Which Carry-On to Use

When it comes to carry-ons, you might think that style doesn't matter. Just grab whatever you have laying around that will fit in the over-head bin and begin packing. But my experience studying abroad has taught me that what you take matters, especially if you will be doing a lot of side trips. Suitcases are terrible on cobblestone but duffle bags can become very heavy, very fast. So, which carry-on should you use?

SUITCASE

Pros:

• wheels are great when walking long distances

• if hard sided, it's waterproof

• separate compartments helps with organization

• extremely sturdy

Cons:

• wheels and/ or zippers can break

• wheels are terrible on uneven ground

• can't mold to squeeze into a tight over-head bin

• American-sized suitcases are too large for cheap airlines like RyanAir and Vueling

DUFFLE

Pros:

• easily can squeeze into a full over-head bin

• cloth is expandable to fix maximum amount of clothing

• can fold up into another bag when not in use

Cons:

• can easily become heavy

• dirties after just one trip

• not waterproof

The Winner

Surprise contestant number 3: the backpack! Backpacking is the term for a reason. A backpack specifically designed for traveling combines the flexibility of a duffle with the comfort of a suitcase. You still wear it, but this is specifically designed to be comfortable and easy to carry long distances. The right backpack will come with a waterproof cover or is already lined to be waterproof and also will feature many pockets such as on the back, bottom, and even in the belt strap. These sturdy bags are created to entail every aspect of a carry-on that you could want. While they are pricey, if you're going to invest the money to travel, then you should also invest in your travel equipment.

Runner Up

A duffle is superior to a suitcase for short, weekend trips. Take into consideration the activities that you'll be doing when choosing a carry-on to take with you abroad. For 2-3 days, minimalize your packing to prevent it from becoming too heavy to carry. The materials that the duffle are made out of can keep it from becoming dirty so soon and also can make it waterproof or at least water resistant.

#traveltuesday #carryon #duffle #suitcase #backpack #pack