Before buying luggage, it’s important to consider how often you travel, the types of trips you take and the kinds of items you usually pack. For example, if you tend to pack heavy items, you may want to use a few different backpacks and bags instead of one large one so lifting and loading your luggage isn't as challenging.

If you want to access your laptop, headphones or a good book on the go, the best carry-on luggage for you will be a traveler bag with pockets that allow you to get to those items easily. It’s also helpful to have items like toiletries and first aid kits on hand and accessible through easy-to-reach pockets.

Some trips require you to walk up and down stairs frequently or over uneven ground. For those, it can be handy to have a duffel bag that you can easily throw over your shoulder. You can also look for luggage sets that come with different luggage sizes so that you have a few bag options for different types of trips.

To make good use of the space in your suitcase, consider packing organization sacks. You can sort your shirts and pants for easy access once you reach your destination, or you can use compression bags to fit more clothes into the bag. You can also keep the cables for your electronics neatly coiled.

To keep all your things a little more secure on long, bumpy journeys, you could choose hard-shell suitcases. And always protect your laptop by packing it in a laptop bag or sleeve for travel. Additionally, many travelers benefit from expandable luggage. Expandable designs give you more or less room as needed so that your belongings are always snug inside your bag and protected from moving around.

If you're concerned about losing track of your luggage or incorrectly identifying it on a luggage carousel, consider the convenience of a Bluetooth tracker. These can also be used for keys and other valuable items that you frequently misplace. And, if you choose lockable luggage for added security, make sure the bag and lock are TSA-compliant.