Travel Bags

Whether your travels are for business or pleasure, having the right travel bags can make your journey a bit easier.

Rolling Travel Bag

Just like handbags, wallets, and other accessories, travel bags are something that is somewhat personal. You want something that meets your tastes aesthetically and shows your personal style, but also something that is functional and easy to use.

There are many styles of travel cases and bags, from pretty, feminine, quilted bags to masculine nylon cross body bags. The type of bag you choose will be based on your personal style, your travel needs, and perhaps the color or style of your luggage, even pink!

Blue Duffel Bag

Typically boxy, soft-sided, rectangular bags, these often have handheld handles and a casual feel. Some designs may have longer or adjustable shoulder straps. End pockets in some designs may help organize your belongings.

A messenger bag is a mid-size bag that often works well for travel. Typically available with more casual styling, messenger bags have a flap enclosure and shoulder strap that can be worn on the shoulder or across the body.

The bags usually have an assortment of open and zippered pockets and slots to keep your items organized, and may have a pocket in the exterior of the flap or back of the bag. Some styles are designed to have space to securely transport laptop computers as well.

Roller style or wheeled travel bags are comparable to small suitcases, and are often sold as part of a luggage set. These bags typically have an extendable handle and allow you to tote the bag on wheels. The structured style of this bag works well for many travelers, and is an added bonus if you are toting any heavy items around the airport.

Exterior zip pockets, open interior pockets, and elastic interior straps to secure belongings are organizational features typically found on this type of bag. Many types of rollers are designed to look streamlined and professional.

There are dozens of style of totes, from structured, executive style leather bags to cute and casual canvas totes. Although some styles may have pockets or interior loops to secure belongings, many tote bags lack the organizational features of other types of travel bags.

If you need to carry many items, look for a style with some dividers or pockets, sturdy handles, and a zip or snap enclosure. Alternately, if you are only carrying a few items and want to have easy access to them, an unstructured open tote may be the alternative for you.

Like the name implies, carry-alls are designed to allow you to efficiently haul many items. Often similar in style to a tote bag, carry-all travel bags usually have additional features such as extra organization, dual exterior pockets, hidden zippered pockets for cash or boarding passes, and cushioned shoulder straps. There are many carry-all designs, from colorful and fun to simple, functional neutrals.

Pink Backpack

Easy to sling over your shoulder and accommodate everything from reading material to extra snacks, backpacks are a popular bag for travelers. Especially popular among students and frequent travelers, a backpack lessens back strain by distributing the weight on both shoulders. Many backpacks have a variety of compartments, including pockets for cell phones, CD players, and more.

Cousins of the backpack, including the sling and backpack purses, are also popular travel or carry-on bags.

Although the design, type of bag, and color or print depends on personal preference, there are some common features to look for in a travel bag.

These include:

• Sturdy and comfortable shoulder straps or handles.
• Well-constructed, sturdy design.
• If you may be traveling in inclement weather, look for water-proof or water-resistant bags.
• A bag roomy enough to meet your needs.
• Look for lightweight materials that won't add additional weight to you pack.
• Test the pockets and organizational features to ensure they are easy to access.
• Look for bags that are comfortable to carry and don't cause friction or feel uncomfortable.
• Look for colors and patterns that are less likely to show the dust or dirt your bag may run into on your trip.

Designer travel bags are pricier than department store brands, but offer high quality and style. Dior, Louis Vuitton, and Paul Smith are designers that make stylish and functional bags for travel.

Prices for travel bags vary widely. They are available in most department stores, from travel stores, and many online retailers, including:

• Ebags
• Novica.com
• Netbags.com

• Large Designer Handbags
• Heavy Spring Handbags
• Big Fashion Purses
• Handbag Etiquette Quiz
• How to Tell If a Handbag Is Authentic

• Coach Outlet
• Coach Handbags
• How to Tell an Authentic Coach Patchwork Purse from a Fake
• Dooney and Bourke Outlet Stores
• Coach Signature Handbags

• Louis Vuitton Travel Luggage
• Lime Green Travel Totes
• Travel Wallets
• Golf Travel Bags
• Travel Totes and Shoulder Bags