10 Dumb Luggage Features That Drive Travelers CRAZY

Summary

This video highlights 10 essential carry-on luggage features to avoid, focusing on common issues like faulty wheels, poor telescoping handles, and unbalanced designs that make travel frustrating. It also discusses beneficial features, including smooth Hinomoto wheels, reliable YKK zippers, and sturdy side handles. The speaker stresses the importance of choosing well-constructed bags with good warranties, suggesting the ideal price range is $150 to $300. He warns against bags that are too heavy or easily show wear and tear, and offers tips for selecting the best hard- or soft-sided luggage.

Takeaways

• 😀 Wheels are crucial: Opt for 360° spinning luggage with eight wheels to avoid issues like unstable or noisy movement.
• 🔧 Bad telescoping handles are frustrating: Look for sturdy, stable handles with multiple height stops and ergonomic designs.
• 🧳 Organization is key: Choose luggage with dividers, compression straps, and pockets for better organization, but avoid excessive compartments that waste space.
• 📎 Quick access is essential: A front pocket is handy for easy access, especially for frequent travelers using one bag.
• 👋 A side handle is useful: It's helpful when retrieving your bag from overhead bins or climbing stairs, so prioritize luggage with this feature.
• 🚪 Zippers matter: Opt for reliable YKK zippers or latches for clamshell bags to avoid snagging or water leakage.
• ⚖️ Balance is vital: A well-balanced bag stands upright and doesn't tip easily when packed, which prevents hassle during transit.
• 🛠️ Durability over looks: Hard-sided bags, especially aluminum, may look nice but show wear quickly, while soft-sided bags hide wear better.
• 📏 Size matters: Make sure to check external dimensions, including wheels and handles, to meet carry-on requirements and avoid oversized luggage.
• 💰 Warranty is important: Invest in luggage with a good warranty covering functional damage to avoid frequent replacements, and be wary of return policies that only apply if unused.

Q & A

What is one of the most frustrating luggage features for travelers?

A set of wheels that don't work properly is one of the most frustrating features. It can make the luggage feel worthless, much like getting a grocery cart with a bad wheel.

What is recommended for 360° spinning luggage in terms of wheel design?

It is recommended to choose cases with eight wheels, where each mechanism has two wheels. This provides better stability and ensures smoother movement compared to four-wheel designs.

What kind of luggage handles should travelers avoid?

Travelers should avoid telescoping handles that are flimsy, rickety, or lack side-to-side stability. A stable, sturdy handle with multiple height adjustments is ideal.

Why is the number of height stops important in a telescoping handle?

Having multiple height stops is important to accommodate travelers of different heights. Cheaper luggage often has only one or two stops, which can be inconvenient for people who are shorter or taller.

What should you look for in terms of luggage organization?

Luggage should have useful organizational features, such as dividers, compression straps, and small pockets. However, too many compartments can waste space, so avoid bags with unnecessary built-in features.

What feature can help prevent frustration when accessing items during travel?

A front or quick-access pocket can prevent frustration when trying to retrieve small items like headphones, especially in hard-shell or carry-on bags.

Why is a side handle a useful luggage feature?

A side handle is helpful when lifting the bag from overhead bins or while climbing stairs. It should be sturdy and easy to grip.

What type of zippers should travelers look for in luggage?

Travelers should look for YKK zippers, known for their reliability. Avoid recessed zippers, as they can be less secure and more prone to snagging.

What is the benefit of choosing polycarbonate or polypropylene for hard-sided luggage?

Polycarbonate and polypropylene materials are durable and more resistant to wear and tear than ABS plastic, which is prone to cracking.

What price range offers good value for carry-on luggage?

The ideal price range for carry-on luggage is typically between $150 and $300. Spending more than this often means you're paying for the brand name, while in this range, you can still get a good warranty and durable features.