A carry-on suitcase could be your key to spending less time at the airport and saving money

Life is supposed to be about the journey and not the destination, but air travel is an entirely different beast. Savvy travellers know that the key to minimising time at airports and saving money on air tickets is packing light and going full carry-on. This means you won’t have to check-in or collect your luggage and can save time navigating the airport crowds.

A light, sturdy suitcase, like this 21-inch Samsonite Freeform Hardside (sold locally as the OC2Lite Spinner 55 EXP-S, S$280), can smoothen your journey. Currently discounted on Amazon US for S$214.11, it’s available with free shipping for Amazon Prime members.

If your airline allows an additional personal bag, pair this with a backpack and you’re all set for hassle-free carry-on travel.

Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels, 21-inch, Merlot (S$214.11)

This 21-inch (55cm) suitcase meets most carry-on size restrictions. It’s equipped with a tough but light polypropylene scratch-resistant shell that protects your belongings. A recessed TSA combination lock provides added security and the case expands for extra storage. Four rotatable double spinner wheels offer multi-directional manoeuvrability. The suitcase has a fully lined interior, elastic tie-down straps and a full-zip mesh divider to keep your belongings firmly in place.

• Volume: 37 litres (normal), 43 litres (expanded)
• External dimensions: 54cm x 39cm x 25cm
• Weight: 2.9kg

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WHY THIS CARRY-ON SUITCASE COULD WORK FOR YOU

Weighing just 2.9kg, the Samsonite Freeform Hardside has several things going for it: Protection, capacity and manoeuvrability.

Its polypropylene case offers greater protection for your belongings than a fabric case. Samsonite says its textured surface offers scratch resistance though you should be aware that most hard-shell suitcases eventually show scratches with repeated handling.

If you’re returning from your trip with extra goodies, its expandable zipper section provides an additional six litres of storage.

Its four sets of oversized dual spinner wheels offer multi-directional manoeuvrability. The dual wheel setup helps to distribute weight more evenly across each wheel. This makes it easier to move around crowded airports and on uneven surfaces.

GET IT IF:

• You want to avoid check-in and baggage queues
• You want to save on check-in fees
• You want your belongings within easy reach on a flight

Going full carry-on creates a virtuous cycle of its own. You can save money if your airline charges extra for check-in luggage. You’ll also have to be more selective with your packing list and end up travelling lighter. That just-in-case pair of shoes you wanted to pack? You’ll realise that they were probably surplus to requirements (sorry, sneakerheads).

Travelling light also gives you greater mobility. It’s much easier to move around with a carry-on suitcase than a bigger check-in bag, especially if you have kids in tow. And since your luggage is always with you, the chances of it going missing are significantly lower.

Everyone likes a holiday but not everyone appreciates the process of getting to their destination. Travelling light helps create a win-win travel situation – a faster, less stressful transit to your destination that helps you save money.

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Prices are accurate as of the time of publication. Discount codes for some products are available for eligible Prime members.

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