Finding the ideal luggage for your travels can be a tricky process. It’s not easy to find a product that’s lightweight with ample packing space and easily storable. As if the wish list isn’t complicated enough, we must navigate the endless array of baggage features. Do you buy the suitcase with wheels or without? Will the folding duffle bag be more convenient or the firm suitcase? With so many variations, luggage options seem endless. So, how do we know which options best meet our needs?

When purchasing your next suitcase, consider these tips to walk away with baggage that best meets your personal preferences.

• Beware of Zippers: Always make sure to check the teeth zippers run along the seam. Luggage bags can be compromised when broken teeth leave certain compartments unable to close. Chain zippers–normally made from metal–tend to be your safest bet. They are more secure than other options like coil zippers.

• Pay Attention to Suitcase Corners: If maximizing your packing space is of the upmost importance, square-corners beat rounded-corners. Luggage with round-corners cuts into the packing space whereas square-corners can provide additional room to fit your belongings.

• Soft-Sided or Hard-Sided Luggage: Now, this can be tricky to figure out. Soft-sided luggage (duffle bags) won’t stop the contents inside from getting crushed if your luggage is packed amongst other bags. Hard-sided luggage provides much more protection if packed with other suitcases, but cannot be folded away for easy storage.

• Suitcases on Wheels: Rolling suitcases can be a great way to alleviate the stress put on your back and shoulders from having to carry a heavy load.

What Purpose Will It Serve?

Where you’re going is a key factor in which style will be most effective for you. Depending on whether your suitcase will accompany you on a road trip, flight or may be a cruise will factor in to your purchase decision as well.