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 weight; with something too small, you run the risk of pushing its seams and zips to the edge. 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 will be 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 or late-night digestivos. So, on the whole, extra space isn’t so necessary, meaning that 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. Brunello Cucinelli’s duffle has been skilfully cut in Italy, and features contrast stitching. 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 best accommodate both your formalwear and tech. Furthermore, a set of wheels will be most welcome if you’re having to dash straight 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. If you’d prefer a retro-but-refined feel, a lemon-toned design by Arlo Skye might pique your interest. And for an all-round classic (subtle, hard shell, made from recycled materials, 360-degree spinner wheels), perhaps Horizn Studios’s H5 will fit the bill. The latter two options come with ejectable smartphone chargers.
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 and walkways 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 more natural shade, such as greens, beiges and browns.
Chapman’s Weekender comprises British-dyed and bonded canvas, as well as a handy waterproof shoe pocket at one end. A classic all-leather option is always a failsafe as it can work in both a countryside setting as well as 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 doesn’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 test of time. Our favourites include Rimowa, whose distinctive grooved shell has become a design icon; Slowear and Globe-Trotter’s collab piece, for its throwback, golden-age-of-travel feel; and FPM Milano, known for its industrial-feel aluminium 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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