Suitcases, Backpacks and Travel Bags

Three ways to carry: roll it, wear it, sling it

This aisle is organised by how a bag moves. Rolling cases and duffels, found in Rolling Luggage & Duffels, suit longer trips and heavy loads. Backpacks and daypacks, found in Backpacks & Daypacks, keep your hands free. Briefcases, purses and utility bags cover work, daily errands and cosmetics, and a separate group holds tags and organizers. Decide the carrying style first, then narrow by size, material and, for work bags, the laptop it must hold.

Size labels, materials and laptop fit

Sizes here are inconsistent: some listings say Small, Medium or Large, others give inches or centimetres, so compare real dimensions. Polyester and nylon are light and flexible, canvas is heavier and more rugged, and PVC or plastic is easy to wipe but stiffer. A listed compatible screen size is the largest laptop diagonal the pocket was designed for, such as 15 in. Empty weight matters, since a heavy bag eats into a carry-on allowance. Some listings are equipment cases or disposable bags, so check the product type.

Questions about Suitcases, Backpacks and Travel Bags

What size bag suits a day, a weekend or a week?

As a rough guide, a 15 to 25 litre backpack covers a day, 30 to 40 litres suits a weekend, and a carry-on case handles about a week if you pack light. Longer trips or bulky gear call for a larger checked case.

Is a hard shell or a soft case better for travel?

Hard shells resist crushing and rain but do not squeeze into tight spaces. Soft fabric cases flex, often have outside pockets and can be overstuffed, though they protect less against impact. Fragile items favour hard shells; clothes suit soft cases.

How do I compare bags when sizes say Small or Medium?

Words like Medium vary between makers, so look for measured dimensions in inches or centimetres and a capacity in litres. Compare those numbers with a bag you already own and know fits your gear.