Your luggage should make travel easier, not harder, so Consumer Reports has some tips on what to look for before you buy.

The recommended travel luggage is all hard-shell. Make sure you get an AirTag to locate your luggage in case it gets lost.

Do not wash them. Ever. At least not right away. Washing cuts their shelf life in half. Apparently, they need to “cure.” ...

Whether you’re a pro at fitting a week’s worth of clothes inside a carry-on or you prefer to check in your bag and bring all the outfits you please, your suitcase is an essential travel companion.