Having the right luggage can make or break any trip, whether it’s for business or pleasure. Don’t get caught holding the wrong bag. Use the following as a guide when buying your next set of luggage. First I’ll touch on small luggage choices.

Carry-on luggage: Carry-on luggage is small enough to be easily carried in one hand and to stow under your seat on an airplane or the floorboard of your car. They usually measure around 20” give or take a couple inches. Carry-on luggage is available in hard, semi-soft, or soft varieties.

Duffle bags: Duffle bags are soft-sided bags, usually elongated in shape. They will carry a lot of clothes and other travel items. They can get heavy when full, so be sure to get a duffle bag with handles and wheels for easier travel.

Garment bags: Garment bags are used to pack suits, dresses, and other special clothing items on hangers, so they stay in reasonably good condition while traveling, free of wrinkles and such. Garment Bags are available in a variety of sizes, from 40” to 60” lengths, garment bags can usually carry up to four items.

Backpacks: Backpacks are designed for more casual traveling, camping, and other outdoor trips. They are perfect for those who want to pack light. They can have several pockets for small items, and are usually very comfortable to carry.

Briefcases: Business cases can hold your laptop, important documents, and various other small items.