[Travel Troubles] What to do if your suitcase breaks? A detailed explanation of the parts that break easily and how to fix them

Suitcases are essential for travel, but they can break if they are handled roughly on airplanes or trains, or if they are loaded with too much luggage. Damage to the zipper, frame, or handle can make it difficult to close the suitcase, which can be extremely frustrating. What should you do in such a situation?

If your suitcase breaks, the first thing to do is to stay calm and assess the situation. The solution will vary depending on the part of the suitcase. The most common problem is when the zipper or lock on the suitcase is broken and it won't close. There are two types of suitcases: those that fasten with a zipper and those that don't (so-called frame types).

A common problem with suitcases with zippers is that the zipper breaks and the suitcase won't close. Aside from damage caused by being checked in as luggage on an airplane and being handled roughly, the most common cause of damage is probably a broken zipper on a suitcase.

Another common type of damage to suitcases is when the lock that closes the suitcase breaks and the suitcase cannot be closed, rather than a zippered one. The lock can break when the suitcase is hit while it is being checked in.

First, check the cause of the damage to your suitcase. If the damage occurs when you check it in at the airport, the airline will cover the cost of repairing the suitcase or replacing it with a new one. Therefore, if you notice any damage when you receive your suitcase, immediately take a photo and report it at the counter. It is important to secure your suitcase with a suitcase strap or tape. This will prevent your luggage from spilling out.

If the damage was your fault, you have the option of repairing it or buying a new suitcase. If you choose to repair it, you can do the following:

If the frame is distorted
- If the frame is slightly warped, you can fix it by hitting it from the direction of the warp with a rubber hammer.³ Be sure to hit the metal part, as hitting the plastic part will cause it to crack. You can buy a rubber hammer at a 100 yen shop.

- If the frame is severely warped, it is difficult to repair. In this case, we recommend purchasing a new frame or a new suitcase. However, if the frame becomes warped while traveling, it is important to secure the suitcase straps with suitcase straps or tape. This will prevent your luggage from spilling out. Decide whether to take it to a repair shop during your trip or after you return home, or whether to purchase a new suitcase.

ZippersZipper are necessary parts for opening and closing a suitcase, but if they are pulled too hard or caught, they may not open or close properly. If your zipper breaks, here's what to do:

- If the zipper pull is broken, you may be able to open it by threading a string or wire through it instead. However, this method may also cause the zipper's anti-slip properties to become ineffective.

- If the zipper won't close
- If the zipper teeth are misaligned, you can sometimes fix them by pulling on both ends of the zipper with force. However, if you're not careful, you could end up damaging the zipper further.

- If a zipper tooth is chipped, you may be able to repair it by cutting off the chipped part with pliers or a cutter, and then sewing the end of the zipper back in. However, this method will shorten the length of the zipper, which may reduce the amount of luggage you can fit in your bag.

- If the zipper snaps are broken, you may be able to close it by inserting tweezers or a toothpick into the snap and pushing and pulling. However, this method may damage or dislodge the zipper teeth.

- If the zipper has come off, you can temporarily secure it with tape or thread. However, this method weakens the zipper, increasing the risk of items falling out or being stolen. We recommend taking the suitcase to a repair shop immediately or purchasing a new one.

If you can't figure out why the zipper won't close, we recommend taking it to a professional repair shop or purchasing a new suitcase.

Casters Casters play an important role in moving a suitcase, but they can break or come off due to impact or wear. If a caster breaks, here's what to do:

If a caster comes off

- If the casters are screwed in place, you may be able to repair them by tightening or replacing the screws. Check to see if you have tools such as a screwdriver or if there is a tool rental service nearby.
- If the casters are riveted in place, it will be difficult to repair them yourself. You will need special tools to remove the rivets, and it will take strength and skill to drive the rivets back in. In this case, we recommend taking it to a specialized repair shop or purchasing a new suitcase.

If the caster is broken

- If a caster is cracked or chipped, continuing to use it may make the problem worse. It may also scratch the road surface or make noise. In this case, the caster needs to be replaced. Replacement casters can be purchased online or at home improvement stores, but be sure to pay attention to the size and shape. Also, when replacing them, follow the instructions above.

- If the casters no longer turn, it is possible that the bearings are clogged with foreign matter or rust. In this case, removing the casters and cleaning and oiling the bearings may solve the problem. However, if the bearings are damaged, they will need to be replaced.

Handles Handles are essential for lifting and pulling your suitcase, but they can bend or break if too much force is applied or they receive a shock. If your handle breaks, here's what to do:

- If the handle is bent

- If the handle is made of metal, you may be able to restore the bent part by hitting it with a hammer or something similar. However, if you are not careful with the amount of force you use, you may end up damaging the handle even more. You may also scratch or dent the surface of the handle. In this case, we recommend wrapping the handle with tape or cloth to protect it.
- If your handle is made of plastic, you may be able to heat it to soften it and return it to its original shape. However, if you are not careful with the heat source, you may melt or burn the handle. This may also cause the handle to change shape or color. In this case, we recommend wrapping the handle with tape or cloth to protect it.

If the handle breaks

- If the handle is completely broken, it is difficult to repair. In this case, we recommend purchasing a new handle or a new suitcase.
- If the handle is partially broken, you may be able to fix it with glue or tape. However, this will weaken the handle and increase the chances of it breaking again. It will also look worse. In this case, we recommend buying a new handle or a new suitcase.

Above, we have introduced what to do if your suitcase breaks and won't close. It can be a real hassle if your suitcase breaks while you're traveling, but by using the above first aid methods, you may be able to enjoy your trip a little more. However, first aid is only temporary. Depending on the cause of the suitcase breakage, repair or replacement may be necessary. In that case, what kind of suitcase should you choose?

I recommend suitcases from the New Trip brand. New Trip suitcases have many attractive features, including expandable capacity, high impact resistance, sophisticated design, and quality testing results.

For example, New Trip suitcases are zippered. Zippered suitcases are convenient when you have a lot of luggage, as they can increase capacity by 20% by expanding the gusset width. They also use Japan's world-renowned YKK zippers, which prevent zipper malfunctions.

New Trip suitcases come in a wide variety of colors and sizes, so you can choose one that suits your tastes and purposes. Plus, if you purchase from our store, New Trip members can enjoy special benefits like free shipping and discount coupons.

Image link: https://newtrip.online/collections

I tried a New Trip suitcase and was very satisfied. It was light, durable, easy to use, and convenient. Why not give a New Trip suitcase a try? I'm sure it will become your travel partner.

Of course, it's best to prevent your suitcase from being damaged, but it's also important to be prepared in case something does happen. Your suitcase is your partner that will protect your precious belongings. Be sure to check the condition of your suitcase and take out insurance before your trip. Now, have a wonderful trip!
I hope this information is helpful to you.