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Luggage has a language all its own. How can we be expected to know what to look for in this world of nylons and polymers, locks and linings? Just refer to our handy glossary of vital luggage terminology and you'll be packing like a pro in notime.
Learn more! Click on the links at right for more information.
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Top of the line: Telescoping handles that retract and lock offer the best mobility when dealing with heavy baggage. Many handles lock in multiple places to accommodate travelers of all different heights. The ones constructed of lightweight aircraft aluminum are strong, sturdy and resilientin other words, your best bet.
Also look for: Overtheshoulder straps, preferably wide and padded, come in a variety of ergonomic shapes to relieve the stress of weight on your body. For lifting larger pieces, you can't beat side and top handles that make it easier to lift your bag in situations when rolling is not an option. | |
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SOFTSIDE
Top of the line: Ballistic nylon is a highly durable and abrasionresistant fabric, similar to the stuff used in bulletproof vests. Look for luggage with a high denier numbera measure of the thickness of fiber used to make ballistic nylon. Reliable highdenier ballistic nylon should fall in the 1050d, 1680d or 2500d range.
Also look for: Polyester or canvas. Go for the tougher versionscoated canvas or polyester blended with nylonand you won't have to worry about leaving your bag to brave the elements. For outdoor gear,
lightweight and waterrepellant ripstop nylon is always a great choice.
HARDSIDE
Top of the line: ABS plastica lightweight but tough and rigid material that can take a hit.
Also look for: Polypropylenea bit of elasticity goes a long way, but it's less impactresistant than the steely ABS. | |
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Top of the line: Smoothrolling inline skate wheels-generally made of polyurethane with ball bearing housing-help you glide along so you'll never have turbulent travels. The most desirable wheels recess partway into the bag's body, preventing most impact damage. Spinners, a more recent innovation, pivot a full 360° making it easy to roll in any
direction without changing direction yourself.
Also look for: Nonrecessed wheels allow for more packing space within the suitcase, but are more liable to break and may act as an obstacle when stowing your bag in an overhead bin. | |
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Top of the line: A full lining of waterproof or water-resistant material will keep spills and stains at bay. This type of lining is easy to clean and completely protects the interior of your luggage.
Also look for: Cotton and linen. Superior in style, these linings look fantastic but require more maintenance. For a polished look without all the work, opt for natural fabrics with stain-resistant finish. | |
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TSA-approved locks provide maximum security for your baggage, ensuring a safe arrival at its destination. Since the TSA is provided with a master key to these padlocks, security officers won't have to break the locks or cut your bag open if they need to examine the contents. | |
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Expandable luggage gives you the option to add up to three inches of packing space to the bag's width. With the extra capacity, you'll have plenty of room to bring back souvenirs or pack that change of clothes you just couldn't leave behind. | |
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Modern business luggage is as tech-savvy as we are. Laptop sleeves, whether integrated or removable, keep computers safe and snug within your bag. Your best bet is a padded sleeve to protect your laptop from any sudden and potentially damaging impacts. Most sleeves are equipped to carry laptops with 12, 15 or 17" screens. Be sure the sleeve included with your bag matches the dimensions of your computer. | |
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For simple packing, a bag with one large main compartment gives you the option to pack large items or use your own storage and separation devices. Other pieces are more complex, offering a wide selection of convenient compartments and pockets perfect for stashing
accessories, toiletries, cell phones, chargers, glasses and more. Zip pockets are great for keeping your gear organized and in place, while mesh pockets offer some breathing room. | |
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Most pieces of luggage have at least one deep and roomy front pocket, offering easy access to reading material and other essential travel accessories. Business cases often include pockets with organizers for your office supplies and
expandable files to help keep your work in order. | |
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You'll be surprised to learn that lots of luggage includes matching companion pieces. Be on the lookout for garment bags, cosmetic and toiletry cases and laundry bags-all indispensably helpful and all included with purchase. Garment bags are perhaps the most
specialized, often including an interior bar for use with hangers. Don't forget to make sure the add-ins are detachable so you can use them separately, too! | |
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