The Best Luggage For Minimalist Travelers

Sometimes, a trip is so short, or you're bringing so little, that it just doesn't make sense to roll out the giant checked bag. But you'll also want something roomy enough for your stuff and tough enough to survive both the overhead bin and the cargo hold. Here's what to look for in a minimalist bag.

First, know your bag dimensions. Most airlines allow a carry-on with a maximum size of 22" tall by 14" wide and 9" deep. Any bag for traveling light should be able to fit within those confines. The best choice is to get a hardsided suitcase, as that way you'll know both the exact size, and also that it'll be equipped to take anything the crew or your fellow passengers can dish out.

Check the weight of your bag before you fly. When you're running to grab your connecting flight, or just don't feel like muscling a bag into your hotel room for a short stay, new plastics and construction mean that you don't need a bulky bag. Take a moment to heft the bag you're considering, remembering it'll have all your necessities in it, and see if the weight works for you if you've got to snap it up and sprint for the gate or the train.

Style also matters, and not just because you want to look good even at the airport. When you're keeping a bag close to you and it has everything you're bringing with you, being able to keep track of it matters, and having a distinctive bag will help keep it from being lost in the shuffle at baggage claim, make you easier to spot in crowds, and limit any confusion with your fellow travelers.