When was the last time you selected a travel bag?  Five to Seven years ago? That's how often most people purchase luggage.

Luggage is offered at a variety of prices. The higher the price, the higher the quality of fabric and construction, and the more features.  

The most important feature to look for is the thickness of the fiber in a fabric or the Denier.  Denier measures the thickness of the fiber in a fabric, and indicates the material's durability.  Whatever the material, make sure it's at least 1200 denier.

When selecting luggage consider your need for a couple of pieces or a complete set.  Luggage comes in all shapes and sizes and each has a unique name.  The meanings of those bag names are listed below.  

• Carry-on - Can be various bags in various shapes and sizes, all of which are intended to be carried onto an airplane and measure small enough to fit under the seat or in the overhead bin.  
  

• Cosmetic Case or Vanity - Small case with a mirror and compartments to hold cosmetics. It usually has a spill-resistant interior. Composed of hard or soft sides. Often an "essentials bag" can double as a cosmetic case.

• Garment Bag - Soft vertical bag with interior bar and hangers for garments and outside pockets for other apparel. Can be folded in half or thirds, lengthwise and fastened.

• Overnight Bag - Traditionally a small rectangular suitcase, it's now any piece of luggage large enough to carry apparel and necessities for an overnight stay. A "shoulder tote" is typically just the right size!

• Suiter - Today, this term usually refers to a built-in compartment in another bag, such as an upright, that holds two to four suits. It has hangers and suit-folding frames.

• Upright - Also known as the pullman. A standard large suitcase-style case, this rectangular piece of luggage generally measures 24" to 27" wide with interior compartments. It may be hard or soft, feature wheels for easy movement and a telescoping handle on the opposite end for pulling the case behind you.
  
  

Helpful Hint:  When traveling by air with a companion, be sure each checked piece of luggage has a change of clothing and some toiletries for the other person. That way if a bag gets lost or is delayed (chances are at least one will show up), you'll both have at least one change of clothing.

I hope this information helps when selecting your next piece of luggage.