When it comes to packing for a trip, there are always several factors to consider. Will your on-the-go wardrobe be versatile enough to take you from lazy breakfasts to the post-dinner wine bar? There’s also the weather to factor in – if you’re heading to a destination with mercurial climes, have you stowed away enough clothing that’ll keep you cool during balmier periods but will also cover you from any sudden showers? Should you opt for sneakers or sandals? Brogues or boots? Cotton shirts or a canvas chore jacket?
Then there comes the medium in which to store all your travel gear – and when it comes to this department, size really does matter. If you opt for something that’s a little too big, then you might find yourself lugging around excess bulk; with something too small, you run the risk of pushing its seams and zips to the limit. You should also consider which materials best suit the destination at which you’ll arrive – a light canvas might be great for the Valencian coast, but we doubt it’ll hold up so well in Patagonia.
To help you decide which of a weekend bag or suitcase is best for you, we’ve rounded up the very finest below…
For the citybreak…
If three- or four-day-long escapes to the likes of Madrid, Milan or Munich take your fancy, then your uniform will be pretty rigid – you’ll most likely lean towards an edit comprising plain T-shirts, slim-fit chinos and some button-downs for bar-hopping. So, on the whole, extra space isn’t that necessary, meaning it’s best to eschew a large suitcase that’s overbearing (and will likely incur extra charges, depending on the airline) and go for a holdall. Such an item will also help maximise your time during short stays as it will allow for a fuss-free airport experience (it’s both easy to place on the conveyor belt at security and you won’t have to queue around the carousel for it at the other end).
For versatility, Charles Laurie’s offering will pair with most ensembles you’ll wear, thanks to its neutral tones of dark-green and black. Paul Smith’s holdall has been skilfully cut from premium leather, and features the brand’s ‘Signature Stripe’ detailing. And the real draw for Mismo’s nylon bag is that its leather straps slowly develop a luscious patina over time – a feature that will act as evidence of a life well travelled.
For the quick-stop work trip…
Like the off-duty long weekend, work trips often entail only a few days away. However, we’d direct you to something with a more appropriate shape (i.e. straight, rigid lines) to better accommodate both your formalwear and tech. Furthermore, a set of wheels will be most welcome if you’re having to dash from arrivals to the conference room as it’ll (literally) bear the burden, unlike an across-the-shoulder bag, and will also allow your suit jacket and shirt to remain crease-free.
For something that’s minimal fuss and pared-down, consider Away’s carry-on, which, rather helpfully, expands an extra 6cm, if required. For even more of a stripped-back feel, this minimalist design by travel-apparel brand Émigré might pique your interest (we quite like the fact it has a removable laptop sleeve and zippered mesh pocket for grooming products). And for an all-round contemporary classic (tough shell; built with durability as the priority, yet light when carting around; 360-degree Japanese wheels; incredibly smooth locking system), perhaps Eastpak’s Resist’r will fit the bill.
For the clean countryside retreat…
With the tourist hordes flocking to big destinations, consider a beeline for a quieter corner, whether that be a rural part of Hampshire or the vineyards of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. For this, we’d suggest that you avoid wheels, as dragging rolling luggage across rickety paths isn’t the best or most practical way to kick-start a holiday. Also, opt for something that’ll cope with the often tempestuous rural elements, and to fit in with your bucolic surrounds, try something in a natural shade, such as greens, beiges and browns.
Hackett’s Windsor 24 Hour Bag comprises cotton canvas and leather detailing, as well as a detachable shoulder strap. A classic all-leather option is always a failsafe as it can work in both a countryside setting as well as for city retreats – and that’s where Bennett Winch makes a strong case. Meanwhile, Filson’s duffle, made from twill and leather, has a rugged yet refined aesthetic.
For the long-distance escapade...
When jetting to the other side of the world, a large suitcase is the done thing – something sizeable enough to hold a fortnight’s-worth of clothing (and any souvenirs) and tough enough to withstand the rough-and-tumble of the cargo hold. But bulky and big don’t necessarily mean inelegant, and our picks below excel in both utility and style.
If you’re going to invest in something that works hard but looks good while doing so, try the failsafe labels that have endured the cycles of fashion. Our favourites include Rimowa, whose distinctive grooved shell has become a design icon; Globe-Trotter, for its throwback, golden-age-of-travel feel; and Carl Friedrik, known for its industrial-style polycarbonate exteriors.
So, you’ve got the luggage sorted. Now read about how to dress (and what to pack) for a long-haul flight…
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