Knowing what type of luggage will suit your holiday plans is not always a simple solution. Sometime I feel having my quality luggage over multiple trips they become a trusted friend. My rule is to buy the best luggage you can afford at the time. It needs to be versatile, meets carrier specifications, durable and as a bonus, standout from the crowd.
You can spend hundreds of dollars on a suitcase, even though price isn’t always an indicator of quality. You should inspect any suitcase thoroughly before buying, it is a large investment and you need to make sure you buy the right luggage for your needs. I currently use a 70 litre Kathmandu Hybrid with a 10 litre optional additional day pack. Check out the YouTube channel to see the video.
When it comes to suitcases, size doesn’t count. A larger suitcase means it fits more, means you will pack more, means you will most likely by over any weight limits for either checked-in and carry-on luggage. When choosing a suitcase the smaller the better.
Carry-on luggage specifications on domestic flights vary between carriers. If your carry-on looks too big it may raise suspicions by the airline staff and you may run the risk of having the weight checked. The next information was correct at the time of writing, so always check with your carrier specific dimensions are measured by adding together the length, height and depth of the luggage.
Virgin Australia (domestic)
You can carry:
- two 48 x 34 x 23cm bags, or
- one 48 x 34 x 23cm plus one garment/suit bag.
The weight allowance is 7kg per piece.
Qantas (domestic with some exclusions)
You can carry:
- two 105cm bags, or
- one 105cm bag plus one 185cm non-rigid garment bag, or
- one 115cm bag.
The weight allowance is 7kg per piece of baggage.
Jetstar (economy)
You can carry:
- one bag measuring no more than 56 x 36 x 23cm (smaller allowances for regional NZ flights operated by Q300 aircraft)
The weight allowance is 7kg per piece of baggage.
Qantas (international economy)
You can carry:
- one 115cm linear dimensions or
- one 185cm non-rigid garment bag
The weight allowance is 7kg per piece.
Singapore Airlines (economy)
You can carry:
- one 115cm linear dimensions
The weight allowance is 7kg per piece
American Airlines
You can carry:
- one 23 x 36 x 56cm bag
You must be able to carry into overhead locker
International airline carriers have varying luggage requirements. When travelling with multiple carriers or have a multiple-sector itinerary, I always chose to go with the lowest luggage specifications for each carrier.
There are some considerations to assess when choosing your luggage.
Size
The volume of the suitcase is important, remember to take into consideration the extendable handles and wheels to consume some of the packing space. Unidirectional wheels while weigh less than multidirectional wheel designs. Always check carry-on specifications when buying smaller luggage for carry-on.
Lightweight
The weight of the suitcase has to be taken into consideration when choosing any size of luggage as it becomes part of the luggage weight allowance.
Wheels
Choosing to buy a four-wheel spinner multidirectional model can luggage easier to use because you have the option to either pull it along or push them alongside you. The negative is that they are not brilliant over uneven surfaces. Luggage should roll easily, and not tip or bounce when being used. Consider a hybrid option (backpack and wheels) if you are going to be travelling where there is rough terrain.
Extendable handle
When in use the handle should extend to a comfortable height. Handles should be easy to extend and retract, lock solidly when extended and have a comfortable to grip. Handles and frames should be of a durable construction. There is an additional benefit if the handles are riveted in the frame.
Expandable compartment
Expandable compartments can be a benefit at times and a trap at others. Having space for those last few souvenirs is tempting to over fill and add to the suitcase weight on check-in.
Zips and fasteners
All zips and fasteners should functions smoothly. Zipper teeth should be large and free flowing with zipper tags large enough to grip easily. It is an advantage to have padlock holes for extra security.
Water resistance
If travelling in area where you expect wet weather, considering looking for luggage that is water-resistant. Don’t be lulled into a misconception that hard shell luggage is any more water-resistant than fabric ones, as water can still get through the joints.
Cost
When able consider purchase luggage on sale. Some carry-on luggage can range in price from A$30 to $700. With larger luggage for check-in can range from A$50 to $1000 in price.
