Create a list of essential factors. If you travel by air, research the luggage size and weight restrictions. If you travel by rail, factor in the size of overhead luggage racks and the need to carry your bags on and off at station stops. If you favor adventure travel more than city destinations, factor in the need for portability in places where wheels may not function.
Consider the style that suits your taste. Brightly colored bags are becoming more popular and can also make things easier when trying to locate your luggage among a sea of black bags on the baggage carousel.
Stick to tough materials like ballistic nylon for carry-ons and duffel bags. Ballistic nylon lasts and wears well. Cordura nylon is less durable but will do the job for the average traveler. Overall quality should always be a leading consideration: A bag is useless if it does not hold together throughout the trip.
Pay attention to design features that may signify a bag's strengths or weaknesses. Single telescoping handles are less well-balanced and more likely to break than double-framed handles. Flimsy wheels can break under the weight of your luggage while double wheels and larger wheels may perform better.
Directly compare your luggage options for features that make sense to you, like internal pockets for toiletries or electronics, or attachment capabilities for hiking gear or tents.
Visit a luggage specialty store or major department store. These stores often have the largest selection of luggage and allow for a hands-on review of many of the styles and brands on the market. Work your way through the displays, referring to your lists to find the luggage meeting the most criteria.
Visit a travel specialty retailer or website. These outlets often have luggage brands and styles that cannot be found elsewhere. Specialty luggage may have features or characteristics that suit your needs better than mass-market options.
Visit online luggage discounters for the best rates. Retailers without brick and mortar outlets often offer lower prices thanks to their lower cost of operation
