TRAVEL BAGS AND TOURISM – A BIT OF HISTORY

Beginnings:

The ancient Egyptians around 1500 BC are considered the inventors of luggage. During their expeditions, they used boxes and trunks that evolved into primitive suitcases made of noble wood and covered with animal fat or leather to make them waterproof. The luggage was very heavy. Heavy trunks and boxes on blood traction carts made it impossible for them to move quickly and nimbly.

"The history of the suitcase is also the history of people in emigration. Evolving to adapt to the trends and needs of its time, the suitcase was essential for every traveler, while also reflecting the things they valued the most."

Traveling for pleasure:

People have always needed to travel, whether to discover new lands or for their own pleasure. Tourism encompasses the latter. The Industrial Revolution, which began in the second half of the 18th century, caused a significant economic, social, and technological transformation that spread to the rest of the world. As a result of these changes, there was an exodus from rural areas to developing large cities that needed a workforce for the new industry. Consequently, new social classes emerged. Changes in transportation were also crucial. Improvements in freight and passenger transport contributed to the birth of leisure, new forms of entertainment, and travel. People primarily traveled by train, taking advantage of the fact that railway networks connected destinations in Europe and other parts of the world. In the following decades, there was a progressive internationalization of hotel companies, travel agencies, and airlines. New products and new forms of leisure activities were also offered, related to sports and health, among others.

Tourism today:

The tourism industry in Europe is growing, but it has not yet reached the profits of pre-pandemic levels. Like the rest of the world, the tourism industry in Europe is still feeling the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. In 2023, it will still not be possible to achieve financial results like in 2019, but the future looks quite optimistic.