Long-lasting travel essentialls

The longest-lasting travel bags and accessories are made from tough, repairable materials like full-grain leather, waxed canvas, and recycled ballistic nylon. Look for quality zips, reinforced seams, and brands with lifetime guarantees or repair services. These bags earn their keep over time when you consider cost-per-wear. For accessories, go for sturdy toiletries kits, organisers with YKK zippers, and solid metal water bottles. Long-term reliability comes from clever design and proper build, not flashy features. Explore our Long-Lasting Travel Staples collection, or learn how we research products.

To keep your travel bag in great condition, air it out and empty it after each use. Wipe it down with mild soap and a damp cloth, especially after dusty or damp trips. For canvas or leather, apply a protector spray, and recondition leather as needed. Store upright in a dry place, and don’t overload it - straining zips is a one-way ticket to repairs. For more upkeep tips, pop over to our Product Care & Repair hub.

The best way to pack a travel bag efficiently is to use packing cubes to keep things tidy and compact. Roll clothes instead of folding - they’ll take up less space and crease less. Place shoes at the bottom (by the wheels if you’ve got them), and stuff small items like socks into gaps. Toiletries go in a leak-proof pouch, always. Keeping things organised will make life easier if you’re hopping from place to place like a game of musical chairs.

For weekend trips or cabin luggage, the best size travel bag is between 35 and 45 litres. That’s roomy enough for a few outfits and essentials, yet compact enough to sidestep the airline baggage queue. A tough, lightweight bag makes quick getaways easier - and kinder on your shoulders. Always double-check size limits with your airline though, especially budget ones, as they love a sneaky fee.

For travel, pack a toiletry bag with the basics: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, razor, mini shampoo and conditioner, and face wash. Add daily meds, a plaster or two, and a nail clipper just in case. Use small, refillable containers to save space and cut down on waste. A tidy, leak-proof bag is your best mate on the move - especially when you’re juggling airport liquids or sharing a loo.

Wheeled travel bags can be better for long-haul journeys, especially if you're lugging a heavy load or pacing through a giant terminal. Sturdy wheels, a solid handle, and a fixable frame are worth looking for. That said, if you're off the beaten path, a backpack might serve you better - some cobbles don’t play nicely with wheels. Some models come with 10-year (or even lifetime) warranties, which bodes well for longevity. Find our best bets in the Travel Bags collection.

To reset the lock on your travel bag, start by setting the dials to the current code (usually 0-0-0). Hold the reset button (often with a pen tip), turn the dials to your new combo, then release the button to lock it in. Instructions are often tucked inside a tag or lining, so have a look there first. Lost the code? Check the brand’s website - many offer unlock help or spare locks. Handy, that.