Choosing the right travel bag can make or break your trip. You need a bag that meets your needs and fits your travel style. This travel bags buying guide will help you navigate the options. From weekend trips to long flights, you want to make the right choice.
Let's dive into the factors you should consider when buying a travel bag. Then, we’ll explore different bags for road trips, carry-on luggage, and checked bags in this travel bags buying guide.
Travel Bags Buying Guide: Factors to Consider
Before you start shopping, think about your specific needs. Not all bags work for every situation. Ask yourself a few key questions. What type of trip are you going on? How much do you need to pack? Do you prefer duffel bags, backpacks, or rolling luggage? These questions will help you make an informed choice. In this travel bags buying guide, we'll talk about the most important factors to consider when buying your next travel bag.
Purpose
What is your bag’s main function? Weekend trips, international flights, or road trips all have different needs. If you're flying, you may want a carry on bag that fits in the overhead bin. A weekend trip might require a compact duffel bag or a weekender bag. For road trips, you might prefer a backpack or tote bag. Your travel plans will determine the type of bag that best suits your trip.
Versatility
A versatile bag will serve you well. The more uses a bag has, the more valuable it becomes. Some carry on bags convert from a backpack to a shoulder bag. You also want bags with adjustable straps and compression straps for added flexibility. Portability and flexibility are valuable when in comes to traveling.
Functionality
Look for bags with smart features. Sturdy zippers, compression straps, mesh pockets, multiple compartments, and zippered compartments help you stay organized. You also want a bag that is easy to carry, whether it has backpack straps or a shoulder strap. Consider if the bag has enough packing space and exterior pockets for easy access to your items. The FTL Original includes a shoe compartment and a padded laptop sleeve for added convenience.
Material
Durability is key when choosing travel bags. You'll want to pick between hard shell and soft-sided luggage. Hard shell bags offer more protection, but soft sided luggage is more flexible. Water-resistant materials are a plus, especially for travel bags.
Polyester is one of the most common materials used in travel bags. It’s affordable and can resist water. However, polyester can wear out faster under rough handling. Nylon is more durable than polyester. It’s also lighter and more flexible, which is why many frequent travelers prefer it. Nylon can withstand more rough handling without losing its shape or quality.
Style and Design
A well-designed travel bag does more than carry your stuff. It should also look good. Choose a bag that fits your style, whether that’s sleek and professional or laid-back and casual. Look for a travel bag that is designed to look good in any situation, from business meetings to weekend getaways.
Sustainability
In this travel bags buying guide, we value sustainability. If you care about the environment, consider buying a sustainable bag. Many brands now offer eco-friendly materials like vegan leather or recycled fabrics. These bags are made with materials that are often recycled. This reduces the demand for virgin plastics and other harmful materials. There are many sustainable travel bags are made from recycled plastic or recycled polyester. This gives waste materials a second life.
Types of Travel Bags for Road Trips
When it comes to road trips, you need bags that are easy to pack in a car. You'll want something that fits in your trunk but still offers easy access to your belongings. In this travel bags buying guide, here are some common options.
Backpacks
A backpack is perfect for a road trip. It’s easy to carry, lightweight, and versatile. You can store it in the car or take it with you when you explore. Most backpacks offer several compartments, which help you stay organized. However, backpacks may not have enough space for longer trips.
Pros:
Lightweight and easy to carry
Multiple compartments for organization
Great for day trips or hikes
Cons:
Limited packing space for longer trips
Not ideal for formal occasions
Duffel Bags
Duffel bags like the FTL Original are another excellent choice for road trips. They offer more packing space than backpacks, but they’re still easy to carry. Duffel bags are perfect for storing in the trunk. They are more flexible than hard shell suitcases and can fit in tight spaces.
Pros:
Large capacity
Flexible for packing in car trunks
Easy to carry with shoulder straps
Cons:
Less organized compared to other bags
May not offer much protection for delicate items
Beach Bags or Tote Bags
For a quick getaway, a tote bag or beach bag may be all you need. These bags are simple but effective. They’re great for short trips where you only need a few essentials. However, they don't offer much in terms of organization or space.
Pros:
Lightweight and easy to carry
Simple design
Ideal for short day trips
Cons:
Limited space
Minimal organization
Types of Travel Bags for Carry Ons
For air travel, your carry on bag is essential. It needs to fit airline size restrictions and have enough room for your essentials. In this travel bags buying guide, we'll give you the top options for hand carry bags.
Duffel Bags
A duffel bag makes a great carry on. It’s flexible, lightweight, and easy to carry. You can fit it under the seat or in the overhead bin. The FTL Original is a perfect example of a duffel-style carry-on with multiple compartments, making it ideal for frequent flyers.
Pros:
Fits easily in tight spaces
Multiple compartments for organization
Lightweight
Cons:
May lack protection for delicate items
No wheels for easy transport
Backpacks
A backpack also works as a carry on. It’s easy to carry, fits under the seat, and offers good organization. However, it may not have the same packing space as a larger duffel or rolling suitcase.
Pros:
Easy to carry
Good organization with multiple compartments
Fits under the seat
Cons:
Limited space for longer trips
Not suitable for professional or formal settings
Rolling Suitcase
For those who prefer a more traditional option, a rolling suitcase is a great choice. You can easily maneuver a wheeled luggage through the airport. Look for a carry on spinner with two wheels or four wheels. It offers more protection for fragile items.
Pros:
Easy to roll through airports
Offers protection for delicate items
Great for longer trips
Cons:
Bulky and hard to carry when needed
Takes up more space in overhead bins
Types of Travel Bags for Checked Luggage
For longer trips or those requiring more packing, you'll need a checked bag. Hard shell and soft-sided luggage are the two main options for checked luggage. In this travel bags buying guide, we'll talk about the different types of luggage available for check-in.
Hard Shell Luggage
A hard shell suitcase offers the most protection. It’s ideal for carrying fragile items and electronics. The downside is that it can be heavy and less flexible when packing.
Pros:
High durability
Offers strong protection
Ideal for international flights
Cons:
Heavy and bulky
Less flexible when packing
Soft-Sided Luggage
Soft-sided luggage is more flexible. It’s easier to pack into tight spaces and can expand to fit more items. However, it may not offer as much protection as hard shell luggage.
Pros:
Flexible and easier to pack
Lightweight
Fits in smaller spaces
Cons:
Less protection for delicate items
More prone to wear and tear
FTL Original: The Most Versatile Travel Bag
When it comes to versatility, the FTL Original stands out from the rest. This bag works for airline travel, road trips, and even daily commutes. Here’s why it’s the best option for frequent flyers and road warriors alike.
Sleek Design for Formal and Informal Galas
The FTL Original looks great in both casual and formal settings. You can take it to the gym, office, or an important business meeting. It offers both function and style.
Huge 30L Capacity for All Your Travel Essentials
With 30 liters of space, you’ll have room for everything. The bag is perfect for weekend trips, airline travel, and even office-to-gym use. It’s designed to fit more than most carry ons, making it ideal for travelers who need extra space.
Multiple Compartments for an Organized Travel
You’ll stay organized with the FTL Original. It features multiple compartments, including a padded laptop sleeve, a shoe compartment, and a packing cube. You can easily separate dirty clothes from clean ones, and keep shoes away from your clothes.
Durable and Water-Resistant Bag for Wet and Dry Adventures
Made from water-resistant vegan leather, the FTL Original is built to last. The bag is durable enough for rough handling yet stylish for any occasion. You can count on it in both wet and dry conditions, whether you're flying or hitting the road.
Get the Travel Bag That Fits Your Needs
Choosing the right travel bag can be overwhelming. But with the right guidance and travel bags buying guide, you can find a bag that fits your needs. This travel bags buying guide covers everything from carry ons to checked luggage. For the most versatile option, look no further than the FTL Original. With its sleek design, multiple compartments, and durable material, it’s the best choice for any traveler. Shop now!
