Buying the Right Bag
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Buying
the Right Bag: A Quick Overview
by
Judy Wolf
Looking for luggage that will get you where you need to go without getting in your way? The first thing to keep in mind while shopping is this: you're probably going to spend some quality time lugging your bags around. The lighter and easier your luggage is to handle, the happier you'll be -- not to mention less vulnerable and more independent. Consider investing in a good backpack: it frees up your hands, and is designed for walking. Moving from place to place, you can throw your main bag on your back and a daypack on your front for convenience and mobility.
That said, if you have back problems, you might want to look for luggage with wheels: but again, you'll spend a surprising amount of time lifting it (stairs, curbs, uneven ground -- and don't forget that wheels can break), so don't over pack. Wheels don't help much when you're faced with a crowded subway escalator (or stairs!) and a huge suitcase you can't lift.
If you decide to get a backpack, go to a reputable outdoor shop and try on a variety of packs. Ask about adjustability and fit -- different bags fit bodies differently. Understanding how to shift the weight distribution will become increasingly important to you the more you load down the pack and spend time walking with it. If you're mainly using your pack for travel purposes, pay attention to how securely it can be closed up. Lots of pockets can be convenient for arranging items, but are also easy to rifle through (try stuff sacks for organization instead: mesh or nylon bags in a variety of colors that can be found in any outdoor shop). On the other hand, if openings have double zippers with metal tabs (rather than fabric loops), you can use luggage locks to increase security. PacSafe (www.pac-safe.com) also makes an ingenious luggage security system that's worth checking out.
If you're considering luggage with wheels, take it for a test run in the store. Load it up (ask for their phone books) and see how it turns corners and navigates tight aisles. If you're taking it as a carry-on, you'll want it to get down the aisle without bruising every single knee on the way to your seat, but you also don't want it to spend half its time tipping over. Make sure the wheels are built to hold up to street abuse (not just running through glossy airport terminals) and the handle is strong and can recess completely and securely.
You'll most likely end up with two bags: your main pack, and a smaller bag that stays with you on airplanes and also holds what you need for a day of sightseeing. Many travelers carry a bookbag-style daypack as their smaller bag. The compartments are handy, and it's got a variety of carrying options. If you opt for a purse/one-strap bag, make sure it's big enough to carry your guidebook, snacks, and a liter of water while you wander around town. It should also have a sturdy strap that's long enough to go over your head rather than leaving the bag dangling temptingly from one shoulder. Keep in mind with a single-strap bag that if you're carrying around weight (water, food, guidebook) for the day, the one-sided pressure can start to get uncomfortable.
Remember, rugged construction and a good fit are key to a long and happy relationship. And like I said, you'll be spending some quality time together, so shop around before making a commitment. Once you're on the road, you'll inevitably find something you wish you'd known about your bag before you left. My advice is to think of these little flaws (should they arise) as "character" -- after all, you're on an adventure.
Copyright (c) 2002 Judy Wolf
About
the Author:
Judy Wolf (www.judywolf.com)
is a world traveler, freelance writer, speaker, and whitewater kayak instructor.
She's taken numerous, extended solo journeys around the world, traveling
by foot, bus, jeep, camel, truck, boat, train, plane, elephant, and bicycle
to over 30 countries on five continents. She currently lives in upstate
New York with her husband and border collie, where she's working on a
book-length travel narrative about her most recent adventures…that is,
when she's not plunging off waterfalls or entertaining the dog.
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Luggage
Happiness Hints
- Light luggage that leaves your hands free makes you happier, less vulnerable, and more independent
- Go to a reputable outdoor shop for help finding a backpack with proper fit
- Wheels can break -- make sure your suitcase is manageable without them
- Consider a bookbag-style daypack instead of a purse to better distribute the weight of guidebooks, water and snacks
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