Lightweight Luggage: What To Keep In Mind

So you’re going to be doing some traveling, and you need to get some luggage. Lightweight is best, you assume, and rightly so. With all the restrictions being placed on travelers, both on luggage checked and carry on bags, we have to plan to have lightweight pieces of luggage.

Why Favor Lightweight?

You may think, “Why worry about having lightweight luggage? Aren’t I just going to pull it behind me?” But it won’t be pulled all the time – there are stairs to go up or down, and overhead bins to put carry on within. Plus, even when pulling, the lighter it is, the easier it is. And if a wheel breaks and you’re suddenly stuck with carrying your “rolling” luggage, you’ll be glad for lightweight luggage.

Another benefit to lightweight luggage is that you will pay less to take with you. Now, for most airlines, they charge you to check even one bag. If it weighs too much, they will charge you more. And even carry on luggage must be lightweight, as they can weigh it if it appears too heavy.

Material Matter

If you want to have what you figure is deluxe, you may be thinking of getting leather luggage. Trouble is, leather – more expensive, to be sure! But also more prone to damage and more heavy! Avoid! Go for the lightweight luggage set of nylon construction, and you’ll be happier. Nylon is also generally water resistant. (Not water proof, but most of us don’t need that much protection from water, we’re not swimming the English Channel!)

Size Matters

When you take an objective look, the smaller the bag, the more lightweight that luggage will be. There is less fabric, less aluminum or steel, less “bones’ to the bag. As an added bonus, a smaller bag can be carried on the plane, avoiding the rough baggage handlers and the lengthy wait at your destination city to get your luggage back.

Wheels, Please?

Even if your luggage is lightweight, be sure your bags have good wheels. Look at the construction of the bag – are the wheels somewhat tucked in, where they are less prone to damage by rough handling? If you are rolling roughly over stairs or curbs, remember that all the weight (even if it is less than it would have been prior to reading this article!) will be upon the wheels and axels of your bag. Be considerate of the wheels and drive your bag safely!