Beauty

The first step in the evolution of the suitcase was a travel chest made of precious woods — pine, cedar, oak, upholstered with metal strips for strength, decorated with decorative nails and fasteners. A status expensive thing emphasized the image of the owner, and in the intervals between trips served as furniture.

By the appearance of the chest, one could trace the history of the travel of its owner. Bright labels and shipping stamps adorned the surface of the luggage pointed to it. It is noteworthy that the luggage of high-ranking persons was decorated with a family coat of arms or a monogram — such chests are found in museums and antiques auctions. Collectors acquire and restore rare items, the value of which increases over the years.

Louis Vuitton is considered the inventor of the modern rectangular suitcase with a hard, flat surface. Thanks to the French master of the 19th century, it became possible to store luggage one on top of the other without fear for the fate of fragile items. Travelers liked the innovation, and counterfeit Louis Vuitton products appeared on the market. Therefore, the inventor patented his signature colors, by which the designer’s suitcases were recognized all over the world.

After the chest, the next step in the evolution of the suitcase was a bag with a metal handle and a clasp. At first they were sewn from carpet fabrics, then from leather — and doctors and lawyers immediately chose the bag. Such a luggage bag made of expensive leather and today harmoniously complements the image of a respectable traveler.

To travel long distances, wealthy people used cars, steamboats and trains. Short distances were covered in carriages and carriages, and luggage was transported in carriage suitcases — compact, convenient for loading and unloading.

Gradually, the suitcase took on the form that it has now, but the process of its evolution did not end there. There are many types of luggage accessories for different purposes — for clothes, equipment, children’s things, with combination locks, ultra-lightweight made of innovative plastic.

So, for the transportation of bedding, a portlet is traditionally used — a kind of soft bag made of waterproof fabric with straps. Today it is also used for the gentle transportation of suits, men’s shirts and other clothing. The portlet looks like a travel case and folds in half.

With the advent of motorcycles and bicycles, there was a need for adapted luggage for these modes of transport. This is how the wardrobe trunk appeared — a small box on a rigid frame with a soft inner lining. In addition, a trunk is called a box for video equipment, lenses, musical instruments.

A suitcase made of genuine leather is an elite travel accessory, which, due to the high cost, can only be afforded by wealthy travelers. However, it cannot be called a practical thing — rather, an image one. It is a completely different matter suitcases made of artificial leather, which weigh less, cost less and behave better in operation. They do not tear when caught on a nail, do not melt in the heat and do not crack in the cold.

Fabric suitcases come in a variety of materials, but the most common are polyester and nylon. Polyester has dirt-repellent properties, dries quickly, does not fade in the sun and keeps its shape well; can be shiny and matte. Nylon is an order of magnitude lighter than polyester, but at the same time stronger, more elastic, although its UV resistance is rather low. However, do not focus too much on the pros and cons of both fabrics, because there are protective impregnations that improve the performance of materials.

Passenger air transportation dictates its own rules. Baggage allowance per air passenger is limited and light suitcases are preferred over heavy ones. In this sense, plastic ones are out of competition, because they weigh less than a kilogram, even with impressive dimensions. Polycarbonate suitcases do not get wet, fragile items are well preserved in them, and it is a pleasure to take care of them. After a long journey, a plastic suitcase is enough to wipe the outside with a damp sponge and detergent, and it is ready for new trips.

In the 21st century, people travel a lot. The suitcase has become part of the image, and fashion trends have not bypassed it. Every year, eminent designers develop collections of travel accessories and delight fashionistas with novelties. Surface under the skin of a reptile, acid colors, bright prints — what does the coming year have in store for us? The answer to this question is eagerly awaited by those who spend a fair amount of time at airports and train stations.

Tourists and businessmen consider models on wheels with a telescopic handle to be the most convenient suitcases. Particularly convenient options on four wheels of large diameter, deep enough recessed into the «body» of the suitcase. They rotate in different directions, and thanks to them, luggage moves easily and smoothly, without effort. The telescopic handle adjusts to the height of the passenger, creating maximum comfort on the journey.

Children also travel with adults — why shouldn’t they have their own luggage? Moreover, designers tirelessly develop children’s models of suitcases — bright and funny, on which you can ride. The child himself puts toys and personal belongings into it, just like an adult.

One suitcase or a set of two or four pieces? Practical people choose the second option because it is stylish (the family immediately stands out from others at the airport), convenient (suitcases can be stored compactly like a “matryoshka doll”) and, finally, profitable (the kit is cheaper than buying by the piece).

The choice of suitcases today is simply huge. The evolution process continues, and there are already models with a biometric lock that open with fingerprints. Or, for example, suitcases with a motor, designed for those who do not like to mess around with weights. If the luggage weighs more than 7 kg, the motor turns on automatically. Models with a GPS navigator have also been developed, which, if luggage is lost, will inform the owner of his location.

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