How to Choose Luggage and Packs

No one piece of luggage is perfect for all kinds of travel. That's why REI offers so many different types of luggage, bags and packs. But how do you know which is right for you? It all depends on the type of travel you do and your packing style.

Decide on a Basic Type of Pack

To find the right pack or bag for travel, consider the types of trips you'll take, the kinds of activities you plan on doing and the quantity of possessions you want to bring. The key is to find a pack that combines packing convenience, carrying comfort and versatility.

Travel Backpacks

These convertible backpacks have internal frames, decent suspension systems and convert to a hand-held bag. Backpack straps can be hidden behind a panel for airline travel. Most also feature a removable daypack for short excursions. Who should use them: Travelers who want to be highly mobile and plan on carrying all their gear. These packs aren't suited for those who plan on traveling on a serious outdoor expedition, or who plan on staying in urban areas.

Wheeled Luggage

This category includes two types of wheeled luggage: traditional luggage and convertible luggage.

• Traditional Luggage: These suitcases feature durable in-line skate wheels and heavy-duty, reinforced handles. Who should use them: Business travelers or people visiting urban areas; not adventure-minded travelers.

  Tip: Luggage collections incorporating a suitcase, briefcase and carry-on are especially convenient for frequent business travelers since the pieces work together as a system.

• Convertible Luggage: These bags can function either as wheeled luggage or a backpack. Hidden shoulder straps allow you to convert the bag into a backpack, or you can carry it as a duffel, too. Several models feature a removable daypack for short trips. Who should use them: Travelers who usually stay in an urban environment. The shoulder straps are not well-suited for extended backpacking because these bags lack hip belts, causing the entire weight of the bag rest on your shoulders.

Duffels

There are three basic kinds of duffels: general purpose duffels in a range of sizes, expedition duffels and wheeled duffels.

• General Purpose Duffels: These bags come in a huge range of sizes and are typically less expensive than other types of luggage. Who should use them: Those who travel light and fast on shorter trips. Duffels aren't the best choice for those who carry their own gear all the time.
• Expedition Duffels: Some of these duffels have convertible backpack straps for added convenience. Who should use them: Those who have a lot of gear to pack, and don't have to carry it by hand very far once arriving at a destination. These large duffels aren't best for those who must always carry their gear by hand.
• Wheeled Duffels: These large-capacity duffels feature wheel systems for easier transport through airports and train stations. Who should use them: Travelers who transport a lot of gear. These duffels aren't as comfortable as travel backpacks, so they aren't suited for extended travel in remote areas.

Internal-Frame Backpacks

These backpacks are designed for extended wilderness trips. They feature good support and make it more comfortable to haul a lot of gear over long periods of time. Who should use them: Those who travel to go camping, backpacking or climbing. These packs are less suited for airline travel because of the extra straps: Those who also plan on spending time in urban areas might need to bring an extra daypack.

Decide on a Size

Find a pack that's big enough to hold your necessary gear, but small enough that you can carry it comfortably day after day. Most people tend to fill up whatever bag they're packing, no matter how big it is.

Tip: Don't worry about leaving too much space for souvenirs—you can always mail them home.

Storage capacities are typically measured in cubic inches (cu. in.). They range anywhere from a few hundred cu. in. for a small duffel to more than 8,000 cu. in. for large wheeled luggage.

Here are some general sizing guidelines:

• For weekend trips, a carry-on size duffel, travel backpack or wheeled luggage at about 3,200 cu. in. is big enough for most travelers.
• For one- to two-week trips, if you can pack light, opt for a carry-on bag. If you pack a lot of gear, go for a slightly larger travel backpack or wheeled luggage at about 4,000 cu. in.
• For trips lasting a month or longer, choose wheeled luggage from 5,000 cu. in., a travel backpack up to 5,500 cu. in. or a wheeled duffel up to 8,000 cu. in.

Things to keep in mind:

• Most airlines allow carry-on baggage no larger than 9"H x 14"W x 22"L, but this is subject to change.
• To save space on long journeys, ship ahead any gear you won't need right away so you won't have to carry it the whole time. If you're done using some gear after the first part of your trip, ship it home.
• Pack half as much stuff and bring twice as much money.

Compare Specific Features

Now that you've chosen the right type and size of luggage to buy, it's time to compare features on specific models. At this point, your own personal preference best determines what features are most important.

Some common features worth considering:

• Storage compartments and pockets make it easy to organize, pack and unpack.
• Built-in organizer pockets are handy for frequently used items.
• Compression straps squeeze a bulky bag down to a smaller size.
• Removable daypack or fanny pack zip off for convenient day use.
• Expandable pack bag or bellows pocket allow you to fit in extra gear.

Make Sure It Fits

If you'll be using your bag as a backpack most of the time, it's important to make sure it fits well. Stuff the backpack with 20 to 30 pounds of weight inside, centered between your shoulder blades as close to your back as possible. Concentrate on the hipbelt and shoulder straps, making sure they are comfortable and easy to adjust.

The Extras

Now that you've chosen your travel bag, you have several options that will make packing easier and provide some security for your gear.

Organizers

• Folders keep clothing organized and wrinkle-free, holding several shirts, blouses or slacks.
• Mesh ditty bags are handy for organizing items like t-shirts, socks and small accessories.
• Toiletry kits keep all your personal care items in one place.

Security Accessories

• The Pacsafe is a stainless-steel web that locks around your pack or duffel to prohibit access to pockets. The locking system, with adjustable draw wire and padlock, secures your pack to fixed objects to deter theft.
• Small padlocks or key locks are convenient for locking your pack or duffel zippers together.
• Hidden security pouches include neck wallets and waist pouches that are designed to be worn under clothes to keep your money, documents and passport safely hidden.

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