The Best Suitcases For First Time Travelers
Heading out on your first big trip? The right luggage goes a long way.
If you're about to embark on your first trip ever, or just your first trip in a while, a good suitcase makes a positive difference. Here's what to look for.
![Amazon Basics Hardshell Spinner Suitcase with Built-In TSA Lock](https://www.islands.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/7154CLdm7wL._AC_SL1500_.jpg)
Get the right size up front; smaller bags that can be carried on for short trips, bigger checked bags for longer ones.
![Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels](https://www.islands.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/916y0QIVEL._AC_SL1500_.jpg)
A hard-sided bag should be made of a hard-wearing material like ABS plastic or rigid nylon.
![Travelpro Maxlite 5-Softside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage](https://www.islands.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/71rWBdM8NGL._AC_SL1500_.jpg)
If you know you'll be hauling your bag across a lot of airport floors, a softsided or lightweight design will keep you moving.
![Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds 28-Inch Check-Size Lightweight Durable Hardshell 4-Wheel Spinner Upright Luggage](https://www.islands.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/91EMc57XzJL._AC_SL1500_.jpg)
Look for hardware like handles on the top and side, molded feet to rest it off its wheels, and easy spinning wheels.
![American Tourister Stratum XLT Expandable Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels](https://www.islands.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/81mhXsTy5bL._AC_SL1500_.jpg)
If you know you'll be coming back with more than you bring, or vice versa, a bag with expanding sides is a must.