[Luggage Recommendation] A good companion for travel enthusiasts! 12 popular luggage styles are recommended to you by category!
If you love to travel, having a suitcase that can hold a lot of clothes, toiletries, cosmetics, and more will allow you to pack up and go at a moment's notice! So, how do you choose the right suitcase for you? Without in-depth knowledge, you'll surely feel lost when picking a suitcase. This time, the editor will explain in detail how to choose a suitcase based on different purposes, materials, and functions, and recommend the 12 most popular suitcases. I believe after reading this suitcase recommendation, everyone will be able to find the most suitable suitcase for themselves.
6 Key Points for Choosing a Suitcase
If you're completely clueless when choosing a suitcase, you can start by considering your needs based on these 6 selection tips.
1. Choose Your Suitcase Based on Your Trip Duration
First, confirm your trip duration! If you bring a suitcase that's too large for a short stay, the extra space will cause items to scatter and be difficult to organize. Conversely, having too many souvenirs and a suitcase that's too small, leading to an overloaded bag, is also a big hassle.
The standard I recommend is: for 2-3 day trips, choose an 18-inch to 21-inch suitcase; for 4-6 days, select a 23-inch to 25-inch suitcase. For a short international trip of about a week, you can opt for a slightly larger 26-inch or 27-inch suitcase. If you plan on extensive shopping or a long-term trip to places like Europe or North America, 28 inches or larger would be your best suitcase choice.
2. Suitcase Material Considerations
Suitcases are divided into soft-shell and hard-shell, and each has its advantages.
Soft-shell Suitcases
Soft-shell suitcases are made of fabric, making them very flexible; even if you have too much luggage, you can still manage to close them by squeezing. Most styles have zipper expansion features, and you don't have to worry about them getting bumped or scratched in crowded airports. Furthermore, most soft-shell suitcases are top-loading, allowing for easy organization of items even in small hotel rooms.
On the other hand, soft-shell suitcases offer low impact protection for their contents. Fragile items like glass inside the luggage are at a very high risk of damage. Also, their anti-theft function is relatively weak; an ill-intentioned person can easily cut them open with a knife. It's important to remember to avoid placing valuables in soft-shell suitcases!
Hard-shell Suitcases
Compared to soft-shell suitcases, hard-shell suitcases offer better anti-theft protection. Once locked with a password, they are harder to pry open, provide better protection for contents, and are waterproof. For long trips, when you have more large items, hard-shell suitcases are better for organizing them. However, hard-shell suitcases, especially those made of metal, can be a bit heavy, taking up some of the checked luggage allowance. Hard-shell suitcases might also crack if handled roughly during transit, so these small details should be noted.
3. Choose Between Aluminum Frame or Zipper
Hard-shell suitcases also come in two types: zipper and aluminum frame. The weight of an aluminum frame suitcase, in addition to the original weight of the luggage, will be heavier than a zipper type. Zipper materials are lighter, and if you have a lot of luggage, you can press it down to barely close it. However, this also reduces its ability to withstand impact, and if it's too full, it might burst open during handling. Additionally, zipper types are at a disadvantage in terms of security, as they can be easily cut open with sharp objects.
The aluminum frame structure opens like a briefcase, with the top and bottom covers aligning and latching shut. It offers excellent anti-theft protection, but the storage space is less flexible, and if you have too much luggage, it might not close.
4. Types of Suitcase Wheels
Suitcase wheels come in two types: two-wheel and four-wheel.
Two-Wheel Suitcases
They have two wheels on one side and two support feet on the other, making them easy to move on uneven roads and less prone to damage. However, they can only be dragged in one direction, and if the angle is too low, it can cause damage to the bottom.
Four-Wheel Suitcases
They can be easily pulled in all 360 degrees, providing smooth movement. Four-wheel types are recommended for large suitcases, but they tend to produce noise. I recommend choosing a suitcase with a silent function.
5. Planning a Trip to the US? Be Sure to Use a TSA-Approved Lock.
The "TSA lock," which is less known in Taiwan, is actually a padlock certified by the TSA (Transportation Security Administration). If your destination is the United States, it is best to choose a suitcase with a "TSA lock"!
Due to terrorist attacks, the U.S. strictly requires all incoming passengers' luggage to be inspected. Travelers are asked not to lock their luggage; if locked and selected for inspection, it will be forcefully opened. But surely you wouldn't feel safe leaving your luggage unlocked, right?
To address this situation, a security lock with a red diamond logo was created. U.S. Customs has a master key for TSA locks, allowing travelers to securely lock their luggage, while U.S. Customs can use the master key to open it for inspection. In recent years, it has become standard equipment for suitcases, providing more peace of mind when checking in luggage during travel.
Data source: Travel Sentry
6. Choose Your Favorite Style of Suitcase
Finally, it's about choosing a suitcase with a style and design that you like! For a rare trip, it's definitely worth picking a suitcase that you find appealing. Pulling a suitcase you love will allow you to enjoy a wonderful and relaxed journey even more.
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5 High-Value Suitcase Recommendations
Above, I provided 6 key points for choosing a suitcase. After roughly understanding your needs, it's time to pick your favorite from the dazzling array of suitcases on the market. I'll start by recommending 5 excellent suitcase brands that offer good quality and high value.
German NaSaDen New Carefree Series Lightweight Zipper Suitcase
★Price: 26-inch New Carefree NT$3599-3899
Go to official website to find products
★Price: 29-inch New Carefree NT$3799-3999
Go to official website to find products
Suitcase Specifications
22 inches 3.2KG 56X37X22CM
26 inches 3.8KG 68X45X25CM
29 inches 5KG 79X52X27CM
The German NaSaDen suitcase, rich in design elements and inspiration, can be said to be the top choice among high-value suitcases. When it comes to international travel, everyone hopes for a suitcase that is light, easy to pull, and yet has a large capacity, which seems contradictory. The German NaSaDen New Carefree series suitcase not only features a dual U-shaped multi-functional storage interior with multiple layers and waterproof compartments, making it convenient and time-saving for organizing clothes and sundries. The design with a hidden waterproof inner pocket for valuables is also very thoughtful.
Furthermore, regarding the German premium brand NaSaDen suitcases, I find their brand philosophy very appealing. They adhere to the concept of not just selling suitcases, but rather "dream-fulfilling story boxes," as if pulling a suitcase can initiate the first step towards pursuing dreams, unrestrained by reality, moving forward fearlessly. No matter where you go, this dream-fulfilling story box can accompany you through the ups and downs of the journey, enjoying every moment of happiness.
In addition, the case body of the German NaSaDen suitcase is made of PC+ABS material and has passed multiple SGS tests. It is ultra-light and burden-free, so even children can easily push it. It is equipped with 360-degree silent omnidirectional wheels, making it smooth and easy to push, so you don't have to worry about walking long distances during international travel. This NaSaDen New Carefree Series lightweight zipper suitcase features a silver pearlescent textured zipper made of reinforced PU material, which is aesthetically pleasing and tightly sealed to prevent luggage from bursting open.
Beyond its stylish and high-quality appearance, it offers sizes of 22/26/29 inches and 13 colors to choose from, making the editor with decision-making difficulties even more indecisive. Moreover, it features a TSA customs combination lock, ensuring the security of your luggage. With such a high-value suitcase, it's no wonder it receives rave reviews from netizens!
MUJI Four-Wheel Hard-shell Stopper Suitcase
★Price: 17-inch~29-inch/NT$3900~8500
Suitcase Specifications
17 inches (20L) 2.7KG 47X32X20.5CM
20 inches (36L) 2.9KG 54X37X24CM
26 inches (63L) 4.3KG 70X45X25CM
28 inches (88L) 4.8KG 75X49X29CM
29 inches (105L) 5.1KG 77X52X29CM
The first MUJI suitcase is simple and elegant in design, available in four colors: beige, dark blue, light gray, and black. The retractable handle can be adjusted in 1cm increments to suit your height, and it features a stopper button. The solid double wheels on all four corners ensure quieter and smoother dragging. Made in Japan with excellent quality, it's a very practical suitcase.
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Japan LEGEND WALKER 6720
★Price: 20~28 inches NT$12000~14800
Suitcase Specifications
20 inches 3KG 49X34.5X23CM
25 inches 5.3KG 62X43X27CM
28 inches 6KG 68X46X29CM
The Japan LEGEND WALKER 6720 has three essential selling points. First, it features an anti-theft function: if you move more than 10 meters away from the suitcase, both the suitcase and your phone will sound an alarm (requires Bluetooth pairing with your phone). Next is the unique round handle developed by LEGEND WALKER, which has a ring of LED lights, making it more visible when moving at night. The D-shaped hook on the outside of the suitcase can hang a handbag or luggage weighing around 2KG. It uses a three-layer impact-resistant polycarbonate shell, so you don't have to worry about it being damaged during transit, no matter how much it's dropped or bumped.
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Travelhouse
★Price: 17~29 inches NT$1080~4280
Suitcase Specifications
17 inches 2.9KG 40X24X39CM
18 inches 3.05KG 32X22X49CM
20 inches 3.76KG 37X22X55CM
24 inches 4KG 66x29x42CM
28 inches 4.7KG 78x32x49CM
29 inches 5.87KG 39.5x33x73.5CM
If you want to save money, you can consider Travelhouse suitcases. They are affordable yet good quality, available in various sizes and vibrant, cute colors. Many netizens highly recommend these high-value suitcases. Using them a few times for international travel will make you feel like you've gotten your money's worth.
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WORLD TRUNK Vintage Suitcase
★Price: 19~25 inches NT$8500~9200
Suitcase Specifications
19 inches 2.9KG 46X35X22CM
25 inches 4.4KG 60X41X25CM
Tired of ordinary-looking suitcases? Consider WORLD TRUNK's suitcases. Their vintage design gives off a very artistic vibe, instantly elevating your style. The antique top-opening design, combined with four wheels for easy pulling, allows smaller sizes to be used as carry-on luggage. It's a highly sought-after suitcase, so if you're keen on aesthetics, grab one now.
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7 Recommended Premium Brand Suitcases
If you travel frequently for business or leisure, it's essential to choose a durable premium brand. The materials and craftsmanship of branded suitcases are exceptional, and you get what you pay for. If you're looking for a sturdy and durable suitcase, continue reading for my recommendations of branded suitcases.
CENTURION
★Price: 22~29 inches NT$3100~5300
Suitcase Specifications
22 inches 3KG 39X24X57CM
26 inches 4KG 46X29X68CM
29 inches 5KG 53X33X78CM
CENTURION is an American suitcase brand. Its brand philosophy, "ONE DESIGN, ONE MATERIAL, MORE THAN ONE HUNDRED COLORS," represents a platform for humanistic exchange through suitcases. It excels in collaborating with artists or internationally renowned brands, using suitcases as a medium to tell a beautiful story or express a claim and appeal. Its distinct style is deeply loved, and anyone can find their most satisfying suitcase among the many designs. CENTURION's Gulfstream series suitcases come in zipper and aluminum frame types, available in 3 sizes, and are also one of the popular flight attendant suitcases.
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Samsonite
★Price: 25~28 inches NT$24,800~26,800
Suitcase Specifications
25 inches 3.3KG 69X45X29CM
28 inches 3.8KG 75X51X31CM
Samsonite is a very well-known American luggage brand. Among its products, the Lite-Locked is the strongest, most durable, yet extremely lightweight suitcase within Samsonite's own brand. I once picked up a Lite-Locked and was incredibly surprised that I could lift it with just one hand. Suitcases are essential for frequent travelers, and this model perfectly meets everyone's need for a light yet sturdy suitcase. A light suitcase is not only easy to carry, but also allows for more weight to be checked in.
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TUMI V3
★Price: Not directly sold in Taiwan for now
TUMI, an American luggage brand, is dedicated to creating top-tier professional business suitcases. Among TUMI's many suitcases, I highly recommend the V3. The V3 is the lightest in its brand, and its quality and impact resistance are absolutely no concern. The most recommended feature is its 5cm expansion capability, so you don't have to worry about buying too much and not having enough space for your luggage. That extra 5cm allows you to bring back even more souvenirs from abroad!
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RIMOWA Topas
★Price: 20 inches NT$30,820
Suitcase Specifications
20 inches 4.6KG 55X40X20CM
Speaking of RIMOWA, everyone knows it's the most durable brand among all suitcase brands worldwide. RIMOWA uses aluminum-magnesium alloy for its suitcases, offering excellent properties such as high strength, strong shock resistance, and good moisture resistance. Coupled with refined German craftsmanship and the classic pleated appearance, it has become the number one suitcase brand in everyone's minds.
RIMOWA suitcases, beloved by celebrities and often seen in many famous films, may cost tens of thousands of dollars each, but their commitment to high-quality materials, solid construction, and excellent wheel design means they are resistant to cracking and damage from dragging. It's definitely worth spending that much money on a RIMOWA suitcase!
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Rimowa Salsa Deluxe European Carry-On
★Price: 24 inches NT$26,000
Suitcase Specifications
24 inches 4.4KG 56X45X25CM
RIMOWA's revolutionary new product: SALSA, a suitcase made of polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is lightweight and durable, and can withstand temperatures ranging from +125 to -100 °C, making it an ideal material chosen for aircraft manufacturing. Therefore, RIMOWA also uses polycarbonate as a raw material to create the SALSA series, which can more effectively withstand various situations during travel. Compared to aluminum-magnesium alloy, the price is more affordable, and with multiple color options, I highly recommend this model to women!
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DELSEY CHATELET AIR
★Price: 20~28 inches NT$13,800~17,800
Suitcase Specifications
20 inches 3.3KG 48.5X35X25CM
24 inches 4.2KG 61X45.5X28CM
28 inches 5.2KG 70X52.5X32CM
DELSEY, a renowned European luggage brand, is famous throughout Europe. Its top design team combines modern fashion with robust and durable performance, making DELSEY a favorite among flight attendants. It has developed the world-patented ST security zipper, which resists the risk of being cut open by sharp objects. The two-stage telescopic handle and double-row airplane wheels ensure smoother dragging. Made from tough, bulletproof material, it is less susceptible to external forces. Finally, with comfortable leather handles and the brand logo, it's sure to attract attention wherever you go.
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AMERICAN TOURISTER AT American Traveler Curio Three-Dimensional Record Groove
★Price: 20~30 inches NT$5500~7500
Suitcase Specifications
20 inches 2.6KG 55X36X24CM
25 inches 3.9KG 69X49X33CM
30 inches 4.9KG 80X57X373CM
The American pop-art color scheme and record-like grooves on the shell infuse the journey with vibrant brightness. Made from reinforced 100% PP material, the suitcase body is lightweight. The record-groove shell also reduces friction. With expandable features for increased storage space, this is highly recommended for shopping enthusiasts! ♡
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Find a favorite suitcase to accompany you on your travels!
Are the 6 key points for choosing a suitcase and the recommended suitcase brands that I shared incredibly practical? Choosing a suitcase isn't just about having a large space to put things; buying a good suitcase can also bring a comfortable experience to your travels! Remember the six main tips for choosing: "duration, soft or hard shell, opening method, wheels, TSA lock, and eye-pleasing design." I hope everyone can successfully find their most compatible travel companion!
Original article from: https://beauty-upgrade.tw/44719/