7 Signs It's Time to Replace Your Luggage

During travel luggage are our inevitable companions be it for a short trip or a long vacation. This companion stays with us for a very long time but there are times when the most reliable travel companion can retire, let alone luggage. They give us signs to show that they can't keep up with our adventurous spirit anymore, ignoring these signs can lead to various ill-fated events during the trip. But how to know these red flags in a worn out luggage, if this is your question then you are now alone, fellow travelers there are many more like you, who hold onto their luggage longer than they should. 

Here are seven clear signs that show it's time for an upgrade.

Broken or Sticking Zippers

Zippers play a very important role in luggage selection during a trip.

 No one wants to take a bag on their trip knowing;

• the bag zipper is frequently getting stuck 

• separated, or has broken teeth.

These are clear signs that your bag may not survive the next trip. A malfunctioning zipper can lead to many embarrassing airport mishaps or losing items and even after repair the zipper is not working smoothly,  it's time to change your luggage. 

Damaged Handles

A sturdy handle is very essential for the trip. A broken or stuck makes it hard to navigate in airports, streets that can lead to:

• Extra strain on the arms and back if the luggage can’t be held properly.

• Increase risk of losing or breaking the bag in transit.

How to know if the luggage handle is showing signs of damage?

• If the telescoping handle (the one that extends and retards) can't extend, retard, or is wobbly.

• For the fixed handle (one used for carrying) if it's loose or completely detached.

Those are the indications that the luggage needs to be changed as soon as possible. 

Worn-out Wheels

Smooth-rolling wheels help in seamless transit at the airport or the streets but if they show signs of;

• The wheels are cracked, misaligned, or completely missing.

• Difficulty in rolling or luggage veers to one side.

These signs can lead to:

• Excessive strain on the body if you have to carry the luggage instead of rolling.

• Risk of luggage breaking open if dragged improperly.

Upgrading to luggage with a durable, multi-directional spinner can save you time and energy on your travel. 

Tears and Fabric Damage

Throughout all your travels you experience something new that shows in your personality, just the same way every trip leaves a mark on your bag that overtime develops signs of damage like;

• Visible rips, frayed seams, or punctures that may no longer protect your belongings.

• Small tears can quickly become larger issues during transit.

Investing in a new durable, hard-shell suitcase can provide better protection to your valuables.

Outdated Designs and Features

Combining technology with luggage has become the latest trend in the market that makes your bag multi-functional and more durable. They have outshines the previous 

• Luggage made with heavy traditional metals or plastic reduces the carrying capacity of the bag because of its weight.

•  the old two-wheeled luggage that required tilting to pull as it made manoeuvring harder in closed spaces or rough surfaces. 

Now luggage is equipped with TSA-approved locks, and USB charging ports and made of lightweight material that can make your trip smoother and more efficient.

Persistent Odor or Stains

When your luggage is overused then it can develop a stubborn odor or unsightly stain that is hard to get rid off, it may be time to part ways. 

This can be due to

• Lingering smells from spilled toiletries 

• Musty storage can be a trouble to remove and may transfer to your clothes.

New luggage offers a fresh start with better hygiene for your travel.

Excessive Weight

When you as a traveler evolve, your luggage needs to evolve with you. If it can't keep up with your evolved style of packing or feels bulkier than an upgrade to a size and style that suits your lifestyle can be a better option. Many modern luggage offers expendable compartments that can be used as per your trip length and requirement.

Your luggage should be a reliable companion, not a source of stress

If your luggage shows any of the mentioned signs then it's high time for you to upgrade to a new one and let your old friend have a peaceful retirement. With so many new innovative and stylish options available today, upgrading can make your traveling experience smoother.