In the 18th century, a trend known as the "Grand Tour"-a circuit of travel across Europe-swept through the ranks of young British aristocrats. The travel trunks of that era typically featured rounded tops to shed water; they were usually constructed of wood, covered in leather, and reinforced with metal at the corners. By the 1850s, advancements in transportation technologies, such as steamships and railways, made travel more affordable. In 1858, the flat-topped canvas trunk was introduced; these were lightweight, stackable, durable, and water-resistant.
By the late 19th century, as trains and steamships became widespread, luggage sizes shrank, giving rise to the "suitcase"-a bag designed to be carried by hand. By the 1920s, the suitcase had become highly popular.
In 1970, American inventor Bernard Sadow created a wheeled suitcase that could be pulled along via a strap, securing the first patent for wheeled luggage in 1972. The modern telescoping-handle suitcase emerged in 1991. With the further proliferation of automobiles and advancements in aviation, luggage materials shifted from heavy wood, leather, and iron fittings to plastics and lightweight yet sturdy alloys; dimensions were also optimized to fit aircraft overhead compartments.
Since the turn of the 21st century, the suitcase has entered a phase of modern evolution. In terms of materials and design, lightweight options (such as polycarbonate and aluminum-magnesium alloys) and customizable designs have come into use. Innovative designs that break with tradition have also appeared, including transformable models, easily repairable units, and designs tailored for the visually impaired. Trends toward personalization and artistic expression have emerged-such as exhibitions featuring artist-created illustrations for suitcases and the creation of the art installation *Boîte-en-valise* (Box in a Suitcase) by French artist Marcel Duchamp. Sustainability and environmental protection have become key development priorities, encompassing the use of eco-friendly materials, the adoption of sustainable production models, and the establishment of circular systems.
