Airports and toddlers don’t always mix. One minute you’re juggling boarding passes and snacks, the next, there’s a meltdown in the middle of the terminal. Sound familiar? Ride-on suitcases can make a world of difference on travel days; they hold all your child’s belongings and provide some entertainment. We’ll teach you the suitable ages for ride-on suitcases, key features to look for, and the benefits of this luggage option.
Best Ages for Ride-On Suitcases
While ride-on luggage makes travel easier for families, you’ll want to make sure your child is old enough for it. Most manufacturers recommend waiting until your child is at least two years old before letting them use a ride-on suitcase. This is because younger children may not have the balance or coordination necessary to operate the luggage safely. Moreover, most kids have basic motor skills by toddlerhood, so they can sit on the suitcase or push themselves without help.
It gets a bit trickier when it comes to the maximum age for ride-on luggage, as it has less to do with ability and more to do with size. Always check the weight limits for a bag and compare it to your child. For example, Younglingz has a maximum rider weight limit of 80 pounds, so there isn’t a specific age. While one seven-year-old may weigh around 50 pounds, another might grow faster and be closer to 80.
Ordering Tip
Check the product description before ordering your kid’s ride-on luggage to confirm the manufacturer's specific weight limit guidelines.
Parent Tip
Always make sure your child can comfortably handle and maneuver the ride-on luggage before purchasing it. It’s essential for their enjoyment and the safety of everyone in the area.
What To Look For in Your Ride-On Suitcase
Knowing which ages are suitable for ride-on suitcases helps you determine if your child is old enough. If your child is ready for it, the next step is picking the right option. Paying attention to the following areas will help you select a product that enhances your child’s travel experience.
Safety Essentials
Safety should always be a top priority when choosing a ride-on suitcase for your child. Look for features that ensure both comfort and protection during use, such as the following essentials:
- Seatbelt: A secure seatbelt keeps your child safely in place while the suitcase is in motion, minimizing the risk of falls.
- Comfortable Seat: A padded, well-designed seat ensures your child stays cozy, especially during longer waits or trips.
- Handlebars: Sturdy handlebars provide a place for kids to hold on for added stability and balance as they ride.
- Footrests: These provide a stable surface for smaller children to rest their feet, reducing strain and allowing for a more relaxing ride.
These safety features help protect your child as they ride and give you peace of mind as you navigate a busy airport together.
Compact and Carry-On Friendly
When traveling with kids, some essential items can feel more like a burden to lug around. Strollers are notoriously bulky, awkward to push through crowded airports, and can be a hassle to fold and store. Ride-on suitcases, on the other hand, are often compact and have foldable parts, so you can easily get through busy areas.
Additionally, most manufacturers design ride-on luggage to meet airline carry-on requirements. Their innovative design allows them to fit easily in overhead bins or even under seats, eliminating the hassle of gate-checking strollers. This convenience saves parents time and effort, making travel smoother and stress-free.
Travel Tip
Since every airline is slightly different, go to their website and note the size requirements for carry-on compared to the suitcase you plan to buy.
Pull Handle
While ride-on suitcases allow your child to push themselves, there may be times when you have to take the lead and tow them along. Look for options with a telescoping pull handle that you can open or collapse it as needed.
Durable Wheels
The quality of the wheels determines how smoothly the suitcase glides across different surfaces. Ruggedized wheels offer a high-quality ride and are better suited for outdoor terrain. Additionally, look for wheels that can rotate 360 degrees for greater maneuverability.
The Benefits of Ride-On Suitcases
Ride-on suitcases transform family travel by addressing common challenges in a fun and practical way. Here are some of the benefits for you and your child.
Entertainment for Kids
Sitting in the airport is boring, regardless of your age, but it can be especially challenging for kids, who have shorter attention spans. The thought of standing in long security lines, dragging a bag behind them, sounds like anything but a fun day—this risks tantrum territory.
A ride-on suitcase doubles as a “toy”, providing a welcome source of entertainment. Kids can enjoy riding on it while waiting to board or during a layover, which helps keep them occupied and happy. Plus, the novelty of having their own special luggage that they can ride on makes travel feel more like an adventure. This positive association can help reduce travel-related anxiety for some children. It turns a potentially stressful part of the journey into a fun activity.
Convenience for Parents
Traveling with young children is easier with a ride-on suitcase, letting you pull them along when they’re too tired to walk. This frees up your arms and reduces the physical strain of navigating the airport with an exhausted toddler. Additionally, many ride-on suitcases have extra compartments and pockets for storing snacks, toys, and other essentials.
Versatility
Ride-on suitcases are not just limited to airports; you can use them in train stations, bus terminals, or even during road trips. They provide a convenient way to transport your child’s belongings while keeping them entertained simultaneously.
Encourages Independence
A ride-on suitcase can be a child’s first introduction to managing their own belongings. Allowing them to pack their favorite toys and clothes gives them a sense of ownership and responsibility. As they get older, children can take on more responsibility, such as pulling the suitcase themselves in less crowded areas. This fosters practical travel skills and a sense of being a capable and helpful member of the family travel team.
Order Your Child’s Suitcase
Ride-on suitcases are the perfect blend of fun and function, making travel more manageable for families. Younglingz has options perfect for every little boy and girl. We design our luggage with safety, style, and convenience in mind. Take the first step toward smoother family trips today and explore your options.
