The ultimate suitcase
How to pick the perfect case for you, from weekend luggage to dream-trip bag sets. Read on for what to look out for and what to avoid.
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Brightly coloured
Black and grey are all very well, but there's a whole rainbow of colours out there. Choose one that fits your style and you'll never have a mix-up at baggage claim again.
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360 wheels
When you’re racing through the terminal you don’t want bad or (gasp) no wheels holding you back. Manoeuvre round annoyingly slow tourists like a champ with wheels that go all the way round.
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Hard shell
If you’re a frequent traveller then hard-shell suitcases will minimise the need to replace your luggage all the time. Plus, you can chuck it about to your heart’s content.
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Telescopic handle
You want a good and sturdy extendable handle, especially if you’re blessed with height – there’s nothing worse than having to do an awkward crouch on a travelator.
TK Maxx’s Top Travel Tips
Here are the 4 travel commandments that every traveller needs to know. Even if you’re not a seasoned pro, you’ll definitely look like one at departures. Who knows, you might even get an upgrade.
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1. Check cabin luggage size limits
This one will save you time and money, not all airlines allow the same size cabin bags. If you’re flying with a budget airline (we’re not judging, £54 return flights to Lisbon are nothing to be scoffed at) then you might need a smaller carry-on.
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2. Make your mark
If you’ve opted for a classic black suitcase then congrats you stylish person, you. However, you can bet your boarding pass there’ll be people at baggage claim with similar (or identical) cases. Tie a colourful scarf to yours to make identifying it easy.
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3. If it’s broken, let it go
We’ve all been there, days before a big trip you realise you’ve only got the flimsy, hand-me-down suitcase your mum lent you years ago. Do not travel with this bag. You’ll be stressed and out of pocket when the zip pops off. Buy a new one.
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4. Roll with it
Roll your clothes, don’t fold them. This one’s a popular tip, right? And for good reason. Not only is it quicker, easier and saves a ton of space, it also reduces creasing in your clothes. Who wants to spend their holiday ironing, just roll and go.
The extras
…because travel doesn’t stop at the suitcase
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Headphones
Listen to some vaycay tunes and block out the sound of that crying baby on the plane.
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Airport outfits
Unless you're flying business (we're definitely not), you'll want something cosy enough for 8 hours in coach.
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Neck pillow
If you’re going to be on a long-haul flight then this is one item that'll help you get comfy.
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Crossbody bag
You’ve already got a suitcase, so do yourself a favour and go hands-free with your other bag.
Where’s your next holiday?
Answer our questions to find your dream destination
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Backpacks
Mostly As
Bali is a backpackers’ dream, stunning views, crystal sea and wonderful people. Plus it can be done on a shoestring. You’ll need a durable backpack for jumping on and off boats while you’re Island hopping.
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Small Suitcases
Mostly Bs
Former Constantinople is the dream city break. There’s more history than you can shake a stick at, bazaars and a great nightlife. A chic carry-on is all you need for a long weekend.
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Large Suitcases
Mostly Cs
Glamour and shopping are the name of the game in the city so good they named it twice. For your cosmopolitan trip you’ll need a few matching cases (and an empty one for your souvenirs).