The holidays are a time to explore, unwind and connect with loved ones, but the journey itself can sometimes be daunting, and choosing the the right luggage can quite literally transform your travel experience.
As the holiday season approaches, the team at Thule SA has gathered their top tips to help you choose the right luggage, ensuring that your belongings are safe and organised and that your journey is hassle-free.
Checked Luggage vs. Carry-On: What’s Best for Your Trip?
When it comes to selecting the ideal luggage, it’s essential to consider both the nature of your trip and your personal travel style. Here’s Thule’s advice on how to decide between checked luggage and carry-on options:
Carry-On Luggage: Travel Light and Keep Essentials Close
If you’re looking to avoid the wait at baggage claim or keep your belongings close at hand, carry-on luggage is an ideal choice. For quick trips or when traveling light, carry-ons offer convenience, flexibility, and save on checked baggage fees.
- Choose a carry-on bag that is designed to make light travel easy, and and look out for:
- Well constructed carry-on with compartments for fragile items and electronic sleeves ensuring that you have easy access to essentials like laptops, documents or a change of clothes
- Look for features that guarantee easy navigation like oversized wheels and sturdy telescoping handles for smooth transitions through busy airports
- Look for a carry-ons with built in compression panels, so you can maximise space without wrinkling your clothes
Ideal For: Short trips, business travel, and those who prefer to keep valuables nearby and avoid baggage claim.
Thule’s most popular carry-on bags:
https://thulestore.co.za/thule-chasm-carry-on-40l-tcco222
https://thulestore.co.za/thule-subterra-2-carry-on-spinner-33l-tsrs422
https://thulestore.co.za/thule-subterra-2-tote-bag-22l-3205064-5
https://thulestore.co.za/thule-subterra-2-convertible-carry-on-40l-tsd440
Checked Luggage: Go Big and Travel Without Limits
- For long haul trips, checked luggage is the way to go. With plenty of space to pack multiple outfits, shoes, toiletries, and even sporting gear, checked luggage makes it easy to travel fully prepared.
- Choose luggage that is designed to withstand the rigors of travel, checked luggage bags are designed with reinforced frames and protective exteriors to keep your items safe.
- Look for checked bags with clever storage options, like split compartments for organising clean and dirty items, and removable crushproof zones for fragile belongings.
- With options to expand as needed, checked bags are ideal for those who want the freedom to bring everything they might need without worry.
Ideal For: Long-haul trips, family vacations, and travellers carrying extra or oversized items.
Thule’s most popular checked-in bags:
https://thulestore.co.za/thule-subterra-2-check-in-spinner-65l-tsrs425
https://thulestore.co.za/thule-chasm-wheeled-duffel-110l-tcwd232
https://thulestore.co.za/thule-chasm-xl-130l-tdsd305
To help make the journey as enjoyable as the destination, here are Thule’s top travel tips so you can jet off with confidence:
- Plan ahead: Book flights, hotels, and car rentals in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
- Pack smart: Use packing cubes to maximize space and keep your luggage organised.
- Secure Your valuables: Place important items in secure, accessible spots, such as a money belt or RFID-blocking pouch.
- Prepare for delays: Pack essentials like medications, toiletries, and a change of clothes in your carry-on in case of unexpected delays.
- Stay hydrated: Bring an empty water bottle to refill after security for hydration on long flights.
- Be patient: Travel can be challenging; remember to take breaks, be kind to yourself and the family and most importantly, enjoy the journey!
