Capacity
The total volume of the suitcase in liters. On the one hand, the number of things that can be placed inside depends on this parameter, and on the other hand, the dimensions and weight of the suitcase itself. The optimal balance between these characteristics depends on the number of people for which the product is designed, as well as on the characteristics of the planned trips.
Conventionally, suitcases can be divided into 3 categories:
small(up to 30 L),
medium(up to 70 L),
large(up to 100 L) and
huge(over 100 L). The first option is well suited for those who are going to travel alone, and the duration of trips is not very long. Also in this category are
children's suitcases, which are distinguished by a catchy design, compact size and special appearance. Medium models are suitable for two people (or, again, for one — with a long journey). And the largest suitcases can be called "family".
Also note that some models may have adjustable dimensions and, accordingly, adjust to the volume; for such suitcases, the maximum volume is indicated in the characteristics — in a fully unfolded state.
Capacity change
The ability to increase / decrease the volume of the suitcase. It is mainly provided by unzipping the zipper around the perimeter of the suitcase. Thanks to
the function of changing the volume, the capacity can be increased, and if not needed, reduced.
Dimensions (HxWxD)
Dimensions of the suitcase in height, width and depth (it is assumed that the product stands vertically on wheels). For products with volume adjustment, the unfolded dimensions are usually indicated.
It is worth noting that with the same volume, different models may have different sizes; knowing these numbers, you can to some extent evaluate the features of the suitcase and choose the necessary
model of hand luggage on the plane. For example, a large width provides stability when transported on wheels, but is not very convenient when transported on a train — the suitcase may not “fit” under the shelf on the side; wide bags (see "Type") are also less convenient to carry by the handle on the front side, etc.
Weight
The weight of the empty suitcase. The lower this value, the easier it will be to transport luggage (with the same weight of things placed inside). On the other hand,
lightweight suitcases usually have a less dense body material. Therefore, it is worth choosing a model by weight, taking into account what balance between strength and lightness will be optimal for you.
Number of external pockets
The presence of pockets in the suitcase allows you to sort small things so as not to search all over the suitcase. External pockets allow you to provide quick access to them. Among those, there can be both small ones for keys, passports, and larger ones where you can put documents, change of clothes.
Lock
The presence of a lock in the design of the suitcase. It can be either a built-in fixture or an external padlock, hooked onto zipper sliders connected together. This feature makes it much more difficult to access the contents of the suitcase and provides additional security if it falls into the hands of strangers. Of course,
the lock will not protect the product from deliberate hacking, but it will become a serious obstacle for those who would like to search the bag quickly and discreetly (for example, unscrupulous porters at the airport).
Note that this item does not cover locks that meet the TSA standard — their availability is indicated separately in our catalog, and the features are described in the corresponding item below.
TSA lock
Compliance of the lock installed in the suitcase (see above) with the TSA standard. TSA is an acronym for Transportation Security Administration, i.e. United States Transportation Safety Administration; it was at the suggestion of this structure that similar castles appeared — after the September 11 attacks. These events led to increased security measures during customs inspection, including more frequent opening of luggage — but without an owner with a key, the lock often had to be broken, rendering the product unusable and causing indignation of passengers.
To remedy the situation,
TSA locks were developed. They may differ in design and appearance, be built-in, mounted, etc.; however, all options have two ways of opening and closing — normal and service. The usual one involves the use of a digital code — this is how the owner of the suitcase works with the lock. To open the "service" way, a special key is used that is compatible with all TSA locks; only customs and security officials have such keys. Thanks to this, if necessary, experts can easily and quickly open the suitcase for inspection, and then return it to the owner with a closed and fully functional lock. Some models of locks have an indicator that indicates that it was opened with a service key.
TSA keys are currently used by US, Canadian, UK, and Israeli Customs. So suitcases with such locks are definitely recommended for traveling to these countries; in addit
...ion, the list can expand, so before traveling it makes sense to clarify the features of customs inspection at the destination. Do not neglect this nuance: if they decide to inspect your luggage at the entrance, this will be done anyway, and it depends only on the type of lock whether it will be opened with a service key or brute-forced without the possibility of repair.
