Luggage

Choosing the right luggage

When you're heading on an adventure, choosing the right luggage can make or break your trip. It pays to think about some factors before making your purchase, to ensure you have the perfect luggage picked out:

1. Where are you heading?

Think about the kind of luggage that would best suit your destination. If you're backpacking as part of your travel, you'll want a pack that you can carry easily on your back. If you're travelling directly to your accommodation, you might prefer rolling luggage instead. If you need to have your hands free to carry skis to and from the lodge, you might opt for a duffle bag.

2. What size and weight will you need?

If you're travelling by plane or boat you'll need to stick to size and weight restrictions that you should consider before you purchase your luggage. You want something that can fit all your essentials but isn't too big and bulky to handle.

3. Durability

Look for reinforced corners, sturdy zippers and tough materials so your luggage can withstand wear and tear. Keep an eye out for durable materials like ballistic nylon or polycarbonate.

4. Features

If you're buying rolling luggage or a suitcase, look for telescoping handles that adjust to your perfect height and spinner wheels for extra maneuverability, although bare in mind that inline wheels tend to be more durable.

If you're buying a duffle bag look for features like backpack straps to make it more versatile.

5. Compartments and pockets

Look for interior compartments and dividers to keep your belongings organized and make packing a breeze. Outside pockets can also be great for storing and grabbing things on the go.

6. Security

Look for zippers that allow for locks or luggage that comes with TSA approved locks. This offers additional security and allows airport security to inspect your luggage without cutting it open.

7. Style and colour

Choose luggage you vibe with. If you want your luggage to be easier to spot at the baggage claim, choose a colour and style that stands out.

8. Price

Investing in quality luggage will last you longer and provide a better travel experience, but remember to stick to your budget so you have more to spend on your travels.

9. Warranty

Check the manufacturer warranty to give you peace of mind and cover any potential future repairs.

10. Consider its re-usability value

Think about the kind of travel you usually do, and whether the piece of luggage would be a great versatile fit so you can get the most out of it.

Luggage that’s ready to roam

When the unknown beckons, answer the call. Field-tested luggage from Patagonia, Gregory and Osprey carries everything you need for ski weekends, summer road trips and round-the-world jaunts. Our own MEC Label duffles and packs offer exceptional durability at prices that fit any travel budget.

The best luggage depends on the type of trip you’re taking. Rolling bags offer smooth sailing through airports and train stations, plus tons of internal organization. Burly duffle bags swallow copious quantities of gear and can handle being strapped onto roof racks. Travel-specific backpacks are built for the demands of globetrotting, with key features like lockable zippers and padded laptop sleeves.

Travelling light? Carry-on sized bags let you cruise past the baggage carousel and start exploring sooner.

Packing tips from MEC’s travel experts

Once you’ve found the right bag, it’s time to decide what to put in it. Think about the activities you plan to do and the weather at your destination. Our handy travel checklist can help you remember all the essentials. Our travel must-haves for any trip? A water bottle to refill, lightweight layers, and packing cubes to keep it all organized.