Traveling to a new destination can be exciting, but you must choose the right kind of luggage to carry your essentials. Many people prefer suitcases as they come in various sizes and materials. That said, finding one that meets all your needs is challenging. Some key features to consider when selecting the perfect suitcase are size, material, number of pockets, and ease of use. The following are a few tips when shopping for a suitcase.

Learn about the types available
The two most common types of suitcases you can easily get are:

• Spinner suitcases
  Spinner suitcases have four wheels and can stand upright. They are suitable for smooth surfaces and can be rolled right beside you. You might find them being pulled through airports.

• Roller suitcases
  Roller suitcases have two wheels and must be pulled at a 45-degree angle. They are not very easy to maneuver but are suitable for rough surfaces.

Both spinner and roller suitcases come in various sizes and can be used for business travel, family trips, and road journeys. However, adventure travelers might prefer wheeled backpacks over suitcases. These can be strapped onto the shoulder with the help of a belt. Wheeled backpacks are suitable for areas with heavy foot traffic or flights of stairs.

Look for personalization options
Customized name tags and personalized patterns can give your suitcase a unique touch. They can set your bag apart from the rest and help you identify it easily wherever you go. A personalized suitcase may also allow you to add extra pockets to increase functionality. You can use these pockets to store important emergency information or additional documents.

Customized suitcases also make great gifts for family and friends. For example, you can choose a design or color that best suits a loved one’s personality and lifestyle. But remember that men and women might have different preferences regarding suitcases. For example, men may prefer larger suitcases with a leather finish, while women might opt for designs that match their outfits.

Invest in accessories
When purchasing a suitcase, do not forget to invest in accessories. Some recommended suitcase accessories include luggage tags, packing cubes or organizers, combination locks, garment covers, shoe bags, and wheeled duffle bags. Here’s when these products come in handy:

• Luggage tags help you quickly identify your bag on the carousel and ensure your belongings stay with you.
• Packing cubes or organizers keep everything organized in the suitcase, so you can quickly grab items when needed.
• Garment covers are ideal for keeping new clothes wrinkle-free while traveling.
• Shoe bags prevent dirt from rubbing onto other things in the suitcase.
• Wheeled duffle bags can be attached to your luggage for convenience when traveling far distances.

Look for deals online
The internet is the best place to find reasonably priced suitcases. However, ensure the website from which you buy has a secure payment method, return policy, and warranty. Also, look for a quality product with zip closures, water resistance, and resilient materials. If confused, read product reviews thoroughly and compare options to narrow your choices. A little bit of research will help you grab the best suitcase deals.

How to repair a suitcase?
Repairing your suitcase as soon as you see any rip or tear is essential. Postponing the job might worsen the problem. Here’s what you can do:

• If there is a large tear, rip, or fray, patch the area with waterproof material like tarpaulin or canvas. Use an adhesive to ensure the patch is firmly in place.
• Seams can be re-sewn by hand or machine.
• For smaller problems, such as scratches and chips, apply some shoe polish for an instant touch-up job.
• The padding or casings inside the bag may need replacing. Take those off if necessary and replace them with new ones or alternative materials, like bubble wrap or fabric scraps.
• Test jammed zippers and locks using a lubricant before replacing them.

If all else fails, hunt down replacements from bag repair stores or online retailers that stock individual spares for various luggage sets.