Utility is key. What will you mostly use the luggage for? Long or short trips, airline or car travel? Will you be leaving for an extended amount of time or do you only need a weekend bag that holds a few items? Consider: Size — bigger pieces hold more, but grow heavier — and airlines have...

When you have a big trip planned where you'll need a variety of clothing for a length of time, think big. You are likely to require a variety of outfits and shoes to wear for different occasions — beach outings, sports, sight-seeing, casual and romantic dinners — and something to hold it all. If...