suitcase

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A typical suitcase

A suitcase is a somewhat flat rectangular-shaped bag with rounded corners, either hard plastic or soft or made of cloth, vinyl or leather that more or less keeps its shape. It has a carrying handle on one side and is used mainly for transporting clothes and other possessions during trips. It opens on hinges like a door.

Suitcases lock with keys or a combination. Originally, suitcases were made of wool or linen.

Most modern suitcases have built-in small wheels enabling them to be pulled along on hard flat surfaces by a fixed or extendable handle or by a retractable or stowable leash. Suitcases are a type of luggage.

A smaller, firmer suitcase, used mainly for transporting papers and office supplies is known as a briefcase.

Luggage tags.

Airlines attach tags to luggage which is transported as checked luggage. Due to current security concerns, checked luggage may be inspected and the security staff may confiscate belongings that are prohibited on-board aircraft.

Variations

A typical trolley case

Some suitcases that include a telescopic handle and wheels are known as trolley cases. Trolley cases typically two fixed wheels on one end with the handle located on the opposite for vertical movement.

Trolley case brands

See also

• Holdall
• Backpack
• Shoulder straps
• Briefcase. The French variation of the word is Portmanteau (travelling case).
• Wheel