How to properly put a cover on a suitcase?

Travel and business trips are an integral part of the lives of a large number of people. Those who travel by plane know very well how difficult it can be to find your suitcase among many similar ones at the baggage carousel. In this case, a cover can be a helper.

It will not only allow you to quickly recognize your bag, but also will protect it from dirt, abrasions and will save money on constantly wrapping your suitcase at the airport. If the zipper breaks during transportation, the items will be additionally covered with a cover, which will prevent them from falling apart.

Did I buy the right case?

If you decide to purchase a case, then the most convenient solution would be to combine its purchase with the purchase of the suitcase itself. In this case, you can put it on the selected bag right in the store. But if you already have a suitcase, and it suits you completely, then there is no point in spending money again. Just choose an accessory that is suitable in size and design.

Beforehand, measure your suitcase at home with a ruler or measuring tape. More often than not, only one measurement is needed - height, since it is usually the dimensions of the product that vary depending on it.. However, just in case, measure the width: some manufacturers also take it into account when making different models of cases.

Specific sizes vary from seller to seller. They can be indicated simply in centimeters, they can be in a letter image (for example, S-XL), or they can be called “small”, “medium” or “large”. The approximate dimensions of the case are as follows:

• S – for a small suitcase whose height does not exceed 45–56 cm;
• M – suitable for luggage with dimensions of about 58–65 cm;
• L – for a large travel accessory above 65 cm;
• XL – if your suitcase reaches 80 cm or higher.

Try to choose a case that fits the size. An accessory of the wrong size will not only look unsightly, but will also fulfill its protective functions. A cover that is too large will get stuck in the wheels and slow down the ride.

What if it is more or less?

If you still bought a case that is too large, you can try to alter it exactly to the size of your luggage. For this you will need:

• needle and thread;
• safety pins;
• sewing machine;
• chalk or disappearing fabric marker.

Turn the cover inside out, pull it over the suitcase and use pins to take away the excess fabric on the sides and top. If desired, you can cover up the missing grooves in the upper corners so that the accessory fits perfectly according to the suitcase model. Sweep the entire cover along the marked lines and try it on again (leave large allowances in case it doesn’t fit well). If you are satisfied with the results, use a sewing machine to sew all the seams.Don't forget about the flap that unfastens at the bottom under the wheels. If you shortened its length, then sew the linden or zipper again.

If you bought a smaller case than you need, don't be upset right away. Cases are made from elastic fabrics such as stretch, supplex and spandex, so they stretch well even over suitcases of slightly larger dimensions. If the cover is so small that it is not possible to put it on the suitcase, then you can try adding strips of stretch material of a matching or contrasting color on the bottom or sides.

Step-by-step instructions on how to put it on a suitcase

The suitcase cover should be put on when you have completely packed your things and zipped up your luggage. If you have a combination lock, use it first, and then start tightening the cover. You will need to do the following:

• Place the suitcase level on the wheels and see which side the side handle is on;
• unfold the case and see which side to put it on: the hole for the handle should coincide with the handle itself on the side surface of the bag;
• starting from the top, pull the cover from the top retractable handle all the way to the wheels;
• stretch the elastic between the wheels (if your model has one) and fasten the fabric flap over it with a zipper, buttons or linden;
• correct all holes for existing handles. All is ready!

How do you know if the cover is on correctly?

Once you have “dressed up” your luggage bag, you need to make sure that the case is put on correctly. Ideally all handles should look freely into the holes. Try holding or pulling them out. Also check that the fabric is not on the wheels, otherwise it may interfere with the movement and tear when moving.