Buy a trolley cheaply and still get a good deal: Consumer tips
Hard-shell cases have a hard outer shell, allowing you to take fragile items such as technical devices or glass items on your travels – the likelihood of nothing breaking is greater with them. However, they can burst open with careless use and rough handling. Soft cases are particularly suitable if you only want to take non-fragile items, such as clothing, books, and similar items on your travels. They are flexible and adapt to the given circumstances, so they often fit into a gap where a hard-shell case could not be squeezed in. Whether hard-shell or soft cases, both have one or more handles for carrying and, in some models, wheels for pulling. Almost all cases can be locked with a lock (combination or key). Trolleys are well-suited for short trips, as they are usually small and can be easily transported with one hand, either by carrying them or by pulling them along with a telescopic handle and wheels. The biggest advantage of luggage with wheels compared to that without wheels is that a lot of luggage can be taken without straining the back from carrying.
What material is travel luggage made of?
Travel luggage is usually sturdy and made from leather, fabric, plastic, aluminium, or even titanium. Recently, modern cases are also made from polycarbonate, which is particularly characterised by its light weight and extraordinary durability. Aluminium cases are preferred because the material is very light and water-resistant, so nothing gets wet even in heavy rain. However, aluminium cases are considerably more expensive than cases made from other materials.
What should you consider when buying?
In any case, you should ensure that the material for leather or textile is waterproof or water-resistant, otherwise moisture can enter the inside during rain. Zippers and other seams can also allow moisture to pass through. Additionally, zippers or seams should be very well made, as poor quality could cause them to burst open during travel. For luggage with wheels, you should also pay attention to the wheels: they should be large and soft, similar to inline skates, so that the resistance on the ground is not too great and the luggage can be pulled more easily. The wheels should be well embedded in the plastic shell, as poorly made wheels or those that are heavily stressed (e.g., on stairs) can break very quickly. Furthermore, they should be relatively far apart to ensure higher stability and that the luggage remains manoeuvrable even under heavy load. The telescopic handle of trolleys should not have sharp corners or edges, as this poses a risk of injury. It must also be easy to extend and lock in place, as well as very stable, so that the case does not tip over while you are pulling the trolley. If the trolley is used by multiple people, it should be ensured that the height of the telescopic handle is adjustable. Also, consider the weight of your luggage: cases with wheels and trolleys are usually heavier than a normal bag without wheels, so you must not lose sight of the maximum allowable weight of the entire luggage when flying.
