|
 |
Choosing the right suitcase for your child |
Choosing the right suitcase for a child can be a bit of a headache. We have put together this easy guide to explore the kind of issues you should be thinking about and to help you choose the best piece of luggage for you and the child you are buying it for whether you are choosing a suitcase for a toddler or older boy or girl.
1. How old is your child?
Many people are drawn to the design of the case without considering practicalities like making sure you have chosen an appropriately sized suitcase for the age and height of the boy or girl you are buying fo. This is particularly important if the idea is that the child can use their suitcase independantly, either by carrying it or wheeling it along. Suitcases for children tend to be aimed at the toddler or pre-school market or first school and older market. Good retailers should clearly display the dimensions so that you can see what you are buying.
2. What will you be using it for?
Not as daft a question as it may first appear to be! If you are after a fun suitcase for an overnight stay one of the smaller cases may be sufficient for your needs. Or, if you are going on a bigger family holiday, you might be better off with a more substantial suitcase.
3. To wheel or not to wheel?
Many of the kids suitcases come with wheels these days and an extendable trolley handle. In our experience this design is great as it encourages independence for the toddler or child, enabling them to wheel their own suitcase along (also perfect if you have your own hands full!) The trolley handle can be easily slid back in as needed when boarding planes or loading into vehicles. A good quality trolley suitcase should always have sturdy handles too for when you are having to manouevre the luggage in and out of lockers, boots or storage areas.
4. Hand luggage or hold?
Many people travelling by plane prefer to have luggage they can take on board as hand luggage rather than having to check it into the hold. It's worthwhile checking that the dimensions of the suitcase you are buying meet the hand luggage requirements guidelines.
5. Will your child grow out of the suitcase?
Coupled with the age of the child you are buying for have a think about the longevity of the suitcase. Each child is different, will mature at a different rate and has different tastes. Take this into consideration when you are choosing a suitcase. Would you, for example, be better of opting for a boy's suitcase decorated with cute pirates that they may enjoy for the next 6 months or so, or one on a similar theme but aimed at the older boy and which they can 'grow into' rather than grow out of? Would you be better choosing a pink ballet or fairy girl's suitcase or opting for a more sophisticated older girl's suitcase?
6. What type of holiday are you going on?
Some people want to be able to open their suitcase out flat and view all the contents easily, in which case a traditional style suitcase would work best. Or, you may wish to save space or specifically want to be able to easily open the luggage whilst on the move (eg in a confined space on the train) without the contents going everywhere. In this case a rucksack on wheels might be a better idea. Check out our feature on children's suitcases v rucksacks on wheels.
7. Hard or soft?
Think about how sturdy or pliable you want the luggage to be. Some cases are made of ABS, a 'hard' outer case that is easy to clean and will protect the contents against crushing. Others are made of thicker, still firm material, like the Samsonite Sammies range of cases. These will still protect your contents well. Other cases, like some of the rucksacks on wheels, are made of more plable material. They are therefore more lightweight and can be 'squished' into small spaces as needed. These type of bags and suitcases are usually made from a heavy duty (600D) polyster which is still extremely hard wearing.
8. Separate compartments?
Is it important to have separate areas within your luggage? With children I find this invaluable as you can separate underwear from other clothes, dirty from clean, toys, shoes etc. Look at the type of storage offered by your luggage and choose one that will best suit you and the child you are buying for.
9. How heavy is it?
If you're travelling by air you'll need to be aware of how heavy your luggage is to make sure you don't get stung with a hefty fee at the airport. You may want to go lightweight if this is an important factor to you.
10. Is there room for ted?
Perhaps the most important issue - is there room to fit your child's favourite toy in? Unfortunately my son's favourite toy is a rather large tiger, aptly named Tigger, and he just has to travel everywhere with us. If the bag isn't big enough for Tigger, then it isn't any use!
Hope you find this helpful. Still unsure? Contact us with any questions you may have and we'll do our best to help :)
Happy travelling!
PS Don't forget we have lots of ideas for free travel games for kids and some great travel tips too on our blog.
|
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
Name: Anne Abel
Date: 24/01/12
Message: Excellent service - e mail queries were answered promptly,information suited my needs and did not involve any "hard selling" . Goods were despatched and received quickly meeting my deadline for children going on a plane in a few days. Would recommend and use again. I bought two neck pillows for a 3 year old and a 7 year old. Pillows of this quality are not easily available elsewhere. Thank you .It is good to have such service.
Name: Emma Hawley
Date: 06/08/11
Message: my twin boys were overjoyed to recieve their "monster" suitcases today (very fast delivery thankyou)a real pleasure ordering thru your company thankyou
Name: Sarah Sfaltos
Date: 05/24/11
Message: Received my order a day and a half after I placed the order. Good quality and great service. If only more companies were like this. Thank you.
Name: Tricia Stevens
Date: 05/18/11
Message: Just wanted to comment on the service which has been second to none. Ordered the bubblebum yesterday and it arrived this morning - brilliant!
more feedback here >>
| |
|
 |
|
 |
|
