Going on holidays is always synonymous with excitement and anticipation. This adventure requires careful planning. Choosing and preparing your luggage is just as important. Whether it's size, weight, or packaging, you must follow airline baggage regulations.
Choosing the right suitcase
Selecting your carry-on suitcase is an essential step in preparing for your flight. The key is to select luggage that best meets your needs. Your travel bag must also meet airline requirements.
Ideally, opt for a hard-shell suitcase, which will give it greater strength against the shocks and vibrations inherent in air travel. Suitcases with hard-shell polycarbonate or aluminum are more resistant to the hazards of travel. They can also be stored in the hold. Their reinforced structure better protects the contents, especially during handling at the airport. In terms of size, prioritize a classic cabin suitcase. It should fit easily under the seat in front of you or in the overhead compartments.
Hard or soft suitcase?
Choosing the right materials and accessories is crucial for a spacious yet lightweight carry-on suitcase. Choose the lightest components to stay within the 10-kilogram weight limit allowed by airlines.
Opt for a shell made of polycarbonate or polypropylene, two reinforced plastic materials. They have the advantage of making your carry-on suitcase lightweight. Their excellent impact resistance will ensure you have a stress-free holiday. Avoid aluminum, which is more rigid but also denser. Also consider zipper systems. Nylon or polyester zippers are more aerodynamic than lead zippers.
The casters
Opt for a small suitcase with four swivel wheels, ideal for navigating narrow aisles on airplanes and train stations. Their greater stability also prevents the suitcase from tipping over at every turn. It's best to opt for plastic wheels, which are much lighter than metal. Also, avoid models that are too bulky, which would unnecessarily weigh down your carry-on luggage.
Among other things, opt for increased maneuverability with a telescopic handle system. Height-adjustable, they save precious cubic centimeters when folded inside the cabin suitcase.
Interior storage
Choose carry-on suitcases with multiple compartments of varying sizes, separated by removable dividers. This system is excellent for organizing your shoes, clothes, and beauty products.
Soft materials like nylon are ideal because they mold perfectly to the shape of items. Choose waterproof materials for toiletries. Invest in zippered storage pouches, perfect for linens or fragile items.
Dimensions and maximum weight
Before purchasing your suitcase, find out the size and weight limits allowed by the airline of your choice. Each airline sets its own rules for carry-on baggage. Carry-on baggage regulations are updated as circumstances change. It's helpful to compare carry-on baggage standards before purchasing a carry-on bag.
Most traditional airlines allow a carry-on suitcase no larger than 55x35x20 cm. The maximum weight allowed is generally 10 kilos, or even 8 kilos on some routes.
Low-cost airlines like Ryanair apply even more restrictive standards regarding the weight of cabin luggage. They are often limited to 56x45x25 cm and a maximum weight of 10 kilos. Other airlines only accept carry-on and checked baggage.
Check these dimensions precisely with a tape measure before purchasing your suitcase. One centimeter too large and your baggage may be considered checked luggage. Also, remember not to exceed the authorized weight limit. An overstuffed hard-shell suitcase may be systematically checked into the hold and not taken with you in the cabin.
How to pack at the last minute?
The holidays are approaching, but you haven't packed your cabin luggage yet? Here are a few tips to save time and keep you calm when boarding.
Prepare your suitcase
Packing at the last minute can quickly turn into a headache. To avoid stress, planning ahead by preparing your suitcase is the solution. Start as soon as you return from vacation by sorting through your belongings. Set aside clothes and accessories that might be suitable for your next trip.
Store them neatly in a designated area so they don't get scattered during your next sorting. This way, you'll have a ready-made initial selection. A few weeks before departure, make a detailed list of the necessary contents. Check off each item as you pack it in your hard-shell carry-on suitcase.
For optimal organization, categorize your belongings. This will make packing your carry-on suitcase much easier. By organizing the contents of your carry-on bag in advance, you'll save valuable time in the final days.
Use bags or pouches
When packing, consider additional storage accessories to maximize the space in your carry-on suitcase. Dedicated bags and pouches for each category of belongings will be your best friend.
Start by reserving waterproof bags for small but fragile beauty products. This will prevent any risk of leaks in your carry-on suitcase during transport.
Also opt for canvas or nylon pouches, ideal for neatly storing underwear or swimsuits in your carry-on suitcase. Don't forget a bag for small accessories or electronic cables. You can also put your shoes in a baggage bag before placing them in your carry-on suitcase.
Thanks to these specific storage compartments, you can optimize every little space within your hard-shell cabin suitcase. On the day of departure, all you have to do is close the straps.
Fold as you go
When packing your belongings in your carry-on suitcase, every little move helps save precious cubic centimeters. Careful folding is therefore essential. Start by selecting your clothes one by one, stacking them on the bed or sofa. Carefully fold each item, always respecting the same crease, whether it's jeans, a T-shirt, or a cardigan.
Choose outfits that fit easily on top of each other. For example, stack several pairs of jeans or shirts to limit their bulk in your carry-on suitcase. Avoid packing bulky items like coats, which can weigh down your hard-shell carry-on suitcase.
In any case, only take essential items. You should prioritize everything that is both practical and functional.
