Steamer trunks are sturdy luggage designed for long journeys on trains and ships. They are made of thick wood or metal and often lined with leather or cloth. Vintage trunks are often decorated with raised metal corners and luggage stickers. They can be expensive but restored trunks are available and can be used for storage or travel.
A steamer trunk is a type of luggage that takes the form of a large, sturdy trunk with a flat top. These trunks were built for long journeys, specifically on steam trains and ships; the flat top makes the trunk of a steamer easier to handle and stack. Many people continue to use steamer trunks for traveling and shipping today, and some people also keep a steamer trunk around the house to use as a storage chest. Steamer trunks are often found in vintage stores in varying condition, and some companies also make steamer trunks that can be purchased new from specialist luggage vendors.
Typically, the body of a steamer trunk is made of thick wood or metal, and is often held in place with metal or leather bands to ensure it is extremely strong. A metal or wooden frame can be enclosed within the trunk of the steamer so that it can withstand heavy impacts and the weight of luggage stacked on top. Typically, the interior of a steamer trunk is lined with leather, cloth, or paper, and a decorative design is often used on the lining. The exterior of the trunk may be lined with leather or embossed metal, and may be plain or highly decorative.
On vintage steamer trunks, decorative features such as raised metal corners on the edges of the trunk are common, while modern steamer trunks tend to be more streamlined. The trunk also typically includes two sturdy handles on each side of the trunk to allow it to be moved, and may include lockable latches for added security. Some steamer trunks come with straps to go around the trunk, ensuring it stays closed and providing a handle.
The size of a steamer trunk varies. The smaller versions can be moved by a strong person, provided they are not heavily loaded, while the larger steam logs may require two loaders or a hand truck. Classically, people painted their initials on their steamer trunks to make them easier to identify, and many vintage trunks are also covered with luggage stickers from various shipping companies; Some people like to collect these stickers.
A vintage steamer trunk in good condition can be quite expensive. It is also possible to find restored old trunks, with most of their original features intact and replacement of damaged elements such as the lining or the handles. Some people enjoy buying old steamer trunks and restoring them, and many antique shops have at least one steamer trunk lurking in their depths. Apart from being decorative, a steamer trunk can also be quite useful; It can be loaded with possessions for moving around or long voyages aboard a ship, and some steamers even come with organization tools like clothes hangers, shelves or drawers, and pull-out trays.
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