Long Haul Luggage

[ChequerBoard]

I'm off to the west coast of the USA next week for a week long training course and then a week of holiday. It's the first long haul flight I have done in a very long time and I'm not sure what luggage to get/take.

I'm thinking that a big wheeled suitcase to check in plus a bag that would slide on top of suitcase handles would be best?

Has anyone got a good combo they would recommend or seen any bargains in the sales?

wheeled suitcases are fine in airports - where there are trolleys. Anywhere else they are a nightmare with extra weight from wheels and handles. Take what you can carry easily without wheels. It is only two weeks.

obviously check the weather where you are going and pack accordingly, and if you haven't flown in a while make sure you are up on hand luggage vs hold luggage. Many on here think the restrictions are just for liquids - they aren't, it is liquids, gels and pastes. So that covers most slap and toiletries.

I much prefer wheeled suitcases, would never travel without wheels. Go for the smallest size suitcase you can that will hold everything you need. The hand luggage bags that fit over handles of suitcases are good, but only really with a case that has four wheels instead of two. Otherwise the weight of it is put onto the pull out handle of the case and that makes it awkward and not so easy to manage. But four wheels is better than two anyway.

If you can, get a hand luggage bag that you can carry on your back as well as, or instead of on the case, I find that easier. You can get some good cheap clear liquids bags on Amazon, it is easier to sort those things for your hand luggage at home rather than trying to do it at the airport with the bags they give you, and you can fit more in them. Also, don’t forget to pack a handbag to use when you’re there.

i have this case (large version) and it has lasted a good few long haul trips now. i also have this strap, to both strap round the suitcase to ensure it doesn't burst open and to attach this bag to the handle of the suitcase. the one thing i would say is use your own lock, rather than the built in one on the suitcase x

oh, and use packing cubes. they make packing so much easier and save space in the suitcase

If the Department of Homeland Security decide to look into your case and it has got built in locks of any kind they will just break it open. They are not then obliged to make good or repay you the value of the case. Buy a travel lock, they hold the master keys, Take the biggest wheeled case that you are allowed with minimum luggage on the way out so that you have got room for all of the purchases that you will make at the outlets.