We see them rolling down corridors, up ramps, and into
elevators. Wheeled carrying cases and laptop bags have rolled right
into our everyday lives. These can be a godsend for transporting
bulky or heavy items.
We see them rolling down corridors, up ramps, and into elevators. Wheeled carrying cases and laptop bags have rolled right into our everyday lives. These can be a godsend for transporting bulky or heavy items. But to use one effectively, you should select thoughtfully and watch out for potential dangers.
Most people give careful consideration to whether their bag will carry the items they need: laptop, file folders, pens or other equipment. But you should also consider other features that may be just as important: base and wheel stability, and handle function and size.
When evaluating a rolling case, turn it over and inspect the bottom. One of my favorite cases has two 2-1/4 inch inline skate wheels located on the outer edges of the rear base. My case rolls easily, thanks to the good wheels. Owing to the wide wheel base, it won’t flip when I hit an uneven spot on the pavement or the edge of a ramp. A flipping case can be very disconcerting as well as dangerous to you and anyone close to you. My case also has two stabilizing legs set wide and close to the front such that the bag can stand upright when I walk away from it. Even if I make it top-heavy by leaving the handle extended, it doesn’t fall forward like some bags can do.
After the base and wheels pass your inspection, turn your attention to the pull handle. It should be comfortable in your hand. If rough or very small in diameter, it may become uncomfortable for moderate to long walks with weight in the bag. A good telescoping handle should be very easy to extend and retract. A release button on the top of the handle will enable you to retract it using one hand. Make sure the handle is long enough that you can walk completely upright using your normal stride while you pull the bag. You should not have to bend over while pulling it.
Another important handle is the carry handle attached to the top of the bag. You will use this one to lift the bag into the car or, hopefully rarely, to carry it up a flight of stairs. See that this handle is sturdy and comfortable in the hand. A rounded or padded underside can improve comfort and grip. For an oblong bag like a suitcase, it can be beneficial to have a carry handle on the side as well as the top. Many wheeled cases also come with shoulder straps, which I hope you will never have to use. If you do carry a heavy bag with a shoulder strap, switch shoulders often, use the handle to help distribute the work to your arms, and put the bag down when not walking.
Now that you’ve selected a rolling case or bag that will work for you, it’s time to plan to use it carefully. Protecting your back and avoiding tripping are the prime precautions. If your bag is bulky or heavy, try to get a helper to assist you in lifting it, especially into the trunk of your car. If it’s small enough you may be able to place it on the floor of the back seat of the car, possibly guiding it into place using your knee (carefully).
To avoid tripping yourself and others, stay aware of your surroundings and plan ahead. Go around turns slowly and watch for hazards that might bring the bag to a sudden unplanned stop. If others are nearby, walk with the bag close to you or stand still with it until the path is clear. Others may be able to see you, but not the bag. Call their attention to its location if you need to. Don’t let your bag be a hazard.
You now have more choices than ever when you shop for a rolling case or laptop bag. Select carefully and watch out for the potential dangers, and you can enjoy relief from the strain of lifting and carrying heavy items. Happy wheeling!
