should be widely spaced, encased with sealed bearings, and should swivel 360 degrees. Swivels make luggage easier to move and seals prevent the wheels from sticking.

• Look for a collapsible handle that is encased and placed on the exterior of a bag to allow for maximum packing space.

• Soft sided luggage tends to be more durable and is often more affordable.

• Only consider lightweight bags. You do not want to maneuver a heavy bag, and you do not want to pay for an overweight bag if you have to check your bag. The Kiva line of bags tends to be very lightweight.

• Remember , because a bag comes with wheels does not mean that you can carry it ...
... onto a plane. If you want to purchase a bag to be used as carry-on, then it should measure no more than 45 linear inches (length plus width plus height). Typically a 21 inch upright fits best in overhead compartments.

• Avoid bags with open pockets in the front. Such bags often have uneven weight distribution making them fall over when let go. Only consider bags with zippered front pockets.

• Be aware that not all “lifetime warranties” are the same. Often such warranties exclude excessive wear and tear and transport damage meaning if an airline damages the bag, it is not covered. Briggs & Riley offers a comprehensive warranty which covers the true lifetime of its bags.
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