Bag It Right

A CHOICE BETWEEN soft versus hard luggage has never been more important than it is today, with travel having gone up and luggage allowances being restricted. If it’s a carry-on bag you’re after, it’s a good idea to opt for a soft case because you’re handling it yourself and need it to be light. Just as long as you find a safe pocket inside for your electronics or cushion them well with whatever else you put in. The flexibility will allow you to store it in overhead bins more easily. With larger cases, hard-shell luggage is sturdier, obviously, but it may be a heavier. Polycarbonate bags are light, but check out the weight with four wheels because two-wheel luggage is passé (nobody looks elegant zipping through an airport with trailing luggage).

On the other hand, soft luggage typically made of nylon is actually washable and flexible, apart from being lighter and easier to handle. But think of what you usually carry. You may want to shrink-wrap your soft bag, lest it gets tampered in transit.