New luggage trends

Bing Shopping | Eagle Creek Luggage

The hottest luggage trend isn’t a new designer logo or magical scuff-proof fabric -- it’s all about downsizing. Baggage fees keep rising while weight restrictions tighten up, so the newest bags are on a diet. One of the best-reviewed of the bunch is the Tarmac 22, part of the stellar Eagle Creek line.

Bing Shopping | Travelpro

Flight-attendant fave Travelpro offers lightweight construction paired with durable fabrication on its wheeled suitcases, so you’ll avoid both weight-limit fees and damage from the rough handling that checked bags are prone to. Critics pick the Crew 8 22-inch expandable bag the best in the Travelpro line.

Bing Shopping | Tumi

Higher-end luggage like the Tumi Alpha Frequent Traveler bag typically uses super-strong Cordura or ballistic nylon material and doesn’t scrimp on the fittings. Good-quality zippers, handles and wheels are usually the first things to go on cheaper bags, so you’ll appreciate the longevity of this luggage.

Bing Shopping | LL Bean

Less expensive, but still tough, are rolling duffle bags from L.L. Bean. The brand’s Rolling Adventure Duffle is available in water-resistant nylon, brightly printed polyester or rugged canvas. (Other well-reviewed rolling duffles include the Eagle Creek Take 2 and the versatile Osprey Soujourn 25, which converts into a backpack.)

Bing Shopping | Tumi Alpha

Carry-on bags obviously don’t go through the rough journey that checked suitcases do, but they need to be as lightweight as possible and durable enough to be stuffed to the brim. You’ll find brawny ballistic nylon in the premium priced (but worth it) Tumi Alpha series of carry-on bags.

Bing Shopping | Heys XCase

The killer combo of checked bag fees and lost luggage inspires most smart travelers to pack as much as they can into a smaller scale carry-on bag. The Heys 20-inch hard-sided Xcase is lightweight, tough as nails, and sports some of the most colorful patterns and prints we’ve ever seen.

Bing Shopping | Convertible carry-ons

Travel experts recommend soft-sided, wheel-free, non-rolling carry-ons, as these are lighter, hold more and mold themselves into overhead bins and under seats easily. Convertible carry-ons are the most versatile bag in this category, usually transforming into backpacks or large shoulder bags, so you’re essentially buying two bags in one.

Bing Shopping | TSA-approved travel kits

We’ve all seen the 3-1-1 info signs posted along our journey through the airport security line, but grabbing the correctly sized containers and transparent quart bag from home can be something of a chore. Streamline your travel and corral all your carry-on liquids and gels with a pre-made travel kit.

Bing Shopping | Weekender bags

Smaller than most carry-on luggage, weekender bags hit the sweet spot between useful and casual. The easiest to carry come without the weight of wheels or telescoping handles, but with a roomy interior, padded top handles, plus pockets and compartments inside and out for convenience.

Bing Shopping | Metallic totes | More totes

Totes aren’t as versatile as weekenders (they don’t double easily as carry-on bags as many are open-topped) but they can be stowed in luggage and used on trips for shopping excursions. Choose a metallic finish, punchy neon hue or artisan-style print for trend-right chic. Most are made in durable nylon, but also skew sophisticated in leather.