How to Choose the Right Luggage — A Buyer's Guide

We've been selling luggage in Albuquerque for decades. In that time, we've seen every type of traveler walk through our door — the weekend warrior, the road warrior, the once-a-year vacationer, the international business traveler. And the question we get more than any other is: what luggage should I buy?

Here's the honest answer.

Step 1: Know How You Travel

Before you look at a single bag, answer these three questions:

• How often do you fly? Once a year vs. every week changes everything.
• Do you check bags or carry on? Most frequent flyers carry on. Most vacationers check.
• Where are you going? Cobblestone cities, beach resorts, and mountain trails all have different demands.

Step 2: Hardside or Softside?

Hardside luggage (polycarbonate or ABS shell) is better for protecting fragile contents, resists moisture, and is easier to wipe clean. It's our recommendation for most travelers. Our USA-assembled Legacy 21" Carry-On ($229.99), Legacy 28" ($279.99), and Legacy 31" ($299.99) are all hardside with 8-spinner wheels and a free custom monogram.

Softside luggage is more flexible — it can be squeezed into tight overhead bins and often has more external pockets. Better for travelers who overpack or need easy access to items on the go.

Step 3: Pick the Right Size

• Carry-on (18–22"): For trips up to 5 days. Fits in most overhead bins. Avoids checked bag fees.
• Medium checked (24–28"): The sweet spot for most travelers. Enough room for a week or more.
• Large checked (29–32"): For long trips, families sharing a bag, or anyone who refuses to do laundry on vacation.

Step 4: Spinner Wheels vs. Two-Wheel Rollers

Spinners (4 wheels) glide in any direction — ideal for airports, train stations, and city streets. Two-wheel rollers are more stable on uneven terrain but require tilting to move. For most travelers, spinners win. All three Legacy sizes roll on 8-spinner wheels.

Step 5: Think About Durability — Not Just Price

A $79 bag that falls apart after two trips costs more in the long run than a $229 bag that lasts a decade. Our Legacy Collection is USA assembled and built to be repaired, not replaced. That's a different philosophy than most luggage brands — and it's one we stand behind.

If you want the absolute pinnacle of softside durability, Briggs & Riley is the brand we trust most. We carry their line in-store and can walk you through the differences.

Come In and We'll Help You Decide

The best luggage is the one that fits your travel style — and we've been helping Albuquerque travelers figure that out for a long time. Stop by 6515 Menaul Blvd NE and we'll put the right bag in your hands before your next trip.

Safe travels,

Dustin & Felicia Boyd
Lieber's Luggage
everything but the trip!