What's In My Luggage Lineup (And Why It's There)

As a Travel Advisor, I am frequently asked for my luggage recommendations. There are so many amazing luggage brands out there these days! I have not been able to test them all, but here are some things to consider when choosing new bags and what I travel with personally.

Durability – This might rate higher or lower on your list depending on how often you travel and whether or not you check baggage. I prefer to travel carry-on only, but sometimes end up having to check a bag at the gate or on my return. I fly several times a year and I want my bags to last and never give out on me mid-trip.

Price – I am willing to spend more on quality bags than I used to. I use them constantly, and the quality of the wheels and handles is worth the price to me when on multistop vacations. However, I also have a budget to stick to, so I try to look for a reasonable balance (and hit sales when possible).

Weight – Since I fly internationally and on various airlines, the weight of even carry-on bags is important to me. Yes, many budget airlines weigh carry-ons and personal items! I don't want my weight allowance eaten up by my bag before I even start packing. I want a carry-on close to 5 lbs and checked bag under 8. Keep in mind that hard sided luggage tends to weigh more, but offers better protection for your belongings.

Appearance – What can I say, I like a pretty suitcase!

Ability to roll – Being prone to shoulder and neck issues, I don't want anything on my back or shoulder while I'm in an airport or taking public transportation. My carry-on has to roll well, and my personal item either needs wheels or an easy way to stack it on my carry-on so I'm rolling my belongings, not carrying them. I suppose that's personal — I know people who'd rather have a backpack or tote since they have more leeway with size and are less likely to have their bag weighed. So think about what matters most to you.

So what do I own and love?

I usually pack carry-on only, so these Lojel checked bags don't get the heavy usage of my other pieces, but I've been very happy with them. They've made several domestic trips to see family across the country, and last year they went to Africa and back with no issues. Since they open from the front, they fit more, save my back when opening, and keep me better organized. They also have a TSA approved lock - most luggage does now, but my previous checked bag was lacking that feature.

See my tips for packing lightly!

An oldie but a goodie — my Bric's Bellagio. Here is the version with pocket. This bag has been all over the world with me and still looks great and rolls well. I hate to gate-check it because it's so pretty, but I've done it a few times and the leather has held up, and scuffs on the body mostly disappear with a magic eraser.

My husband uses IT Luggage for the price and low weight. His carry-on is discontinued but this one is similar. We also have this checked bag, and while it is great, I prefer our options.

If we were in the market for a new piece, I'd consider the carry-on version of our Lojel checked bags. I've been happy with the quality and love that it opens from the front instead of being a clamshell. That's a big deal in a small hotel room and a real space-saver when packing! Away just came out with a top loading carry-on as well.

This can be my carry-on or my personal item depending on the trip. It fits under the seat and holds a good amount. London Fog has these underseat rollers in many colors and patterns with a few very similar styles, and they tend to do closeouts on older designs, so you can snag a deal if your preferred color is being discontinued. Check out this one, this one, and this one.

The Foldie doesn't have wheels, but it does have a sleeve to fit over the handle of your bag. I've used it as my personal item and am pleased with the durability. It fits SO MUCH! I also like to fold it into its pouch and bring it along in case I end up shopping and need an extra bag for the trip home. In that case, I'll check my carry-on and use this with my rolling personal item. Here, here, and here are some similar foldable bags but I can't speak to their durability firsthand.

Have you tried any of my favorites? What do you travel with?

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