Before the packing itself begins, it is worth taking a moment to check the suitcase for any damage that might have gone unnoticed since the last trip. Wheels, zips and handles all take a fair amount of wear over time, and a small fault can turn into a real problem once the case is full and being dragged through a busy station. A short check beforehand costs almost nothing but can save a good deal of trouble later. This is especially worthwhile after a case has been left in storage for a while.
A few things worth checking
Start with the wheels, turning the case on its side to see whether they still roll smoothly in every direction. A wheel that sticks or wobbles may not cause trouble on a short walk at home, but it becomes far more noticeable after a long stretch through a station or along uneven pavements. Catching this early means there is still time to plan around it before departure. A quick spin of each wheel by hand is usually enough to reveal any obvious problem.
The zips deserve just as much attention, since a zip that catches or does not close fully can let items slip out unnoticed during the journey. Running the zip slowly along its full length shows up any weak spots before the case is packed and closed for travel. A zip that struggles even when empty will only get worse once the case is full. Any stiffness is worth noting down, so it can be watched carefully throughout the trip.
The handle and any straps should also be tested by giving them a firm pull, checking that stitching and fastenings are holding properly. A handle that feels loose is best noticed at home, where it can still be dealt with, rather than discovered halfway through a long walk with a heavy case in hand. The same goes for any side straps or external pockets, which are easy to overlook until they are actually needed.
This short check takes only a few minutes but can prevent a great deal of frustration once the journey is underway. A suitcase that has been looked over in advance is far less likely to cause an unwelcome surprise partway through a trip. Making this a habit before every journey means one less thing to worry about once the case is packed and ready to go. Over time, the check itself becomes second nature and barely takes any extra effort.
