When luggage wheels break off or crack at crucial times, you may not have any options other than to live with them for the moment. There are repair shops that will tackle the job for you. However, unless you are in a major airport with a repair shop on site, this is not an option.
Rollers can be difficult to replace, but the main problem is that most people do not carry spares with them. If your suitcase or bag has rollers with screws on the bottom, you may be able to change them in an emergency. This requires taking along a screwdriver and finding the correct replacement rollers, before you plan to travel. You can find a variety of such items at a local hardware store or home improvement center.
Wheel Casters
For bags that do not have rollers or casters that are simple to change, there is another option. Carrying two smaller bags will allow you to stack one on top of the other, in the even that damage occurs during a flight or unloading. If the two bags are small enough, check one in, and place the other in an overhead compartment as a carry on bag. The only additional equipment you will need is some type of strap or bungee type of band, to keep the bag on top in place.
There is a better solution. There are many carts available, made of durable casters and steel frames. This option in luggage wheels allows you to place all bags on the cart, for easier navigation through airports and hotels. Most models fold up small enough to fit in a carry on bag, yet can be very handy when damage to your luggage, including the rollers, occurs unexpectedly.
These handy carts are a great alternative to installing regular luggage wheels and are inexpensive. They can be purchased for around , depending on how they are made. They will get you over many rougher surfaces as well, such as sidewalks and airport parking lots. Regardless of whether you have extra rollers and tools or not, using one of these items eliminates the need to stop and make repairs on luggage wheels when you are in a hurry. You will find them in stores that sell suitcases and travel bags. You may also find them in discount or low cost retail stores, in sections that sell bags and suitcases. They are by far the best solution.