LUGGAGE 101 B
By Darcy Nybo
uying luggage can be tricky. Whether for business or pleasure, long haul or short trips, we’ve taken some of the legwork out of finding the luggage that is perfect for you.
Before you go shopping, write up a list of what you need from your bags. Do you want luggage with wheels, a waterproof compartment, a soft or hard shell, how many compartments does it need, does it need to double as a garment bag? Some pieces of luggage do triple duty; you can carry them, roll them, or wear them like a back pack. Others can only be carried one way, and for some, that is enough.
When choosing a bag on wheels, take into account your height. That smaller suitcase may be just the right size for your overnight trip; but it may be too low for you to comfortably roll along. Make sure you take them for a test walk around the store – or check online for recommended sizes for your height.
BUSINESS LUGGAGE
Business trips can take anywhere from one night to one week at a time, and you want to make sure your luggage is up for the challenge; especially if you are a frequent traveller. Leather is always a good choice for the business traveller. It offers strength, durability and great looks. There are several manufacturers of top-of-the-line sets that include a briefcase, carry on, and up to three sizes of suitcase. Sets may seem expensive at the time; however, they ensure you always have the right case for the right trip.
Consider how long your business trips are, the size of the airlines, and how many transfers your luggage will go through. If you travel mostly on smaller planes in remote areas, a hard cover suitcase is a safer buy. It will stand up to the elements and protect your belongings better. For short business
trips, you may opt for a garment bag style with pockets for lap tops and cell phones.
VACATION LUGGAGE When you don’t know how much you’re going to buy when you’re away; look into expandable luggage. Several companies offer luggage that expands up to 25%. They come in everything from hardcover to nylon and are perfect for bringing home those holiday treasures.
FAMILY LUGGAGE
Business and expandable luggage can be used for families; however, when searching for the perfect family vacation luggage you need to take children into consideration. Younger children love to pull bags that are just their size; however, luggage made specifically for children is usually not that durable. And when mom or dad ends up pulling it, the height of the handle is bound to cause discomfort. Purchasing good luggage in varying sizes is a great idea, and then as kids get older they can use the bigger cases. With exceptionally durable sets, once the kids have flown the nest, you’ll have just the right size bag no matter what the season or length of trip you are planning.
CHECK THE REVIEWS
Once you’ve decided what type of luggage you want, don’t forget to head to the internet and search for customer reviews. They can be a wealth of information and just may help you decide which bag or bags are right for you. There are several websites available with great product reviews. For example,
www.consumersearch.com/ search/reviews/luggage has a full report on luggage as well as a section on what to look for. When in doubt – ask your co-workers and friends what type of luggage they have, and why.
WHAT YOU CAN TAKE WHERE The number of bags you can take, their weight and additional costs differ from airline to airline. Domestic and international luggage regulations change with the carriers so be sure to check for restrictions and allowable sizes and weights before you arrive at the airport.
Here is a handy list of websites you can go to before you pack your bags.
westjet.com/guest/en/travel/basics/baggage flycma.com/terms_conditions.html flysunwing.com/travelinfo/baggageinfo.asp airtransat.ca/en/Info/baggage.aspx?ExitID=23 &ContentType=voyageur
aircanada.com/en/travelinfo/airport/baggage/ checked.html
canjet.com/en/home/travel-tools/travel- policies/
baggage.aspx
http://www.alaskaair.com/content/travel- info/policies/
baggage-checked.aspx
Lightweight luggage with
smart functionality. The perfect sidekick for any escape.
VERNON
KELOWNA
Village Green Mall Orchard Park Mall 250-545-9811
250-763-6566
www.bagsnall.ca FALL 2011 | 11
briggs-riley.com
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