The saying “good things come in small packages” definitely holds true when it comes to kid-friendly baggage that shrinks in size while amplifying enjoyment. For your next trip, camping trip, or sleepover, give your kids their own bags to keep them busy and on board.
There are a few factors you should take into account when you purchase baggage for your children.
Size and Weight
Most children are smaller than most adults, so their cases and luggage need to be smaller so they can be used. The average size of a carry-on case is about right for both younger and older children.
but many cases made just for kids are a little bit smaller. Still, the case should have enough space for clothes, toys, electronics, and anything else you need to bring with you.
When it comes to how much your child’s case weighs, lighter is better. No matter how cute and kid-friendly it looks at first, a 4-year-old will have trouble pulling a heavy hardside case behind them.
Hot Tip: If the case is too heavy, you’ll have to carry it around for them, which kind of defeats the purpose. Ideally, it shouldn’t weigh more than 7.5 pounds.
Material and Durability
A wipeable vinyl material or other soft, water-resistant material, or one of the more robust and long-lasting ABS or polycarbonate hardshell components, is used to make the majority of kid-sized cases.
Hard-sided cases and backpacks are often more durable than their softside equivalents, despite the fact that traditional softside cases and backpacks are sometimes available in a wide variety of adorable designs with cuddly figures and vibrant patterns. So, even when full, soft-sided luggage will be lighter, making it easier for little hands to pull or carry.
Hardside luggage and backpacks, on the other hand, are a super-cute kid-sized complement to full-size adult bags and are often more robust and long-lasting. They might last longer, but they might also be heavier, so think about your child’s size and strength before you buy.
Wheels
Most kids are happy to drag and pull their bags over anything that gets in their way. This is different from adults, who can carefully move through their surroundings. With this in mind, most child-sized suitcases have wheels made to last, like spinners or in-line skate wheels.
When your kid attempts to roll the case over your own feet and the feet of everyone else waiting in line with you, you may be grateful for the bulky plastic covers instead of the clever wheels seen on high-end, full-size cases. They might be a little bit louder.
Compartments and Organization
The majority of kid-sized luggage does not have a lot of finicky pockets and compartments, but you should think about getting one that can separate different stuff. Suitcases, for example, usually have a zippered divider that you can use to separate clean and dirty clothes. Some also have a mesh pocket that you can use for toys, books, and other important items.
Snacks and toys fit easily in the front pocket of backpacks and carry bags, while water bottles and cups are kept nearby in mesh pockets on the sides.
Kid-Friendly
Children like to buy things that have pictures of their favorite characters on them. Mickey Mouse, Cinderella, Star Wars, Paw Patrol, and many other brand-name cases are made to appeal to younger children.
They are bright, colorful, and full of fun. There are also a lot of bags and cases with animals, sports, or hobbies on them that kids of all ages will love.
Ride-ons are a fun alternative to strollers for toddlers on longer trips, and parents can pull them along when they need to keep their kids close.
Bottom Line: Let your kids pack their own bags, but keep it fun by giving them luggage made just for kids.
