Travel has changed the way I think about a lot of things, and luggage is definitely one of them. I spent most of my life buying cheap bags from places like Big Lots because they used to last me years. Back then, I only traveled occasionally, so a bargain suitcase did the job. But once I started traveling regularly and really embracing this new passion, it became obvious that finding quality luggage needed to be at the top of my upgrade list. A flimsy zipper or a cracked wheel is funny until it happens in the middle of an airport in another country.
So what actually makes a great bag? For me, it comes down to quality, organization, and size. Materials matter because durability becomes everything when you are constantly moving through airports, stuffing bags into overhead bins, and tossing them into taxis. Hard shells sound sturdy, but they can crack. Soft shells flex more, but only if the stitching and fabric are strong enough to take a beating. Good luggage feels solid without being heavy, and light without feeling cheap. It is a fine balance.
Organization is another big factor. Having multiple sections and compartments makes a massive difference, especially when you are trying to stay on top of your travel routine. A bag that forces you to dump everything into one giant compartment just slows you down. I want spaces for clothes, shoes, tech, toiletries, and the “random stuff” we all pick up along the way. And then there is size and weight, which matter even more when flying budget airlines in Asia and Europe. Their stricter weight and dimension requirements can turn a normal carry-on into an unexpected checked bag fee, so choosing the right size is not optional.
Right now my personal rotation includes a Briggs & Riley Travel Duffel from the ZDX Collection, an Ogio Layover travel bag, plus a lineup of backpacks from Samsonite, Targus, and SWISSGEAR. Each one fills a different need depending on the type of trip, and I finally feel like I have a setup that works. But luggage is personal, and everyone has their own preferences. So I want to know: what makes a good piece of luggage or a solid travel bag for you? And what are you using on your trips?
Ogio Layover Woodblock
The Ogio Layover is my larger carry on and one of my most used bags. The wheels roll great, the layout makes packing easy, and the woodblock design stands out since I rarely see anyone else with one. It is durable, easy to spot, and hard to lose in a crowded airport.
ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Packable Backpack 25L
This ZOMAKE backpack is my go to extra bag when I need more space. It is lightweight, holds a surprising amount, and is easy to clean after long travel days. When I am done using it, it folds down small and goes right back into another bag.
Right: The Briggs & Riley ZDX 21” International Carry-On Wheeled Duffle
This is my favorite travel bag and the one I reach for most often. It is shorter than my Ogio, which makes it easier to use on international airlines, and it still packs plenty for longer trips. I do not see many of these around, which makes it easy to spot, and the lifetime warranty is a big plus.
Left: Samsonite Small Kombi Backpack
The Samsonite Kombi is my go to personal item and I have been using it for years. It keeps its shape, feels high quality, and fits my Chromebook or even my larger MacBook Pro without any issues. It is simple, reliable, and works just as well now as the day I bought it.