Travel Gear

The Best Luggage For When You Won't Be Home For A While

Going on a long trip? Bring the right bags.

For durability, style and convenience, a great piece of luggage can go a long way, literally and figuratively. | Shutterstock

By Islands Staff Dec. 22, 2020

Long trips are particularly appealing if you've been at home for a while. Yet you don't want to forget a single thing when you leave, especially if you'll be far away from everyone. Here are the bags that will ensure you forget nothing.

AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner Suitcase Luggage - Expandable with Wheels - 30 Inch, Black — You don't need to buy a set if one will handle the necessities. | AmazonBasics

To start, look at the overall size, as you'll need a bag you can jam with all the clothes you need.

Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Black, Checked-Large 28-Inch — Like with any product, purchasing something of high quality should set you up for years to come. | Samsonite

Weight is an important consideration, as a good long-term bag will be (relatively) light when you haul it.

Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage, Red, Checked-Large 28-Inch — Don't play the "is that mine" game at the carousel when you can choose a bright color to stand out. | Rockland

If your bag is going to need to take a beating, look for a hard-sided one with panels made of ABS plastic or similar materials.

DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Titanium, Checked-Large 29 Inch — Size is one thing, but never forget about security. | DELSEY

Make sure your bag is compliant with all air travel rules, such as having TSA locks, to ensure a smooth trip.

American Tourister Fieldbrook XLT Softside Upright Luggage, Black, 4-Piece Set — When you're going to be gone for a long time, you'll need plenty of room for your gear. | American Tourister

Don't forget a matching set, particularly if it's a distinct design, as that will make it easier to pick out on a carousel and limit confusion over who owns which bag.