Best Budget Luggage Carts for Easy Travel
Samsonite Compact Folding Luggage Cart
This cart is perfect for frequent travellers seeking a lightweight yet robust solution for transporting luggage.
- Extremely lightweight and sturdy, making it easy to carry around.
- Folds compactly to fit inside most wheeled luggage.
- Its narrow platform and wheel positioning can lead to tipping if overloaded.
EKYMAICZ Folding Luggage Cart
Ideal for those who need a compact and easily foldable cart without sacrificing smooth movement.
- Features high-quality carbon steel bearings for a smooth rolling experience.
- Comes with bungee cords included for added convenience.
- The smaller wheels may struggle on uneven surfaces.
Orange Tech Folding Hand Truck
This option is a great choice for those prioritising capacity over portability.
- Offers an impressive maximum weight capacity of 155 pounds.
- Includes an extendible platform for additional cargo space.
- At over 6 pounds, it can be a bit heavy to transport.
Which Budget Luggage Carts Are Best?
Wheeled luggage has revolutionised travel, but managing multiple bags can still be a challenge. That’s where luggage carts prove invaluable. They are designed to be compact and portable, allowing you to transport several pieces of luggage or boxes easily. Among our top recommendations is the Samsonite Compact Folding Luggage Cart, which stands out in the budget category.
Key Considerations Before Buying a Budget Luggage Cart
Portability
Since many of us will be transporting our luggage carts regularly, especially while travelling, portability is a key factor to consider. Look at both the folded and unfolded dimensions of the models you’re interested in. A smaller folded size makes it easier to fit into packed vehicles or carry on planes without issues related to airline restrictions. The unfolded size is essential for manoeuvrability in busy locations like airports and train stations.
Additionally, consider the weight of the cart itself. A cart should enhance your travel experience; a heavy model can become a burden instead.
Design
While many luggage carts may appear similar, subtle design choices can significantly affect usability. For example, two-wheeled carts require more physical effort but can navigate uneven terrain better. In contrast, four-wheeled carts are easier to push on smooth surfaces but may struggle on rough sidewalks. Carts with larger wheels tend to perform better outdoors, while those with smaller wheels are best suited for indoor use.
Features to Look for in a Quality Budget Luggage Cart
Capacity
Each luggage cart has a maximum weight limit that should be adhered to, typically ranging from 25 to 150 pounds for budget models. Alongside weight, the size of the platform and height of the upright support contribute to the cart’s overall capacity. These specifications together help you determine how much luggage a cart can handle.
Extendible Platform
Some carts come equipped with an extendible platform, which can be a game-changer for transporting larger amounts of luggage. This feature provides extra space when needed while remaining compact when not in use, ensuring it doesn’t take up additional storage space.
Anchor Points
To ensure safety and prevent damage to your luggage, it’s crucial to secure items on the cart. Many models include anchor points that allow you to attach ropes or bungee cords for added security.
Wheels
Most two-wheeled carts have fixed wheels, while four-wheeled varieties may feature either fixed wheels or casters. Casters are better for tight turns but can be less stable in a straight line. A good compromise is a four-wheeled cart that combines fixed wheels on the back with casters at the front.
Height-Adjustable Handle
A height-adjustable handle allows for ergonomic use, catering to a wider range of users. These handles typically telescope and can be locked into various positions, much like the handles on wheeled luggage.
Budget Expectations for Luggage Carts
For budget options, expect to spend between £25 and £60 on a quality luggage cart.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to check my luggage cart when flying?
Many luggage carts fold down small enough to carry onto a plane and stow in the overhead compartment. However, airlines may count them as part of your carry-on allowance, so planning ahead is wise.
Should I push or pull a luggage cart?
While most prefer to push their carts for easier navigation, they are designed to be versatile, allowing you to either push or pull depending on your preference.
Best Budget Luggage Cart Recommendations
Top Pick
The Samsonite Compact Folding Luggage Cart is our top pick for its lightweight yet sturdy design, perfect for frequent travel. It features adjustable support straps to secure your luggage and fits easily into most wheeled checked bags.
Best Value
The EKYMAICZ Folding Luggage Cart is compact and easy to fold, making it a fantastic choice for those who need a quick solution. It includes quality bearings for smooth handling and comes with bungee cords.
Worth Considering
If capacity is your main concern, the Orange Tech Folding Hand Truck offers an impressive weight limit and an extendible platform, although it is a bit heavier than others.