trunkscatalog.com

trunkscatalog.com

Today it’s the backpack or suitcase. But not that long ago, people used trunks for their luggage. Although we may not see this cycle back to regular trunk use, it’s still worth considering the pros and cons of each.

Backpacks
Pro: Lighter than other alternatives
Straps make them easy to carry
Multiple compartments and access points
Malleable shape

Con: Soft construction doesn’t protect contents
Informal
Can be awkward to access
Must be carried, not pulled

Suitcase
Pro: Can be wheeled
Offer more protection for contents
Right-angle construction maximizes usable space

Con: In ... (more)

Today it’s the backpack or suitcase. But not that long ago, people used trunks for their luggage. Although we may not see this cycle back to regular trunk use, it’s still worth considering the pros and cons of each.

Backpacks
Pro: Lighter than other alternatives
Straps make them easy to carry
Multiple compartments and access points
Malleable shape

Con: Soft construction doesn’t protect contents
Informal
Can be awkward to access
Must be carried, not pulled

Suitcase
Pro: Can be wheeled
Offer more protection for contents
Right-angle construction maximizes usable space

Con: Inflexible
Awkward to carry
Visually unappealing for long-term storage

Trunks
Pro: Offers maximum protection for contents
Useful for long-term storage
Has character
Rigid construction allows for large size
Durable

Con: Inflexible shape
Awkward to move

A quick scan of these pros and cons quickly reveals why the trunk has gone out of favor as a piece of luggage – it’s simply not well-suited to a mobile lifestyle, where people want to travel quickly and not be overly burdened. That said, a trunk is very well-suited to long-term storage within the home.

Let’s say your home offers minimal storage. Trunks give you the option of storing items in plain view. A heap of old keepsakes would be a blight on your living room. But a heap of old keepsakes tucked into a trunk becomes a coffee table.

Trunks are widely available, both new and antique. Be wary of the latter – lots of antique shops will really try to soak you. Your best bet for acquiring an antique trunk is to attend an auction. If you want an art object, some craftsmen construct hand-made wooden trunks, and some are even painted decoratively. Understandably, these are virtually always going to be expensive.

New trunks aren’t as common as they used to be, but can still be found fairly quickly online. One company is trunkoutlet.com. they seem to have a decent selection in the $100 to $150 range, although we’ve never had dealings with them and cannot vouch for their quality or service.

If you’re sick of having things stacked on chairs in your hallway, or tattered boxes overflowing your closets, maybe it’s time to get a trunk or two.


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