Ready to pack your bags and hit the road?
Luggage has been a part of human travel for centuries, starting with simple bags made of animal hides or woven fibers. As transportation evolved, so did the way we carried our belongings. In the early 20th century, the iconic steamer trunks came into fashion. These large, sturdy trunks were designed to withstand the rigors of long sea voyages, and they often featured compartments for everything from clothes to toiletries.
Fast forward to today, and we have a wide range of luggage options to choose from. With so many options on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Let’s take a look at the two most popular types of suitcases: 2-wheel and 4-wheel, and see which one is right for you!
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2-Wheel vs. 4-Wheel Suitcases: The Battle Begins!
Picture this: You’re standing at the airport, your suitcase in tow, and you suddenly realize that you’ve made a grave mistake. Your suitcase has four wheels, and you’re about to embark on a journey that will take you through bumpy streets, crowded subways, and winding staircases. Are you ready to take on the challenge? If you’re up for an adventure, then a 2-wheel suitcase might be right up your alley.
But if you’re like most travelers, you’re probably looking for a smoother ride. That’s where a 4-wheel suitcase comes in handy. With four wheels instead of two, this type of suitcase can effortlessly glide beside you as you make your way through the airport. No more struggling to balance your luggage as you navigate through the crowds. You can even push it in front of you, freeing up your hands for a cup of coffee or a quick selfie.
Ultimately, the decision between a 2-wheel or 4-wheel suitcase comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a classic design that’s compact and easy to maneuver, a 2-wheel suitcase might be right for you. But if you want maximum mobility and stability, a 4-wheel suitcase is the way to go.
Soft-Sided vs. Hard-Sided Suitcases: The Battle Continues
Now that we’ve tackled the wheel situation, let’s move on to the next big decision: soft-sided or hard-sided suitcase. A soft-sided suitcase is made of flexible material, such as nylon or polyester, which makes it easier to fit into tight spaces. It’s also lighter than a hard-sided suitcase, which can be important if you’re trying to avoid extra baggage fees. But be warned, they might not be as durable as hard-sided suitcases and could be more susceptible to wear and tear.
On the other hand, a hard-sided suitcase is made of rigid material, such as polycarbonate or aluminum, which makes it more durable and can protect your belongings from bumps, drops, and even water damage. Plus, they often come with a locking mechanism, providing an extra layer of security. However, they can be more challenging to pack, and they don’t offer much flexibility when it comes to fitting extra items, but if you’re carrying fragile items, a hard-sided suitcase will provide more protection.
The decision between a soft-sided or hard-sided suitcase comes down to your specific travel needs. If you’re looking for something lightweight and easy to maneuver, a soft-sided suitcase might be the best option. But if you’re concerned about the safety of your belongings, or if you’re carrying delicate items, a hard-sided suitcase might be the better choice.
Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the decision between a 2-wheel or 4-wheel suitcase and a soft-sided or hard-sided suitcase comes down to personal preference. Are you an adventurer who loves a challenge, or do you prefer a smooth ride? Do you like to pack light or bring everything and the kitchen sink? No matter what your preferences are, there’s a suitcase out there that’s perfect for you.
Our Choice: The Eastpak Tranverz Soft-Sided Suitcase for European Travel
Choosing the right suitcase can be quite the challenge, especially when you’re planning to travel in Europe. We recently faced this whole luggage debate and we found that the Eastpak Tranverz is the perfect soft-sided suitcase that will make any European adventure stress-free and stylish.
First of all, the Eastpak Tranverz is a 2-wheel suitcase, which means it’s lightweight and easy to maneuver through the narrow streets and tight spaces you’ll encounter while exploring Europe. And let’s face it, nobody wants to be struggling with a heavy and clunky suitcase while trying to catch a train or hop on a bus.
And let’s not forget about style! The Eastpak Tranverz comes in a variety of sizes, colors and patterns, so you can choose one that suits your personal style. Plus, the sleek and modern design will make you look like a seasoned traveler, even if it’s your first time in Europe.
Another great feature of the Eastpak Tranverz is the compartments on each side of the suitcase. This is a game-changer for travelers who want to stay organized while on the go. You can easily separate your clothes, shoes, and toiletries into their own compartments, making it easy to find what you need without having to dig through a messy suitcase. OR in our case, when traveling with only one suitcase, his and her sides.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Europe and want a suitcase that’s lightweight, easy to maneuver, and has plenty of compartments to keep you organized, look no further than the Eastpak Tranverz.
As a sidenote, I also found the Eastpak Padded Pak’r® to be the perfect daypack. It held enough clothes/toiletries for a weekend trip – and for me that is unheard of!Â
