Cleaning your Luggage
It’s important to make sure to keep your luggage clean and well maintained, so it will last and remain looking good. To make sure your luggage stays in great condition, take some time to clean it. First, use a brush to brush off the dirt and debris on the fabric or soft exterior. Additionally, you can use a soft damp cloth to clean the surface. If your luggage has any metal parts, rubbing a little WD-40 (after brushing it off) can help keep it free from rust.
If your luggage is made from leather, use saddle soap, a leather cleaner, or leather conditioner to wipe down the leather. This will help to keep the leather from drying out and cracking. With your luggage wiped down, it’s also important to add a water repellant finish. This can help to keep it dry during your travels, and keep the fabric supple and free from cracking. Some luggage also has protective coating that can help with wear and tear.
Finally, use a deodorant spray or fabric freshener to help keep your luggage smell fresh during travel. This is also a great way to be sure that there are no strong odors coming from your luggage while in transit. Hopefully these tips will come in handy and help keep your luggage in tip top shape.
Storing your Luggage
When it comes to taking care of your luggage, one of the most important things to consider is how to store it. Whether you're storing it in the closet of your home, a commercial luggage storage facility, a locker, or your car, there are certain tips and tricks that can make sure your luggage is well taken care of.
Storing in Your Home
When storing your luggage at home, make sure to keep it off the ground and away from other items to help minimize dust and dirt buildup. Use a cloth or garment bag for more sensitive items, and store your luggage in an area of low humidity and low temperature.
Storing in a Commercial Luggage Facility
When using a commercial storage facility, ask about their security measures as well as any special restrictions or fees. Some commercial storage facilities also provide insurance coverage in case of theft or damage.
Storing in Lockers
If you're traveling light and need somewhere to store your luggage, there are usually lockers available at airports, bus and train stations, department stores, and other public places. Depending on the type of locker, you may need to bring a lock or a coin for the locker.
Storing in Your Car
If you're traveling by car and need to store your luggage in the trunk, make sure your items are secure during transport and secure from outside elements. Consider using luggage straps to make sure your items don't slide around inside.
Repairing Damage to your Luggage
If your luggage has been damaged, it is important to get it repaired immediately in order to prevent further damage or deterioration. There are a few different ways to repair damage to your suitcase, depending on the type of damage. Here are a few of the most common methods:
- Zipper Repair - A stuck zipper can easily be repaired by spraying the teeth with WD-40, a specialized lubricant. Once the zipper has been lubricated, you can tug on it gently to get it unstuck.
- Hole Repair - Holes and tears in your luggage can be repaired by sewing them back together with a needle and some heavy duty thread.
- Thread Repair - If the thread on your luggage has frayed or broken, you can easily get it repaired by a seamstress or by taking it to a luggage repair specialist.
- Strap Repair - The straps of your luggage can be secured with a few simple stitches or sealed with a leather adhesive.
After making the necessary repairs, you should take the time to apply a coat of waterproof spray or wax to your suitcase in order to prevent further damage or deterioration.
Remember, by regularly inspecting and maintaining your luggage, you can keep it in tip-top shape for many years to come!
Protecting your Luggage When You Travel
Traveling can be a stressful experience, and nobody worries more than the person responsible for their cherished pieces of luggage. Fortunately, there are ways to safeguard your valuable items while you’re on the road. Here are a few tips to help protect your luggage when you travel.
Know Your Options
Consider alternatives to lugging your belongings around with you. Depending on where you’re going and for how long, you might opt for door-to-door luggage delivery, a storage locker or even luggage forwarding services. This way, you can spend more time enjoying your vacation rather than fretting over your items.
Use a Secure Lock
Ensure that your luggage is securely locked and the code is not easily guessed. A combination lock is best because you won’t have to worry about lost or broken keys. Also, affix a brightly-colored tag to your bag with your contact information. It will act as a deterrent and also make it easier to identify your luggage.
Secure Your Items
Place heavier items and valuables—such as jewelry, cash and electronics—in a laptop bag or day bag tucked inside your suitcase. Use packing cubes to keep items organized and securely closed.
Stay Alert
Be aware of your surroundings when you travel. Avoid potential trouble spots and keep close track of your luggage at all times. Always observe airport luggage regulations, and if possible, avoid leaving your suitcase unattended.
Protect Your Bag
Look for sturdy, quality luggage with TSA-place locks, reinforced seams, and sturdy, adjustable straps. If your bag looks worn or is difficult to maneuver, repair it or replace it before traveling.
Purchase Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a great way to protect your belongings against theft, loss or damage. Look for a policy that covers accidental damage, baggage delay and global travel medical costs.
Conclusion
Following these tips will significantly reduce the chances of your belongings being lost, stolen or damaged while you’re away. By being vigilant and prepared, you can enjoy a worry-free journey and return home with your cherished items in tow.
Transportation Tips for Your Luggage
When you're traveling, your luggage is in a vulnerable position. In order to best protect it, there are a few transportation tips to keep in mind. Knowing how to best transport your luggage will ensure it stays safe and lasts longer.
Choosing the Right Luggage
The size and type of luggage you choose will greatly affect how it functions during transportation. Choose a size that fits your needs, but is also light-weight. Hard-shelled cases provide the best protection for your belongings, but also add extra weight. If you need a more lightweight option, a softshell bag might be a better choice.
Properly Securing Your Luggage
Making sure your luggage is properly secured is the easiest way to protect it. Use a luggage strap or tie to make sure it stays in place. Don't forget to check the locks and straps before every journey.
Label Your Luggage
Labeling your luggage is an easy way to identify it quickly. This can be done with luggage tags or even a personalized note. Make sure the label is visible and scratches or marks cant obscure the information.
Keep an Eye on Your Luggage
Whenever you're transferring luggage, it's important to be aware. Whether you're at the airport, train station, or port, be aware of your luggage at all times. It's also prudent to research the regulations for the other transportation authorities so that you're aware of any restrictions.
Store Your Luggage Carefully
When you've reached your destination, be sure to store your luggage safely. If you're in a hotel, store it in the room making sure it's out of the way. Never store your luggage in public areas where it is vulnerable to theft. Make sure your luggage is also secure when its in storage so that it won't be tampered with.
How Regular Maintenance Can Help Your Luggage Last
Keeping your luggage in tip-top shape requires regular maintenance to ensure it lasts for years. Here’s how to properly care for your luggage.
Clean with a Soft Cloth
After each trip, clean the exterior of your luggage with a soft cloth or sponge. Make sure to clean any dirt or grime that accumulated during your travels. Dry thoroughly afterward.
Using the Right Products
Maintaining your luggage includes using protective products such as leather conditioners, water repellent sprays, and vinyl cleaners. Use a product recommended by the manufacturer.
Using a Protective Coating
To keep your luggage looking its best, use a protective coat such as polyurethane. Simply wipe the product on the exterior of the bag and let dry. This will create a barrier to keep dirt and water from seeping into the fabric.
Storage
Proper storage of your luggage is important. Store your luggage in a cool, dry area and make sure to use protective covers for extra protection.
Following a regular maintenance schedule can help your luggage last for years to come. Cleaning your luggage with a soft cloth and using the right products will not only help extend the life of your luggage, but will keep it looking its best.
