"Security" questions about your luggage:

1. Taking into consideration the new international security regulations, which ones have been adopted by the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) now authorising them to verify luggage content, what type of lock should I purchase in order to avoid having it cut by security?
   
   It is recommended that you purchase a combination lock (safer) specifically approved by the TSA. Indeed, the TSA has the master key for all of these locks, allowing them to be unlocked for verification purposes without damaging them.
   
   
2. What is the use of having a security strap put around suitcases?
   
   Seasoned travellers have the habit of using extendable security straps around their suitcases because they have either witnessed or had bad experiences. Indeed, it sometimes happens that the latches on a suitcase give out because of excessive pressure due to the way they are handled on the conveyor belt.
   
   
3. Should more than one piece of identification be placed on a suitcase?
   
   It is strongly recommended you identify your suitcase and place an address tag on the main handle of the suitcase (non-retractable). The address tag should be securely fastened to the suitcase in order to avoid losing it along the way. Also, it is recommended that you place your coordinates inside the suitcase (a piece of paper can do) in case the address tag is torn off or damaged. This safety measure could make it easier for luggage handlers to identify your suitcase and redirect it to the right place.
   

Practical questions:

1. What is the maximum weight that my suitcase may contain in order to avoid having to pay excess baggage fees and is there such a thing as good quality light-weight suitcases?
   
   The maximum weight allowed varies depending on the airline and the destination (between 44 pounds - 20 kg and 66 pounds - 30 kg allowed on average). It is recommended to contact the airline for more information. Recently, airlines have agreed to reduce the maximum weight allowed per suitcase in order to reduce their fuel consumption. To maximise luggage content, certain manufacturers have asked themselves the same questions and recently created, thanks to a new technology, suitcases that weigh 30 to 50 % less. These suitcases are said to be Ultralight (for example, a 30" - 76 cm suitcase weighs 9.5 pounds - 4,3 kg whereas the average for a 30" - 76 cm is 17 pounds - 7,7 kg).
   
   
2. Hardside suitcases seem to be more resistant but are they heavier than softside suitcases?
   
   In the past few years a myth has emerged stating hardside suitcases are heavier than supple ones. In reality, a good quality hardside suitcase (without zipper and not semi-rigid) is very resistant and has a weight comparable to high-quality softside suitcases (approximately 15 pounds - 7 kg for both types of suitcases). For those who intend on carrying more delicate items, hardside suitcases will offer superior protection as well as enhanced permeability (in comparison to softside suitcases).
   
   
3. I would like to purchase a resistant high quality softside suitcase because it corresponds better to my needs since it can offer greater flexibility to pack more clothing. However, should I choose a suitcase made of polyester or nylon?
   
   A specialist from one of our stores will be able to guide you taking into consideration the number of times you will be travelling per year. They will explain to you the difference between the various materials available (polyester vs. nylon) and their resistance in terms of denier.
   
   
4. How much importance should I give to the warranties offered by different suitcase manufacturers at the time of purchase at a particular retailer?
   
   Many manufacturers, despite the fact that a suitcase is covered under warrantee by the manufacturer for a period of 5 to 10 years, will offer you a one or two-year limited warrantee after which they will invite you to contact an authorized repair centre that you will have to locate in order to have your suitcase repaired. In this case, the authorized repair centre will require that you produce the original bill (important to keep throughout the timeframe your suitcase is covered by the warranty). By making your purchase in our stores or online, on our website, you will also benefit from our services during and after the time of purchase (warranty and repair). In fact, we are a designated and authorized repair centre. We honour the warranty of each of our products for the entire timeframe they are covered by the manufacturer. Of course, you will have to present yourself at one of our stores or assume transportation fees if you wish to send your suitcase by mail to have it repaired.
   
   
5. What are the most useful types of suitcases when considering purchasing a luggage set and how do I make sure I can eventually purchase other pieces to complete the aforementioned set after a certain period of time?
   
   Actually, most consumers mainly look for three types of suitcases that generally suit their needs. They are: the tote bag, the carry-on suitcase and the 26" (66 cm) medium-sized suitcase. Of course, needs may vary. This is why certain people will also want to purchase a garment bag (useful to store suits etc.) or opt to buy a sport bag with wheels, a cosmetic bag or another suitcase of a different size (20" - 51 cm, 24" - 61 cm or 29" - 74 cm ). But, above all, we recommend a well-known brand (of medium to high quality) since it will offer you the flexibility of being able to complete your set for a period of 1 to 3 years following the purchase of your first piece. Be careful with certain brands offered in store that unfortunately do not continue to offer the different pieces once their production has stopped (it is often the case of brands that focus on trends). It will be difficult to replace a piece if it is damaged during a flight or to simply complete a set since it is no longer available shortly after its purchase. It is nice to be able to be different and follow trends but, it is important to keep in mind that a luggage set should be good for at least the timeframe it is covered under warranty (on average 5 to 10 years). It is up to you to see what best suits your needs.